What kind of tumblers can you sublimate on?
Sarah Smith
Published Jan 24, 2026
A sublimation tumbler is a stainless steel or tumbler made from another material that has been “printed” with a type of ink transfer called sublimation.
Can you sublimate on any tumbler?
Unfortunately you can't just use any tumblers for sublimation. As with all the other sublimation projects, you need to use compatible sublimation blanks that contain a specialized poly coating that interacts with the sublimation dye when heat is applied.
Can you sublimate on regular stainless steel tumblers?
Sublimation inks essentially only adhere to polyester. So any metal has to have a polyester coating before you can sublimate onto it. You can't buy just anything to sublimate.
What kind of cups can you sublimate on?
Keep in mind you must use mugs that have a special coating for sublimation printing. These mugs are specially coated in a factory. You cannot coat them yourself.
Can you sublimate on plastic tumblers?
However, many people ask if dye sublimation printing can be done on plastic items. The short answer is “yes.”
25 related questions foundCan you sublimate on Cricut mugs?
CAN I USE ANY MUG WITH THE CRICUT MUG PRESS? Cricut mug blanks are optimized to be used with the Cricut Mug Press. But you can also use sublimation mug blanks. These mugs have a special coating allowing the ink to transfer.
Can you use Cricut mugs for sublimation?
I've been getting tons of questions on whether you can make DIY photo mugs with sublimation and the Cricut Mug Press. You definitely can! This has been a highly requested tutorial and I hope it is helpful for you to make some gifts for family and friends on just about any occasion.
Can you sublimate on glass cups?
Can You Sublimate On Glass Cups? Yes, but only if it's given the proper care. Dye-sublimation printing requires a smooth surface, which can achieve with polymeric sprays applied to various materials.
How do you turn a regular tumbler into a sublimation tumbler?
To sublimate on the tumblers, you use a shrink wrap on the tumbler and place the stainless steel tumbler in the oven! I bought my shrink wrap from Conde. The product is called SubliShrink™ Shrink Wrap Film.
Do you have to epoxy sublimation tumblers?
No epoxy or glitter is needed! That's it...a whole lot easier than adding glitter to a sublimation tumbler in a totally separate step...or two. You can find more these glitter sublimation wrap templates in the Tumbler and Mug Bundle along with about 100 other commercial free designs for tumblers and mugs!
Are sublimation tumblers dishwasher safe?
Available in white exterior finish, the 16 oz. thermal tumbler offers a superb finish and lasting quality. Our tumblers feature the patented ORCA dye-sublimation coating which allows you to decorate as you please with full-color photographs, logos, or both! And they're dishwasher safe!
Can you sublimate over an already sublimated tumbler?
Can you sublimate a tumbler twice? Tumbler can be sublimated any number of times without damaging it. However, you should be aware that when the previous print image is reheated it will appear as a ghost image in the background.
Why are my sublimation tumblers dull?
It's absolutely normal for sublimation ink to look dull when it's first printed. Once the print is sublimated onto the substrate with high heat and pressure, the ink converts to a gas and infuses into the polyester material and the colors will become bold, bright, and vibrant.
Can I use a mug press for tumblers?
Depending on which mug press or heat press mug attachment you have, you can use the thin or thick pad for the 20oz tumbler just make sure you have about medium pressure. To test, put your tumbler into the attachment and close it. If the mug is snug and doesn't move when you try to pull it, you should be good to go.
Can you make tumblers with Cricut?
Learn how to personalize tumblers using a Cricut machine and permanent vinyl. These stunning tumblers make a great gift for teachers, bridesmaids or handmade holidays. Take it a step further and make tumblers to sell as a side hustle.
What do you need for sublimation tumblers?
Supplies You Need to Make Sublimation Tumblers
- Blank Sublimation Tumbler.
- Sublimation Ink. ...
- Heat Source. ...
- Laser Paper or Sublimation Paper – for all methods except Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets.
- Heat Resistant Tape.
- If using an oven, you will need Sublimation Shrink Wraps to fit the size of tumbler you are making.
Why is my sublimation paper sticking to my tumbler?
This problem occurs due to softening of the coating when the mug is heated during the transfer process. To reduced the effects of the softened coating, remove the paper from the mug before cooling.
How do you heat press a tumbler?
Press at 350 degrees F for 80-100 seconds with medium pressure. If printing a design that wraps around the tumbler, rotate the tumbler and press for another 80-100 seconds. Remove immediately from press once finished and peel hot. Use caution as the item will be very hot.
Are sublimation mugs microwavable?
FAQs - Can sublimation mugs go in the dishwasher? Photo USA' sublimation mugs are dishwasher and microwave safe. They can withstand both the dishwasher and microwave.
Are stainless steel sublimation tumblers dishwasher safe?
Stainless steel sublimation tumbler blanks. Capacity: 30oz. Glossy white coating for vibrant transfers. Dishwasher Safe.
What resin is best for tumblers?
- Envirotex Lite Pour-On Epoxy Resin. ...
- Clear Casting and Coating Epoxy Resin. ...
- Art Resin Non-toxic Epoxy for Tumblers - Best in Food Safety. ...
- KS Resin Liquid Art Epoxy for Tumblers. ...
- FX Poxy Epoxy Resin Kit. ...
- East Coast Epoxy Resin for Tumblers - Best for Budget Crafters. ...
- Stone Coat Countertop Epoxy Kit.