Yes, you can sublimate on acrylic. Acrylic is a type of plastic, so it is a viable sublimation substrate.
There are two types of acrylic: cast acrylic and extruded acrylic. However, sublimation works best on cast acrylic due to its higher heat tolerance.
Therefore, you can sublimate high-quality images on cast acrylic.
Materials You Will Need to Sublimate on Acrylic
You will need various materials to complete your acrylic sublimation project successfully. These supplies include:
- Acrylic substrate.
- Heat tape.
- Heat press.
- Heat-resistant gloves.
- Computer.
- Bowl with warm water.
- Sublimation paper.
- Printer.
Here are the materials you will need in more detail:
1. Computer
You will need a computer that can handle graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Inkscape. Most everyday PCs have the necessary capabilities to run graphic design software. Therefore, you do not need to buy a new computer if you already have an existing one. However, make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements of your chosen design software.
2. Printer
You will also need a printer to print the sublimation design. It is recommendable to use a high-quality printer as this will ensure the best possible result. You will also need to purchase the sublimation paper and ink for the printer. Remember, you need to use special sublimation ink and paper designed for acrylic sublimation.
3. Heat Press
You need a way to press the acrylic substrate. You can either use an easy press or a heat press. A heat press is better since it gets hot enough. You will only get full heat transfer if the heat or easy press gets hot enough. Set the heat press temperature between 385 degrees to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and heat press the acrylic for 60 seconds.
4. Heat Tape
You will also need heat tape to secure the sublimation paper onto the acrylic. The heat tape holds the sublimation paper into place so that it does not move during the heating process, which helps to ensure a better-quality image.
5. Heat-Resistant Gloves
The heat-resistant gloves enable you to remove the acrylic from the heat press without burning your fingers. You should therefore use high-quality gloves since the acrylic substrate can get quite hot.
6. Bowl of Warm Water
Some sublimation paper will stick to the acrylic substrate, making it difficult to get it off. Submerge the acrylic substrate in a bowl of warm water. The warm water softens the substrate paper and makes it easier to remove it from the surface of the sublimated acrylic substrate.
7. Sublimation Paper
A sublimation paper is used in the acrylic sublimation process to transfer dye-based inks from a printed image onto the acrylic surface. The paper acts as a medium between the two surfaces and helps the dye molecules transfer from the ink to the acrylic. To ensure the best results, you should look for a high-quality sublimation paper compatible with the sublimation ink with a high transfer rate.
Acrylic Sublimation Process
The acrylic sublimation process is a popular method of transferring an image onto an acrylic substrate. It involves using a printer, a sheet of sublimation paper, and a heat press. The ink molecules sublimate and become embedded into the acrylic surface as the heat is applied. This process results in a vibrant, durable image resistant to fading and scratching.
Below are the steps you should follow to sublimate on acrylic:
1. Design your images
The first step towards sublimating acrylic is to come up with a design. You can search the internet for unique or interesting images and designs. You can also use various programs to come up with an eye-catching design. Some of these programs include:
- Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are some of the most popular design programs for creating sublimation designs. They offer many tools and features to help you create professional-looking designs.
- Inkscape and CorelDRAW are popular programs for sublimation designs, although they may be more challenging to use than Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
- GIMP is a free, open-source image manipulation program that you can use for sublimation designs.
- Online design tools such as Canva, Crello, and FotoJet are great options for creating sublimation designs.
Once you have finished designing, you can print your design on a sublimation transfer paper and then transfer it onto acrylic with a heat press.
2. Print Your Design on the Sublimation Paper
Select a printer compatible with sublimation printing to print your design on the sublimation paper. Load the sublimation paper into the tray and select the settings for the type of paper you are using. Finally, choose the design you want to print, adjust the size and orientation to fit the paper, and click print.
3. Remove the Backing Paper
Acrylic comes with a backing paper that protects it from scratches. Remove the backing paper from the front and back surface of the acrylic substrate you want to sublimate. The backing paper will start to wrinkle when you place the acrylic on the heat press since acrylic gets a little soft when it heats up, thus ruining your project.
4. Place the Printed Sublimation Paper on the Acrylic Substrate
Place the printed sublimation paper on the acrylic substrate and use heat tape to hold it into position. The heat tape keeps the sublimation paper in place, so it doesn’t move around during heating. Note that the image may appear blurred or muted after you attach the sublimation paper to your acrylic. But don’t worry. The image will become clear after the process.
5. Sandwich the Acrylic Substrate Between Two Sheets of Butcher Paper
Sandwich the acrylic in butcher paper. The purpose of the butcher paper is to protect the acrylic and the heat press panel. Place the print side up so that it gets the most heat.
Then place the Teflon sheet underneath the sandwiched acrylic. Place another Teflon sheet on top of the acrylic you are sublimating. Your acrylic will be sandwiched between the butcher paper and the Teflon sheets.
6. Press the Acrylic for 60 Seconds
Heat press the acrylic substrate for 60 seconds. Set the temperature between 380 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and the pressure to medium-firm for best results. Too much pressure or heat can damage the acrylic substrate.
7. Remove the Acrylic From the Heat Press
Remove the acrylic from the heat press after one minute using heat-resistant gloves. Be careful while removing it since it will be hot. Placing a heavy object on the acrylic substrate while still sandwiched between the butcher paper is advisable.
8. Let the Acrylic Cool Off at Room Temperature
Let the acrylic substrate cool off at room temperature. You will notice the sublimate paper will stick on the acrylic.
9. Peel Off the Butcher Paper From the Acrylic Substrate.
It is normal for the butcher paper to stick on the sublimated acrylic. Pull off the paper from the acrylic substrate. However, some of the paper will remain on the substrate.
10. Submerge the Acrylic Substrate into Soapy Water
Submerge the acrylic substrate into soapy water. Let the substrate sit in water for a while to give time for the paper to soak. Doing so will loosen the stuck butcher paper.
11. Detach The Softened Paper
Remove the submerged acrylic substrate from the soapy water and peel off the soaked sublimate paper.
12. Dry Off The Sublimated Acrylic
Finally, dry off your sublimated acrylic.
Remember, you can add different finishes on the back of the sublimated acrylic. Therefore you can put transparent glare vinyl or white vinyl at the back of the clear sublimated acrylic to give your work a more robust appearance. You can also put holographic adhesive glitter at the back.
Conclusion
Sublimation on acrylic is a fun project which you can undertake to create amazing art. You can engage in the project to make fantastic gifts for your family or friends or turn the hobby into an income-generating project. Luckily, the process is simple and cost-effective. However, it is essential to follow the above steps carefully and use suitable materials if you are to get the expected results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular oven as a heat source to sublimate on acrylic?
No, you cannot use a regular oven to sublimate on acrylic. Sublimation requires specialized equipment to safely and effectively transfer the image to the acrylic substrate.
Can I sublimate acrylic?
Yes, you can sublimate acrylic. However, you will need special sublimation paper, inks, and a heat press designed for this purpose. Using the correct temperature and pressure settings when sublimating acrylic is also essential.
What is the optimum temperature to sublimate on acrylic
The optimum temperature for sublimation on acrylic is between 350°F and 400°F (177°C to 204°C). Too much heat can cause the acrylic to deform and warp, so it is essential to use the right temperature for the best results.
Is it challenging to sublimate on acrylic?
No, sublimation on acrylic is easy, provided you have the right equipment and knowledge.
Do I need a special printer to print on sublimation paper?
No, you do not need a special sublimation printer. However, choose a high-quality printer that is capable of printing crisp images.
