Tools: Sublimation printer, heat press
Materials: Cotton canvas tote bag, sublimation vinyl, sublimation print
Prep: AI creation of graphic, print sublimation on Epson printer, cut vinyl, set heat press to proper temperature,
This is hybrid vinyl/sublimation printed cotton tote bag. I understand that cotton does not hold lasting and vibrant colors when sublimated. So, I purchased some heat transfer, sublimation vinyl to see if I could get a good print on a tote bag. First, I pressed the vinyl onto the bag. I waited a few seconds and then pressed the sublimation that I printed yesterday. I am not sure what this might have looked like without the vinyl, but I will probably give that a try next time.
I used the smaller heat press, 300 degrees, for 15 seconds. I created the graphic with AI using a web application/graphics depository called Kittl.com.
This project was not difficult at all. I am proud that I was able to make something useful and I learned about how well sublimation works on vinyl. The sublimation extended further out than the print. The vinyl was also stiffer that other HTV I have used. I will be more cautious the next time I attempt this. If I cut the sublimation paper closer to the print, I will have a better idea where the print will land.
