Overview
Sublimation isnʼt just about pressing ink onto a blank. Itʼs about understanding the tools, timing, and tiny adjustments that lead to
great results. Whether youʼre just getting started with your SG500 or SG1000, or youʼre refining your workflow, these 10 tips will
help you avoid common mistakes and get the most out of your Sawgrass setup.
1. Use the Right Paper
Not all sublimation paper performs the same. At Sawgrass, we designed TruePix® to bring out the best in your printer richer color,
sharper details, and less bleed. If youʼre using off-brand paper, youʼre likely leaving color and consistency behind.
- Select “TruePix” in the Print Utility for best results.
- Works on both rigid and fabric substrates.
2. Mirror Before You Print
It sounds obvious, with logos, text, but it’s one of the easiest mistakes to make. or templates. Always mirror your design It sounds obvious, but it’s one of the easiest mistakes to make. Always mirror your design before printing especially when working with logos, text, or templates.before printing especially when working.
Tip: The Sawgrass Print Utility has auto-mirror built in, so you’re one checkbox away from avoiding a ruined blank.
Download Sawgrass Print Utility→
3. Pre-Press Your Blanks
Before you even think about transferring, take 5–10 seconds to pre-press your fabric. This removes moisture and flattens fibers,which helps prevent ghosting and blotchy prints. For apparel, a quick post-press after transfer can also lock in color.
4. Rip Edges instead of cut
When pressing to light polyester fabrics, rip the edges of your paper instead of cutting. This soft, feathered edge helps avoid hard press lines around your design — especially on shirts and garments.
5. Know When and How to Use Tape
A little tape goes a long way. Use just enough heat-resistant tape to hold your design in place. Avoid pulling it tight tension can distort the transfer. And never skip blowout paper on the top and bottom to keep your press clean.
6. Use Pressing Pillows for Tricky Items
If your blank has seams, buttons, or zippers, that’s going to affect pressure. Slide a pressing pillow underneath to raise the transfer area and ensure even results. This makes a big difference on polos, baby bodysuits, and zippered items.
7. Trust But Verify Your Heat Press
Just because your press says 385°F doesn’t mean it actually is. Use a heat gun or thermo strip to check your press’s real surface temp and make sure there aren’t cold spots. Small temperature inconsistencies lead to big quality issues.
Get the Heat Press Settings Guide →
8. Rotate Your Drinkware
For full-wrap mugs and tumblers, rotate the drinkware halfway through the press cycle if using a manual press. This ensures even pressure and heat distribution, helping eliminate faded seams or blotchy edges.
9. VersiFlex Has Its Own Rhythm
If you’re working with VersiFlex, treat it like its own process. Unlike sublimation:
- You don’t have to peel slowly. A clean, confident pull works just fine.
- Master the hover and drop method to preheat the transfer before applying pressure.
10. Take note of What Works
Different products react differently to heat. Start building a simple log of what settings worked best your press time, temp,pressure, and results. That way, you’re not guessing the next time you run the same blank.