5 Tips to Find the Perfect Canvas for Sublimation

Learn how to choose the perfect canvas for sublimation, check the color and coating, test, prepare, and print your design for sublimation printing on canvas.

Sublimation printing is a popular technique that allows you to create vibrant and durable prints on various materials, such as fabrics, plastics, metals, ceramics, and glass. However, not all materials are suitable for sublimation printing.

If you want to print on canvas, you need to consider some factors that can affect the quality and longevity of your prints.

Five tips to find the perfect canvas for sublimation

1. Choose the right type of canvas

Canvas is a generic term for a plain-woven fabric usually made of cotton, linen, or hemp fibers. However, different types of canvas have different characteristics, such as weight, weave, texture, and color. Some of the common types of canvas are:

• Duck canvas: This is a heavy-weight and tightly woven canvas that is often used for making bags, shoes, tents, and sails. It is also suitable for sublimation printing, as it can withstand high temperatures and pressure and absorb the sublimation ink well. It comes in various grades, depending on the weight and density of the fabric. The higher the grade, the heavier and thicker the canvas is. For example, a number 10 canvas is lighter than a number 4 canvas.
• Drop cloth: This type makes slipcovers, curtains, and painters’ drop cloths. It is usually inexpensive and has a natural or off-white color. Drop cloth is also a good option for sublimation printing, as it can create a rustic and vintage look for your prints.
• Organic canvas: This is a type that is made of organic cotton, which means that it is grown without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers. It is eco-friendly and has a soft and smooth texture. It is also ideal for sublimation printing, as it can produce bright and vivid colors.
• Waxed canvas: This type is coated with wax, making it water-resistant and durable. It is often used for making outdoor gear, such as jackets, hats, and backpacks. However, it is unsuitable for sublimation printing, as the wax can interfere with the ink transfer and damage the heat press.
• Polyester/cotton blended canvas: This is a type made of a blend of polyester and cotton fibers, giving it the best of both worlds. Polyester/cotton blended canvas is strong, flexible, and easy to care for. It is also compatible with sublimation printing, as the polyester fibers can accept the sublimation ink, while the cotton fibers can add a natural and soft feel to the fabric.

2. Check the color and coating of the canvas.

The color and coating also affect the outcome of your sublimation prints. Generally, you want to choose a light or white type, as this will allow the sublimation ink to show up clearly and vibrantly.

Dark or colored canvases can alter or dull the colors of your prints, as the sublimation ink will blend with the fabric’s background color. However, if you want to create a contrast or a special effect, you can experiment with different colors, as long as they are not too dark or saturated.

The coating is another factor to consider, as it can enhance or hinder the sublimation process. Some canvases are pre-coated with a special substance that can improve ink absorption and adhesion and protect the fabric from fading or cracking.

For example, some are coated with gesso, a mixture of glue, chalk, and pigment used to prepare the surface for painting. Gesso can also work well for sublimation printing, as it can create a smooth and even surface for the ink to transfer.

However, some are coated with substances that can prevent the sublimation ink from penetrating the fabric, such as wax, oil, or silicone. These coatings can also damage the heat press or the sublimation paper, so you should avoid them at all costs.

3. Test the canvas before printing

Before you print your design on the canvas, it is always a good idea to test the canvas first to ensure that it is compatible with sublimation printing and can produce the desired results. To test the canvas, you can follow these steps:

• Cut a small piece of the canvas and a small piece of the sublimation paper that are the same size.
• Print a sample design on the sublimation paper using your sublimation printer.
• Place the sublimation paper on the canvas, with the printed side facing down.
• Place the canvas and the paper inside the heat press and press them according to the recommended time, temperature, and pressure settings for sublimation printing.
• Remove the canvas and the paper from the heat press, and peel off the paper.
• Examine the quality of the print on it and check for any issues, such as color fading, bleeding, cracking, or smudging.

If you are satisfied with the test print, you can print your design on the canvas. If you are not happy with the test print, you can try to adjust the settings of the heat press, the sublimation printer, or the sublimation paper, or you can look for a different type of canvas that can work better for sublimation printing.

