How to Sublimate ID Tags

Substrate: Aluminum

Products: 5588, 5605, 5916

Learn how to sublimate Unisub ID Tags!

Colorful, customizable ID tags are perfect for displaying any monogram, insignia, logo, photo, or design. Our ID tags are made out of aluminum and are available both one-sided and two-sided. If you are searching for templates, graphics, or other assets click here

What You Need

instructions

Step 1. Get Your Heat Press Ready

Turn on your heat press. We recommend pressing all of our products at 385°F / 195°C. Be sure to lay a piece of protective paper on the bottom of the press.

Step 2. Prep Your ID Tag

Clean off the ID tag surface with a cleaning cloth, all-purpose cleaner, or a can of compressed air.

Step 3A. Pair the Transfer with the ID Tag - 1 side at a time

Lay the transfer down on a flat surface with the printed image facing up. Place the ID tag on the transfer. Take two pieces of heat tape and secure the tag to the transfer. Be careful to put as little tape on the ID tag surface as possible—when pressing the second side, heat tape can sometimes lighten the image and leave depressions in the coating. If your product is two-sided you have the option of pressing one side at a time, or both sides at once. If pressing one side at a time repeat steps 3A – 5.

Step 3B. Pair the Transfer with the ID Tag - 2 sides at once

Using scissors, cut the excess white paper from around one of the transfers. Lay the transfers down on a flat surface with the printed images facing up. Pair the ID tag with one of the transfers. Take it into your hand and using your finger create a crease of the product on the transfer. Place the ID tag and transfer on top of the other transfer. You can raise the corners of the top transfer to make sure that your ID tag is covered by both transfers. Using two pieces of heat tape, tape the two transfers together to create a pouch. Try to avoid putting heat tape on the surface of the ID tag as it may cause discoloration during sublimation.

Step 4. Let’s sublimate!

Place the transfer and ID tag into the heat press with the transfer on top. If pressing two-sided it does not matter which way you place the product in the heat press. Lay another piece of protective paper on top of the ID tag. Confirm that the heat press is at the correct temperature. Pressing times are below.

Aluminum ID Tag 1 sided: 35 – 45 seconds
Aluminum ID Tag 2 sided: 35 – 40 seconds, pressing one side at a time
Aluminum ID Tag 2 sided: 40 – 50 seconds, pressing both sides at once

Step 5. Remove ID Tag from Heat Press

Once the timer is done use heat-protective gloves to remove the ornament from the press. Let cool.

Enjoy Your New ID Tag

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