Pre-coating for sublimation transfers onto ceramic
Pre-coating for Sublimation Transfers on Ceramic
If you want to learn more, please visit our website sublimation on porcelain.
Q: I would like to find a liquid that I could apply to ceramic tiles to allow me to have a base coating (polymer type or other) to accept sublimation transfers. I am experimenting on my own to do my sublimation transfers onto tiles that I can coat myself without having to buy pre-coated tiles designated for sublimation printing onto tiles. The reason for my inquiry is that I want to develop a tile decorating business in Tunisia using local tiles with sublimation hot transfer printing. Commercially pre-coated tiles for sublimation transfers are not available in Tunisia. I would appreciate any advice or information on this subject.
Regards,
Ameur Ben Arab
San Francisco, California
Sublimation Coating Solutions
Sublimation Coating Kit for Hard Surfaces can be found on Amazon or eBay.
Sublimation Coating for Fabric can also be found on Amazon or eBay.
Expert Advice
A: Hi, folks. According to coating consultant Carl Izzo, two-component polyester coatings are recommended. For small projects, polyester casting and coating resins are available at craft stores. For larger ventures, mix the components and use a conventional spray gun or a two-head spray gun, but make sure to use it quickly due to the short shelf life. I have no personal experience in this.
We apologize, but we had to delete some potentially helpful replies because when one reader suggested a source, other manufacturers felt compelled to over-promise their superiority. We can't allow a spamfest.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Alternative Methods
A: The solution is simple: go to your local automotive paint supplier and buy the best white primer and matching clearcoat. Let it dry for 24 hours or bake for 20 minutes at 200 degrees. This will allow you to sublimate on any surface, porous or non-porous.
Regards,
Wilfredo Torres
Ponce, Puerto Rico
Q: Wilfredo: any suggestions for the brand? Not familiar with automotive items. I bought a bunch of coasters thinking they were sublimation and they are not. Should I return them?
Regards,
V Tallman
Mount Storm, West Virginia
Additional Techniques
A: Mix acetone (maximum 10%) with Polyester resin and apply it to ceramic mugs/tiles. Let it dry naturally, then bake at 200 degrees Celsius.
Regards,
Sharif Tajma
Bangladesh
Q: Do you mix the primer and clear coat together, or apply them separately? Can this be used on wood, glass, or ceramic?
Regards,
Shirley Knight
Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, England
A: Apply the primer first, let it dry, and then apply the clearcoat. If using a 2K system, mix both parts before application.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Durability of Coatings
Q: Can automotive paints used for sublimation coatings withstand water and sun? Are they durable enough for tiles used for walking?
Regards,
Stephanie McGehee
Kuwait City, Kuwait
A: Automotive clearcoat resists water and sun, but sublimation ink may not. While durable, high traffic areas may cause wear.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Health and Safety
Q: Is sublimation liquid safe for health?
Regards,
Mitesh Vanjalkar
Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
A: Auto clear coat works well for sublimation on tiles. Apply, let it rest for 2 days, and sublimate at 400°F for 6 minutes.
Regards,
Dennis Moore
Gig Harbor, Washington, US
Home Use Concerns
Q: Is it safe to use a home oven for baking paint-coated items?
Regards,
Andreanne Charbonneau-D.
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
A: Kitchen ovens should be reserved solely for food. Using them for other purposes may increase health risks.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Technical Inquiries
Q: Can a clear coat be applied to a light-colored mug without a white primer?
Regards,
LaVonna Hardin
Yuba City, California, USA
A: Clearcoat may absorb sublimated gases, but its adhesion without primer might require experimentation.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Q: Should the primer be allowed to dry before applying the clearcoat?
Regards,
Jim Sears
Jeffersonville, Ohio, USA
A: Typically, each layer should cure before the next application.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Common Questions
Q: What is the "clear coat"? Is it varnish?
Regards,
Mushtaque Ali
Dadu, Sindh, Pakistan
A: Here, it's referring to "automotive clear coat," a two-component polyurethane coating.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Q: Do you need a specific machine to apply the coating to tiles?
Regards,
João Seguro
Lisbon, Portugal
Q: Can I use something to make a clear sublimation coating for glass?
Regards,
T Iksic
Moses Lake, Washington
A: Try 2-part automotive clearcoat if you want the glass to remain clear. If transparency isn't required, begin with white primer.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Q: Do we need a catalyst when mixing polyester resin with acetone for ceramic coating?
