Sublimate a Shirt

If you've already sublimated a Coaster, you may be familiar with this process; however, please reread the Heat Press section and the new "Prep Shirt" section for changes in the process.

Preparing Your File

Step 1: Choose your png image and import it onto an 8.5"x11" artboard on Adobe Illustrator.

Step 2: Go to File > Document Setup and change your units to Inches. Resize your image to the desired specifications, but be aware that you cannot print any larger than 8.5 x 11 inches, the size of the paper.

Step 3: Duplicate the image to match the number of shirts you'll be sublimating. Make sure to leave a border of space between each copy.

Step 4: Go to File > Print > Select "Sawgrass Print Manager" under the "Printer" setting. Hit Print at the bottom right and the Sawgrass Print Manager will automatically open.

Step 5: Change your "Substrate" to "Cotton" (Unless you are using a different fabric). Ensure that the "Mirror" checkbox is marked. Send your file to print.

Preparing the Shirt

In order to sublimate effectively, you'll need to prepare your shirt a bit.

Step 1: referencing the "Heat press" section below, set the press to heat up. Once it's hot, position the area you'll be sublimating on the pad and press it for 5-10 seconds. This irons out the fabric, ensuring a clear, flat surface.

Step 2: lay the shirt out on a table and treat with Sublimation Spray. For all fabrics, especially cotton, this helps the sublimation take better. Let it dry before continuing.

Heat Press

Step 1: Turn on the heat press. The temperature should be at 200°C. Change the timer to 45 seconds by hitting the button on the right with the gear on it.

Step 2: Once the file has finished printing, cut it out, leaving enough room to maneuver it without touching the inked areas.

Step 3: Lay the shirt on the press bed again and position your print where you'd like it to be, Inked side down. Tape it for security using the metallic Teflon tape.
TIP: Put the shirt and paper up to the light to make it easier to line up.

Step 4: take 2 sheets of the brown protective film. Fold one double and put it on the inside of your shirt, between the two halves. (this keeps the ink from bleeding through to the other side) Put the other on top of the shirt, to protect from directly touching the press.

Step 5: Press down until the 90 seconds are complete.

Step 6: Let the shirt cool for a few seconds. Remove the paper. You have a completed shirt!

CLICK TO RETURN TO MAIN PAGE: Sawgrass Dye Sub Printer

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