Sublimation tumblers are a popular and profitable item for crafters and business owners. However, one of the most common problems when sublimating tumblers is ghosting—a faded, blurry, or duplicated design caused by improper pressure, movement, or incorrect heat settings. In this guide, we’ll cover a step-by-step process for sublimating tumblers and tips to prevent ghosting issues.
What You Need for Sublimating Tumblers
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Sublimation-ready tumbler (typically stainless steel with a polymer coating)
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Sublimation printer (such as a converted Epson or Sawgrass)
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Sublimation paper
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Sublimation ink
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Heat-resistant tape
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Shrink wrap or heat-resistant silicone bands
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Convection oven or tumbler heat press
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Heat-resistant gloves
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Lint roller
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Blow dryer or heat gun (optional, for preheating tumbler surface)
Step-by-Step Guide to Sublimating Tumblers
1. Prepare Your Design
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Ensure your design is high-resolution (300 DPI or higher) for crisp results.
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Size your design correctly to fit the tumbler dimensions, allowing for a seamless wrap.
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Mirror the image before printing to ensure it appears correctly on the tumbler.
2. Print and Trim Your Design
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Print your design using sublimation ink on sublimation paper.
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Trim any excess white space to prevent uneven heating or ghosting.
3. Clean Your Tumbler
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Use a lint roller to remove dust or fibers, which can interfere with ink transfer.
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If needed, wipe the tumbler with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils or residue.
4. Secure the Design
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Wrap the sublimation paper tightly around the tumbler, ensuring no gaps or wrinkles.
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Use heat-resistant tape along the seam and edges to prevent shifting.
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For best results, apply shrink wrap or silicone bands to secure even pressure.
5. Heat Press or Convection Oven Method
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Using a tumbler heat press:
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Preheat the press to 375-400°F (190-204°C).
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Press for 60-90 seconds, rotating halfway through if needed.
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Using a convection oven:
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Preheat to 375-400°F (190-204°C).
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Place the tumbler in an upright position on a heat-resistant mat.
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Bake for 5-7 minutes, rotating at the halfway mark.
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6. Cooling and Unwrapping
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Use heat-resistant gloves to handle the tumbler immediately after pressing.
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Allow the tumbler to cool slightly before removing the paper.
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Carefully peel off the sublimation paper to reveal the design.
How to Avoid Ghosting Issues
1. Secure the Paper Properly
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Ensure the sublimation paper is wrapped tightly with no loose edges.
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Use heat-resistant tape along all seams and edges.
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Shrink wrap can help apply even pressure, preventing movement.
2. Check Your Heat and Time Settings
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Too much heat or pressing for too long can cause ink to gas out prematurely, leading to ghosting.
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Make sure your heat press or oven maintains a consistent temperature.
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Adjust based on the tumbler material and coating.
3. Rotate Tumblers During Heating
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If using an oven, rotate tumblers at least once halfway through the heating process.
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For heat presses, ensure even pressure distribution across the tumbler.
4. Allow Proper Cooling
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Removing the paper too early can cause the ink to shift while it’s still active.
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Let the tumbler cool for a minute or two before unwrapping.
5. Store in a Dust-Free Environment
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Dust or lint can cause uneven ink transfer, leading to ghosting.
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Always store blank tumblers in a clean, covered space.
Final Thoughts
Sublimating tumblers can be an easy and fun process when done correctly. By securing the paper properly, using the right heat settings, and rotating during heating, you can prevent ghosting and achieve vibrant, professional-looking results. Happy crafting!
Do you have any sublimation troubleshooting questions? Drop them in the comments below!
Are you ready to start sublimation printing? Explore the best equipment and materials to bring your designs to life HERE!