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Learn how to sublimate Unisub Key Chains. A perfect addition to a back pack, lunch box, or key set.
Key Chains are available in aluminum, FRP, and wood substrates. Instructions are similar for each substrate, but be sure to follow the ones that apply to the product you are using! If you are searching for key chain templates, graphics or other assets click here.
How to determine what substrate your product is:
FRP: your product has a white edge
Aluminum: your product has a silver edge
Natural Wood: your product has a wood finish
What You Need
- Blank Unisub key chain and key ring
- Transfer(s) from your sublimation printer
- Heat Tape
- Scissors
- Clean, lint free cloth
- Heat resistant gloves
- Protective paper (Blow Out Paper)
- Heat press set to 385°F / 195°C
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 Key Chain
Remove any film that may be on the surface of the key chain. Clean off the key chain with a cleaning cloth, all-purpose cleaner, or a can of compressed air.
Step 3. Pair the Transfer with the Key Chain
Note: For FRP and natural wood key chains, press one side at a time. If you have an aluminum key chain, you have the option of pressing both sides at once or you can press one side at a time.
Instructions for pressing one side at a time are as follows: Lay the transfer down on a flat surface with the printed image facing up. Place one side of your key chain on top of the transfer and line it up. Take two pieces of heat tape and secure the key chain to the transfer. Next follow instructions 4 – 9.
Instructions for pressing both sides at once are as follows: Using scissors cut most of the excess white paper off from around the design. Lay the transfers down on a flat surface with the printed images facing up. Pair the key chain 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 key chain and transfer on top of the other transfer. You can raise the corners of the top transfer to make sure that your ornament is covered by both transfers. Using two or three pieces of heat tape, tape the two transfers together to create a pouch for the key chain. Try to avoid putting heat tape on the surface of the key chain as it may cause discoloration during sublimation. Next follow instructions 4 and 5.
Step 4. Let’s sublimate!
Place the transfer and key chain into the heat press with the transfer on top. Lay another piece of protective paper on top of the key chain. Confirm that the heat press is at the correct temperature. Pressing times are below.
Aluminum Key Chain: 40 – 50 seconds 1 side at a time, 50 – 60 seconds both sides at once
FRP Bag Tag: 60 – 70 seconds 1 side at a time
Natural Wood Bag Tag: 40 – 50 seconds 1 side at a time
Step 5. Remove the Key Chain from the Heat Press
Once the timer is done use heat-protective gloves to remove the bag tag from the press. Let cool.
Step 6. Press the Other Side of the Key Chain
Allow your key chain to cool. Lay the second transfer on a flat surface with the printed image facing up. Line up the transfer and the key chain and using two pieces of heat tape, tape the two together. Be careful to put as little tape on the key chain surface as possible when pressing the second side, heat tape can sometimes lighten the image and leave depressions in the coating.
Step 7. Let’s sublimate!
Place the transfer and key chain into the heat press with the transfer on top. Lay another piece of protective paper on top of the key chain. Confirm that the heat press is at the correct temperature.
Step 8. Remove the Key Chain from the Heat Press
Once the timer is done use heat-protective gloves to remove the bag tag from the press. Let cool.
Step 9. Add the Tab and Ring to the Key Chain
Take the plastic tab and fit the larger end inside the hole of the keychain. Place the metal ring against the plastic tab then fold the tab over so that the ring is inside. Press the end of the plastic tab together to secure it in place.
Enjoy your new key chain!
