How to Sublimate a Tumbler BY Using Tumbler Heat Press Convention Oven OR Air Fryer Fast and Easy

have you ever heard of sublimation on tumbler? Yes, it is possible, and you can create amazing 3d designs on tumbler by using the sublimation technique. Tumblers are the only item in the realm of creating that is wildly popular, aside from shirts. You may make a one-of-a-kind tumbler for every day with sublimation because the options are endless! Sublimation on tumblers is an admirable way to surprise your friends and family member.

In this instructional blog on how to sublimate a tumbler, we’ll step you via the fundamental strategy so you can gain started without worry.No matter which method you use, I’m sure after following these simple tips, you can make seamless designs on tumblers.

Let’s get started!

What are sublimationTumblers?

A tumbler material that has been “carved” with a process termed sublimation is known as a sublimation tumbler. Sublimation is a chemical procedure that converts solids into gasses by passing the water molecules. Sublimation processing involves heating “solid” ink to a gas and then embedding it into a polyamide surface.

Consequently, your tumbler substance is imprinted with a high-quality, irreversible, peel-proof pattern. Folks will assume you bought the final piece because it contains an experienced impression! Tumblers with sublimation printing are thus ideal as presents or even for small enterprises. It’s a great way to gift your loved ones on their special occasion.

Which Type of Material is Used for Sublimation Tumblers?

A tumbler is mostly a stainless steel constructed (or any other material) double-walled vacuum cup for hot and cold beverages with a lid and straw. Sublimation on the tumbler is a new trendy way to create customized designs using the sublimation technique.

The sublimation tumblers are specially designed with polymer( polyester) coating cups available as tumbler blanks in the market. The tumbler’s blank allows the dye sublimation to infuse in polymer fibers and allows a full range of vibrant prints on tumblers by using a tumbler press or convection oven. As a result, you get permanent, peel-resistant, and long-lasting prints on tumblers.

Can I use any tumbler for sublimation?

No, for successful sublimation on a tumbler, you need a tumbler blank coated with a poly coating that withstands heat. As you know, a heat press activates the sublimation ink. The tumbler you select must be heat-resistant and compatible with the sublimation process. You can easily get these tumblers online if you can’t find them locally.

If you are first time sublimating a tumbler, I suggest you use a straight wall tumbler rather than a tapered one because the tapered ones are a little bit tricky for beginners.

Material required to Sublimate A Tumbler Easily

You have to get specific items so that you are ready before you begin sublimating a tumbler. There are concepts to highly regarded things on the list.

How to Sublimate a Tumbler Step-by-Step Guide

1. Create a Sublimation Design

Create your favorite design using any software like canva.com, adobe illustrator, or photoshop. Adjust the dimension of your print according to the height and circumference of the tumblers (skinny or fatty) you want to sublimate. Once you complete your design, proceed to print.

2. Print your Design

Print your design on the best-quality sublimation paper using a sublimation printer. Make 1 inch wider design than the original width of the tumblers as it allows seamless transfer on the final product. So, you can increase or decrease the width accordingly.

3. Pre-treatment of  Print and tumbler

For good, smooth, and wrinkle-free transfer of design on tumblers, clean the tumbler’s outer surface with a lint-free cloth by dipping it with rubbing alcohol. If you do not clean it, any fur or dust particles also sublimate and interfere with the transfer quality of the tumblers.

After that, cut the design pattern accordingly that fits your desired tumbler. On the peak and bottom of the tumbler, create a minimal overhang. It will ensure that the boundaries are not left with a blank white space. Also, be sure to leave yourself just a little additional so your transfer will barely fall above your tumbler when it is completely wound around. Also, remove the tumbler’s cap and straw before starting sublimation.

4. Wrap the Sublimation Paper on a Tumbler

Now adhere the sublimation paper over a tumbler tightly. Make sure your design faces the blank tumbler surface. Clip down the whole seam after centering the pattern on the tumbler and pulling it firmly. Then Secure the paper by using heat-resistance tape. Apply tape where the paper overlap and the upper and lower edges. Ensure the pattern is aligned and the piece is flat with no tiny bubbles.

