Use the instructions below to sublimate rounded items such as mugs, tumblers, jars, etc.
- Size your image to the same size as your sublimation blank. You can use Canva to create a custom size. The image can be JPEG, PDG, PNG, SVG, etc.
- For tumblers, you want 9.5″ x 8″
- For mugs, you want 8.75″ x 3.75″
- Send the image to yourself or put it on a USB stick so you can open it on the Makerspace Workstation Computer (this computer has the software to use the sublimation printer).
- Place a sheet of sublimation paper in the sublimation printer with the blank side DOWN (writing up), and power on the printer.
- Open the Sawgrass Print Utility program on the computer, and follow the prompts:
- Agree to the terms
- login with the following credentials:
- email: 3D@uflib.ufl.edu
- password: L100Makerspace!
- For ink type, choose Sublijet UHD from Amazon
- Indicate that you are a Creator/Maker
- Select the “Create” button on the left-hand side, then click to add your files.
- Press Print! The image will already be mirrored and ready for sublimation.
- Prepare your sublimation blank by cutting the image down to size, then tightly taping the image face down to your tumbler or mug with heat resistant tape
- Select the appropriate cuff and attach it to the press. Put in your mug/tumbler while the machine is still cold to test the closure and pressure. The pressure should be medium, not too tight, but definitely not loose. The pressure should be EVEN throughout. You can adjust using the knobs.
- Remove your mug/tumbler and plug in the press. You can adjust the temperature and time by hitting “ok” and using the up and down arrows.
- Tumblers: 375 F for 50s, rotate then 50s again (use the heat resistant gloves when rotating!)
- Mugs: 390F for 75s
- When the machine beeps, it is ready. Slide your tumbler into the sleeve and pull the handle toward you to press it closed.
- When the time is up, the machine will beep again. Unlock the handle, and slide your mug/tumbler out. CAREFUL! it will be hot! Use heat resistant gloves. Let it stand to cool completely before peeling off the paper.
- Enjoy your mug/tumbler! Note that there may be a solid white line where the cuff is not able to go all the way around the mug/tumbler. With the tumbler this can be avoided with the rotation. This cannot be avoided with the mugs because of their handles.
