Sublimation printing is a digital process. It uses heat and pressure to transfer dye onto materials. These include fabric, plastic, metal, ceramic, and glass. It is sometimes called all-over print (AOP).
Here’s how the sublimation printing process works:
- A dye-sublimation printer prints your design onto special paper. It uses sublimation inks.
- Then, you place the paper onto a product, such as a mug or t-shirt. You heat it with a heat press, applying great heat and pressure at once.
- The heat turns the inks into gases, and the material absorbs them.
- As a result, you get a permanent, vibrant print that doesn’t lie on the product; instead, it becomes one with it.
What is Sublimation Spray Used For?
The use of adhesive spray for sublimation in sublimation printing plays a crucial role, serving several purposes. The adhesive spray keeps transfer paper in place on the substrate during the heat press. It prevents movement and wrinkling, ensuring a smooth process. Keeping the paper in close contact minimizes ghosting and shadowing risks. The adhesive spray also improves sublimation ink transfer, resulting in vibrant and detailed prints. It flattens the paper, preventing air pockets and wrinkles. Some sprays allow repositioning without residue, making print alignment adjustments easy. Remember to follow safety rules. Use the adhesive spray in fresh air. This prevents inhaling fumes.
Do’s and Don’ts of Sublimation Adhesive Sprays:
When using sublimation adhesive spray, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use it in a well-ventilated area.
- Avoid overspraying.
- Test a small, inconspicuous area first.
- Use the appropriate adhesive for your specific substrate and ink.
DO’s:
- Decode the instructions with precision. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how to apply the paint. Also, follow them for how long it takes to dry and the surface temperatures.
- Use the product in a well-ventilated area. Avoid breathing adhesive fumesby working in a well-ventilated space.
- Test on a small area first. Make sure the adhesivewon’t harm the surface or hurt its image quality.
- Use the right adhesive. It must work with your substrate and sublimation ink.
- Apply thin, even coats. Avoid oversaturating the substrate or transfer.
- Let the adhesive Follow the recommended drying time. Then, apply the sublimation transfer.
- Store adhesive spraysin a shaded area with low humidity.
Don’ts:
- Avoid applying too much adhesiveas it gives a sticky mess and poor image quality.
- Don’t apply to sensitive substrates. Don’t use adhesive sprayson delicate substrates. These include thin plastics or fabrics. Always test first.
- Don’t mix with other chemicals. Avoid combining adhesive sprayswith other chemicals or cleaners. It can create harmful reactions.
- Don’t use on impure substrates. Ensure the substrate is clean. It must be free of dust, oil, or other contaminants before you apply adhesive.
- Don’t use adhesiveon the wrong side. Apply it to the right side of the substrate or transfer it.
- Don’t ignore safety rules. Wear gloves and safety glasses. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Don’t delay drying time. Allow the recommended time. It ensures good bonding and image quality.
Follow these DOs and DON’Ts to ensure the safe and effective use of sublimation adhesive spray. It is to make high-quality sublimation prints.
Methods of Using Sublimation Adhesive Sprays:
Here are some methods for using sublimation adhesive spray:
- Spray a light mist onto the substrate before applying the sublimation transfer.
- Attach adhesive to the marked areas on the substrate’s surface. We will apply the image in these areas.
- Spray adhesive onto the transfer. Then, apply the transfer to the substrate.
- Prepare the substrate by spraying adhesive onto it. Let it dry before applying the sublimation transfer.
- Apply adhesive to both sides. Spray it onto the substrate and the sublimation transfer for the strongest bond.
- Use adhesive spray on specific areas of the image. These areas include fine details or text.
- Fill every area in the entire space with a uniform allocation. Spray adhesive across the surface or transfer it. Make sure to cover it all.
Pros and Cons of Using Adhesive Sprays in Sublimation Printing:
Adhesive sprays for sublimation strengthen the sublimation printing process by boosting image transfer and longevity. Here are some pros and cons of using adhesive sprays in sublimation printing:
Pros:
- Adhesive sprays help ink bond well. It makes images more vibrant and detailed.
- The spray adds an extra layer of protection. It makes the image more resistant to scratches and fading.
- Adhesive sprays can prevent ink from bleeding or moving. Reduced ink migration is the term used for this.
