If you’ve been working with sublimation blanks, you know the importance of getting the perfect print every time. However, sometimes things don't go as planned, and your prints may not come out as expected. Whether you’re just starting out with a sublimation printer and basic heat press or ordering dye sublimation supplies in bulk it’s still important to know how to troubleshoot common issues. Even if you are a veteran sublimation expert there can still be new things to learn especially when moving into new product lines or working with new substrates. Below, we explore the main reasons why your sublimation prints might not be turning out right, and how to fix them.
1. "I'm getting ghosting or fading on my prints"
One of the most common reasons for a bad sublimation print is an issue with the heat press. If the temperature isn’t high enough, or the pressure isn’t right, it can result in fading, ghosting, or incomplete transfers. Ensure that your heat press is calibrated correctly and that the temperature settings match the specifications for your sublimation blanks. Some heat presses can run hot especially if they are older so use an inexpensive infrared thermometer to check what temperature your platen is actually heating up to.
Troubleshooting Tip:
- Double-check the heat press temperature and pressure based on the type of sublimation blanks you're using. For instance, fabrics typically require slightly lower temperatures than ceramics or metals.
- If you have black colours appearing as brown this can either mean that the temperature of the heat press is too hot or too cold. To be sure of which one it is, have a look at your sublimation paper and see if the non-printed parts are appearing yellow. If they are then it is likely that it is overheating even if your heat press says it is the correct temperature.
- Adjust the time and pressure settings to ensure even heat distribution across the entire surface.
2. "My print results are inconsistent and colours are not coming out properly"
The quality of your dye sublimation supplies plays a significant role in print quality. Low-quality inks, papers, or sublimation blanks can result in poor colour fidelity or distortion in your prints. If you're not using the best-quality dye sublimation blanks, your print may not adhere to the material as expected.
Troubleshooting Tip:
- Don't always follow the price and always purchase blanks from trusted, reputable sources. Consider working with wholesale suppliers who specialise in high-quality sublimation materials, as they often carry premium products that deliver better results.
- If your prints appear faded or discoloured, try switching to a different sublimation paper or sublimation inks.
3. "The colours on my printed sublimation paper are different to the screen display"
Your sublimation printer settings could also be a major cause of print issues. If you’re using incorrect print settings, your colours may not be as vibrant, or you might experience smearing or fading during the transfer process. Make sure your printer is optimised for sublimation printing, and your software settings match the specifications for the material you're printing on.
Troubleshooting Tip:
- Check that your sublimation printer is set to the correct paper type and print quality.
- Ensure the print resolution is set high, as lower resolution prints can result in pixelated images or blurry details.
- For some printers such as the Sawgrass SG500 the printer comes with software that allows you to choose what material you are printing on so that it adjusts the settings automatically for you.
- Think about buying a dedicated sublimation printer rather than trying to convert a non-sublimation printer with a conversion kit. Often this will void your warranty and can get messy with refillable ink cartridges and systems.
4. Moisture in the Sublimation Blanks or Materials
Moisture is a major enemy when it comes to sublimation printing. If the blanks you are using have absorbed moisture, it can affect the transfer process and result in blurry, streaky, or distorted prints. Even the smallest amount of moisture can impact your prints, so it’s essential to ensure your materials are completely dry.
Troubleshooting Tip:
- Store your sublimation blanks and sublimation supplies in a cool, dry place.
- If you suspect moisture, try preheating the sublimation blanks before pressing to evaporate any trapped moisture.
5. Improper Alignment of Transfer Paper
If the transfer paper is not properly aligned with the sublimation blanks, your prints may shift or appear misaligned. This is especially important when working with wholesale quantities of sublimation blanks, as even a small error in alignment can become more noticeable across multiple items.
Troubleshooting Tip:
- Ensure that the transfer paper is securely taped or fixed in place on your sublimation blanks.
- Use alignment tools (such as our plastic t-shirt guides) if available, or create a template for consistent placement.
6. Sublimation Print Not Fully Transferring
If your sublimation print is not fully transferring, there are several possible reasons. The most common issue is insufficient heat or pressure from the heat press, or the transfer was not held for long enough. It could also be due to using low-quality sublimation blanks that aren't suitable for dye sublimation.
Troubleshooting Tip:
- Increase the pressure on your heat press and ensure it is distributing heat evenly.
- Invest in a thin silicone matt such as our FAB Pad - it's impossible to manufacture 100% flat items and so this will help to even this out!
Conclusion
Troubleshooting sublimation printer and heat press issues doesn’t have to be difficult. By following this guide and ensuring you’re using high-quality sublimation blanks, dye sublimation supplies, and the right settings on your sublimation printer and heat press, you can overcome common issues and create high-quality prints every time. If you're ordering wholesale sublimation materials, make sure you're sourcing from trusted suppliers that offer the best options for your business’s needs.
Remember, testing and practice are key. Keep experimenting with different settings and materials until you find what works best for you!