Facing issues with ghosting or shifts during sublimation printing? Sublimation spray adhesive ensures precise and clean transfers. This article provides a clear overview of how to select and use sublimation spray adhesive effectively, comparing its performance to other methods and delivering practical guidance for your sublimation projects. Stay with us as we discover the answers to all your sublimation spray adhesive queries!
Key Takeaways
- Sublimation spray adhesive is essential for preventing ghosting and ensuring clear, defined prints by holding sublimation paper in place during heat pressing.
- Proper application techniques and workspace preparation are crucial for effective use of spray adhesives, which include maintaining a well-ventilated area, using protective gear, and following specific spraying and pressing techniques.
- Choosing the right adhesive is critical to the outcome of a sublimation project; light coatings minimize residue and maintain material quality, while proper maintenance prolongs the effectiveness of the spray adhesive.[1]
Exploring Sublimation Spray Adhesive
Sublimation spray adhesive serves as a trusty ally in preventing common issues like ghosting or double prints. Spray adhesive reliably holds the sublimation paper in place during heat pressing, producing clear and defined prints across various surfaces. The application process is as simple as spraying an even coat over the sublimation print. Once it dries, it becomes tacky and adheres to the substrate without moving, creating a temporary but secure bond.
This temporary adhesive is particularly valuable during t-shirt transfers using transfer paper, especially with the most heat transfer paper, where potential paper movement could lead to ghosting or double prints. What’s more, compared to heat-resistant tapes or other methods that might not provide a secure hold or could leave residue, spray adhesives are more suitable for textiles and other soft surfaces. It is important to understand how heat transfer paper differs from sublimation paper.
The Application Process: How to Use Spray Adhesive with Sublimation Paper
Having understood the benefits of sublimation spray adhesive, we can now explore the step-by-step process of its application with sublimation paper. From preparing your workspace to mastering the spraying techniques, you’ll learn how to optimally apply the adhesive, align the paper, and press it for a successful sublimation transfer.
Preparing Your Workspace
First things first, ensure your workspace is well-ventilated and has enough surface area for you to comfortably complete your project, such as creating fabric coasters. Protect your tables or benches with a plastic sheet or tablecloth to avoid adhesive residue sticking to them.
Before spraying, consider the following precautions:
⫸ Click Here For Best Selling Sublimation Printers And Products ⫷- Place the sublimation paper inside a box to contain any overspray and protect the work surface.
- Always wear a mask to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Use latex or nitrile gloves for protection.
Safety is paramount when working with spray materials.
Finally, clean the surfaces that will be bonded with the spray adhesive to remove any oil, wax, paint, or dirt using a damp cloth.
Spraying Techniques
With your workspace ready, it’s time to master the spraying techniques. Here are the steps to follow:
- Hold the spray adhesive can in a vertical position.
- Maintain a distance of around 8 to 10 inches – this is the standard recommended range for an even application.
- Sweep the can across the surface in a steady, linear motion.
- Start and stop the spray just off the edges to achieve a clean and even coating without runs or sags.
Aim for a light, consistent layer across the total area of the sublimation print, achieving a slightly sticky layer for optimal adhesion results. To lightly spray sublimation paper, shake the adhesive spray can thoroughly before applying it to mix the contents well. This practice helps to prevent blockages and ensures a smoother spray application.
Aligning and Pressing
Upon applying the adhesive, the next step involves aligning and pressing the sublimation paper. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the paper to the right size for your substrate.
- Pre-heat the substrate surface after removing any debris with a lint roll to prepare it for sublimation.
- To ensure accurate alignment, measure from the edges to center the paper and ensure equal distances from critical points like mug handles.
- Press the adhesive side down on the substrate to test adhesion, eliminating any creases or bubbles.
Upon alignment, you’re set for pressing. Adjust the heat press pressure to match the substrate thickness and press it down firmly at the appropriate temperature for the required duration. After pressing, promptly remove the sublimation paper while it’s still hot, inspect the transfer for evenness, and make adjustments for the next attempt as needed.
Choosing the Right Adhesive for Soft Sublimation Materials
The selection of the right adhesive for your particular project can significantly impact the outcome. For soft sublimation materials, not the substrate, Eco Mist Adhesive Spray is a popular choice. It effectively prevents movement during the sublimation process, thus eliminating the risk of ghosting or double prints. By using the appropriate decrease quantity of Eco Mist, you can ensure optimal results.
