Sublimation printing has become a popular choice for creating personalized and vibrant designs on tumblers. It’s a process that uses heat to transfer ink from a special paper directly onto the tumbler’s coating, resulting in a permanent, chip-resistant image.
But what if you make a mistake or want to add another element to your already sublimated tumbler? Can you sublimate over sublimation tumbler? The answer is yes, but with some important considerations.
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The Art of Sublimation: A Quick Refresher
Sublimation printing involves a unique three-part process:
- Design Creation: You start by creating your design on a computer using software like Photoshop or Canva.
- Printing: The design is then mirrored and printed onto special sublimation paper with specially formulated inks from a best sublimation printer. These inks are designed to convert from a solid state to a gas when heated, without turning into a liquid state.
- Heat Transfer: The printed paper is placed on the tumbler, and a heat press is used to apply high heat and pressure. This triggers the sublimation process, where the ink vaporizes and bonds directly with the polymer coating of the tumbler, creating a permanent and vibrant image.
The beauty of sublimation printing lies in its durability and seamless integration with the tumbler’s surface.
However, there may be times when you want to add something to your already decorated tumbler.
Perhaps you misspelled a name, or you have a great idea for a second design element. This is where sublimating over sublimation comes in.
Sublimating Over Sublimation: Yes, But With a Twist
The good news is that you can indeed sublimate a new design over an existing one on your tumbler. However, achieving optimal results requires a bit more attention to detail compared to a standard sublimation process. Here’s why:
- Ghosting Effect: The biggest challenge you’ll encounter is the “ghosting effect.” This happens when the colors from the first design bleed through and interfere with the vibrancy of the new design. This is because the first layer of ink has already bonded with the tumbler’s coating, and subsequent heat application can reactivate these dyes.
- Reduced Vibrancy: Even if you avoid ghosting entirely, the second layer of ink may not appear as vibrant as the first. This is because the underlying design can slightly impede the full absorption of the new ink by the tumbler’s coating.
Mastering the Art of Sublimating Over Sublimation
While there are challenges, with the right techniques, you can successfully sublimate over sublimation and achieve stunning results. Here are some key strategies to consider:
- Fading the First Design (Optional): In some cases, you might opt to slightly fade the first design before applying the second. This can be done using a heat gun; carefully apply heat to the design for short bursts, monitoring the process closely to avoid damaging the tumbler. There are also special sublimation erasing chemicals available, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and effective use.
- Design Choice for Overprinting: When selecting your second design, opt for a solid color, preferably a darker shade. This will provide better coverage and minimize the visibility of the first design underneath. For instance, if your first design has light floral elements, consider a solid black or dark blue for the second layer.
- Adjusting Heat Press Settings: Experimenting with your heat press settings might be necessary. You may need to slightly reduce the temperature or shorten the pressing time for the second layer to prevent excessive reactivation of the first design’s ink. It’s always best to start with a lower temperature and shorter time and gradually increase them if needed, based on your specific tumbler and ink combination.
Alternatives to Sublimating Over Sublimation
While sublimating over sublimation is a viable option, it’s not the only way to address mistakes or add elements to your tumbler. Here are a couple of alternatives:
- Epoxy for Small Embellishments: If you want to add a small element like a name or monogram, consider using epoxy. This is a clear resin that can be applied on top of the existing sublimation to create a raised, 3D effect. Ensure you choose an epoxy specifically formulated for tumblers and follow the application instructions carefully for best results.
- Sublimating a Patch: Another option is to create a separate sublimation patch with your new design. This patch can then be adhered to the existing sublimation using heat-resistant adhesive film. This approach offers more flexibility in design choice and allows you to easily replace the patch if needed.
The Final Sip: Experimentation is Key
Sublimating over sublimation is a valuable technique to have in your crafting arsenal. However, remember that achieving optimal results requires practice and experimentation.
So, never loose your hopes on achieving the desired results and keep practicing. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.