How I sublimated a can cooler Step-by-step tutorial
Short, sweet, and exactly what I did: I used a Loklik design that says “Save your candy, I’ll take the boo’s.” I used can coolers from Hobby Lobby, printed on HTVronts sublimation paper, pre-pressed the cooler for 10 seconds on my HTVRonts Heat Press 2, then sublimated at 390°F for 40 seconds — both sides. I loved how it turned out and I had no hiccups.
Materials & tools
Can cooler (Hobby Lobby)
Design file (Loklik) — sized to fit your cooler
HTVronts sublimation paper (printed with my Brothers sublimation printer)
HTVRonts Heat Press 2
Heat-resistant tape or sublimation tape
butcher/parchment paper
Lint roller or clean cloth
Scissors
Heat-resistant gloves (for safety)
Flat, heat-resistant work surface
Preparation
Design and print: Create or size your Loklik design to fit the can cooler. Print the design on HTVronts sublimation paper using your sublimation printer. Mirror the design if your workflow or printer requires it.
Trim: Cut the printed transfer close to the design to reduce extra ink transfer and improve alignment.
Clean the cooler: Wipe the can cooler with a lint roller or clean cloth to remove dust, lint, or oils. Clean surface = crisper transfer.
Pre-press: Place the can cooler on the press and pre-press for 10 seconds to remove moisture and flatten seams. (I used my HTVRonts Heat Press 2 for this pre-press.)
Sublimation, pressing exactly what I did.
1.Position to transfer lay the printed transfer on the can cooler face down, a line exactly where I wanted to design, and I secured it with the heat resistant tape so it didn’t move.
2. I protected it by placing an parchment paper between my press and the transfer to protect the press and give an even heat distribution.
3. Press the first sign.So I set my press at 390°F and press it for 40 seconds.I use my heat press to use heavy even pressure.
My final thoughts are pressed at 390° for 40 seconds on both sides & honestly I love how we came out.
No hiccups
great for a Halloween party