Sublimation Ornaments: Create, Customize, and Source Blanks Easily

Find out all you need to know about sublimation ornaments. Learn the technique of sublimation on ceramic, acrylic, or wood ornaments, locate the perfect blanks for Christmas, and receive expert advice on time and temperature settings.

We offer guidance and resources to enhance your designs, whether you’re crafting for personal use or bulk orders.

Sublimation Ornament Crafting

Hi there, and welcome! This is Subli Genius Print, and today, we’re thrilled to guide you through making personalized photo ornaments using your sublimation printer.

Let’s begin the exciting process of crafting sublimation ornaments. Sublimation ornaments can be used to create endless creative possibilities, whether it’s making keepsakes for your holiday tree or unique gifts for loved ones.

Metal, porcelain, and glass are the three types of blanks we will be exploring and showing you how to transform them into stunning photo ornaments.

Types of Blanks for Sublimation Ornaments

Sublimation blanks are available in materials, shapes, and sizes, allowing for endless customization options. Metal ornaments are the easiest blanks to use, as they come in many shapes and are ideal for beginners.

We’ll demonstrate how to use several types today, but feel free to shop around and find the styles that match your vision. We’ll even drop links to some of our favorite blank suppliers.

Porcelain and glass ornaments can elevate your creations by offering a more refined aesthetic. The results are truly breathtaking, even though there are some additional steps and supplies required, and they are perfect for heirloom-quality pieces or elegant gifts.

1. Ceramic Ornaments:

• Pros: Classic look and feel, smooth surface for high-quality image transfer, durable.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than other options, may break if dropped.

2. Aluminum Ornaments:

• Pros: Lightweight and durable, affordable, come in various shapes and sizes.
• Cons: Can have a less “traditional” feel compared to ceramic.

3. Acrylic Ornaments:

• Pros: Shatterproof, lightweight, often come in clear or frosted finishes for a unique look.
• Cons: Can be prone to scratching.

4. Wood Ornaments:

• Pros: Natural and rustic aesthetic, can be made from different types of wood for variety.
• Cons: May require a higher temperature or longer pressing time for sublimation.

5. MDF Ornaments:

• Pros: Smooth surface, affordable, takes sublimation well.
• Cons: Can be less durable than other materials.

Other less common options:

• Glass ornaments: Can be tricky to sublimate but offer a beautiful, elegant finish.
• Fabric ornaments: Allow for a soft, textured look.

When choosing a blank for sublimation ornaments, consider the following factors:

• Desired aesthetic: Do you want a classic, modern, rustic, or unique look?
• Durability: How important is it that the ornament is shatterproof or resistant to scratches?
• Cost: How much are you willing to spend per ornament?
• Shape and size: What shape and size best suits your design and purpose?

Supplies You’ll Need

To make these ornaments, you’ll require some essential tools and materials. Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you’re prepared to start:

Supplies for Sublimation Ornaments

To make stunning sublimation ornaments, it’s important to gather the right supplies. A detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need to begin, from the blanks to the tools and machines that will bring your designs to life.

Sublimation Ornament Blanks

Having these supplies on hand will allow you to create beautiful, personalized, sublimation ornaments that are perfect for holiday gifts or keepsakes!

• Ceramic Blanks: Classic and glossy, perfect for elegant designs.
• Metal Blanks: Lightweight and beginner-friendly, available in a variety of shapes.
• Wood Blanks: Rustic and ideal for cozy, personalized touches.
• Glass Blanks: Frosted or clear, offering a luxurious and sophisticated look.

Where to Buy:
You can find sublimation blanks at popular retailers like Michaels, as well as online stores specializing in crafting supplies. For bulk or wholesale purchases, check out platforms such as heatpressnation, Amazon, or Craft Chameleon.

Sublimation Printer and Inks

The quality of your ornaments is greatly influenced by the printer and inks you use. Select products that offer sharp and vibrant designs.

