Introduction
Sublimation shirts are a staple in custom apparel. Unlike other printing methods, sublimation embeds the ink directly into polyester fibers, resulting in vibrant, durable designs. For entrepreneurs, offering sublimation shirts can be highly profitable.
This guide explains how to make high-quality sublimation shirts from start to finish.
Step 1: Choose the Right Blank
Sublimation works best on 100% polyester shirts or high-polyester blends. Light-colored fabrics ensure colors pop vividly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Design
Create your design in software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or Canva. Consider:
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DPI: 300+ for crisp prints
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Colors: CMYK mode
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Size: Fit to your shirt template
Step 3: Print the Design
Use a sublimation printer with sublimation inks to print your design on sublimation paper. Make sure the print is mirrored if it’s text-based.
Step 4: Prepare Your Heat Press
Set your heat press to the recommended temperature (usually 380–400°F) and pressure. Pre-press the shirt for 5–10 seconds to remove moisture.
Step 5: Transfer the Design
Place the printed sublimation paper on the shirt, cover with parchment or Teflon paper, and heat press according to your printer’s guidelines.
Step 6: Cooling and Finishing
After pressing, remove the paper carefully and let the shirt cool. Inspect the print for color consistency and quality.
Tips for Best Results
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Always use high-quality sublimation paper and inks.
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Avoid moisture or wrinkles in the shirt before pressing.
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Test on sample shirts before mass production.
Selling Sublimation Shirts
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Offer custom designs on Etsy, Creative Inkers, or your online store.
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Personalize shirts with names, photos, or quotes for higher value.
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Bundle shirts with matching products like mugs or tote bags.
Final Thoughts
Mastering sublimation shirts allows you to produce vibrant, durable, and highly sellable apparel. By following these steps, beginners and small business owners can create professional-quality products with ease.
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