Few things are more frustrating in sublimation than taking the product out of the press and seeing that blurry double shadow, ruining the perfect artwork. This is the dreaded "ghosting" effect.
If you're losing products and money to this problem, take a deep breath. Ghosting has clear causes and simple solutions. Let's solve this together.
What causes ghosting?
Sublimation is the transfer of ink from a solid state (on paper) to a gaseous state (transferring to the product's resin) through heat. Ghosting happens when the paper moves or when the product continues to emit ink gases while cooling.
There are three main culprits:
1. Loose or poorly secured paper
If the paper moves even a millimeter while the ink is still gaseous (whether when closing the press, opening the press, or removing the paper), the image will smudge.
How to solve: Use good quality heat tape. Don't skimp on the tape. Secure the paper firmly to the product so that it is taut and immobile.
2. Incorrect paper removal
Many sublimators open the press and delay removing the paper, or pull the paper dragging it over the product.
How to solve: As soon as the time is up, open the press and remove the paper immediately in a single, quick motion. Do not let the paper cool on the mug.
3. Slow cooling
Ceramic and glass products retain a lot of heat. Even after removing the paper, the mug remains hot enough for the ink to continue sublimating in the air, creating a haze around the artwork.
How to solve: Forced cooling. As soon as you remove the paper, place the mug in front of a small fan. Be careful with thermal shock: do not immerse ceramic or glass mugs in cold water, as they will crack. Just the airflow will solve the problem.
Material quality matters
Sometimes, the problem isn't you. Presses with worn-out heating elements that don't heat evenly, or low-quality papers that release ink inconsistently, also cause smudges.
Work with fast-drying, high-transfer papers, and use products with premium resin, like the LiVE line. At Outside, we ensure you have access to the best supplies so your work comes out perfect on the first try. Fewer losses, more profit!
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