Newbie to sublimation mug printing

[sean]

Hi,

I'm new to this forum and sublimation printing and it seems I have a lot to learn. I’m having major issues with printing on sublimation mugs. When I am pressing my mugs the colours are coming out faded and washed out. They are definitely not vibrant.

I’m using the following products -

Epson Printer Artisan 1430
Korean Sublimation Ink
Photo USA BJ880 Mug Press
Photoshop

Would a Custom ICC profile help?

If anyone can help me out or point me in the right direction it would be much appreciated. Thank you.

[Justin]

Hi Sean and welcome to the forum :-)

What paper are you using and what are your press times/temps?

[sean]

Hi Justin,

First of all thank you for the reply. I’m pressing via the manufactures instructions, initial temperature 230F highest temperature 330F for 40s using the slow method of putting the mug in while the press heats up. A standard ink jet paper is being used. I’ve also tried Fuji Xerox professional 80 g/m as I thought it may have been the paper.

[socialgiraffe]

Hi Sean

The paper needs to be a specialist dye sublimation paper. For best results use something like TRUPIX however I note that you are using cheap Korean inks. You may well be just as happy with the cheapest paper you can find.

Looking quickly its around US$30 per pack of 100 A4 sheets

Please do not take offense to the above as it is not meant to be. I completely understand that everyone has different standards and everyone has different financial circumstances. I am simply pointing out that TRUPIX is one of the best papers but is also one of the most expensive!

[sean]

Hi Social Giraffe,

Thanks for the reply. I'm new to sublimation printing and purchased the press and materials from a company called Photo USA that is based in China. It's a long story but there have been so many problems already with my order. I have no problems purchasing TRUPIX and will order some this afternoon. What inks would you recommend for sublimation mugs? I wish I had found this forum earlier.

[sean]

I cannot seem to find a supplier in Australia for TRUPIX. Could you supply a link as I may need to order it from the UK? What other brands of paper would you reccomend?

[Justin]

Some people do use photo paper, epson for example. Personally I agree that specific sublimation paper is far better and this is probably where your problem lies.I also don't use that method of pressing. I bring the press up to full temp with a blank mug always in the blanket and then press around 180secs 190c.

[Paul]

Reference to icc profile. Do you use one at all?

also sublimation paper... Inkjet paper is same stuff. Not as good as trupix but is also coated paper that can be used.

[pisquee]

Korea has some excellent inks coming out of it, so don't assume that because the ink is Korean that it isn't good.
You will need a custom ICC making if your supplier/manufacturer doesn't have a generic one for your 1430 printer.
You should definitely also use specific sublimation paper for good results - best to get this before getting a custom profile made.

[socialgiraffe]

Fair point Pisquee, not really up on my inks to be honest.

Sean, as mentioned by other members, TRUPIX is just one decent brand, there are many others. I suggest you google SUBLIMATION SUPPLIERS to find a supplier in Oz. They will be able to recommend a decent paper for you.

Once you have the ink then try Justins Method or use 180-190 degrees C for 240 Seconds as a good starting point allowing the mug to warm up with the press.

Hopefully both of the above will produce a much better result.

Creating an custom ICC profile will certainly enhance your images and is the icing on the cake.