Art lovers often question “can you sublimate on canvas”? The answer is YES! With the rise in the popularity of photo art, many people are looking for innovative methods to create their very own special designs using their digital images. Canvas sublimation is a process that transfers digital prints onto a blank canvas sheet to create a unique piece of art. There are many ways to do photo sublimation, here, I’ll share the best method that I follow.
No doubt canvas is a great material to print on as it can be cut in so many different sizes and shapes. Most people use them for home décor items such as canvas wall art and gallery wrap. However, the popularity of canvas has led to different variations in the material. Canvas blanks are especially designed canvases to do photo sublimation. The two most popular fabrics of canvas are polyester and cotton.
Sublimation on Canvas – Best Way to Sublimate Canvas Fabric
Sublimation on canvas is very similar to other substrates, print your design using a sublimation printer and transfer dyes using a heat press. However, here I’ll be sharing the most effective method of canvas sublimation.
I prefer this method because inks do not spread, the print stays forever and does not get affected by water spilling. Let’s get into the process;
Sublimation on Cotton Canvas
Here is the step-by-step guide on how to sublimate on cotton canvas;
Tip:If you are using a cotton canvas blank, first you need to preheat the fabric for about 10-15 seconds before printing. Cotton is a natural fabric and can vary in absorbency, so you may need to experiment a little with time to get the best results.
Print your high-quality photo or design on sublimation paper using a sublimation printer and special sublimation ink. (invert the design in the software before printing)
Once the printing is done, you need to cut the design using a scissor to the size of the canvas. Make sure that all the design is cut out properly.
Place the thermal lamination sheet on top of the cotton canvas (make sure the shiny part goes down facing the canvas). Apply heat and pressure for about 60 seconds to laminate the blank. (Recommended heat 360 degrees)
Now, place the design on the laminated canvas blank in the desired position. You can use heat press tape to help keep the design in place. Make sure the sublimation paper stays on top, the design facing down on the canvas.
With the design in place, cover it with a piece of paper, and then apply pressure and heat (380 to 400 degrees) using a heat press for about 45-50 seconds. Now the dyes of the image are converting into gas and penetrating into the pores of the substrate.
Remove the paper from the canvas and let it cool down. Once it’s cooled down, you can remove the heat press tape and admire your work of art!
Important: while laminating the cotton canvas, make sure to apply recommended heat and pressure for said time. The less temp and time will leave some air bubbles inside (you can apply pressure again), the over temp and time will de-shape the canvas and it will get some wrinkles.
Photo sublimation on polyester canvas is similar to sublimation on cotton canvas. However, the only difference is that you do not need to laminate the canvas blank with thermal lamination paper – polyester is a good substrate to get sublimated. Here is the guide to polyester canvas sublimation;
Note:You do not need to preheat the polyester blank. Polyester is a synthetic fabric and does not absorb the ink as cotton does.
Print your photo or design on sublimation paper using a sublimation printer in inverted format.
Cut the design properly using a scissor to the size of the canvas
Now, place the design on the polyester canvas blank in the desired position. Use heat press tape to help keep the design in place. Make sure the sublimation paper stays on top and the design facing down on the canvas.
With the design in place, cover it with a piece of paper, then apply pressure and heat (380 to 400 degrees) using a heat press for about 45-50 seconds. Now the dyes of the image are converting into gas and penetrating into the pores of the substrate.
Remove the paper from the canvas and let it cool down. Remove the tape once it’s cooled down – your sublimation art is ready to display!
Video tutorial on how to do sublimation on polyester canvas
Can You Sublimate On Canvas Bags?
Another great option for canvas sublimation is canvas bags. You can use the canvas sublimation method to create personalized bags, or to promote your business. Here is a guide on how to sublimate on canvas bags.
Print the photo on sublimation paper using a sublimation printer in inverted format.
Cut the design properly using a scissor to the size of the canvas bag
Place the thermal lamination sheet on top of the white or natural canvas bag and apply heat and pressure to laminate the surface (make sure the shiny part goes down).
Now, place the design on the laminated canvas bag in the desired position. Use heat press tape to help keep the design in place.
With the design in place, cover it with a piece of paper, then apply pressure and heat (380 to 400 degrees) using a heat press for about 45-50 seconds.
Remove the paper from the canvas bag and let the bag cool down.
Important: while sublimating on canvas bags, make sure to use natural canvas bags instead of white canvas bags. The dyes will not be as bright on white canvas bags. Also, do not apply pressure for more than 50 seconds, or you might damage the canvas bag.
Video tutorial to sublimate on canvas bags
Wrapping Up
By using canvas sublimation, you can easily transfer a digital photo to a stretched canvas with the highest quality. The end result is an eye-catching artwork that can be used as wall art, a gift, or whatever your heart desires. We hope you enjoy this new way to sublimate your favorite memories and designs!
Whether you are using cotton or polyester canvases, the process is fairly simple and straightforward. Just make sure to follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be able to create beautiful pieces of art in no time!
Print the image or design you would like to sublimate onto the paper using a sublimation printer in an inverted format.
Preheat your heat press to 380 degrees
Cut the image out using scissors to the shape of the canvas.
Place the design face down on the canvas and use heat press tape to secure it in place.
Cover the design with a piece of paper and apply pressure and heat (380 to 400 degrees) using a heat press for about 45-50 seconds.
Remove the paper and let the canvas cool down. Once it has cooled down, you can remove the heat press tape and display your work of art!
What type of canvas is used for sublimation?
Cotton and polyester canvases can both be used for sublimation. However, it is important to note that cotton canvases require lamination with thermal lamination paper prior to sublimation, while polyester canvases do not.
Can I sublimate on canvas tote?
Yes, you can sublimate on canvas tote bags using the same method described above. Just make sure to use a cotton canvas tote bag, as polyester tote bags are not suitable for sublimation.
Can you sublimate on 100 cotton canvas?
Yes, you can sublimate on 100% cotton canvas using the same method described above. However, it is important to note that cotton canvases require lamination with thermal lamination paper prior to sublimation.
My passion for colors and customizing items has led me to sublimation printing. Not only do I personalize my belongings, but also run a profitable business. After the experience of over a decade - I am glad to share my reviews on best sublimation printers, ink and the right software (I use). Read the guides and contact if you need any help regarding dye-sublimation or heat press.
Sublimation on canvas is very similar to other substrates, print your design using a sublimation printer and transfer dyes using a heat press. However, here I’ll be sharing the most effective method of canvas sublimation.
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