However, the choice doesn’t end there. Some adhesives, like the 3M 75 Repositionable Spray, are preferred for their ability to produce a fine, even mist without leaving globs, thus safeguarding the material’s coating. Regardless of the brand chosen, applying only a light coat of adhesive on soft materials like shirts or socks is advisable to minimize residue and preserve the material’s color quality and texture. In fact, spray adhesive holds the key to ensuring a successful project outcome when used correctly.
Avoiding Common Issues with Adhesive Spray
Despite its transformative role in sublimation projects, sublimation spray adhesive can present certain challenges. One of the most common is residue. Experimenting with light coats can help to reduce this issue while eliminating tape lines. The lightest coat possible is key to minimizing the amount of residue left on substrates after heat pressing.
Another common issue is clogging. To clear a clogged nozzle, you can remove it and soak it in a solvent like 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner. For more stubborn nozzle clogs, a dry lubricant like McLube Sailkote can be sprayed through the bottom of the nozzle to remove adhesive residue. Remember, different adhesive sprays may work differently, and experimentation is encouraged to find what works best for your individual needs.[2]
Comparing Adhesive Sprays vs. Heat Transfer Tape
There’s always more than one way to skin a cat, and in sublimation projects, you have the option to use adhesive sprays or heat transfer tape. Each has its pros and cons. For instance, one of the main benefits of using sublimation spray adhesive instead of heat transfer tape is the avoidance of tape marks on the finished product.
However, some practitioners may favor tape to avoid the addition of chemicals and because it’s less difficult to remove after transferring. The choice between adhesive spray and heat transfer tape often comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your project.
Specialty Projects: Using Spray Adhesive for Complex Sublimation Prints
For complex and large-scale sublimation prints, spray adhesive truly shines. It’s beneficial for multi-layered sublimation transfers, ensuring the design stays intact and preventing ghosting and blurriness that can occur with paper shifts.
In large surface sublimation prints, such as full-coverage garments or banners, spray adhesive helps prevent design imperfections due to shifting during the sublimation process. By using spray adhesive on large soft sublimation substrates, like polyester shirts or fabric banners, you can achieve even design adherence and eliminate the need for excessive taping, which can leave marks or cause uneven heating.
Maintaining Your Spray Adhesive for Optimal Performance
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring optimal performance of your adhesive spray. It’s important to clean the nozzle after every use to prevent the adhesive from clogging and ensure consistent spray application. Post-use, invert the can and spray until only clear air emerges to maintain a clear nozzle.
Additionally, here are some tips for using adhesive sprays:
- Remove leftover adhesive residue from the nozzle using acetone or a specialized glue remover and wipe the area clean.
- Always replace the cap securely after use to protect the nozzle and prevent the adhesive from drying out.
- Store adhesive sprays in a cool, dry area away from high temperatures and open flames to prolong the can’s effective life.
Summary
In conclusion, choosing the right sublimation spray adhesive can significantly enhance the results of your sublimation projects. From preventing ghosting and double prints to ensuring your designs stay intact on soft surfaces, spray adhesives offer a range of benefits. Remember, the key is to understand the application process, choose the right adhesive for your project, maintain your spray adhesive well, and experiment to find what works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What spray adhesive can I use for sublimation?
You can use 3M Removable adhesive Spray 75 for sublimation. It is a suitable option for your sublimation projects.
What can you use sublimation spray on?
You can use sublimation spray to enable sublimation printing on 100% cotton fabrics, cotton/polyester blends, polyester-only, and other materials, achieving bright, vibrant, long-lasting colors in your prints.
Is there a poly spray for sublimation?
Yes, there is a poly spray for sublimation called Dyepress polyTpro Sublimation Spray. It is a sublimation coating for cotton.
What is sublimation spray adhesive used for?
Sublimation spray adhesive is used to secure sublimation prints on soft surfaces, preventing ghosting and double prints by keeping the sublimation paper firmly in place during heat pressing. It’s specifically designed to ensure accurate and high-quality sublimation printing results.
How do I apply spray adhesive for sublimation?
When applying spray adhesive for sublimation, hold the can about 8 to 10 inches away from the paper and move it in a smooth sweeping motion for an even coat. Then, carefully align the sublimation paper on the substrate to ensure it is smooth and wrinkle-free.
References
- Pike, R. A. (2022, April 25). Adhesive | Definition, Types, Uses, Materials, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/technology/adhesive
- CPSC warns of spray adhesive dangers – Moves to halt production, distribution, sale and use. (n.d.). U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2012/CPSC-Warns-Of-Spray-Adhesive-Dangers-Moves-To-Halt-Production-Distribution-Sale-And-Use
