Pressing Instructions

Like all sublimation blanks, some trial and error is likely to be required when pressing Acrylic due to variations in heat presses, and papers used.

The method we found best for our set up is

• Texprint XPHR Sublimation Paper
• 195c
• 60 secs
• Low/Medium Pressure

Ensure you have removed the protective layer from BOTH sides before attempting to press.

Once removed from your heat press the acrylic will be soft and malleable, place under something heavy for approximately 10-20 seconds, then remove paper (the transfer will look slightly cloudy) and rub with a Wet Wipe to bring back the shine, and remove any paper residue. Place back under the heavy weight to continue cooling*.

Once cooled the second side can then be subbed using the same guide as above.

'A Sub Paper'

We also tried with ‘A Sub’ Branded Paper using the above time and temperature, while successful, we found it tended to leave more of a film when you remove the paper, but you can rub that away with wet wipes while still warm, or soak in warm water to remove.

'S Race Paper, Versa Paper'

Feedback and interaction with the community has shown that these papers can both be used, pressing instructions remain as above, however increase time to 90s to maximise ink release from these papers.

'Copier Paper'

Some find that they prefer to use regular copier paper when pressing acrylic as they feel it does not stick as much to the acrylic blank. For those using this paper, the common temperatures quote for pressing is 180c for 180s and then continue with the steps above regarding flattening and rubbing with a wet wipe.

*We recommend cooling is done using a glossy surface, for example Marble Worktop Savers, or Glass Chopping Boards (ensure tempered due to heat) as when cooling the acrylic will take on the surface texture of the item it cools against. You may wish to add additional weight on top of whatever you use to cool the blanks to ensure optimal flattening, however we have seen some amazing results from customers that have cooled acrylic items using curved objects (for example a tube or can) as this then allows the item to self stand.

Ensure you have removed the protective layer from BOTH sides before attempting to press.

Press face up at 180c for 60s

Place under something heavy to cool.

Repeat for second side.

Ensure you have removed the protective layer from the white side before attempting to press.

Press face up at 180c for 60s

Place under something heavy to cool.

For optimal results, remove the protective layer from the front after you have pressed and cooled the blank. 

Sublimation acrylic is a Clear Acrylic with a special sublimation coating on the rear (much like Glass Chopping Boards or Coasters), when press you will print on to the WHITE side of the acrylic and the image will show as visible from the front, through the clear acrylic. As such DO NOT mirror your images when pressing this item.

Press face up at 180c for 60s-120s*

Place under something heavy to cool.

Remove Protective Layer from the front.

*Longer press times may be required for larger pieces.

While intended for Painting, Decoupage, and Vinyl, we know many of you will be interested in whether or not these items can be subbed. We can confirm that if pressed correctly it is possible to sublimate these items with amazing results.

Time, Temps and Guide Below are intended as a starting point, as each and everyone's equipment is different, however this is the steps we found worked for our equipment.

1. Remove masking from the painted side.

2. Press face up at 180c for 90s

3. Upon removing, place under something heavy to flatten and cool.