Sublimation Printing never disappoints while creating custom-designed t-shirts or mugs. Due to that reason, many people love to sublimate things at home but in order to do sublimation printing, a set of specific equipment is needed and sublimation paper is also one of the required things.
It is the paper where your printer prints the design and after that the dye is also transferred through it to the next substrate which may be glass or fabric.
So today, I will provide you with complete information about the sublimation paper and what makes it so good. Let’s get onto it!
Sublimation Paper
Sublimation paper is a special type of paper that is used in the sublimation printing process. This paper is coated with a substance that allows it to be heated and transferred to another surface. A mixture of Silica and Binder is applied to the sublimation paper in order to make it capable of holding the sublimation ink printed on it.
Sublimation paper is often used to print images onto fabrics, such as t-shirts and mugs because they provide the best results in the sublimation process.
One thing I would like to recommend here is to always use the best quality sublimation papers. Because it has a lot to do with the printed design.
Let me explain it.
If your Epson printer is of great quality, then it will probably print high-quality prints but what about the paper? Sublimation paper is also of great importance as the dye-sublimation ink is transferred through it.
If the paper is not good, some spots will be left on the paper, resulting in the incomplete transfer of sublimation ink.
So, always go for the best sublimation papers to get the maximum out of them. There are so many good quality sublimation papers each of which can be used for sublimation printing.
Key Features of a Sublimation Paper
ο It has the ability to bear high temperatures which makes it best for sublimation printing.
ο This paper has a special coat that allows the ink to be transferred to the substrate.
ο It is usually used to do sublimation on acrylic, glass, and ceramic mugs.
ο It offers a high-quality image transfer and is very durable.
ο It is not too expensive.
Use of Sublimation Paper in Sublimation Printing
This printing method uses a unique combination of heat and pressure to transfer dye onto the paper. The dye is first printed onto the paper using a sublimation inkjet printer. Then, the paper is placed on a heat press where it is exposed to high temperatures ( 350-450ºF ).
The heat causes the dye to turn into a gas, which binds with the fibers in the paper. As the paper cools, the gas turns back into a solid, resulting in a permanent image that lasts for a long time span.
Sublimation paper is also known as heat transfer paper. So, don’t get confused between these two.
Sublimation paper is available in a variety of sizes and weights, making it suitable for any project. It is also compatible with all types of sublimation inks, ensuring that you can produce professional-looking results every time.
What Makes a Sublimation Paper the Best
There are a few factors that go into making a sublimation paper the best.
⇒ First, it should be made of a high-quality material that can withstand high temperatures.
⇒ Second, it should have a smooth surface to ensure the consistent transfer of images.
⇒ Third, it should be thick enough to prevent bleed-through but thin enough to allow for easy handling.
⇒ It should be available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different printing needs.
⇒ The paper also needs to be compatible with your printer. Most sublimation papers are designed for use with inkjet printers, but there are also some that work with laser printers. Be sure to check the specifications of the paper before you buy it.
⇒ Also, keep in mind that the paper should have a high density. This will ensure that the colors are vibrant and the image is sharp.
⇒ Ability to transfer the dye-sublimation beautifully.
⇒ Lastly, you’ll want to choose a paper that has good release properties. This will help to prevent smudging and bleeding during the transfer process.
You can also have a look at our sublimation equipment guide which tells extensive information about the required sublimation equipment like Sublimation Paper and Sublimation Inks etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use regular normal ink on sublimation paper?
No, you can’t use any normal ink on sublimation paper as sublimation ink has a different composition than the normal one.
What type of sublimation paper is used for the Epson printer?
You can use any paper that is labeled for sublimation. In short, you can use any good quality sublimation paper with Epson sublimation printers.
What is a sublimation paper used for?
It is used to do sublimation on different surfaces such as t-shirts, and caps and through it, the ink transfers from one substrate to another.
Conclusion
Sublimation paper is a vital part of the sublimation printing process. This type of paper is specially coated to withstand high temperatures and transfer dye onto the surface.
When choosing a sublimation paper, be sure to consider the compatibility with your printer, the density of the paper, and the release properties. With these factors in mind, you’re sure to find the best sublimation paper for your needs.