Are you tired of being limited to sublimation printing only on polyester materials? Do you want to expand your printing options to include cotton t-shirts? If you're nodding your head yes, then you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to sublimate on cotton t-shirts.

As a beginner in sublimation, you may think that sublimating on cotton is impossible since sublimation ink doesn't work well on cotton. However, there's a way around this limitation - sublimation on cotton requires a special type of transfer paper called DTF (direct to film) that uses a different type of ink, which bonds well with cotton. So, let's dive in and learn more.

Getting Started with Sublimation on Cotton

To get started with sublimation on cotton, you'll need a few things. First, you need a printer that can print with DTF ink. There are several sublimation printers on the market that can do this, such as the Epson SureColor F170 or the Epson SureColor F570. You'll also need DTF transfer paper and cotton t-shirts.

The next thing you'll need is a heat press. A heat press is a machine that applies heat and pressure to transfer the design onto the t-shirt. You can purchase a heat press online or from your local craft store. When purchasing a heat press, ensure that it has adjustable pressure and temperature settings, as different types of transfer papers require different settings.

Preparing the Design for Sublimation

Once you have all the necessary tools, you'll need to prepare the design for sublimation. First, you need to design your image using design software such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW. When designing the image, it's essential to flip the image horizontally so that the final design is not mirrored.

Next, you need to print the image onto the DTF transfer paper using a sublimation printer. Ensure that you print the image in the highest quality possible to achieve the best results. After printing, you need to weed the design. Weeding involves removing any excess material from the transfer paper to leave only the design.

Transferring the Design onto the Cotton T-Shirt

Now that you have your design ready, it's time to transfer it onto the cotton t-shirt. Place the t-shirt onto the heat press and pre-press it for about 10 seconds to remove any moisture and wrinkles. After pre-pressing, place the DTF transfer paper with the design facing down onto the t-shirt. Cover the transfer paper with a Teflon sheet or a parchment paper to prevent ink from sticking to the heat press.

Next, adjust the temperature and pressure settings on the heat press according to the DTF transfer paper's instructions. Different types of transfer papers require different temperature and pressure settings, so ensure that you're using the correct settings. Once you've adjusted the settings, press the t-shirt for about 60 seconds.

After pressing, remove the t-shirt from the heat press and peel off the transfer paper while it's still warm. Be careful when peeling the paper to avoid smudging the design. If the design doesn't transfer well, try increasing the pressure or temperature and repeating the process.

Sublimation on cotton is a great way to expand your printing options and offer your customers unique designs. With the right tools and techniques, sublimating on cotton can be a breeze. As a beginner, it's essential to follow the instructions carefully and practice on scraps of cotton fabric before trying on t-shirts.