If you’re wondering “can I use sublimation ink on waterslide paper?” the answer is yes you can!
To sublimate on waterslide decal paper and transfer the image to a cotton t-shirt you will need a DTF printer and to follow a special process outlined below to see best results.
This innovative technique involves printing a design using sublimation ink, applying DTF (direct-to-film) heat powder, and curing the print to see the final results. Let’s begin!
Table of Contents
Items Needed To Sublimate On Waterslide Paper
To sublimate on waterslide decal paper you will need the following items:
- Clear waterslide decal paper
- DTF printer (i.e. Sawgrass 500)
- DTF powder
- Parchment paper
- Cotton T-shirt
- Heat press
How To Sublimate On Waterslide Decal Paper
To sublimate on a T-shirt using waterslide decal paper, follow the step-by-step instructions below.
Step 1 – Print on waterslide with sublimation printer
Print your design onto the clear waterslide decal paper with sublimation color printer & ink.
We used a sawgrass 500 printer and the colors were printed out quite vibrant and sharp.
Step 2 – Sprinkle DTF powder directly on still wet sublimation ink
As soon as your printer is finished printing, sprinkled your DTF powder with heavy coat of powder across all of the printed ink.
Gently funnel all powder back into the container.
If done correctly this should just leave the DTF powder covering the still-wet sublimation ink.
Step 3 – Cure DTF ink + powder under heat press for 30 seconds
Taking your printed waterslide paper with DTF powder covering the ink, place a parchment sheet on your heat press then lay your waterslide paper, face up with no covering.
Press your heat press for 30 seconds to allow the ink to cure to the DTF powder
Step 4 – Pre-press cotton shirt
Remove waterslide paper and set aside.
Place a parchment sheet on your heat press and pre-press your white cotton T-shirt to remove the wrinkles.
Step 5 – Sublimate your waterslide paper onto the cotton T-shirt.
Place a parchment sheet on your heat press, then place your cotton T-shirt.
Next place your cured waterslide decal paper (face down) directly on top of the T-shirt.
Place a parchment sheet on top of the waterslide paper.
Press at 385 F for 60 – 95 seconds.
Step 6 – Peel waterslide paper while still hot.
If the sublimation ink does not take to the shirt, repress for an additional 30 – 45 seconds.
Results:
Congratulations, you have a new sublimation printed T-shirt using clear waterslide paper!
No film should be left – only the sublimation ink.
For best results, turn the shirt inside out and wash with cold water.
Tumble dry on medium heat.
Your new graphic T-shirt should last for dozens of washes with minimal to no fading!
Be sure to check out our Royal Elements shop page to browse waterslide decal paper, printable sticker paper, and more!
Happy crafting!
Michael from Royal Elements
