Frequently asked questions for sublimation printing and heat transfer printing.

Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page for West Rand Sublimation Supplies. Here, you’ll find answers to some of the most common inquiries regarding sublimation printing and heat transfer printing.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these FAQs will help guide you in choosing the right products and getting the best possible results.


 

1. What is Sublimation Printing?

Q: How does sublimation work?

A: Sublimation printing uses special inks that, under high temperature and pressure, turn into a gas and fuse with polyester fabrics or polymer-coated surfaces. This process ensures the ink becomes part of the material, resulting in vibrant, durable designs that won’t peel or crack.

Q: What materials can I sublimate on?

A: Generally, sublimation is best suited for items made of or coated with polyester. This includes polyester-based T-shirts, mugs, plates, phone cases, and more. Cotton shirts and items without a polymer coating are not suitable for sublimation unless you use special transfer mediums (which may affect final quality).

Q: Do I need a special printer for sublimation?

A: Yes, you’ll need a dedicated sublimation printer or an inkjet printer converted for use with sublimation inks. Also, use sublimation ink and sublimation transfer paper for best results. Regular ink and paper will not work effectively for this process.

 

2. What is Heat Transfer Printing?

Q: How does heat transfer printing differ from sublimation?

A: Heat transfer printing typically involves printing your design onto a special transfer paper (sometimes with regular or pigment ink) and then using a heat press to adhere the design onto your substrate, often cotton or other materials. Unlike sublimation, the ink or transfer sits on top of the fabric rather than bonding with it.

Q: Can I use heat transfer on dark garments?

A: Yes, but you’ll need a dark-transfer paper designed for darker fabrics. These papers often have a white or opaque backing that helps the design stand out against the fabric.

Q: Is heat transfer vinyl (HTV) the same as heat transfer printing?

A: Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) is another method that involves cutting a vinyl design and then pressing it onto fabric. While both use heat, HTV is vinyl-based and usually cut with a craft cutter, whereas heat transfer printing uses inks and specialized paper to transfer designs.

 

3. Equipment & Supplies

Q: Which heat press should I choose?

A: The choice depends on your project scale and budget. Clamshell presses are popular for their space-saving design. Swing-away presses provide more even pressure distribution for thicker items like tiles. Mug presses or cap presses are specialized for those specific items. If you’re unsure, contact us for guidance.

Q: What type of ink should I use for heat transfer printing?

A: For sublimation, you need sublimation ink. For regular heat transfer paper on cotton garments, pigment-based inks often yield better durability. Dye-based inks can work but are less water- and fade-resistant.

Q: Can I use my existing inkjet printer for both sublimation and regular printing?

A: It’s not recommended to switch back and forth between sublimation ink and standard ink due to potential clogs and chemical incompatibilities. Most users dedicate one printer exclusively to sublimation to avoid ink mixing issues.

 

4. Process & Best Practices

Q: What temperature and time settings are best?

A: The exact settings vary by product and manufacturer’s guidelines. Generally, sublimation on polyester fabrics ranges around 190°C–200°C (374°F–392°F) for about 40–60 seconds. Heat transfer paper settings differ, but you’ll often press between 170°C–185°C (338°F–365°F) for 15–30 seconds. Always consult the product-specific instructions.

Q: Why is my sublimation print fading or washing out quickly?

A: Common reasons include insufficient pressing time or temperature, using the wrong substrate (not enough polyester content), or a mismatch between your printer’s color profile and paper. Double-check all variables to ensure you’re meeting the correct specifications.

Q: How do I minimize ghosting or blurring in my prints?

A: Ensure your transfer paper doesn’t shift during pressing. Use heat-resistant tape or adhesive sprays to secure it firmly. Rapid or uneven removal of the paper can cause ghosting, so remove it smoothly and quickly once the press is opened.

 

5. Ordering & Support from West Rand Sublimation Supplies

Q: Where can I find sublimation blanks and equipment?

A: We stock a wide range of sublimation blanks, inks, printers, presses, and more. Visit our online store at shop.sublimationsupplies.co.za to browse our catalog.

Q: Do you offer bulk discounts?

A: Yes, we often have special pricing for larger orders or bundle deals. Keep an eye on our store listings or reach out directly if you require a high-volume purchase.

Q: How can I get technical support if I run into issues?

A: Our team is here to help! You can contact us via our website, phone, or email for advice on printer setups, troubleshooting, color management, and more.


 

Still Have Questions?

We hope these FAQs help clarify the essentials of sublimation and heat transfer printing. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out or explore more resources on our website. Our goal at West Rand Sublimation Supplies is to ensure you have all the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in your printing projects.

Happy printing, and thank you for choosing West Rand Sublimation Supplies!

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