Sublimation results depend heavily on your specific heat press, the quality of the substrate, and the humidity of your environment. Use this guide as a starting point for achieving vibrant, permanent transfers.
1. Fabric & Textiles
| Substrate |
Temperature |
Time (Sec) |
Pressure |
Notes |
| Polyester Fabric (<30% Cotton) |
385°F - 400°F |
45 - 60 |
Medium |
High poly count (65%+) ensures brightness. |
| Polyester / Cotton Blend |
375°F - 385°F |
50 - 60 |
Medium |
Will have a "vintage" or faded look after washing. |
| Poly Linen Hat Patch |
365°F |
45 - 60 |
Light/Med |
Use a hat press; avoid flattening the foam crown. |
| Pillows (Polyester) |
385°F |
60 |
Medium |
Remove the insert before pressing. |
| Bags / Tote Bags |
385°F |
50 |
Medium |
Check for zippers or plastic liners that might melt. |
| Socks |
385°F |
50 - 60 |
Medium |
Use a sock jig to prevent white gaps on edges. |
| Garden Flag |
385°F |
50 |
Medium |
Ensure the flag is flat; use butcher paper inside. |
| Graduation Stole |
385°F |
50 |
Medium |
Use a large press to ensure even heat across length. |
| Graduation Cap |
385°F |
45 |
Medium |
Hard surface—press only the fabric portion. |
| Graduation Tassel |
360°F |
30 - 45 |
Light |
Keep the metal charm flat. |
2. Drinkware & Glass
| Substrate |
Temperature |
Time (Sec) |
Pressure |
Notes |
| Tumblers (Stainless) |
365°F - 385°F |
45 / rotate |
Firm |
45s per side in a mug press or 6 mins in an oven. |
| Ceramic Mugs |
385°F - 400°F |
180 - 240 |
Medium |
Pre-warm the mug for better results in winter. |
| Frosted Glass Can |
365°F |
120 - 180 |
Medium |
Use a silicon wrap if using a convection oven. |
| Other Glass Items |
365°F |
180 |
Light/Med |
Press face down (transfer on bottom) for best heat. |
3. Hard Surfaces & Decor
| Substrate |
Temperature |
Time (Sec) |
Pressure |
Notes |
| Ceramic Car Coaster |
385°F |
180 - 240 |
Medium |
Place transfer on top; ceramic holds heat. |
| Slate Frame |
400°F |
360 - 480 |
Medium |
Press face down onto the transfer. |
| MDF Plaque |
375°F |
60 - 80 |
Medium |
Don't over-press; MDF can warp if too hot. |
| Aluminum Plate |
385°F |
45 - 60 |
Medium |
Remove protective plastic film before pressing. |
| Glass/Ceramic Tiles |
400°F |
180 - 300 |
Medium |
Use a green heat pad for even distribution. |
| Ceramic Ornament |
385°F |
180 - 240 |
Medium |
Both sides can be done if coated on both. |
| Hardboard |
375°F |
60 |
Medium |
Very common for signs and puzzles. |
3. Accessories & Stationery
| Substrate |
Temperature |
Time (Sec) |
Pressure |
Notes |
| Phone Case (Insert) |
385°F |
45 |
Medium |
Sublimate the metal insert, not the plastic case. |
| Air Freshener |
375°F |
45 |
Medium |
Felt material; colors pop very easily. |
| Puzzles |
365°F |
50 - 60 |
Medium |
Ensure all pieces are flat and pushed together. |
| Passport Cover |
385°F |
50 |
Medium |
Place a sheet of paper inside to prevent sticking. |
| Mouse Pad |
385°F |
50 |
Medium |
Neoprene base; avoid high pressure to prevent indents. |
| Key Chain (Plastic/MDF) |
375°F |
60 |
Medium |
Remove plastic film; keep metal rings away from heat. |
| Fridge Magnet |
365°F |
45 - 60 |
Medium |
Do not overheat or the magnetic backing may fail. |
4. Industrial & Specialty Materials
| Substrate |
Temperature |
Time (Sec) |
Pressure |
Notes |
| Fiberglass |
385°F |
60 - 75 |
Medium |
Extremely durable; wear gloves when handling hot edges. |
| Other Metal Aluminum |
365°F - 385°F |
45 - 60 |
Medium |
Varies by coating thickness; test for color accuracy. |
| Other Plastic Items |
360°F |
45 - 60 |
Light/Med |
Plastics melt easily; start with lower heat. |
| Neoprene |
385°F |
50 |
Medium |
Used for drink cozies; colors appear very vibrant. |
| Unisub Products |
400°F |
60 |
Medium |
High-end brand coating; requires precise timing. |
| Fire Retardant Plastics |
365°F |
60 |
Medium |
Used for safety signage and industrial tags. |
| Acrylic |
350°F - 365°F |
60 |
Light |
Warning: Melts easily. Place under a weight while cooling. |
Pro Tip: Always use uncoated Butcher Paper on both the top and bottom of your project to protect your heat press from ink "blowout" or ghosting.
