How to Do Sublimation Printing on T-Shirts – A Step-by-Step Guide

Sublimation printing is one of the most effective methods for creating long-lasting, vibrant designs on garments — especially polyester T-shirts. Rather than sitting on top of the fabric, sublimation ink actually becomes part of the material, resulting in a smooth, durable finish that won't crack, peel, or fade.

Here’s how the process works, professionally broken down:

Materials You'll Need:

  • A polyester T-shirt (ideally 100% white or light-colored for best results)

  • A sublimation printer with compatible inks

  • Sublimation paper (for transferring your design)

  • A heat press machine

  • Heat-resistant tape (optional but recommended)

  • Design software (like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or Canva)

 Step-by-Step Process:

1. Create Your Design

Use design software to build your artwork in CMYK color mode and mirror it horizontally. Make sure the resolution is at least 300 DPI for sharp results.

2. Print on Sublimation Paper

Load your sublimation printer with the correct paper and ink. Print the mirrored design onto the coated side of the sublimation sheet.

3. Prepare the T-Shirt

Lay the T-shirt flat and pre-press it for 5–10 seconds using your heat press to remove moisture and wrinkles. This helps the transfer adhere evenly.

4. Position the Design

Place the printed sublimation paper face-down on the T-shirt, where you want the design. Use heat-resistant tape to secure it if necessary.

5. Apply Heat & Pressure

Set your heat press to around 400°F (204°C) with medium pressure for 45–60 seconds. Times and temps may vary depending on your machine and materials.

6. Remove and Reveal

Carefully lift the press and remove the transfer sheet. Let the shirt cool briefly — the design is now infused directly into the fibers.

Pro Tips:

  • Use 100% polyester garments for the most vivid color results. Lower polyester blends may produce a faded or vintage look.

  • Avoid dark-colored shirts — sublimation ink is transparent and won't show up well.

  • Perform test prints on sample fabric if you're new to the process.

Where to Get High-Quality Blanks:

For reliable, sublimation-ready apparel (like white polyester tees and hoodies), SublimationBlanksProduct.com offers a wide range of wholesale options suitable for personal use or scaling a small business.


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