What Is Needed to Make Sublimation Tumblers?

Sublimation tumblers are a fantastic way to create personalized drinkware, whether for gifts, brand promotions, or personal use. Unlike other printing methods, sublimation printing bonds the design directly with the tumbler’s surface, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting images. If you’re ready to dive into this customization technique, knowing what tools and materials you’ll need is essential for success.

Creating custom tumblers with sublimation requires more than just creativity—you’ll also need specific equipment and supplies to achieve professional results. This guide will walk you through everything required to make beautiful sublimation tumblers, from the right printers and materials to tips for achieving flawless designs.

Key Materials and Tools for Making Sublimation Tumblers

1. Sublimation-Ready Tumblers

Not all tumblers are suitable for sublimation printing. You’ll need to use poly-coated tumblers (also called sublimation blanks) that are designed to bond with sublimation ink. These tumblers are available in various sizes, styles, and colors, including popular double-walled stainless steel versions that keep drinks hot or cold for hours.

Look for:

• Stainless steel tumblers with a white poly-coating.
• Vacuum-insulated options for high-end custom drinkware.

2. Sublimation Printer and Ink

A regular inkjet printer won’t work for sublimation—you’ll need a printer specifically designed or converted for sublimation printing. Sublimation printers use special inks that vaporize under heat and bond with the tumbler’s surface.

Recommended printers include:

• Sawgrass Virtuoso printers – Reliable printers built specifically for sublimation.
• Converted Epson printers – Some models can be converted with sublimation ink kits.

Make sure to use sublimation ink with your printer, as standard ink won’t transfer properly to your tumbler.

3. Sublimation Paper

Sublimation paper is essential for transferring your design to the tumbler. This paper is coated to release the ink effectively when heat is applied.

• High-quality sublimation paper ensures sharp colors and accurate image transfer.
• Choose the right paper size for your printer and tumbler—many users prefer A4 or letter-sized sheets.

4. Heat Press or Convection Oven

The heat transfer process is what makes sublimation possible. You’ll need a heat press designed for cylindrical items like tumblers, or a convection oven to wrap and heat your tumbler evenly.

Options include:

• Tumbler heat press machines – Provide uniform pressure and heat, resulting in better prints.
• Convection ovens – An alternative option that works well for hobbyists or small-scale projects.

Ensure the equipment can reach temperatures around 380°F - 400°F, which is required for sublimation printing.

5. Heat-Resistant Tape and Shrink Wrap

During the sublimation process, your design must stay in place to avoid misalignment or blurring. Use heat-resistant tape or shrink wrap to secure the paper around the tumbler.

• Heat-resistant tape can withstand the high temperatures of sublimation without melting or leaving residue.
• Shrink wrap sleeves are often used with convection ovens to apply even pressure during the heating process.

6. Protective Gloves

Since you’ll be working with high temperatures, heat-resistant gloves are essential. They’ll protect your hands when handling hot tumblers right after the transfer process.

Step-by-Step Process for Making Sublim