We purchased an Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation printer. I finally have a little time to work with it, so I got it going. There are many things to understand about creating with this printer. In addition to the special inks, you need sublimation paper. You also need “sublimation blanks” or material that is prepared to accept the sublimation process (sublimation is a phase change from solid to vapor through high temperature and pressure). While it doesnt work with 100% cotton fabric (best 65%+ poly), it can go on many other objects (wood, ceramic, metal). (It can work on cotton…just need a spray or an iron on that accepts sublimation – everything has a work around).
You need to pay attention to each materials temp & pressure requirements
I made a garden flag and need to work on some other materials.
I set the heat press for 400 F and 60 seconds.
The paper print will not have the same color appearance as you picture or the final product…so it is difficult to tell how it will come out. I am also unsure how to tweak colors (maybe you need to get good at photoshop) to make them come out differently.
This first attempt came out very well.
You should use plain white butcher paper above and below the print to protect your heat press plates.
You should use heat resistant tape to hold the print in place
You should have heat resistant gloves to handle the objects after pressing
I didnt even think about it, but my printer automatically reversed the image so text would show correctly
I saw a hint to rip the edges of the print to get a softer edge (not get that rectangle pressed into your garment.
I am sure there are many more tips I will come across
What tips do you have to share?
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