• Recommended Printers: Sawgrass SG500 or SG1000 are industry favorites for consistent results.
• Sublimation Ink: High-quality sublimation inks, such as those offered by Sawgrass or Cosmos Ink, are a must for vivid colors and long-lasting prints.

Additional Tools and Materials

Aside from your blanks and printer, these essential tools will help you achieve a professional finish:

• Heat Press Machine: A reliable heat press is crucial for transferring designs. Popular options include the Cricut AutoPress or traditional clamshell presses.
• Heat-Resistant Tape: Keeps your sublimation design securely in place during pressing.
• Transfer Paper: Specifically designed for sublimation, ensuring clean and vibrant transfers.
• Protective Materials: Butcher paper, Nomex pads, and heat-resistant gloves to protect your equipment and hands.

Download Free Sublimation Ornament Designs

Unleash your creativity with our exclusive “Merry & Bright” ornament design (S12 file), perfect for elevating your sublimation ornament creations. Gain access to our Free Craft Library, filled with seasonal and year-round designs to inspire your projects.

What You’ll Get:

1. Exclusive S12 File
   • A vibrant “Merry & Bright” design, tailored for sublimation ornaments.
2. Seasonal Designs:
   • Festive templates for Christmas and other holiday themes.
3. Year-Round Patterns:
   • Stylish and versatile designs for every occasion.
4. Easy Access:
   • Convenient downloads from our free library.

How to Access the Designs:

1. Subscribe to Our Newsletter:
   Get instant access to the library and stay updated with the latest templates.
2. Download the Files:
   Browse our extensive collection and download the designs you love.
3. Create Beautiful Ornaments:
   Use these templates with your sublimation printer and blanks to craft stunning ornaments.

Instructions for Sublimating Ornaments

Create stunning sublimation ornaments by following these step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced crafter, these tips will help ensure professional results every time.

Step 1: Printing Your Sublimation Design

Proper printing is key to achieving vibrant and precise designs. Follow these tips for success:

• Scaling Your Design:
  Resize your image to fit your ornament’s dimensions. For standard 4-inch ornaments, slightly oversize the design to avoid white edges. Most sublimation software includes a “resize” tool for easy adjustments.
• Mirroring the Image:
  Always mirror your image before printing to ensure it appears correctly on the ornament.
• Choosing the Right Paper and Settings:
  Use sublimation-specific paper and configure your printer for high-resolution output. For Sawgrass printers, select the appropriate substrate setting (e.g., metal, ceramic) in the print manager.

Step 2: Preparing and Positioning Your Transfer

Careful preparation ensures your design transfers smoothly and accurately.

• Cleaning the Ornament Surface:
  Use a lint roller or alcohol wipe to remove dust, oils, or debris that could interfere with the transfer.
• Positioning the Design:
  Center your design on the ornament, making sure any text or images align properly. Use heat-resistant tape or adhesive spray to secure the transfer, ensuring it won’t shift during pressing.
• Handling Irregular Shapes:
  For non-flat surfaces like rounded ornaments, press carefully to avoid distortions. Pre-pressing the ornament can help stabilize the blank.

Step 3: Sublimating Different Ornament Types

Each type of ornament requires specific handling for optimal results.

Metal Ornaments

• Preparation: Place the sublimation design face down on the white side of the metal blank.
• Sublimation Sandwich:
  • Top to bottom: Butcher paper, transfer, ornament, butcher paper.
• Time and Temperature: Press at 400°F (204°C) for 75 seconds with medium-to-heavy pressure.

Wood Ornaments

• Preparation: Ensure the wood blank is smooth and dust-free. Use heat-resistant tape to secure the transfer.
• Sublimation Sandwich:
  • Top to bottom: Butcher paper, transfer, ornament, butcher paper.
• Time and Temperature: Press at 400°F (204°C) for 60 seconds with medium pressure.

