Characteristics of Sublimation Paper
Sublimation paper acts as an ink carrier, transferring the printed design onto the surface to be printed, whether on textiles or rigid materials.
To ensure perfect ink transfer, sublimation paper must fulfil two key functions:
- Maintain the ink dot as small as possible to achieve maximum image definition
- Allow maximum ink transfer, leaving the paper as clean as possible after sublimation, so that the design is fully transferred onto the surface
Choosing the Right Sublimation Paper
The choice of sublimation paper depends on several factors: the type of printer and inks you use, as well as the type of product you are going to sublimate.
(1) Paper formats according to your printer
- Sheets of paper
- Paper in roll or reel
Some printers accept both formats. Make sure you know your printer’s specifications to choose the right one.
(2) Consideration according to the product to be sublimated
The type of product also influences the choice of paper. It is essential to choose a paper with the right weight to ensure the quality of the sublimation:
- High weight: for rigid materials (more than 100 g/m²)
- Medium weight: ideal for polyester surfaces or products with polyester coating (between 90 g/m² and 100 g/m²)
- Low weight: Perfect for textiles (less than 90 g/m²)
(3) Importance of the weight of sublimation paper
Choosing paper with the right weight not only improves the quality of sublimation, but also optimises drying time and allows you to save ink. For example, low weight paper is ideal for textiles, while high weight paper is better for rigid products.
- Paper for textiles: low weight paper is the best option for sublimating clothing and other textile products. Using high weight paper on textiles can result in wasted ink and higher costs
- Paper for rigid items: high weight paper is most suitable for products such as mugs or plates, ensuring efficient transfer without loss of quality
Storing Sublimation Paper
It is essential to store sublimation paper in a dry place, free from moisture, to prevent the paper from undergoing changes that could affect the quality of sublimation. Keeping it in optimal conditions ensures you always achieve high-quality results.