If you’re looking to create stunning, high-quality personalized gifts, sublimating on slate plaques is a unique way to showcase vibrant, durable designs. With the new HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2, sublimation projects become easier and more precise, allowing crafters to get consistent results every time. I’ll walk you through each step to ensure your slate plaque turns out beautifully, so let’s get started!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links, at no additional cost to you
Why Sublimate on Slate?
Sublimating on slate plaques brings out vibrant colors adding character and depth to the design. Ideal for photo gifts, family portraits, and custom art, sublimated slate plaques are long-lasting and have an aesthetic appeal that looks professional.
Supplies Needed
To start, gather the following supplies:
- HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2 – Use code Michelle60 for savings!
- Sublimation-ready slate plaque
- Sublimation printer (with sublimation ink)
- Sublimation paper
- Heat-resistant tape
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Butcher paper or parchment paper
- Scissors
- Lint roller or microfiber cloth
I created a quick video, check it out below:
How to Sublimate Slate Plaques
Step 1: Preparing the Design
- Select and Customize Your Design
Open your design software (I use canva) and upload an image that fits the dimensions of your slate plaque. - Print the Design on Sublimation Paper
Using your sublimation printer, print the design onto sublimation paper. Ensure that you’ve set the print settings to the highest quality and that the ink levels are adequate. Double-check that your colors are vibrant and the image resolution is high. Remember to mirror the design, as it will be transferred in reverse onto the slate. - Trim the Design
Cut out the printed design, leaving a slight border around the image to allow room for precise alignment on the slate plaque.
Step 2: Preparing the Slate Plaque
- Clean the Slate Surface
Use a lint roller or microfiber cloth to remove any dust, lint, or particles from the surface of the plaque. Even a small speck of dust can interfere with the transfer process, causing imperfections in the design. - Position the Design
Center your trimmed design, printed side down, on the slate plaque. Use heat-resistant tape to secure it in place, ensuring it doesn’t shift when you move it to the heat press. Taping the edges tightly helps ensure that the design stays exactly where you want it during the pressing process.
Step 3: Preparing the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2
- Set the Temperature and Time
Turn on the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2 and set it to 375°F. Adjust the time to 480 (8 minutes), as slate requires a longer pressing time for optimal ink transfer. - Prepare the Pressing Area
Place a sheet of butcher paper on the heat pad. The butcher paper helps protect the heat press and your project from any stray sublimation ink. - Set the Pressure Setting
I use pressure setting of 110 pounds and have had great results. Adjust as necessary until you feel it’s suitable for the plaque.
Step 4: Pressing the Slate Plaque
- Place the Slate in the Heat Press
Position the slate plaque (with the design taped to it) on top of the butcher paper, faced down. The heat press will draw the heat through the slate to sublimate perfectly. Place another sheet of butcher paper over the slate to prevent any ink from reaching the upper platen. - Press the Slate
Close the drawer and the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2 will automatically begin the countdown. - Remove the Slate Carefully
When the timer ends and the press lifts, open the drawer and use heat-resistant gloves to remove the slate plaque. It will be extremely hot, so handle it with care.
Step 5: Revealing the Design
Peel off the Sublimation Paper
Carefully remove the heat-resistant tape and peel the sublimation paper off the slate. The design should now be vibrant, fully transferred, and set into the sublimation coating.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
- Cool the Plaque Completely
Allow the plaque to cool entirely before handling or displaying. - Display Your Creation
Your slate plaque is now ready to be displayed or gifted! These plaques come with a stand and make a wonderful addition to any home decor and are a personalized gift option for special occasions.
Using the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2 for sublimating on slate plaques is a fantastic way to create beautiful, personalized decor. The press’s features make it easy to achieve even heat distribution and consistent pressure, which are essential for sublimation success. With just a little practice, you’ll be able to create vibrant, professional-looking slate plaques that are perfect for gifts or home display.
If you try this project, I’d love to see your results! Feel free to share your creations with me and let me know if this guide on how to sublimate slate plaques helped make your sublimation process smoother.
Happy Crafting!
Want to learn more about the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2? Check out these other tutorials.
HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2 Review
Using the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2 for Sublimation Projects
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2 comments
Love to do the same designs. May I ask where from
They are from Creative Fabrica, here is my affiliate link 🙂 https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/bible-verse-tags-scripture-cards-4/ref/1880722/