How do you sublimate on metal for sale

Sublimating on metal is a printing process that transfers ink into a coated metal surface using heat and pressure.

Many people ask: can you sublimate on metal? The answer is yes, but only on coated sublimation metal surfaces.

Metal sublimation printing is widely used to make metal signs, photo panels, ornaments, and personalized products.

Can I Sublimate on Metal?

You can sublimate on metal if the metal surface has a special sublimation coating.

Raw metal cannot absorb sublimation ink.

Common sublimation metal products include:

Metal sublimation signs
Metal photo plates
Metal ornaments
Metal tumblers

Coated aluminum is the most popular material.

How to Sublimate on Metal

Basic Steps

Follow this simple process:

Print image using sublimation printer
Prepare coated metal sheet
Place printed paper on metal surface
Fix paper using heat tape
Heat press metal surface
Remove paper after cooling

This method is used for how to sublimate on metal signs and panels.

What Temperature Do You Sublimate on Metal?

Temperature is very important for metal sublimation.

Material Type	Temperature	Result
Metal Sheet	190–205°C	Best printing effect
Metal Sign Blanks	195°C	Standard setting
Metal Ornament	190°C	Fine decorative print
Metal Plate	200°C	High clarity image

Recommended temperature range: 190–205°C

How Long Do You Sublimate on Metal?

Product Type	Time
Metal Signs	45–60 seconds
Metal Ornaments	40–50 seconds
Metal Plates	50–70 seconds
Metal Tumblers	60 seconds

Pressing time depends on thickness and coating quality.

How to Heat Press onto Metal

Heat Press Tips

Use protective paper
Apply even pressure
Keep temperature stable
Allow metal to cool naturally

These steps help create clear and durable printing.

How to Sublimate on Metal Signs

Metal sublimation signs are popular for business branding.

Process:

Use coated metal sign blanks
Print design mirror-reversed
Heat press at 195°C
Press for about 50 seconds

This creates permanent signage.

How to Sublimate on Metal Ornaments

Metal ornaments are widely used as gifts.

Common ornament types:

Christmas metal ornaments
Custom photo ornaments
Decorative metal tags

Typical setting:

Item	Setting
Temperature	190–200°C
Time	40–50 seconds
Pressure	Medium

How to Sublimate on Metal Plate

Metal plates are used for:

Photo display
Name plates
Artwork panels

Recommended settings:

Thickness	Time
0.6 mm	40 sec
0.8 mm	50 sec
1.0 mm	60 sec

How to Sublimate on Metal Tumbler

Metal tumblers require special cylindrical heat press machines.

Steps:

Print design
Wrap paper around tumbler
Heat press evenly
Cool before removing paper

Typical setting:

Temperature: 180–200°C
Time: 60 seconds

How Do You Sublimate on a Mug?

Mug sublimation is similar to metal sublimation.

Key points:

Use sublimation coating mug
Wrap printed paper tightly
Press under heat

Common setting:

Parameter	Value
Temperature	180–200°C
Time	60–90 seconds

How Do You Sublimate on Wood?

Wood sublimation requires special coated wood blanks.

Process:

Use heat-resistant coating wood
Press image under heat
Allow cooling

Wood sublimation is popular for decorative art.

How Do You Sublimate on Acrylic?

Acrylic sublimation needs coated acrylic panels.

Important tips:

Use lower pressure
Avoid overheating
Cool slowly after pressing

How Long Does It Take to Sublimate Metal Signs?

Product	Time Needed
Small Metal Sign	40–50 sec
Standard Metal Sign	50–60 sec
Large Metal Panel	60–70 sec

Applications of Metal Sublimation

Metal sublimation products are used in many fields:

Photo printing panels
Business signage
Personalized gifts
Brand advertising
Home decoration
Art display boards

Advantages of Metal Sublimation

Feature	Benefit
Color Brightness	High
Durability	Very strong
Waterproof	Yes
Scratch Resistance	Good
Outdoor Use	Possible