If you’re looking to sublimate tumblers, there are a lot of options. You can choose from several types of tumblers, such as plastic and glass.
Then you’ll need to decide whether you want the plain colors or if you want to add some designs or graphics to make your tumbler stand out more.
If so, then a good idea would be to use sublimation ink. There are many different types available on the market today; however, not all will work with your particular type of machine or process.
What is the difference between epoxy and sublimation tumblers?
Sublimation tumblers are made of metal, and epoxy is used to seal the tumbler and make it sublimation ready. Epoxy can be used on other types of glassware as well.
Sublimation refers to a process where the material goes through two steps: first, it melts into a liquid; then, it evaporates into a gaseous state (or sublimes), leaving behind only the solidified residue in whatever shape or form that was being transferred onto an image carrier, such as an inkjet printer paper or heat-resistant scrapbooking paper.
Table of Contents
- What is the difference between epoxy and sublimation tumblers?
- Can you heat press on epoxy?
- Can I sublimate on resin?
- Can I spray paint a sublimation tumbler?
- How do you apply epoxy to sublimated tumblers?
- Do you seal sublimation tumblers?
- Can you sublimate on top of epoxy?
- How do you make a tumbler sublimation ready?
Can you heat press on epoxy?
You can, but it’s not recommended.
If you want to get into the details about why it’s not recommended or if you’re just curious about what kinds of things can be done with epoxy (like making a custom tumbler), read on!
Epoxy is a common material used in manufacturing and construction. It’s made up of two different components that are mixed together to create an adhesive bond between materials.
The strongest part of this bond is created when both parts have been heated up to their melting point and then cooled down again before they harden into place. This process is called “curing” or “polymerization.”
Can I sublimate on resin?
You can sublimate on resin, however, it is important to understand that resin is clear plastic. This means that your design will not be visible unless you have a colored background.
For example, if you have a black tumbler and apply a white design with no color change layer, the design will not show up.
However, if you apply an opaque white layer with no color change before adhering to your design then it should show up fine!
- If using clear glassware: Apply two coats of ink to the ink-jet printable side of the paper sheet (or as per manufacturer’s instructions). Place in freezer for 5–10 minutes prior to heat setting process.*
Can I spray paint a sublimation tumbler?
Yes, you can spray paint a sublimation tumbler. The trick is to use any kind of paint that will adhere to metal and glass.
If you want to get fancy, though, there are several different kinds of paint specifically designed for ceramics and glassware.
There are also plenty of primers on the market that can help make sure your finish goes on smoothly and evenly (and sticks).
Finally, if you have multiple colors in mind for your sublimation tumbler project or if you’re planning on putting it out in the sun often (which might fade some paints), consider using clear coats afterward as well.
How do you apply epoxy to sublimated tumblers?
- Put on a latex glove.
- Apply epoxy to the tumbler, using a paper towel to wipe away any excess.
- Let the epoxy dry for at least an hour.
- Sublimation is done!
Do you seal sublimation tumblers?
No. You do not need to seal the tumbler, but you can if you want. The epoxy resin is clear, so there is no reason to apply a colored layer over it if you don’t want one.
However, if you do want color on your tumbler, there are several options for doing so:
- Clear coat: This is the most common option for sealing sublimation tumblers because it’s affordable and provides the best protection from scratching. A clear coat will also give more smoothness and better grip when holding onto the glass than plain glass does (which can be helpful depending on what type of beverage is stored inside).
- Coloring agent: If budgeting isn’t an issue and/or if aesthetics matter more than functionality when choosing colors for your custom glasses or mugs (e.g., painting vs printing), then consider adding some dye into your epoxy resin mixture before pouring it into your mold(s). This will give them more vibrancy while still allowing them to keep their transparency–though they’ll likely lose some clarity because of this addition!
Can you sublimate on top of epoxy?
Yes, you can sublimate on top of epoxy. However, it’s a good idea to use a primer to cover the epoxy so that the transfer medium doesn’t stick to it and rip off when you pull your tumbler out later.
After that, you need to use a sealant like Mod Podge or glass spray in order to stop any remaining epoxy from coming off during the transfer process.
You’ll also want to use this sealant in order for your tumbler not to get stuck together in storage if there are small amounts of epoxy still left over on its surface after transferring.
How do you make a tumbler sublimation ready?
Tumblers are made of plastic, and epoxies aren’t always the best option for plastic. Sublimation works by applying heat to the material you want to transfer onto your tumbler.
So if you use epoxy, it will melt into your tumbler and leave behind a mess.
Instead, try using an acrylic sealer or varnish. These can be found at any hardware store or craft store and will protect your surface from scratches as well as preserve its color for years to come!
Conclusion
Sublimation tumblers are a fun and unique way to decorate your home or office. They not only look great but they also make great gifts!
The biggest thing you need to know when it comes to this type of product is how long will it take before you can use them again?
The answer is that depends on what kind of epoxy was used during manufacture. If it’s just regular old epoxy then no worries because it is fine for sublimation printing.
If however there’s some other type mixed in with it then, unfortunately, that means no more sublimated artwork until after it’s cured completely dry which could take up several days depending on thicknesses involved.”