How to Make a Sublimation Tumbler

Skinny tumblers are a popular sublimation project. They need a little more care than mugs because of their shape.

What you need

• Sublimation coated tumbler blanks
• A sublimation printer, ink and paper
• A tumbler press, a mug press that fits, or a convection oven with shrink wrap sleeves
• Heat resistant tape and gloves

Steps

1. Use a template sized for your exact tumbler. Many blank sellers provide one.
2. Mirror and print the design.
3. Wrap tightly. Line up the seam so it sits where the handle would be, or at the back.
4. Tape firmly or use a shrink sleeve so the paper does not move.
5. Heat using the time and temperature your blank seller recommends.
6. Cool safely, then remove the paper with gloves.

Common problems

• Ghosting: the paper shifted. Wrap tighter.
• Pale spots: gaps between the paper and the tumbler.
• Uneven colour at the ends: check your press heats the whole length.

TREVOR: add photos and settings that worked for your equipment.