- Adhesive sprays can make weeding easier. They help remove excess vinyl or transfer tape after sublimation.
Cons:
- Adhesive sprays can also add to the cost.
- Overspray is possible. Adhesive sprays produce a mess and waste material without careful application.
- Some sprays may not work with some inks. It can hurt image quality.
- These adhesive sprays can damage substrates like delicate plastics or fabrics if not used carefully.
- By weighing these pros and cons, you can decide whether using adhesive sprays in sublimation printing is right for your specific needs and applications.
Best Adhesive Sprays for Sublimation Printing
To get good results in sublimation printing, you need special tools. These include an effective adhesive spray for sublimation. It’s for securing the transfer paper during the heat press. Many options are available. Choosing the best adhesive spray for sublimation may be tricky. To help in this decision, we’ve curated a list of the top ten spray adhesives for sublimation in 2024. We did rigorous research and thorough testing.
1. Sprayidea 90 Hi-temp Screen Printing Spray Adhesive
Sprayidea 90 is a premium choice for screen printing. It also excels in sublimation. It has high-temperature resistance and a no-residue formula. These make it ideal for sublimation printing. In sublimation, precision and clean results are key.
2. Eco-Chem AlbaChem Spray
AlbaChem Eco-Mist, an exemplary pressure-sensitive adhesive, contains hexane in its formulation. This spray secures sublimation paper firmly, without leaving any residue, earning acclaim. Furthermore, its user-friendly application process is set off by clear and comprehensive instructions.
3. Scotch Spray Mount:
The adhesive is known for its repositionable glue and fast drying. It won’t wrinkle paper or light materials. The Scotch Spray Mount adhesive is worth considering. The bond is forgiving. It allows adjustments without damaging the material. But, it requires skill to control overspray during use.
4. Rantherm Sublimation Spray:
The Rantherm Sublimation Spray is made for sublimation printing. It is good for quick drying and color enhancement. Thus, it delivers a pro finish. This spray adhesive is versatile. It works on many substrates. It makes a strong and lasting bond.
5. AOSORW Sublimation Spray:
The AOSORW Sublimation Spray improves ink adhesion. It helps make vivid prints. It works on many surfaces. It dries fast and has a bond that can be repositioned. It makes it a good choice for sublimation.
6. Elmer’s Multi-Purpose:
It stands out for its good adhesion on many surfaces. It also dries fast and clear. It is strong and works on many materials. Elmer’s Multi-Purpose Spray Adhesive is ready for a wide range of uses.
7. DyeTrans Professional Spray:
Tailored specifically for sublimation printing processes, the DyeTrans Pro Spray imparts a fine mist characterized by a high tack level, facilitating a secure hold during the heat press operation.
8. Krylon Easy-Tack:
It’s a repositionable adhesive. The Krylon Easy-Tack sticks to the sublimation paper. It allows readjustments without any residue. Its accessibility and adaptability render it a favored choice.
9. 3M 75 Spray Adhesive:
It sprays a fine mist for precise and even application. The 3M 75 Spray Adhesive avoids oversaturation. It also shows strong adhesion and longevity on many materials.
10. Sprayway 66:
It’s a repositionable adhesive. The Sprayway 66 is good for temporary use in sublimation. Its rapid drying and robust bonding capabilities culminate in a professional finish.
Selection of the Right Sublimation Adhesive Spray
When picking a sublimation adhesive spray, consider its eco-friendliness. Also, think about its fast drying time and strong bonding. Stakeholders can choose the right spray. Options include Sprayidea 90, 3M 75 Spray Adhesive, and Eco-Mist Adhesive Spray. These sprays make good prints. They will have precise alignment and vibrant colors. Each spray offers unique benefits. These include repositionability, a fine mist, and minimal odor. These sprays cater to different needs and preferences. They ensure professional results in sublimation projects.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, adhesive sprays are a big help in sublimation printing. They hold the paper in place during printing. It prevents shifting or misalignment that could ruin the final output. Adhesive sprays help to secure the transfer paper. It makes for sharper and more accurate prints with vibrant colors and fine details. But, it’s important to note that while sprays have many benefits, it is crucial to follow safety rules. Use them in well-ventilated areas to limit exposure to harmful fumes. It’s advisable to review and follow the instructions with the sprays. Consider your printing setup’s needs to get the best results.