Sublimation paper is necessary for sublimation transfer, on which one can print images with mirror reversal through inkjet printing, flat printing, and screen printing. Then we can transfer the image onto the media by heating and pressuring, it makes ink put on the paper become a gaseous state and combine with the media. And sublimation is widely applied in our daily life. Such as clothes: cycling,swim&surfwear, ice hockey wear, sports, and functional textiles another application in the home usages: are curtains, cushions, table covers, towel cleaners, and so on. Besides, in advertisements, we use sublimation too in flags, banners, felts, gaming tables, and home textiles. When we do sublimation printing, choosing the correct sublimation paper is important to us.
Here are the key factors we should consider when we choose the right sublimation transfer paper.
1. Ink capacity and limitation
I suppose that this is an important factor. The sublimation paper should be heavier if the ink limit is higher. So that it can accept moisture from the ink without any disturbances like curling and warping.
2. Ink pattern
After pressing, it may meet the occurrence of curling and shifting when facing low-weight papers. The best way to eliminate it is to use 110gsm or more that accepts heavy and light inks. It explains the printing of the complex design artwork that has mixed heavy and light ink input.
3. Roll to roll
The calendar heat press loves low-gsm more. But in heavy ink, it is wise to consider the limitation and capacity. That we consider the limitations of high-capacity production and the consequences of warping and curling.
4. Print speed
the quality of the paper will produce depends on what speed at which it is being printed. It will produce lightweight paper in fast printing and produces thick paper in slow printing.
5. The humidity
Low humidity: it’s best to use 80 gsm when the humidity is under 45%. Because of low humidity, the sublimation paper shrinks and the print side is hunched-up. In this process, the paper absorbs ink. This may lead to the “hunch-up” 100g and 120g paper being harder than 80g. So the “hunch-up” do harm to the print-head.80gsm is softer, so it will relieve the “hunch-up” and protect your print-head from damage.
High humidity: You would better choose 110-120gsm when the humidity is above 70%. Because the paper is easy to become damp with high humidity. At the same time, it will be softer and stiffness is weak. It will be hard to print successfully when the low-height paper is being used.in this way, 110-120gsm is the best choice.
Q&A:
1. Can I use the iron on the transfer paper? And can I reuse it and print other designs on the sublimation transfer paper?
No, you can’t use iron-on transfer paper again. The way this paper works is the heat of the iron melts the paper’s plastic and then transfers the ink to the fabric. It one-time deal. When done correctly, the design will transfer to your T-shirt.
2. Do I need to trim the sublimation paper before use?
Yes, of course. You must trim it because any area which isn’t printed on will show on your t-shirt as white. This is not a problem for light-color shirts, but it’s necessary for dark garments. Trim your sublimation paper, you will get a much more professional result.
