SUBLIMATION ON ACYRLIC
TIPS
- When working with acrylics, it’s essential to use the right thickness to ensure the best quality of the final product. A thickness of 3mm is optimal for both cast and sublimation processes.
- When sublimating, ensure the acrylic is at least 3mm thick to prevent warping; thinner materials should be decorated with ADHESIVE VINLY or UV DTF
- When working with heat presses and transfers, it’s crucial to protect both the design and the equipment. Covering the design and substrate with silicone paper is a smart move. It acts as a barrier, preventing the transfer from sticking to the press and ensuring the heat is evenly distributed across the design. This simple step helps maintain the quality of the substrate and prolongs the life of the heat press, making it an essential practice for anyone in the heat transfer printing business.
- Sublimation on acrylic can yield vibrant and lasting results, especially when using high-quality sublimation paper like the 125g OTTO PRO. The thick coating on this type of paper ensures that the ink transfers effectively, capturing the finest details with clarity. Quick removal of the paper post-press preserving the sharpness of the design, and the no-wash feature is a convenient bonus, saving time and maintaining the integrity of the image.
- Cast acrylic is more heat-resistant and maintains its shape better under prolonged heat exposure compared to other types.
- Exceeding the recommended heat press time can cause the acrylic to melt and lose its shape, so timing is crucial.
PROCESS
- Remember to remove the protective film from both sides of the acrylic before heat pressing
- For cast acrylic, heat press at 180 degrees Celsius for 180 seconds; for extruded acrylic, the same temperature applies but only for 30 seconds (you get different quality of extruded, and some may not sublimate very well).
- Ensure the bottom of the heat press is covered with silicone paper to protect it.
- Secure the design onto the acrylic carefully to prevent movement during the process. Avoid placing heat tape over the sublimation paper where it contacts the acrylic to prevent leaving marks.
- Avoid mirroring the image during sublimation to ensure visibility from the front, especially with clear acrylic.
- Cover the bottom of you heat press will silicone paper and secure your design to the acrylic, avoid applying the heat tape onto the sublimation paper where the acrylic is as it can leave marks.
- Cover the design and acrylic with silicone paper
- Apply light to medium pressure during the heat press process.
- Handle with care post-heat press as the acrylic will be hot; remove the sublimation paper where possible, it should peel in one go.
- To prevent the acrylic from warping, place it under heavy weights for at least 20 minutes or until cool and retain shape.
- Once cooled, if not using Otto Pro, scrub the back with a rough kitchen sponge and water to remove any remaining sublimation paper.
Another alternative is using SUBLI-ACRYLIC which has a special white coating at the back and gives vibrant prints!
