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Sublimation Mug Printing Guide | Mug Printing Tips & Equipment
Mug Pressing Guide

Sublimation Mug Printing Guide

What is Needed?

To press an image onto a product, we use the process of dye sublimation. As explained on our What is Dye Sublimation? page, this method uses heat to transfer your printed design onto a coated surface, creating a bright and durable finish.

To get started, you’ll need a printer to print your image and a suitable mug heat press with the correct element to apply it. You’ll also need image editing software, sublimation paper and ink, heat-resistant tape, and heat-resistant gloves for safe handling.

Heat Resistant Gloves
Heat Tape
A4 S-Race Sublimation Paper - pack 100

Multifunction Mug Press – Options

Mug Press - Two Element

Two Element Mug Press (SKU: 3081)

Supplied with two interchangeable heating elements, this versatile mug press is capable of top-to-bottom printing on our Durham Mugs (including all available varieties). Designed for flexibility and efficiency, the press enables the production of a wide range of sublimation blanks, such as:

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Mug Press - Four Element

Four Element Mug Press (SKU: 3082)

Supplied with four interchangeable heating elements, this versatile mug press is capable of top-to-bottom printing on our Durham Mugs (including all available varieties). Designed for versatility and efficiency, the press supports the production of a wide range of sublimation products, including

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Photoshop

Printing Your Design

Using a software of your choosing, create a product template using the measurements for the selected mug. Consider adding a 2mm bleed to ensure full coverage, as well as crop marks. Contact us for a product template, if needed. Once ready, send it to your printer, making sure the image is mirrored for sublimation.

Preparing the Mug

Trim the edges of your printed paper carefully along the crop marks. Thoroughly clean the surface of the mug using an alcohol rub to remove any dust, fingerprints, or oils. Check that your image is mirrored and positioned exactly where you want it on the mug. Once aligned, use heat-resistant tape to firmly secure the image in place, ensuring it won’t shift during the transfer process.

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Mug Press

Pressing the Mug

Place the mug in your press using the heating element specific to that mug type. Apply light to moderate pressure as needed. The average press time is roughly two and a half minutes, depending on the mug type and press. Once the timer is up, open the clamp carefully – the mug will be hot. Wear your heat-resistant gloves, remove the paper, and place the mug into a bucket of cold water to cool.

Choose Nova Chrome UK for reliable, high-quality Sublimation, DTF, and UV printing products. We are your go-to source for dependable sublimation blanks, helping you create memorable, personalised items with ease.

Take a look at our full drinkware collectionĀ and discover even more options for your next creative project.

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