Sublimation printing has revolutionized the world of personalized and custom printing, allowing vivid and long - lasting images to be transferred onto various substrates. As a supplier of 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper, one question that frequently arises from our customers is whether our 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper can be used for sublimating on stone. In this blog, we'll explore the science behind sublimation, the properties of 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper, and the feasibility of using it on stone.
Understanding Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing is a process where a solid (in this case, sublimation ink) turns directly into a gas without passing through the liquid state when heated. This gaseous ink then permeates the pores of a specially - coated substrate, creating a permanent bond as it cools and reverts to a solid state. The result is a high - quality, durable print that is resistant to fading, scratching, and washing.
The key to successful sublimation printing lies in three main factors: the quality of the sublimation ink, the type of sublimation paper, and the substrate. Each of these components must be carefully chosen to ensure optimal results.
Properties of 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper
Our 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper is designed with several features that make it suitable for a wide range of sublimation applications.
- Weight and Thickness: The 80gsm (grams per square meter) weight indicates a relatively lightweight paper. This makes it easy to handle and feed through most printers. It also allows for quick drying of the sublimation ink, reducing the risk of smudging during the printing process.
- Sticky Coating: The sticky coating on our paper serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it helps to hold the paper firmly in place during the sublimation process, preventing it from shifting or wrinkling. Secondly, it can improve the transfer efficiency of the sublimation ink from the paper to the substrate.
Can 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper be Used for Sublimating on Stone?
The answer is both yes and no, and it depends on several factors.
Yes: Under Certain Conditions
- Coated Stone: If the stone has a special sublimation - friendly coating, then our 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper can potentially be used. The coating provides the necessary pores for the sublimation ink to penetrate and bond with. For example, some manufacturers produce stones with a polymer - based coating that mimics the properties of polyester fabrics, which are commonly used in sublimation printing. In such cases, the sticky coating on our paper can help ensure a good transfer of the ink from the paper to the coated stone surface.
- Proper Equipment and Settings: Using the right sublimation equipment and settings is crucial. A high - quality heat press with accurate temperature and pressure control is essential. The temperature should be set according to the requirements of the sublimation ink and the coated stone. Generally, sublimation temperatures range from 350°F to 400°F (177°C to 204°C). The pressure should be evenly distributed across the paper and the stone to ensure a uniform transfer of the ink.
No: On Uncoated Stone
- Lack of Pores: Natural stones typically have a dense, non - porous surface. Since sublimation ink needs pores to penetrate and bond with the substrate, uncoated stones do not provide a suitable surface for sublimation. The ink will simply sit on the surface of the stone and will not create a permanent bond, resulting in a poor - quality print that is likely to fade or rub off easily.
- Heat Resistance: Some stones may not be able to withstand the high temperatures required for sublimation. Excessive heat can cause the stone to crack, warp, or change color, which can ruin the print and the stone itself.
Comparing with Other GSM Sublimation Papers
In addition to our 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper, we also offer 120gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper and 100gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper. Each paper has its own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to sublimating on stone.
- 120gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper: This heavier paper can hold more ink, which may result in a more vibrant and saturated print. However, it may require a longer drying time and may be more difficult to handle in some printers. It can be a good choice for larger prints on coated stones where ink capacity is important.
- 100gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper: It strikes a balance between the 80gsm and 120gsm papers. It has a slightly higher ink - holding capacity than the 80gsm paper while still being relatively easy to handle. It can be a versatile option for various stone sublimation projects.
Tips for Sublimating on Stone
If you decide to try sublimating on coated stone using our 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper, here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Test First: Always perform a test print on a small, inconspicuous area of the stone to ensure that the ink transfers properly and that the stone can withstand the heat and pressure.
- Clean the Stone: Make sure the stone surface is clean and free of dust, dirt, and oils before applying the sublimation paper. This will help the ink bond better with the coating.
- Use a Teflon Sheet: Place a Teflon sheet between the heat press platen and the sublimation paper to prevent the paper from sticking to the press and to ensure even heat distribution.
Conclusion
While our 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper has the potential to be used for sublimating on coated stone, it is not suitable for uncoated natural stones. The success of the sublimation process depends on the type of stone, the presence of a suitable coating, and the proper use of equipment and settings.
If you're interested in exploring sublimation printing on stone or other substrates, we invite you to learn more about our 80gsm Sticky Sublimation Paper. We are here to provide you with the best products and support for your sublimation needs. Whether you're a small - scale crafter or a large - scale printing business, we can work with you to find the right solutions. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your specific requirements, please feel free to reach out to us for a procurement discussion.
References
- Smith, J. (2020). Sublimation Printing: Principles and Practices. Printing Press Publications.
- Brown, A. (2019). Advances in Sublimation Substrates. Journal of Printing Technology, 35(2), 45 - 52.
