How to Press Sublimation MDF Keychain Blanks
Single-Sided Sublimation MDF
- Press at 190°C for 90 seconds.
- Use light to medium pressure.
- Remove the clear protective film from the white sublimation surface before pressing.
- Remove the film carefully to avoid scratching or damaging the coating.
- Place your sublimation print onto the MDF.
- Cover with silicone paper before pressing.
- Silicone paper helps protect the substrate from direct heat, dust, dirt and press marks.
- Avoid placing heat tape directly onto the MDF surface.
- Avoid placing heat tape directly over the printed design.
- Heat tape can leave marks on MDF.
- To help prevent tape marks, place silicone paper over the design and MDF as a protective barrier before pressing.
Double-Sided Sublimation MDF
- Press at 200°C for 50 seconds.
- Use light to medium pressure.
- Remove the clear protective film from the white sublimation surface before pressing.
- Remove the film carefully to avoid scratching or damaging the coating.
- Place your sublimation print onto the MDF.
- Cover with silicone paper before pressing.
- Silicone paper helps protect the substrate from direct heat, dust, dirt and press marks.
- Avoid placing heat tape directly onto the MDF surface.
- Avoid placing heat tape directly over the printed design.
- Heat tape can leave marks on MDF.
- To help prevent tape marks, place silicone paper over the design and MDF as a protective barrier before pressing.
- After pressing the first side, remove the MDF from the heat press.
- Allow the MDF to cool completely before pressing the second side.
Important Notes
- If the MDF coating bubbles after pressing, immediately place the item under a smooth, heavy object while it cools.
- You can use two reams of photo paper or another flat, smooth, non-textured weight.
- Do not use anything textured, as it may mark the surface.
- MDF keychains are daily-use items and may experience normal wear and tear over time.
- MDF is made from compressed wood fibres and resin, so it can chip or crack if dropped, knocked, bent or handled roughly.
- To help improve durability, you may apply a suitable protective coating or sealant after sublimation.
- Handle and store the keychain with care to reduce the risk of chipping, cracking or damage.
- Pressing times and temperatures are a guide only.
- Results may vary depending on your heat press, pressure, sublimation paper, ink and environment.
- Always test before doing bulk production.










