Having coffee at a beautiful espresso bar is unlike the random cafeteria and surroundings making it different. Decorating environs is aesthetically pleasing and positively impacts one’s subconscious mind. There are numerous ideas for embellishing the beauty of your vicinities, like adding plants, ornaments, glass, or canvas. It can be done with sublimation but a question arises here that can you sublimate on glass?
However, glasses have a separate class because they cover space with simplicity, transparency, and exquisiteness. Glasses are fragile, beautiful, and a decent choice, allowing designers to modify items based on creativity. When I shifted to my new house, the idea of sublimation hit my mind and triggered me to learn this lovely and creative art. I’m sure you all are wondering, “Can you sublimate on glass” if yes, then don’t skip this discussion.
Can You Sublimate On Glass?
The answer is as simple as “YES,” but performing this is pretty tricky! Please don’t fret; I explain glass sublimation in an adaptable and practical method. First, you need to understand what sublimation printing is? In scientific terms, a transition of solid state directly to gaseous state is known as sublimation. Sublimation printing aims to transit art from paper to fabric, glass, canvas, or more. A printer prints that image to the object under certain pressure and heat in this method.
Before moving on the process, it is essential to know which material is okay for sublimation. The process goes under high heat called sublimation temperature. The glass sublimation temperature is approximately equal to 400 °F in the case of glass. In a few words, a glass capable of withstanding high temperature can be sublimate.
People are usually curious about whether the regular glass is okay for this art or not? A simple glass can only be sublimated rightly after being coated with a spray. The sublimation spray is an adhesive that converts the sublimate material into the sublimation substrate. These sprays are readily available online and in stores; I found AlbaChem Eco mist spray great for this purpose.
Can you sublimate a shot glass? Unfortunately, the shot glasses cannot undergo the sublimation process. These glasses cannot withstand the sublimation press’ temperature and pressure conditions because of their fragility, sensitivity, and small size. However, you can sublimate shot glasses by substituting a press with an oven; wrap sublimation would be.
Sublimation Printing On Glass
To perform sublimation on glass, you need the following materials:
Sublimation printer
Sublimation inks
Sublimation papers
Glass
Heat press machine
Though glass sublimation is a risky task to perform, you can surely do it effortlessly if you consider the step-by-step instructions given below. Before that, let’s talk a little about materials.
1.Sublimation Printer
A printer is a primary requirement for the completion of the sublimation art. A sublimation printer utilizes heat to print the ink onto the objects. Make sure to get a high-quality dual printer that works on the right and reverses both settings. I found the Epson eco tank sublimation printer excellent! You can also use a tank-based printer for this process if it hasn’t been used previously. Simple, fill it with sublimation ink, and proceed with the task.
2.Sublimation Ink
Sublimation ink is the primary material for dye-sublimation printing on glass. It works as a toner which converts into a gaseous state from solid form under heat and pressure. Excellent quality ink is essential; thus, I rely only on Epson sublimation ink which is readily available online.
3.Sublimation Paper
Glass Sublimation requires a paper too, better to get the 110 to 120 gsm one. In the process, paper is used because it is light, weak, and can be damped and softened easily under humid conditions. However, it is recommended to use good quality paper which is not too light in weight; otherwise, printing would be rough or slow. I always consider weight and compatibility while buying a sublimation paper.
4.Press Machine
The process becomes a little different when it comes to glass sublimation as it involves a heat press machine. There is specific heat pressing machines for glass sublimation in the market, so make sure to get that. Please take extra caution and read the manufacturer’s instructions before using the press.
5. Heat Tapes
Using heat tapes is crucial to achieve a flawless sublimation outcome as they securely attach the image to the substrate and prevent any undesired shifts. So, it is always recommended to use heat tapes to prevent any unnecessary movement and ensure optimal results.
6. Heat Resistant Gloves
In glass sublimation printing, it is important to use gloves that are made of materials that are heat resistant and chemicals, as well as comfortable and flexible. I suggest use gloves made of nitrile or latex, which are both durable and resistant to heat and chemicals.
Glass Sublimation Step By Step Process
Some steps need to be followed to execute a print on glass flawlessly. First, choose a beautiful design; it can be a logo, floral art, picture, or anything. Make sure to select the image’s actual configuration to get accurate results. Once you’re done with printing, tape the paper onto the glass smoothly and reside it over a Teflon sheet in the press. The sheet protects paper from tearing.
After that, cover the setup using another Teflon sheet and start pressing to heat. As we are doing glass sublimation, the temperature would be 400 °F. The process will take less than four minutes to complete. After waiting, remove the sheet and let the object cool at room temperature. Now, remove the sublimation paper gently, and guess what? Beautiful creative sublimated glass is ready!
Tips for Sublimation on Glass
Use gloves, it will not burn your hands
Make a proper cross ventilation
Professionally disposed of broken glass
Before starting design perfectly sets on glass
I recommend to use heat resistant tapes instead of using normal tapes because normal tapes may burn during sublimation printing process.
FAQs
Can you sublimate on glass cups?
You can only sublimate on glass objects which are strong enough to survive in sublimation conditions. For example, shot glasses cannot withstand the sublimation press’ temperature and pressure conditions because of their fragility, sensitivity, and small size. However, if you want to sublimate those cups, then better use ovens.
Can you sublimate on any ceramic mug?
Yes, of course! Sublimation works on ceramic mugs beautifully. It is recommended to coat mugs with adhesive first, making them microwave and dishwasher-proof. I love doing picture sublimation on ceramic cups.
At what temperature does glass sublimate?
Glass sublimation occurs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. For this process, cover the object with Teflon sheets and heat for around four minutes, and you’re done. However, it is always a good idea to consider the manufacturer’s instructions before each press has its specifications and requirements.
Can you sublimate on glass frames?
Yes, you can sublimate on glass frames and it is water resistant. The design on glass frame is long lasting. It will not fade away with the passage of time because the glass frame is strong and durable.
Conclusion
Now you get the answer “can we sublimate on glass?” Now you’re aware of the glass sublimation process, decoration will not be a big deal anymore. It might seem tricky at first, but practice makes a man perfect! Once you become a runner in this, you can also use this skill as a source of income. In a nutshell, it is a fantastic art that can be learned and adapted effortlessly. Discover your art!
