In the process of sublimation, you can bring to life dynamic, full-color designs on a variety of substrates such as fabric, ceramic pieces and metal surfaces. Using the right sublimation paper is crucial for achieving high-quality results, especially when working with dark-colored shirts. The right paper should be chosen depending on the shirt’s printed fabric, with some papers better suited for lighter colors and others working best on dark fabric. It also introduces the top three options on the market and provides a step-by-step guide on using best sublimation paper for dark shirts. This article provides information on choosing the right sublimation paper for your printing projects.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sublimation Paper for Dark Shirts:
Transfer rate:
The transfer rate of a sublimation paper is an important factor to consider when choosing the best one for dark shirts. A higher transfer rate means more ink will be transferred onto the shirt, resulting in brighter colors.
Opacity:
Different sublimation papers have different levels of opacity. Opacity is how much light can pass through the paper. A higher opacity level means that an image will look more solid.
Coating:
The coating of the sublimation paper is also an important factor to consider when choosing the best paper for dark shirts. When selecting a paper for your project, be sure to find one that has been coated to prevent any smudging or fading of the shirt’s colors.
Ink Compatibility:
Choose your paper carefully. The wrong type of paper will make your printing look bad. Dye sublimation inks work best on some papers, while pigment-based inks need a different kind of paper. Do some research and read the manufacturer’s recommendations before you buy any paper.
Quality of the paper:
It is important to have the right type of paper for sublimation printing. Make sure to use paper that has been tested and works well with your ink. This will help your prints look good on dark-colored shirts.
Weight of the paper:
The weight of the paper is also an important factor to consider when choosing the right type of sublimation paper for dark shirts. Using heavier-weight paper will provide greater longevity through washing and handling and deliver an impressive result due to its ability to hold more ink and withstand fading in the long run.
Sublimation Papers for Dark Shirts:
Sister HD Subli-Dark:
This high quality sublimation paper offers excellent transfer rates and perfect colors on dark garments. It has a coating that prevents fading and smudging and is more opaque than other sublimation papers.
TexPrint-R for Dark Garments:
This version of TexPrint paper has been designed to print vibrant colors on dark garments. It works well with dye and pigment inks and offers good transfer rates and an opaque finish.
Sublisplash Sublimation Paper:
This sublimation paper has a special coating that ensures the colors print well on light and dark fabrics. The transfer rate is very good, so the colors will be bright, even on black shirts.
Top 3 Sublimation Papers for Dark Shirts:
Sublimation Paper Epson SureColor P800 Inkjet Printer:
This high-quality sublimation paper is specifically designed with Epson SureColor P800 inkjet printers. It has a high transfer rate and produces vibrant, accurate colors on dark-colored fabrics. The paper is also compatible with a wide range of inks and has a smooth, professional finish.
JTrans® PRO Sublimation Paper:
This sublimation paper is good because it transfers images onto dark-colored fabrics well. It also produces sharp, vibrant prints. With its ability to work with various inks and its professional-grade finish, printing has never been easier or more efficient.
Neenah 3G Jet Opaque® Heat Transfer Paper:
This sublimation paper is a popular choice for printing on dark-colored fabrics. It has a high transfer rate and produces vibrant, long-lasting prints. The paper is also compatible with a wide range of inks and has a smooth, professional finish.
How to Use Sublimation Paper for Dark Shirts: Process step by step:
1. Pre-press Steps:
Prepare the shirt:
To achieve the best outcome, your shirt must be washed and cleaned before wearing. Additionally, press out any wrinkles or creases with an iron to ensure it looks neat and crisp.
Print the design:
Print the design onto the sublimation paper using a sublimation printer and ink. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to get the best results. Verify your settings and run a test print if needed.
2. Printing and Transferring Process:
Cut out the design:
Carefully cut out the design from the sublimation paper, leaving a small border around the edges.
Heat the shirt:
Preheat the shirt using a heat press or iron. Depending on the fabric and sublimation paper, you can figure out the best temperature for printing.
Transfer the design:
Place the cut-out design onto the shirt, with the printed side facing down. Cover the design with a piece of parchment paper or a Teflon sheet to protect it from direct contact with the heat source.
Press the design:
To use the heat press or iron, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how much pressure and heat to apply. The amount of time and temperature needed for the design to successfully transfer onto the fabric depends on the combination of fabrics and papers.
Remove the parchment paper:
Carefully remove the parchment paper or Teflon sheet from the design.
3. Post-press Care:
Allow the shirt to cool:
After transferring the design, allow the shirt to cool completely before handling it.
Peel off the backing paper:
Once the shirt is cool, carefully peel off the backing paper from the design. Be sure to do this slowly and gently to avoid damaging the design.
Wash and care for the shirt:
Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer for the sublimation paper. This may include washing the shirt inside out and avoiding high heat when drying.
FAQs:
What kind of ink is compatible with sublimation paper?
Sublimation paper is generally compatible with dye sublimation ink. Dye sublimation ink is a water-based ink that is specifically formulated for use in sublimation printing. It is heated during the printing process and turns into a gas, which is then absorbed by the fibres of the printed material.
Can sublimation paper be used on other fabrics?
Sublimation paper is a flexible tool used with various fabrics, not just dark-colored ones. Sublimation paper is designed to be used with sublimation printing, which allows users to print vibrant and colorful graphics onto surfaces like fabric, ceramic, and metal.
Conclusion:
Sublimation paper is essential for achieving high-quality, vibrant prints on various materials, including dark-colored fabrics. When choosing a sublimation paper for dark shirts, it is important to consider the transfer rate, ink compatibility, quality and weight of the paper to ensure that you get the best possible results. To get the best results, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for transferring the design and carefully follow the post-press care instructions. With the right sublimation paper, you can easily create a wide range of stunning products.
