When it comes to giving a personal and unique gift, sublimating on glass is a great option. With the ability to transfer any image onto glass, you can create a one-of-a-kind present for anyone in your life.
Sublimation is a great way to create customized and personalized items. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing to sublimate on glass. First, let’s talk about what it takes to be able to sublimate on glass. Just any glass does not work. You either need to find a sublimation blank that is made for sublimation. Or you need to use a spray to add a sublimation finish to the glass.
If you are using a blank, make sure that it is the right size and shape for the item you want to make. Also, make sure that the surface is smooth so that the image will be clear. If you are using a spray, be sure to follow the directions carefully. You don’t want the image to be blurry or smudged.
The next thing to keep in mind is quality. The quality of the image is important. The better the quality of the image, the better the final product will look. Also, keep in mind that glass is not completely opaque, so images with a lot of white or light colors may not show up as well as images with darker colors. Finally, be sure to use a high-resolution image so that it will print clearly.
Sublimating on Glass Ideas
Now that you know what it takes to sublimate on glass, let’s talk about some ideas for items that make great gifts. Drinking glasses are always popular choices. You can find mugs, shot glasses, and even wine glasses that can be used for sublimation. Or, you can get creative and find other items made of glass that can be used.
Another great option is to sublimate on a glass frame.
Frames make great gifts because they are both practical and stylish. Plus, they can be customized with any image or message that you want. If you are looking for a more unique gift, consider sublimating on a cutting board. Cutting boards come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find one that is the perfect size for the person you are giving it to. And, like frames, they can be customized with any image or message.
What do you need before you start?
There are a few things you need to know before you get started sublimating on glass. First, you need to make sure that your glass is clean and free of any contaminants. If there are any fingerprints or smudges on the surface of the glass, it will prevent the sublimation ink from adhering properly.
Supplies
- Sublimation Paper
- Sublimation Ink
- Printer
- Sublimation Blank
- Heat Press
- Butcher Paper
- Heat Resistant Tape
- Telfon Baking Sheet
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Excited to get started on this project? Check out the video tutorial below or follow the step-by-step instructions! You choose how you want to learn to do this project! The video tutorial is excellent for those who want to see the project come together, and the step-by-step instructions are perfect for those who want a more detailed look at each component. Either way, you’ll be able to create this project with ease! So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Step #1 Sublimation Design
Next, you need to prepare your design. If you’re using a pre-made design, simply print it out on sublimation paper.
If you’re creating your design, you’ll need to remember not to reverse it since we will be sublimating on the back side of the glass.
Step #2 Print Your Sublimation Image
Then, place your glass on top of the sublimation transfer paper. Make sure that it’s positioned in the middle so that you’ll be able to see the entire design. Secure the transfer paper to the glass with heat-resistant tape.
Step #3 Press Design
Now, it’s time to heat your heat-press! Set it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and set a timer for 270 seconds. While it’s preheating, let’s set up the layering or sandwich of your glass. Start with a piece of butcher paper on your heat-press followed by the image and the white side of the glass on top of the image and secure it with heat resistant tape. Cover that layer with another piece of butcher paper then I like to add a Teflon baking sheet to help distribute the heat and finish off the layering with another piece of butcher paper.
Step #4 Let’s Finish It
Once your timer goes off, carefully remove the top layer of butcher paper and Teflon sheet. You should see your image now permanently transferred onto your glass!
So, don’t forget that Sublimating on glass is a great way to create unique gifts or items for your home. It’s important to remember a few things before you get started, like making sure your glass is ready for sublimation and it is clean and you are using the right kind of transfer paper and sublimation ink. But once you have everything you need, the process is fairly simple. Just heat your press and layer your glass, transfer paper, and image. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a beautiful, permanent image transferred onto the glass.
If this project inspired you, then check out some of my other projects for more inspiration!
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2 comments
Hi Lisa!
Very informative. I wanted to know if I can use a regular stemless wine glasses to sublimate? Or do I have to use a sublimation wine glass?
The glass frames where sublimation ready. The key to sublimating on glass is have a substrate that is ready for sublimation. I have not found any glass wine glasses ready for sublimation but have seen stem and stemless stainless steel wine tumblers. Here is a link: https://www.coastalbusiness.com/12oz-stainless-steel-sublimation-wine-tumbler.html