Sublimation T-Shirt Tutorial by Jennifer Maker

Introduction

• Presenter: Jennifer Maker
• Topic: Easy sublimation T-shirt making
• Comparison: Sublimation vs. Iron-on Vinyl

Differences Between Sublimation and Iron-on Vinyl

• Appearance and Feel:
  • Iron-on Vinyl: Sits on top of fibers like a sticker
  • Sublimation: Dye the shirt's fibers; smooth, no edges, won't wrinkle, crack, or peel
• Durability:
  • Sublimation Shirts: Lasts as long as the material
  • Iron-on Vinyl Shirts: May crack or peel after ~50 washes

Sublimation Process Essentials

• Printer:
  • Epson EcoTank with sublimation ink or Sawgrass printer
  • Set up guides available on Jennifer's website
• Device:
  • Compatible with Mac, Windows; mobile devices may have limited options
• Printing Method:
  • Recommended: Google Chrome browser and Google Docs
• Heat Source:
  • Options: Cricut Autopress, Cricut EasyPress, traditional heat press
  • Required Temperature: ~400°F
• Materials:
  • White Cricut T-shirt (95% polyester recommended)
  • Sublimation paper (A-SUB 125g)
  • Additional: white cardstock, butcher paper, scissors, heat resistant tape

Safety

• Ensure proper ventilation
• Avoid direct inhalation of fumes

Steps to Sublimate a T-shirt

Step 1: Prepare Design

• Design Files: Available on Jennifer's website
• Software: Use Google Docs for design setup
• Printing:
  • Load sublimation paper correctly
  • Set printer settings: Mirror image, select appropriate paper type, quality

Step 2: Prepare Shirt

• Pre-Pressing:
  • Lint roll shirt, create a vertical crease
  • Preheat to remove moisture
• Setup:
  • Use white cardstock inside shirt
  • Align and secure design with heat-resistant tape

Step 3: Press Design

• Pressing:
  • Apply correct temperature and pressure
  • Allow shirt to cool before removing paper

Results and Comparison

• Polyester Content Effects:
  • 95% polyester: Best results
  • 65% polyester: Good, but less vibrant
  • 100% cotton: Ineffective, ink washes out
• Washing Instructions:
  • Turn inside out, wash in cold or warm water, air dry

Additional Resources

• Sublimation Startup Course: Available on Jennifer's website
• Community Group: Join for tips and ideas at Jennifer's sublimation group

Conclusion

• Encouragement to explore sublimation further
• Reminder: "Craft a life you love."