How to print a sublimation case?

Sublimation printing is a technique for personalizing phone cases with colorful, detailed images. Here's how to print a sublimation phone case:

Equipment needed for sublimation

1. A sublimation printer: A printer specially designed for sublimation, using sublimation inks. We recommend the EPSON and RICOH brands that we use in our workshop.
2. Sublimation Paper : A special paper that transfers ink under heat.
3. Heat Press : To apply uniform heat necessary to transfer ink.
4. Phone case for sublimation: A specific case for sublimation is a silicone case with an aluminum plate that will be heated before being glued to the TPU backing.

Shell printing steps

Preparing the design to print

1. Create your design: Use graphics software to create or prepare the image you want to print on the case. Make sure the resolution is high to get a clear, sharp print. We recommend using Photoshop , Sawgrass Print Manager or Canva .

2. Adjust the dimensions: Adapt the dimensions of your design to the dimensions of the phone case to ensure that the design completely covers the desired surface.

Printing and Transfer

3. Print the design: Print your design on the sublimation paper using a sublimation printer. Make sure the print is in mirror mode, as it will transfer upside down to the case.

4. Prepare the heat press: Set your heat press to the recommended temperature for sublimation, usually around 180-200°C, and preheat it. Our cases must be sublimated for 70 seconds at 190°C.

5. Remove the plastic film from the aluminum plate.

6. Position the aluminum plate against the paper: Place the plate to be sublimated on the printed paper. Use heat resistant tape to ensure there is no print shift on the case.

Heat Application

7. Press the design: Close the heat press and apply heat for the recommended time, usually between 60 and 80 seconds.

8. Remove the paper: Once the time is up, open the press, remove the plate and allow it to cool before removing the sublimation paper

Hull assembly

9. Once the aluminum plate is printed, remove the white paper from the silicone case. You can then glue the plate to the hull. Be sure to press down on the edges so that the plate does not separate from the silicone case.

By following these steps, you can create a statement phone case that stands up to impact and daily wear and tear while still showing off your favorite designs.