Learn How to Sublimate on Wood with Polycrylic and the Right Materials

On By colormoimandalasIn DIY

Sublimation on wood is a fun way to create cool designs and art.

Follow Me In Happiness Quote – 4x 4 inch sublimated coaster – Color Moi Mandalas

If you’re looking to learn how to sublimate on wood with Polycrylic, there are a few things you need to know.

Sublimation on wood: the basics

It is the process of turning a solid into a gas without going through a liquid phase. This can be done by heating the solid to a very high temperature. In woodworking, sublimation is often used to create designs on wood.

By heating the wood and then pressing it, the wood can be forced to take on the color of the design. The heat causes from a solid to a gas, and the gas then escapes from the wood.

In sublimation printing, a design is printed on a coated paper that is used with an inkjet printer that uses distinct ink just made for this process. The paper is then placed in the printer and the image is transferred to a piece of wood with a heat press. The wood is then finished with a clear coat to protect the image.

Sublimation on wood: tips and tricks

There are a few things you need to know before starting your own sublimation project on wood. If you want to learn how to sublimate on wood, it is important to have the correct materials and techniques.

  • First, you’ll need to select the right type of wood.

Not all types of wood are suitable for sublimation; soft woods like pine or cedar won’t work well because they won’t hold the image well.

  • Second, you’ll need to know the correct sublimation temperature.

The temperature of the material is important because it must be high enough to convert the ink into a gas, but not so high that it causes damage to the surface of your project. For best results, the temperature should be around 400 degrees.

Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, let’s start.

  • The first thing to do is measure and cut your wood to size.

I used a purchased blank piece approximately 4×4 inches.

  • The second thing, if you prefer to cut your own material, is you need to sand the wood.

 This step is extremely important because it will make your life easier in the long run!

  • You can coat your wood with white paint. Then add Polycrylic.

Let each layer dry in between.

  • Then sublimate your printed image placing the ink side down with a heat press. Easy Peasy!

Supplies I used

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