Hi friends! If you’re ready to craft stunning, metal signs for your home, business, or next craft project, you’re in the right spot. I’m excited to share the process, so let’s get started!
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How to Sublimate Metal Signs
Sublimation is a fantastic way to transfer vibrant, high-quality designs onto metal surfaces with professional results. I’ll guide you through the entire process of sublimating metal signs. Whether you’re new to sublimation or looking to refine your skills, this step-by-step guide will help you create durable, eye-catching signs that impress.. Let’s get started with this fun and easy sublimation project!
What You’ll Need for Sublimating Metal Signs
Before we dive in, let’s gather all the supplies and equipment you’ll need. You don’t need to use the exact equipment I used, any sublimation printer and heat press that you use for sublimation projects will be fine!
- 12-Inch Metal Sign Blanks: These 12 x 12-inch aluminum blanks are pre-coated for sublimation, weatherproof, and feature pre-drilled holes for easy hanging.
- Sublimation Printer: The Epson F570 is my choice for this project. It’s a 24-inch wide-format printer perfect for larger designs like these 12-inch signs. Read more about it in my review.
- Sublimation Ink: Load your Epson F570 with Epson sublimation ink.
- Sublimation Paper: I’m using Epson sublimation paper for crisp, vibrant transfers.
- Heat Press: The ProWorld TransPro 16×20 Heat Press is excellent for this, with a large platen for even heat distribution.
- Heat-Resistant Tape: To secure your design to the metal sign during pressing.
- Butcher Paper: To protect your heat press and prevent ink bleed.
- Design Software: Use Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or any program that lets you create and export sublimation-ready designs.
- Lint-Free Cloth: For cleaning the metal sign before sublimation.
- Heat-Resistant Gloves: Optional, but handy for handling hot materials safely.
- Ribbons: Optional embellishments
With your supplies in hand, let’s move on to crafting your custom metal sign!
Step 1: Design Your Sign
The first step in sublimating a metal sign is designing something that reflects your style. Since the PYD Life metal signs are 12 x 12 inches, your design should match this size for a full-coverage print.
- Open Your Design Software: I love Canva for its simplicity, but use whatever software you prefer.
- Set the Canvas Size: Start a new project and set the dimensions to 12 x 12 inches at 300 DPI for high resolution.
- Create Your Design: Whether it’s a bold logo, a family name, or a fun graphic, let your imagination run wild. Sublimation loves bright, vivid colors, so don’t hold back!
- Save the File: Export your design as a high-quality PNG or JPG file.
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I created a quick video to show you the rest of the process…
Step 2: Print Your Design
Next, it’s time to print your design. I used the Epson sublimation paper with the Epson F570 and Epson Edge software. This printer delivers precision and stunning colors for sublimation projects.
- Load Sublimation Paper: Place your Epson sublimation paper into the Epson F570’s paper tray, ensuring the printable side (the brighter, smoother side) faces up.
- Open Epson Edge: Launch the Epson Edge software on your computer and import your design file.
- Adjust Printer Settings: Select the Epson F570 as your printer and tweak the settings if needed.
- Print the Design: Click “Print” and let the Epson F570 work its magic.
Pro Tip: Trim excess paper around your design with scissors or a paper cutter, leaving a small border (about ¼ inch) for easier handling.
Step 3: Prepare the PYD Life Metal Sign
Proper preparation of your metal sign blank is key to a flawless sublimation transfer. The PYD Life signs come with a protective film, so let’s get them ready.
- Remove the Protective Film: Peel off the clear film from the sublimation side of the PYD Life metal sign to reveal the white, coated surface.
- Clean the Surface: Wipe the sign with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with rubbing alcohol to remove dust, fingerprints, or oils.
- Inspect the Sign: Check for scratches or imperfections on the sublimation surface. The PYD Life signs are high-quality, but it’s always worth a quick look.
Step 4: Set Up the ProWorld TransPro 16×20 Heat Press
The ProWorld TransPro 16×20 Heat Press is perfect for sublimating 12-inch metal signs, offering consistent heat across its large platen. Let’s prepare it.
- Turn On the Heat Press: Plug in your TransPro 16×20 and switch it on.
- Set the Temperature: Adjust the temperature to 356°F (180°C), ideal for sublimating the PYD Life metal signs.
- Set the Time: Set the timer to 60 seconds for a perfect transfer.
- Set the Pressure: Use medium to firm pressure. Adjust the pressure knob until you feel moderate resistance when closing the press.
- Preheat the Press: Allow the heat press to reach the set temperature before proceeding.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sublimation “Sandwich”
Now, let’s layer everything together for the sublimation process—often called the “sublimation sandwich” due to the stacked materials.
- Place Butcher Paper: Lay a sheet of butcher paper on the bottom platen of the heat press to protect it from ink bleed.
- Position the Metal Sign: Place the sign on the butcher paper, sublimation side (white coating) facing up.
- Align the Sublimation Print: Position your printed Epson sublimation paper face down onto the metal sign, ensuring the design is centered. The mirrored image should now be touching the sign’s surface.
- Secure with Heat-Resistant Tape: Tape the sublimation paper to the metal sign on all four sides with heat-resistant tape to prevent shifting.
- Add Top Butcher Paper: Place another sheet of butcher paper over the top to protect the heat press’s upper platen.
Step 6: Press the Metal Sign
It’s time to sublimate! With your sandwich ready, let’s transfer the design onto the metal sign.
- Lower the Heat Press: Carefully close the Heat Press, applying even pressure.
- Start the Timer: Press the start button and wait for 60 seconds as the magic happens.
- Open the Press: After 60 seconds, lift the heat press carefully or if you have the automatic setting, the heat press will open. (use heat-resistant gloves if needed).
Step 7: Reveal Your Sublimated Metal Sign
Here comes the exciting part—unveiling your newly sublimated sign!
- Remove the Butcher Paper: Peel off the top layer of butcher paper.
- Lift the Sublimation Paper: Gently remove the sublimation paper and heat-resistant tape from the metal sign. Your design should now be vividly transferred onto the surface.
- Cool the Sign: Let the sign cool for a few minutes on a heat-safe surface. The signs are sturdy, but handling them hot can be tricky.
Step 8: Finishing Touches and Display
Your sublimated metal sign is complete! Let’s add some final touches and get it ready to shine.
- Inspect the Transfer: Check for sharp lines and vibrant colors.
- Clean if Needed: Wipe the sign with a dry lint-free cloth to remove any residue.
- Embellish: Trim the included rope to size for the hanger. Add ribbon if you want to add a little something extra.
- Hang or Display: Use the pre-drilled holes on the sign to hang it with screws, wire, or string. It’s weatherproof, so it’s perfect for indoor or outdoor use!
Troubleshooting Tips for Sublimation Success
Even with top-notch equipment, hiccups can happen. Here are some fixes for common issues:
- Faded Colors: Increase the pressing time to 70 seconds or check your Epson sublimation ink levels.
- Blurry Design: Ensure the sublimation paper is taped securely and the pressure is firm.
- Scorch Marks: Lower the temperature to 350°F and reduce the time to 50 seconds.
Sublimation offers unbeatable durability and color brilliance compared to vinyl or other methods. The PYD Life metal signs are weatherproof and UV-resistant, making them perfect for long-lasting outdoor décor.
Whether it’s for a party, a small business, or just for fun, these signs are super easy to sublimate!
I’d love to see your creations—share them with me on social media @michellespartyplanit!
Happy Crafting!
PIN FOR LATER!
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