Understanding Glass Sublimation

Sublimation on glass involves transferring special sublimation inks, printed on transfer paper, onto a sublimation-coated glass surface using heat and pressure. Standard glass is not suitable for sublimation as it lacks the necessary coating to absorb the ink.

Here's a breakdown of the process:

Sublimation creates a permanent, vibrant image by converting solid ink directly into a gas, which then bonds with a polyester coating on the glass. This requires specific materials designed for the sublimation process.

What You'll Need

• Sublimation printer loaded with sublimation ink
• Sublimation paper
• Glassware or glass items specifically treated with a sublimation coating
• Heat-resistant tape
• Protective paper (like butcher paper or blowout paper)
• Sublimation heat press or convection oven suitable for sublimation
• Heat-resistant gloves

Step-by-Step Process for Sublimating on Glass

Sublimating on glass involves several key stages, from preparing your design to applying heat.

1. Prepare Your Design and Print

• Design your image or text using graphic software.
• Important: Always mirror (flip horizontally) your design before printing, as it will transfer onto the glass in reverse.
• Print the design onto sublimation paper using your sublimation printer and ink.

2. Prepare the Sublimation-Coated Glass

• Ensure the glass item you are using has a sublimation-ready coating. This coating is essential for the ink to bond permanently.
• Clean the glass surface thoroughly with a lint-free cloth to remove any dust, fingerprints, or debris that could interfere with the transfer.

3. Secure the Printed Transfer

• Carefully position your printed sublimation transfer onto the coated area of the glass, making sure the printed side is in direct contact with the glass surface.
• Use heat-resistant tape to firmly secure the edges and corners of the transfer paper to the glass. This prevents the paper from shifting during heating, which can cause ghosting (a blurry or double image).

4. Wrap for Protection and Even Pressure

To help ensure even heat distribution and protect your equipment, additional wrapping is often necessary:

• Wrap butcher paper around the glass. This protective layer catches any excess ink blow-through and helps apply more even pressure across the surface during heating.
• Secure the butcher paper with more heat resistant tape. Ensure the wrapping is snug but not so tight that it tears the paper or tape.
• For hollow glassware like mugs or tumblers, you might also stuff any excess paper inside the glass. This can provide internal support and help maintain pressure from the inside out during the sublimation process.

5. Apply Heat and Pressure

• Place the wrapped glass item into your sublimation heat press (e.g., a mug press for cylindrical items) or a convection oven set up for sublimation.
• Set the temperature and time according to the recommendations for your specific type of coated glass and heating equipment. Typical settings might range from 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C) for several minutes, but this varies significantly.

6. Cool Down and Reveal the Design

• Once the heating cycle is complete, carefully remove the hot glass using heat-resistant gloves and place it on a heat-resistant surface to cool completely.
• Allow the glass to cool down fully before handling.
• Once cool, carefully remove the butcher paper, tape, and sublimation transfer paper to reveal your permanent, vibrant design fused onto the glass coating.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your sublimation supplies and glass blanks for best results.