You need just a tiny gap, so there is clear land where your image joins. Adhesive all around the bottom of the tumbler and gently indent the bottom of your photo paper. Wrap everything down as firmly as you can. It will lessen the chance of “gassing out” and fuzzy pictures.

If you find any paper losing and bubbles, remove the tape and place it again. When your tumbler is prepared, start sublimation.

Here we discuss three different methods you can use of them. Follow the instructions provided here to ensure a great finished product.

1. Tumbler press method
2. Convection oven method
3. Air Fryer method

1. Sublimating Tumbler With A Tumbler Press

• Most designers prefer the tumbler press because it eliminates the need for guesswork regarding timing, spinning, and temperature. Regular mug presses will function, but you’ll have to do it gradually.
• The tumbler press must first be warmed to 400 degrees with the timer fixed for 60 seconds.
• Then use a piece of paper to line the interior. After the press has warmed up, insert your tumbler and pressure it for 60 seconds with moderate to steady pressure. After completing 60 seconds, turn or rotate the tumbler side and place it for the next 60 seconds.
• If your pressing is customizable, check that it shuts completely around the pattern or, if you are making a wrap, entirely around the tumbler.
• Use protective gear or a potholder to take the tumbler from the pressing after the timer turns off because it will be Warm. Detach the adhesive and picture by placing it on a heat-resistant surface. It should be done in a heated environment to avoid ghosting or shadows.
• The tumbler will be finished once the picture has been removed; however, we don’t suggest cleaning it for a few hours.

2. Convection oven Method

• Pre-set the oven temperature to 300 to 375 Fahrenheit.
• Before placing your tumbler in the oven, cover it with shrink wrap. It will provide extra protection. Try to keep it as central as you can inside the covering. Be aware that many other methods will instruct you to pre-shrink your sleeves using a butane torch. The sleeve starts to shrink as soon as it is placed in the oven.

• Use a heat gun and apply heat on shrink wrap; as a result, it sticks with the tumbler.
• Put your tumbler in the oven after it has reached temperature, lying flat. You should set a six-minute delay. If your transfer is unequal, you may need to rotate your tumbler midway through.
• After that, take your tumbler out of the oven after the timer sounds. While gently handling the tumbler, removing the shrink cover, and transferring paper with heat-resistant gloves. Extract the transfer paper and shrink wrapping immediately. Next, it prevents your graphics from clipping and peeling; shrink wrapping is much simpler when it’s hot.
• And your customized tumbler is ready.

 

Tumbler Sublimating With An Air Fryer

• Start heating the fryer to 400 degrees.
• Apply silicone cover or shrink wrap to cover the tumbler. Put in your air fryer, and cook for 6 minutes, rotating midway through. Take it away and let it cool to room temperature when the allotted time has passed.
• If any white waste is left after removing the paper, use a baby cloth to clean it. You now possess a self-made, engaging, wholly wrapped tumbler.

FAQS

Do sublimation tumblers need sealing or epoxy?

As the sublimation ink becomes part of tumbler polymers, there is no need to seal them.

Can we put the sublimation tumblers in a dishwasher?

Before placing, it is better to read the manufactures instruction. If dishwasher safe, you can put them in the dishwasher easily. But I suggest hand washing for long-lasting results.

Can I sublimate a metal?

Yes! It is possible to sublimate metal. For the sublimation project to be practical, the metal must first be covered with a substance compatible with sublimation.

Wrapping it up

With this article, you learned how to sublimate a tumbler quickly. We provide a precise method with tips and tricks to get unmatched results with minimal effort. Choose any method according to your convenience and create high-quality sublimation tumblers quickly.

We hope the facts we provided on sublimation on slender tumblers were useful. Explore this page for more instructions regularly. And as always, feel free to ask any concerns in the comments section, and we’ll be delighted to respond!

Happy sublimation!