How To Sublimate A Shirt With A Heat Press - Beginner Guide

Sublimation is one of the most vibrant and long-lasting printing methods today. Whether you are starting a printing business or customizing shirts for events, learning how to sublimate a shirt properly can make a big difference in quality and durability.
In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to sublimate a shirt using a heat press, plus common mistakes to avoid and pro tips to get the BEST results.

What You Need for Shirt Sublimation
Before you start, make sure you have the right materials:
Sublimation printer (with sublimation ink)
Sublimation paper
Heat press machine
Lint roller
Heat transfer tape
Teflon sheet or butcher paper
Polyester t-shirt (100% recommended)
Note: Sublimation only works on polyester or poly-coated materials. For best results, choose 100% polyester shirts.

Step-by-Step: How to Sublimate a Shirt
Step 1: Print Your Artwork
• Use sublimation paper & sublimation ink.
• Ensure your design is mirrored before printing!
• Use high-resolution artwork (300 DPI recommended).
Step 2: Prepare the Shirt
• Place the shirt on the heat press.
• Use a lint roller to remove dust or loose fibers (they can cause blue spots).
• Insert a Teflon or butcher paper inside the shirt to avoid ink bleed.
Step 3: Position the Design
• Align the sublimation print on the shirt.
• Use heat-resistant tape to secure the design, so it doesn’t shift during pressing.
Step 4: Heat Press
Time: 45–60 seconds
Temperature: 380°F – 400°F (190–205°C)
Pressure: Medium
• Close the heat press and allow the timer to run.
• Avoid opening early—this causes blurry prints.
Step 5: Peel & Cool
• Open the heat press gently.
• Remove the sublimation paper slowly and smoothly.
• Allow the shirt to cool, and watch your colors pop!

Pro Tips for Perfect Sublimation Every Time
Use only light-colored shirts (white gives best results).
Avoid cotton—ink will wash out or fade quickly.
Do not reuse butcher paper; it may transfer leftover ink.
Ensure your heat press is preheated before pressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using cotton shirts
Not lint-rolling (leads to spots)
Low quality sublimation ink
Wrong temperature settings
Forgetting to mirror designs

Looking For High-Quality Heat Press Machines in Uganda?
At Yaya Innovations Uganda, we supply reliable and affordable heat press machines, sublimation printers, DTF machines, inks, and accessories for your printing business.
We offer:
• Sublimation printers & inks
• Heat press machines (5-in-1, 8-in-1, flat press, mug press)
• DTF & DTG supplies
• Materials for t-shirt branding, mugs, caps, plates & more
Start or grow your printing business with trusted machines from Yaya Innovations.
Contact for orders, training & support.