4. Prepare the canvas for printing

Once you have chosen and tested the canvas, you must prepare it for printing. This means that you must ensure the canvas is clean, dry, and wrinkle-free, as any dirt, moisture, or crease can affect the quality of your prints. Follow these steps to prepare the canvas for printing:

• Wash the canvas with mild detergent and water, and rinse it thoroughly. It will remove any dust, dirt, or residue on the fabric. You can add some vinegar to the rinse water to help remove any excess dye or coating.
• Dry the canvas completely, either by air-drying or by using a dryer. Ensure that no moisture is left on the fabric, as this can cause the sublimation ink to bleed or smudge.
• Iron the canvas with a hot iron to remove any wrinkles or creases on the fabric. You can also use a steamer or a spray bottle to moisten the fabric slightly to make it easier to iron. However, make sure that the canvas is dry again before printing.
• Cut it to the size and shape you want, and stretch it over a wooden frame if you make a canvas print. You can use staples, nails, or glue to secure it on the frame. Ensure it is taut and smooth, without any sagging or puckering.

5. Print your design on the canvas

After preparing the canvas, you can print your design on it. Please follow these steps to print your design on the canvas:

• Create your design using graphic software like Photoshop, Illustrator, or CorelDraw. Use any colors, images, or fonts you like if they are compatible with sublimation printing. Use templates or online tools to help you create your design.
• Print your design on paper using a printer. Make sure you print your design in a mirror image, which will be reversed when transferred to the canvas. Adjust the print settings, such as the resolution, the quality, and the color mode, to optimize the print quality.
• Place the sublimation paper on the canvas, with the printed side facing down. You can use heat-resistant tape to secure the paper to the canvas to prevent it from moving or shifting during the heat press.
• Place the canvas and the paper inside the heat press and press them according to the recommended time, temperature, and pressure settings for sublimation printing. You can check the manufacturer’s instructions or the sublimation paper’s packaging for specific settings, as they may vary depending on the type and size of the canvas and the paper. Generally, the settings are around 180°C to 200°C for the temperature, 60 to 90 seconds for the time, and medium to high for the pressure.
• Remove the canvas and the paper from the heat press, and peel off the paper from the canvas. Be careful not to touch the canvas or the paper while hot, as you may burn yourself or damage the print. Use gloves or tongs to handle them safely.
• Enjoy your sublimation print on the canvas. Display it as it is or add finishing touches, such as a frame, a varnish, or a hanger.

Additional tips to keep in mind:

• Canvas weight: Canvas weight is measured in ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). For sublimation printing, you’ll want to choose a canvas weighing at least 10 oz/yd². This will ensure that the canvas is thick enough to withstand the heat and pressure of the sublimation process.
• Canvas texture: Canvas texture is also important to consider. For sublimation printing, you’ll want to choose a canvas with a smooth texture. It helps ensure that your image prints out clearly and without distortion.
• Canvas priming: Some canvases come pre-primed, while others do not. If you’re using a canvas that is not pre-primed, you’ll need to prime it before you start printing. This will help to prevent the ink from bleeding into the canvas.

Once you’ve found the perfect canvas for sublimation, you’re ready to start printing! Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure you get the best possible results.

Explore the world of sublimation and printers with Subli Genius Print our comprehensive guide, for more information or a step-by-step how-to guide.

Final Arguments:

Sublimation printing is a great way to create stunning and lasting prints on canvas, as long as you choose the right canvas type, check the canvas’s color and coating, test the canvas before printing, prepare the canvas for printing, and print your design on the canvas.

By following these five tips, find the perfect canvas for sublimation and create amazing canvas prints you can be proud of.

Common Queries:

Sublimation on Canvas Temperature:

Sublimation on canvas typically requires a temperature range of 380°F to 400°F (193°C to 204°C) for optimal results. However, it’s essential to follow the specific guidelines the sublimation ink and canvas manufacturer provides.

Sublimation on Canvas Without Laminate:

Sublimating on canvas without laminate is possible, but the colors may not be as vibrant, and the print may be more susceptible to damage. A protective coating or laminate can enhance durability and color retention over time.

Sublimation on Canvas with Polycrylic:

Using polyacrylic as a protective coating after sublimation on canvas is a common practice. It helps enhance the longevity of the print, adds a layer of protection, and can contribute to a more polished finish. Ensure the polycrylic is compatible with sublimation inks.

Sublimation on Canvas with Laminate:

Applying a laminate over sublimated canvas prints is a popular method to protect the image from UV rays, scratches, and moisture. It enhances the overall durability and lifespan of the print, ensuring a longer-lasting and vibrant appearance.

Sublimation Spray for Canvas:

Sublimation sprays for canvas are designed to improve the adhesion of sublimation inks to the canvas surface. These sprays can enhance color vibrancy and image sharpness. See the manufacturer’s instructions and compatibility with your specific sublimation materials.