How to Do Sublimation of Coffee Mugs
Are you curious about the sublimation process? Why do you need sublimation for coffee mugs? Which designs are most suitable for coffee mugs? What procedures are involved in sublimation coffee mugs? A sublimation mug is a specially coated mug with a glazed ceramic surface, which allows for the storage of sublimation ink and prints. If you put up a promotional item or gift that your customer will benefit from and stay in business for many years, the best option is a sublimation coffee mug.
Unlocking Sublimation Magic — Creating Stunning Coffee Mugs with American HTV Supply
Materials You'll Need
If you're looking for a sublimation mug, you're in luck! To personalize your sublimation of coffee mugs, you require these items:
- Sublimation 11 oz Coffee Mug
- Sublimation Printer
- Sublimation Ink
- Heat Resistant Tape
- Mug Press Machine
- Sublimation Designs
- Sublimation Paper
- Heat-resistant Gloves
Can any Mug be sublimated?
No, it's specially made mugs of glazed ceramic coated with a special coating that helps keep ink and prints in place. You can apply the layer with a spray or dip it in water, at a high temperature (200-230C) for 8-14 minutes. Then, you can check for quality and divide it into different grades so you can give them to other markets. Plus, there are several styles, shapes, and colors to choose from at American HTV Supply!
- Coffee Mug with White Sublimation Surface
- Latte Mug 11oz
- Coffee Mug Metallic Painted Surface
- Magic Sublimation Coffee Mug 11oz Standard Handle
- White Sublimation Coffee Mug with Heart Shape Handle
- Personalized mug heat transfer press coffee mug with 11 oz | Customized Text, Images, ArtWork mug
Designing Your Mug: Step-by-step Guide
Follow the steps below to imprint a high-resolution image on a mug using thermal mug printing machines once you have your sublimation printing materials. Here are the seven essential steps for sublimation on mugs:
1. Choose your graphic
Selecting an image or graphic to print on a mug is the beginning of sublimation printing. On your computer, you'll need to create a vision for your mug. You need the best photo editing software for significant results. Famous software used for designing includes Adobe Photoshop, Coral Draw, Serif Afinity, and Gimp Design. If you don't want to make it by yourself, you can get templates for mugs from online websites.
When considering the measurement of your sublimation graphic, remember that a standard 10 or 11 ounce cup measures 3 inches high x 9 inches wide. At American HTV Supply, we designed a mug with a height of 3.74 in x Diameter of 3.14 in, with an 11 fluid ounce capacity.
The coating on these mugs is unique and can only be applied in factories. You can't do this special coating by yourself, or you can't print the top and bottom area of the mug. Because in some mugs the knocker, which makes the transfer of printing difficult. You can move on to the next step once you have chosen your sublimation graphic.
2. Print the selected graphic
When printing the graphic, you can utilize a transfer paper that matches a standard mug size, like a 10 oz or 11 oz mug. You might choose a full-sized transfer paper (8.5 × 11.0 inch) to cut out the graphic image. Verify that the printer settings you use for your mug sublimation graphics are correct.
For example, select a resolution of 300 DPI or below and check the Mirrored Image box (larger quantities waste ink & cause the printing process to take longer to proceed). You need to select the correct printer with sublimation transfer paper and ink. Once you select your equipment, print the graphic and proceed to the following step.
3. Cut the graphic to fit the ceramic mug
Trim the transfer paper using a scissor to ensure the design on each side is smaller than the size of the coffee mug (to make gluing simpler). Turn over your transfer paper so that your picture is facing the mug. Tightly wrap the mug in the transfer paper. Ensure that it firmly attached the piece to the surface of the mug. Seal both edges of the transfer paper with heat-resistant tape.
4. Adjusting the sublimation cup press setting
Preheat the sublimation cup press to 204 degrees Celsius. Select the pressure level to "medium-high" and set 4-6 minutes on the timer. Typically, 10 oz and 11 oz mugs are heated to 180 degrees Celsius for 180 seconds under intense pressure. This can vary from mug to mug — therefore, it's best to always double-check with your sublimation mug provider or manufacturer.
5. Place the mug in the heat press
The cup in a heat press is ready to be pressed when it hits 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 204 degrees Celsius. Ensure the transfer paper isn't bent or wrinkled before placing the cup into the heat press.
Tip: Even the most minor wrinkle will ruin the design of the paper.
After that, the press is securely closed to begin the sublimation process. The press should seal firmly, not too hard, or the mug may shatter.
6. Remove the beaker from the press
Use a heat-resistant glove to remove the mug from the press once the specified time has passed—the mug is extremely hot to touch, so be careful. Remove the transfer paper from the mug as quickly as possible by carefully peeling off the adhesive strip using a knife or forceps.
7. Allow the mug to cool down.
The mug's sublimation process is almost finished. Allow the heated mug to cool down completely.
Sublimation Coffee Mugs with Lids
A Practical and Stylish Addition — Include lids to elevate your sublimation coffee mugs to a new level. Covers not only maintain the ideal temperature for your drinks but also give your mugs a classy look.
Where to Buy Sublimation Mug Blanks?
You may purchase sublimation coffee mugs and blank mugs, alongside other accessories, from:
A World of Creativity at Your Fingertips
With the help of the experts and top-quality materials, you can take your sublimation journey to the next level. Whether you're an expert in sublimation or just starting, the possibilities are limitless. Grab your coffee mug, your sublimation papers, and your ink, and you're ready to dive headfirst into the sublimation world.
Transform everyday mugs into unique pieces of art that will make lasting memories and beautiful keepsakes. The world is your oyster when it comes to sublimating coffee mugs. The only thing left to you is your imagination, so get started creating your very own coffee mug collection with American HTV Supply!