Ceramic Ornaments

• Preparation: Use a green rubber pad or pressing pillow to cushion the ceramic blank to avoid cracking.
• Sublimation Sandwich:
  • Top to bottom: Butcher paper, rubber pad, transfer, ornament, butcher paper.
• Time and Temperature: Press at 400°F (204°C) for 240–360 seconds with medium pressure.

Glass and Porcelain Ornaments

• Preparation: Place the transfer on the frosted side of glass ornaments or porcelain blanks. Tape securely or use adhesive spray.
• Sublimation Sandwich:
  • Top to bottom: Nomex pad, butcher paper, transfer (image side down), ornament, butcher paper, rubber pad.
• Time and Temperature:
  • Glass: 385°F (196°C) for 480 seconds with medium pressure.
  • Porcelain: 400°F (204°C) for 240 seconds with light pressure.

Sublimation Ceramic Ornaments: Time, Temperature, and Tips

Creating vibrant, professional-quality sublimation ceramic ornaments requires careful attention to time, temperature, and technique. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure success, plus troubleshooting tips to avoid common pitfalls.

Best Practices for Ceramic Ornament Sublimation

1. Prepare the Blank:
   Clean the ceramic surface with alcohol wipes to remove dust, oils, and debris. This ensures proper ink transfer.
2. Use Proper Padding:
   Place a green rubber pad or pressing pillow under the ornament to cushion the ceramic blank and prevent cracking during pressing.
3. Align Your Design:
   Center the sublimation transfer carefully and secure it with heat-resistant tape to avoid misalignment or shifting.
4. Adjust Pressure Appropriately:
   Medium pressure is usually sufficient. Too much pressure may crack the blank, while too little may lead to incomplete transfers.

Time and Temperature Settings for Ceramic Ornaments

Here’s a quick-reference table for optimal pressing conditions based on common ceramic ornament types:

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

1. Mistake:Faded or Incomplete Prints
   • Cause: Insufficient time, temperature, or pressure.
   • Solution: Increase pressing time or verify that the transfer paper is in full contact with the surface.
2. Mistake:Blurry Edges or Ghosting
   • Cause: Transfer shifted during pressing.
   • Solution: Secure the design firmly with heat-resistant tape or use adhesive spray.
3. Mistake:Cracked Ceramic Blank
   • Cause: Excessive pressure or improper padding.
   • Solution: Use a Nomex pad or pressing pillow to cushion the blank.
4. Mistake:White Spots on the Design
   • Cause: Dust or lint on the blank.
   • Solution: Thoroughly clean the ceramic surface with alcohol or a lint roller before applying the transfer.

What Kind of Ornaments Can You Sublimate On?

Sublimation opens up endless creative possibilities, but not all materials are suitable for the process. Here’s a guide to ornaments you can successfully sublimate on, along with materials to avoid and why.

Materials That Work for Sublimation Ornaments

The key to successful sublimation is using materials coated with a sublimation-friendly polymer or those naturally receptive to sublimation ink. Below are common ornament materials and their characteristics:

Materials to Avoid for Sublimation

While sublimation offers versatility, certain materials are incompatible with the process due to their inability to bond with sublimation ink:

Pro Tip for Choosing Ornament Blanks

Always check product descriptions when purchasing blanks to ensure they’re labeled as “sublimation-ready” or “sublimation blanks.” This ensures the material has the necessary polymer coating or properties for successful transfers.

By selecting the right materials and avoiding incompatible ones, you’ll create ornaments that are vibrant, durable, and perfect for showcasing your unique designs!

Sublimation Ornament Ideas for Inspiration

Sublimation ornaments offer endless creative possibilities, from heartfelt family gifts to exciting business ventures. Here are some inspiring ideas to spark your creativity:

1. Photo Ornaments for Family Gifts

Capture precious memories by turning family photos into beautiful ornaments. These make thoughtful, personalized gifts that loved ones will cherish for years. Popular themes include:

• Baby’s first Christmas
• Wedding anniversaries
• Family portraits
• Pet memorials

Pro Tip: Use vibrant designs or festive borders to frame your photos for an extra special touch.

