Sublimation printing on metal is often wrongly assumed to be some magical process. Believe it or not, it doesn’t take a wizard to “print” images on metal.
Instead, it takes some basic editing skills, the proper equipment, and an ounce of love.
What Is Sublimation
Before jumping too far ahead, what exactly is sublimation printing? Sublimation involves transferring special ink onto a piece of material using high heat. In the case of metal prints, an image can be transferred onto a metal plate using a heat press—otherwise referred to as a “forge” here at Anvil Prints.
How Sublimation Printing on Metal Works: Step by Step
For those curious about what goes on behind the scenes in the metal printing process, here is how it’s done at Anvil Prints.
Step 1: Editing
Before the sublimation process begins, the first step is to edit the image. Images often appear darker when infused onto metal prints, so each image needs to be slightly edited beforehand so that the colors remain true to the original image when transferred to a metal plate.
It is also important to resize the image to be slightly larger than the metal plate to ensure that the image completely fills the print.
Step 2: Printing
Not all printers can print sublimation-ready images. Instead, a dye sublimation printer that can use sublimation ink is used. Furthermore, special sublimation paper is also needed. With a sublimation ink printer and paper, you can then print any sublimation-ready image.
Step 3: Preparing the Image for Sublimation
Before throwing your image into the forge, it is important to make sure it is well-prepared for the fiery journey ahead. To do this, you will need to use heat-resistant tape to securely fasten the metal plate to the image.
Next, add two layers of parchment paper below and on top of the metal print (this will protect the heat press from ink seepage).
Step 4: Cook the Metal Print
Place the metal print onto a preheated heat press (385F) and close the heat press. Let your metal print cook for around 120 seconds, then remove it from the heat press and let it cool.
WARNING: “Heat” is another word for “torridity.” As such, be careful when using the heat press and touching the scolding hot metal print… there is a reason why I have no feeling in my left hand.
Step 5: Be Amazed
After letting the metal print cool, separate the metal plate from the paper and let out a slight *gasp* in astonishment as you bask in the metallic beauty that beholds you.
Final Thoughts
Sublimation printing on metal is a simple and worthwhile process. If you want to have your own picture forged onto metal and be transfixed by the resulting beauty of the metal print, then order your own custom metal print here.
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