The Dye Sub Column Sublimation S


equipment hacks: Little things that make a big difference


Anuj Ghaghada, director at Longforte, outlines the unsung heroes of a good sublimation setup and why it’s the little things that make a big difference.


ublimation printing is often associated with the obvious essentials: a quality printer, a reliable heat press, maybe a mug press or convection oven. These are, of course, critical to getting started. But what often gets overlooked is just how much the inexpensive tools can influence your print quality, consistency, and efficiency. But as any experienced printer will tell you, the real difference often lies in the smaller details. The right tape, a well-placed silicone mat, or even a humble lint roller can turn a frustrating process into a smooth operation. These aren’t fancy gadgets or expensive add-ons – they’re the unsung heroes of a good sublimation setup.


Lint rollers


They might not seem like much, but lint rollers are one of the simplest tools that can make a surprisingly big difference. When you’re sublimating onto fabric, stray fibres and dust can interfere with the print. Even tiny specks can become visible once pressed, showing up as blue dots or causing the design to blur. Giving each item a quick once-over before pressing takes seconds and can save you from ruining an otherwise perfect print.


Combo tape dispenser


One of the handiest time-saving tools in any sublimation workspace is a combo tape dispenser. This allows you to load multiple rolls of heat-resistant tape at once – ideal when working with different widths or colours. The rotating wheel dispenses tape at a consistent length, improving speed and uniformity. There’s also a standard side dispenser for custom lengths, plus built-in storage for pens or scissors. It’s one of those tools you don’t realise you need – until you use it.


Butcher paper or blowout paper


Protecting your press is another area where a small tool makes a big impact. Placing a clean sheet above and below your item helps absorb excess ink, prevents it from transferring to the press plate, and reduces the risk of ghosting. Just remember: one sheet, one press.


Some might suggest Teflon sheets as an alternative to butcher paper, but with sublimation, they can be tricky. Because they’re reusable, they can retain ink and accidentally retransfer it onto your next project. Butcher paper is a safer, disposable option that eliminates that risk entirely.


| 18 | August 2025 Silicone mats and pressing pillows


Working with items that aren’t completely flat? That’s where these come in.


A thin silicone mat can help level out an uneven surface like a glass coaster or ceramic slate, while pressing pillows are great for garments with seams, zippers, or collars. They help distribute pressure more evenly where a flat platen alone would struggle.


Pre-pressing for moisture control


Humidity can quietly ruin prints, especially on fabric. Many textiles absorb moisture from the air. A quick pre-press of five seconds removes that excess moisture and helps prevent blotchy, steamed results.


It’s a small step that can massively improve your consistency. Storage and organisation


Even storage plays a part. Keeping blanks in labelled bins, away from dust and direct sunlight, speeds up production and helps reduce mix-ups – especially if you’re handling many SKUs. For smaller items like keyrings or coasters, use trays or dividers to stay organised.


Timers and alerts


While most heat presses have timers, a separate digital timer – or even using a smart speaker – can be helpful if you’re multitasking. All it takes is one distraction to leave something in too long, turning a great print into wasted stock.


Final thoughts


In the end, successful sublimation isn’t just about investing in expensive equipment. While good machinery helps, what sets professionals apart is the care and consistency they bring to the process. It’s the small habits and thoughtful setups that often make the biggest difference.


With the right accessories and an organised workspace, you’re more likely to catch issues early, avoid waste, and deliver consistent results. Sublimation is all about control – from colour to temperature and timing – and the more intentional you are with your tools and setup, the better your outcomes will be. By adopting a few of these simple tools and techniques, you’ll not only improve print quality but also reduce stress and streamline your process – all while creating a workspace that works for you.


www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk


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