2. Custom Designs for Holidays and Special Occasions

Unleash your creativity by crafting ornaments tailored to specific events or holidays. Some popular ideas include:

• Festive quotes or greetings like “Merry & Bright” or “Let it Snow”
• Monograms or initials for personalized elegance
• Custom ornaments for milestone celebrations such as graduations or retirements
• Themed designs for Valentine’s Day, Halloween, or Thanksgiving

Pro Tip: Incorporate metallic or glitter finishes on metal or glass ornaments for a premium look.

2.1. Supplies You’ll Need

To ensure smooth crafting, gather the following supplies:

1. Cleaning Supplies:
   • Alcohol and cotton swabs are ideal for removing fingerprints, oils, and dust from hard blanks. This method provides a more thorough clean than a lint roller.
2. Attachment Tools:
   • Heat-Resistant Tape: Reliable for holding transfers securely in place.
   • Adhesive Spray: A quick alternative for sticking transfers, ensuring no tape lines on the finished design.
3. Protective Materials:
   • Butcher paper to protect your heat press. Pre-cut 12×12 sheets are convenient to work with.
   • Heat-resistant gloves for safe handling of hot materials.
4. Heat Press Equipment:
   • A sturdy heat press with a reliable mat underneath. A wool mat is excellent for creating a solid pressing surface, especially for thicker ornaments.
   • For ceramic blanks, a green heat-conductive pad prevents cracking and helps the design wrap seamlessly around edges.
5. Additional Tools:
   • Scissors for cutting transfers to size.
   • Ribbon or string for hanging the finished ornaments.

2.2. Making and Printing Transfers

For the transfer design:

1. Use design software compatible with your sublimation printer. Create a canvas matching your paper size (e.g., 8.5″ x 11″).
2. Upload your chosen design and resize it slightly larger than the blank to allow for a perfect edge-to-edge transfer.
3. Print using a sublimation printer with settings tailored to the specific substrate (e.g., metal or ceramic). Ensure the image is mirrored and centered.

Once printed, cut out the designs to match the ornament size.

2.3. Sublimating Metal Ornaments

1. Preparation:
   Clean the blank with alcohol and attach the transfer using adhesive spray or tape.
2. Pressing:
   • Stack the sublimation sandwich: wool mat, butcher paper, transfer, ornament, butcher paper.
   • Press at 350°F for 60 seconds using medium pressure.
3. Finishing:
   Carefully remove the transfer and inspect the crisp, vibrant results. Both sides can be pressed, though aligning the second side can be tricky.

2.4. Sublimating Wood Ornaments

1. Preparation:
   Clean the blank with alcohol, attach the transfer with heat-resistant tape, and secure all sides to prevent shifting.
2. Pressing:
   • Build the sandwich: wool mat, butcher paper, blank, transfer, butcher paper.
   • Press at 400°F for 60 seconds with medium pressure.
3. Finishing:
   The wood’s rustic surface enhances lighter colors, making it an excellent choice for photos and artistic designs.

2.5. Sublimating Ceramic Ornaments

1. Preparation:
   Clean with alcohol and attach the transfer using adhesive spray. This is recommended for ceramic to avoid tape imprints.
2. Pressing:
   • Build a layered sandwich: hard mat, butcher paper, blank with transfer, another butcher paper layer, green pad, and one more butcher paper layer.
   • Press at 400°F for 360 seconds to achieve vibrant results.
3. Finishing:
   Ceramic blanks may have softer, less defined edges compared to metal or wood. This characteristic gives them a unique aesthetic suitable for elegant designs.

3. Business Opportunities with Bulk and Wholesale Ornaments

Turn your creativity into profit by producing ornaments in bulk. Perfect for:

• Local holiday markets and craft fairs
• Corporate gifts featuring logos or slogans
• Fundraisers for schools or community organizations
• Custom ornaments for weddings or events

Pro Tip: Invest in a variety of blanks (metal, ceramic, and wood) to cater to different customer preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions