Canvas bags are a trendy and multipurpose item that may be used for a variety of purposes. If you are trying to customize your boring plain canvas bag to look stylish according to you, then sublimation is the best answer. But, Can you sublimate on Canvas Bags? The quick answer is “sure,” but there are several things to keep in mind for the best outcomes.
Everything from the tools and supplies you’ll need to the actual sublimation process and some helpful hints for producing high-quality, long-lasting canvas tote bags are discussed in detail here. That being said, let’s start!
Also Read: How to print on Mylar Bags?
Can you sublimate on canvas bags without Polyester?
Without a special form of polyester coating, it is unfortunately not possible to make a lasting image on a canvas bag. To produce a long-lasting print, the ink must bond with the cloth; without a polyester coating, this cannot happen.
Tip:Â Canvas bags without a polyester coating may be appropriate for various printing methods, such as screen printing or heat transfer vinyl.
Equipment and Materials Needed for Sublimating on Canvas Bags
Having the proper tools and supplies is essential before you begin sublimating on canvas bags. You’ll need the following items:
- A sublimation printer
- Sublimation ink cartridges
- Sublimation paper
- Heat press
- Blank canvas bags (made of 100% polyester or a polyester blend)
Keep in mind that sublimation printing is most effective on polyester textiles that are white or very light in colour. The ink does not transfer well to 100% cotton or dark fabrics, so sublimation on canvas bags manufactured from these materials is not possible.
Related: Can you sublimate on Canvas?
How to sublimate on Canvas Bags ?
You can begin sublimation once you have gathered the required tools and supplies. A detailed explanation is provided below:
- Create your design:Â You can make your art with any graphic design software, like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Make sure it fits your canvas bag and that the image is mirrored horizontally.
- Print your design:Â Â Put sublimation paper in your printer and use sublimation ink to print your design. Make sure that your printer is set to print the image backwards.
- Cut the sublimation paper:Â Trim the extra paper around your design with scissors or a cutting machine.
- Heat up your heat press: Set your heat press to the recommended temperature and time for sublimating on canvas bags, which is usually 400°F and 60 seconds.
- Prepare your canvas bag:Â Prepare your canvas bag by making sure it is clean and free of wrinkles and dirt. Put a sheet of blowout paper or Teflon in the bag to keep the ink from getting on the other side.
- Transfer your design:Â Place your sublimation paper face down on your canvas bag and make sure it is centred and straight. Cover it with a sheet of Teflon or another blowout paper and use your heat press for the time and pressure that the instructions say to use.
- Peel off the paper:Â When the time is up, take the heat press away and carefully peel off the sublimation paper. Your design should be put on the canvas bag.
Also Read: What material can you sublimate on ?
Tips and Tricks for Successful Sublimation Printing on Canvas Bags
If you want your sublimation on canvas bags to look their best, follow these guidelines.
- Always do a test run before going into full production. Before sublimating your design into a huge canvas tote bag, for example, run it through some rigorous testing on a smaller piece of fabric. If the design does not translate well, you won’t have to waste time or resources recreating it.
- Put a sheet of blowout paper or Teflon inside the canvas bag before sublimating it to prevent ink from seeping through.
- Make any necessary adjustments to the sublimation settings; for example, sublimation on canvas bags or tote bags may call for more pressure and more time than on other materials. Make the necessary adjustments to the parameters.
- To get the greatest sublimation results, select a canvas bag that is either white or a very light hue (like a pastel) and made of 100% polyester.
- For best results, use premium sublimation ink and paper.
- Keep away from dark colours and 100% cotton because they don’t work with sublimation printing. The ink won’t transfer cleanly, and the colours will be dulled or shifted.
- It is important to maintain a clean working environment free of dust and other particles that could impede the sublimation process.
- You should be gentle with your canvas tote after the sublimation process is complete.
Related: Can you sublimate over sublimation?
Check out this quick tutorial:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is polyester tote bags sublimation possible?
Yes, sublimation printing is compatible with polyester tote bags. The polyester fabric permits the ink to transfer and fuse into the cloth, resulting in designs that are brilliant and durable.
Q: How long does sublimation on canvas bags last?
If done correctly, sublimation on canvas bags can persist for years. The ink has been permanently fused into the cloth, so it won’t fade, fracture, or peel. The design’s longevity will be determined by the calibre of the ink and the robustness of the canvas bag.
Q: Can you sublimate on colored canvas bags?
To get the greatest results from sublimation printing, use a polyester fabric that is white or very light in colour. Sublimation printing is not recommended for use on coloured canvas bags or dark materials due to poor ink transfer and resulting muted or distorted colours.
Q: Can you sublimate on canvas bags?
You can sublimate on canvas bags if they are white or a very light colour (such 100% polyester) and the fabric is completely smooth. While working with sublimation, it is essential to utilise high-quality ink and paper, as well as maintain a clean environment.
Conclusion
Canvas tote bags can be customised or given a special look with sublimation printing. High-quality, long-lasting effects are possible with the correct tools and supplies, as well as by adhering to a few simple guidelines. Canvas bags should be handled with care after sublimation, just as you would test things before going into mass production. With these things in mind, sublimation printing is a great option for designing unique canvas tote bags.
