If you’re in the business of creating custom apparel, you may be wondering if you can sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts. Sublimation can be a great way to create vibrant, long-lasting designs on fabric, but not all fabrics are suitable for sublimation. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not you can sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts and provide some tips and pros to help you make an informed decision.
What is Sublimation?
Sublimation is a printing process that involves transferring dye onto fabric using heat and pressure. The dye is first printed onto special transfer paper, and then the paper is placed onto the fabric and subjected to high heat and pressure. The heat causes the dye to turn into a gas, which then permeates the fabric and bonds with its fibers. The result is a vibrant, long-lasting design that won’t crack, peel or fade over time.
Can You Sublimate on Bella Canvas Shirts?
The short answer is yes, you can sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts. Bella Canvas shirts are made from a blend of polyester and cotton, which makes them ideal for sublimation. The polyester content allows the dye to bond with the fibers, while the cotton content provides a soft, comfortable feel.
What are the Pros of Sublimating on Bella Canvas Shirts?
There are several pros to sublimating on Bella Canvas shirts:
- The polyester/cotton blend is ideal for sublimation
- The resulting designs are vibrant, long-lasting, and won’t crack or fade over time
- Bella Canvas shirts are known for their high-quality, soft feel
- You can create custom designs for your customers that are unique and eye-catching
What are Some Tips for Sublimating on Bella Canvas Shirts?
Here are some tips to help you get the best results when sublimating on Bella Canvas shirts:
- Make sure your designs are high-resolution and sharp
- Use a heat press that can reach at least 380 degrees Fahrenheit
- Preheat your shirt for 10-15 seconds before applying the transfer
- Use a Teflon sheet or parchment paper to protect your shirt and transfer from scorching
- Press your transfer for 60-90 seconds at medium pressure
- Allow your shirt to cool completely before peeling off the transfer paper
FAQ
Can you sublimate on any color Bella Canvas shirt?
No, sublimation works best on light-colored shirts. Darker colors may affect the vibrancy of the design.
Can you sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts with a lot of cotton content?
No, sublimation works best on fabrics with a high polyester content. Bella Canvas shirts with more than 50% cotton content may not yield optimal results.
Can you sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts with ribbed collars and cuffs?
Yes, you can sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts with ribbed collars and cuffs. The key is to make sure the transfer paper is in full contact with the fabric, which may require some extra pressure or a specialized heat press.
Can you sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts with zippers or buttons?
No, it’s best to avoid sublimating on shirts with zippers or buttons, as the heat press can damage these components or cause the dye to bleed.
Can you sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts for athletic wear?
Yes, Bella Canvas shirts are a popular choice for athletic wear due to their moisture-wicking properties and soft feel. Sublimation can be a great way to create custom designs for sports teams, gyms, or fitness studios.
Can you sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts for kids?
Yes, Bella Canvas offers a variety of youth sizes and styles that are suitable for sublimation. Just make sure to follow the same guidelines for temperature, pressure, and transfer time.
How do you care for sublimated Bella Canvas shirts?
To ensure the longevity of your sublimated designs, wash your Bella Canvas shirts in cold water and avoid using bleach or fabric softeners. Hang dry or tumble dry on low heat.
Can you sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts with multiple colors?
Yes, you can sublimate designs with multiple colors on Bella Canvas shirts. Just make sure to use a printer and transfer paper that can produce accurate colors and gradients.
Can you sublimate on Bella Canvas shirts with metallic or glitter designs?
No, sublimation is not suitable for metallic or glitter designs. These types of designs are best achieved through other printing methods.
Summary
If you’re looking to create custom apparel using sublimation, Bella Canvas shirts are a great choice. With their polyester/cotton blend, soft feel, and vibrant colors, they’re ideal for creating eye-catching designs that will last for years. Just follow our tips and best practices to ensure the best results, and enjoy the endless possibilities of sublimation on Bella Canvas shirts.
