The reasons why my mug does not sublimate

Have you tried to sublimate your mug and have not achieved the expected result? Do you wonder what could be the reasons why your mug does not sublime? If you are interested in learning more about mug sublimation and how to get your project done perfectly, then keep reading this post.

Before going into detail about the possible reasons why your mug does not sublimate, it is important to understand what the sublimation process consists of. Sublimation is a printing technique that allows images and text to be transferred to solid objects using special inks and heat. This technique is widely used in the personalization of cups, since it allows the creation of unique and long-lasting designs.

However, sometimes it can be the case that the sublimation does not turn out as expected. What could be the reasons why your mug does not sublimate? Here are some of the possible problems that can occur and how to fix them:

1. Mug type: not all mugs are suitable for sublimation. It is important to make sure that the mug you are using is suitable for this process. Porcelain or ceramic mugs are the most recommended, since they are more resistant to heat and pressure. If you are using a cup made of materials such as plastic or glass, you may not get the desired result.

2. Sublimation inks and paper: It is essential to use good quality sublimation inks and paper to ensure optimal results. Low quality inks may not be as heat resistant and may not adhere properly to the mug. Additionally, the sublimation paper should also be suitable for the type of mug you are using.

3. Heat-up temperature and time: The sublimation process requires a specific temperature and heat-up time. If these instructions are not followed to the letter, the sublimation may not come out correctly. Be sure to use a thermometer to check the temperature and a timer to keep track of the heating time.

4. Pressure: Pressure is another important factor to consider in the sublimation process. Appropriate pressure needs to be applied for the ink to adhere properly to the mug. If the pressure is too low, the ink may not adhere properly and may smear. On the other hand, if the pressure is too high, it is possible that the cup will be damaged or the final design will not be as defined. Use a sublimation press or heat machine to apply the proper pressure.

5. Cleaning the mug: Before you start to sublimate your mug, it is important to make sure that it is clean and free of grease or dust. If the mug isn't completely clean, the ink may not adhere properly or the final design may not turn out as sharp. Use isopropyl alcohol or a ceramic cleaner to clean the mug before beginning the sublimation process.

6. File Design – The file you use for sublimation can also be a determining factor in the success or failure of your project. Be sure to use a high-resolution file in a suitable format (such as JPEG or PNG) for best results. Also, it is important to consider the placement of the design on the mug, as some areas may be more difficult to sublimate than others.

In conclusion, there are several reasons why your mug may not sublimate correctly. From the type of mug to the quality of the inks and sublimation paper, to the temperature and heating time, to the pressure and cleanliness of the mug, all these factors can affect the final result. If you've followed all the instructions and your mug still doesn't sublimate as expected, it might be time to try different brands of sublimation inks or paper to see if you get better results. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don't get discouraged if you don't get the desired result at first. With a little patience and practice, you will be able to master the sublimation technique and create unique and personalized mugs like ours .

Author: Terol&Jay