Regards,
Tania Ismail
Melbourne, Australia
A: The recipe for "acetone plus polyester" is likely for a single-component resin. It won't harden like a 2-part resin without a catalyst.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
Q: Do you need to prep the tiles before coating, like removing the glossy glaze?
Regards,
Natasha Brooks
Rockhampton, Australia
A: Use polyester resin with 2% cobalt and 2% catalyst. Spray or coat it with a scraper and let it air dry.
Regards,
Ramnik Anand
Delhi, India
Looking for Pre-coating for Sublimation Transfers onto Tiles
Q: I am looking for pre-coating for sublimation transfers onto ceramic tiles.
Regards,
Samuel Ohayon
Israel
A: Samuel, please provide more details about whether you're looking for a coating service, a commercial product, or a formula. Thanks.
Regards,
Ted Mooney
finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
How To Select the Best Sublimation Paper for DIY Project?
Selecting the correct sublimation paper is crucial to achieving excellent results in DIY sublimation projects. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best sublimation paper for your projects.
Whether creating personalized t-shirts, custom mugs, or vibrant home décor, the quality of sublimation paper can significantly impact your project's outcome. Let's explore the key elements, including compatibility, weight, coating, etc. By understanding these factors, you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision and elevate your DIY sublimation endeavors.
So, free the potential of your DIY projects with this guide on what is the best sublimation paper. Let's dive in!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sublimation Paper
- Compatibility: Ensure the paper matches your heat press or iron's requirements.
- Image Transfer Quality: Opt for paper that offers vibrant and sharp color production.
- Durability: Choose paper that can endure repeated use and washing.
- Coating: High-quality coating ensures effective ink transfer and prevents bleeding.
- Drying Time: Quick-drying papers enhance efficiency and minimize smudging risks.
- Application: Consider what materials you plan to use with the sublimation paper.
Pro tips: The weight of the sublimation paper can influence print quality and durability. Heavier papers offer better ink absorption and more vibrant prints, while lighter ones are suitable for delicate fabrics.
Best Sublimation Papers
A-SUB Sublimation Paper: Ideal for printing deep and highly saturated designs, especially on polyester fabrics. Also suitable for ceramic mugs, metal items, and wooden boards. Approximate price: $18.99 for 110 sheets (120gsm).
HTVRONT Sublimation Paper: Known for its high transfer rate and rapid drying, perfect for complex designs and 100% cotton fabrics. Approximate price: $21.99 for 150 sheets (120gsm).
Hiipoo Sublimation Paper: Popular for its ability to produce sharp and vivid colors. Known for compatibility with various substrates. Approximate price: $0.12 per count.
Koala Sublimation Paper: Thinner paper offering excellent printing quality and suitable for smaller designs. Approximate price: $0.11 per count.
Crafting Besties Sublimation Paper: Reliable for vibrant, long-lasting prints. Known for a high ink release rate and rapid drying. Approximate price: $0.3 per count.
TexPrint Sublimation Paper: Trusted for both small-scale and commercial printing with excellent ink transfer capabilities. Approximate price: $0.30 per count.
Want to know more about 42 gsm sublimation jumbo roll? Contact us today for expert consultation!
Using Sublimation Paper: Tips for Beginners
- Printer Selection: Choose a sublimation printer compatible with your paper and inks.
- Temperature and Time: Refer to manufacturer instructions for optimal settings.
- Heat Press Considerations: Use consistent temperature and pressure across the surface.
- Image Resolution: Use high-resolution images for sharp and vibrant results.
- Substrate Selection: Understand the capabilities and limitations of sublimation paper versus HTV vinyl.
- Test Prints: Always perform test prints before large production runs.
Summary and FAQ
When choosing the best sublimation paper, factors like affordability, compatibility, image transfer quality, durability, and paper weight should be considered. Go for brands such as crafting besties' sublimation paper or HTVRONT transfer sublimation paper for vibrant colors and impeccable details.
FAQ:
Q1. What's the difference between sublimation paper for heat transfer and a printer?
A: Sublimation paper holds and transfers the inks onto the substrate, while a sublimation printer prints the design onto the paper.
Q2. How many types of sublimation papers are there?
A: There are generally two types: light and dark. Light sublimation paper is for light-colored or white substrates, while dark sublimation paper is for dark-colored substrates.
Q3. Can you use regular ink on sublimation paper?
A: No. Regular ink will not resist the high heat and may fade during washing.
Q4. Can you use parchment paper for sublimation?
A: Yes, if thin sublimation paper is used, parchment paper can help avoid ink leakage.
For more 30gsm protective paper information, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.