The right temperature and time for each product: the ultimate sublimation guide

"What time and temperature should I use?" This is, without a doubt, the most frequently asked question by those who work with sublimation. Getting this setting wrong means dull colors (too little time/heat) or yellowed images and melted resin (too much time/heat).

To help you avoid wasting any more products, we have prepared this practical guide. But be aware: each press and each environment has its variations. Use these numbers as a starting point and do some tests!

Mugs and Ceramic Products

Ceramic requires time to absorb heat, so the time is longer.

• Ceramic Mug (White, Magic, Colored): 200ºC | 180 to 200 seconds
• Ceramic Tile: 200ºC | 200 to 240 seconds (flat press, always with a silicone mat to prevent breakage)

Polymer Products (Plastic)

Polymer melts if it gets too hot. The use of an internal aluminum insert is mandatory to maintain the shape.

• Polymer Mug: 180ºC to 190ºC | 120 to 150 seconds
• Polymer Squeeze Bottle: 180ºC | 120 seconds

Glass

Glass is sensitive to thermal shock. Lightly preheat the piece before pressing.

• Glass Mug / Beer Glass: 190ºC | 160 to 180 seconds

Aluminum and Stainless Steel (Thermal)

These materials conduct heat very quickly, so the time is shorter in a cylindrical press.

• Aluminum Squeeze Bottle: 190ºC | 100 to 120 seconds
• Thermal Tumbler (Stanley type): If using a sublimation oven: 180ºC to 190ºC | 6 to 8 minutes (using shrink film).

Fabrics and Apparel

• 100% Polyester T-shirt: 200ºC | 25 to 30 seconds
• Mouse Pad and Puzzle: 200ºC | 40 to 60 seconds

Outside's Golden Tips

1. The color rule: If the print came out light or faded, there wasn't enough time or temperature. If the print came out brown, yellowed, or blurry, it was overcooked or the pressure was too strong.
2. Pressure: For cylindrical products, the pressure should be medium-strong. You should feel resistance when closing the press, but not to the point of needing excessive force.
3. Product quality: Products with poor resin will never reach the ideal color, no matter how long you leave them.

Invest in superior quality products, like those from the LiVE line, available at Outside. A premium resin accepts the ink more uniformly and with much more vibrant colors. Save this guide and happy selling!