Printing Process Help

Understanding Sublimation Printing

Sublimation printing allows us to create high-contrast black text, brilliant color graphics, logos, and detailed designs on many of our sublimatable products.

Important

Sublimation printers do not print white. Any white areas in your design will usually appear as the color of the material being printed.

1

What is sublimation?

In simple terms, sublimation printing uses heat to turn special ink into a gas, allowing it to bond with the surface of a sublimatable product.

We print the design onto special transfer paper, hold it tightly against the item, and place it into a heat press. The heat transfers the ink into the surface, creating durable color and sharp contrast.

2

Our sublimation capabilities

Many TrophyKits products can be sublimated, including most of the metal nameplates we produce.

We use high-end sublimation printers and inks for bright, durable results.

3

Text for sublimation printing

Enter text exactly as you want it printed. If you enter ALL CAPS, the finished product will be printed in ALL CAPS.

We will center your text unless you give different instructions. If you use a small amount of text, we will usually enlarge it to fit the space appropriately.

Many items use Arial Bold if no font is requested. You may request a specific font or describe a font style, such as script or sans-serif. If we do not have the requested font, we may ask you to upload the font file.

4

Images and logos

Many sublimation products can include images, artwork, or logos. Please mention any positioning requests in the special instructions.

Trademarked or copyrighted images cannot be used without permission from the owner.

5

Image requirements

Images should be high resolution. Images from websites or social media are often reduced in quality and may become grainy when enlarged.

Accepted image file types include jpg, jpeg, pdf, png, bmp, ai, eps, psd, tiff, ttf, and cdr.

We cannot accept images submitted or embedded inside a Word document.

6

Uploading files

Accepted upload types include text files such as .doc, .docx, .pdf, and .txt; image files such as .jpg, .jpeg, .png, .bmp, .ai, .eps, .psd, .tiff, and .cdr; and font files such as .ttf.

You may upload multiple files, but please keep all text information in one file when possible. If you have several different products, group them clearly in the file.

The upload link will not appear until the order is completed and paid. After payment, the upload link will appear on the receipt / thank-you page.

7

Proofs

Many sublimation products allow you to request a proof. If this is your first order for the item, we recommend requesting one.

A proof lets you review the layout, font, and positioning before production. Proofs can delay production because we must wait for your approval or change request.

For repeat orders using the same design, a proof is usually not needed. Let us know you want the same design as a previous order.

Sublimation transfer setup

Metal nameplates taped to transfer paper before pressing.

Sublimation metal nameplates taped to transfer paper

White plaque plates with full color

Sublimated white plaque plates with full color

Gold plaque plates with full color

Sublimated gold plaque plates with full color

Gold metal plates with full color logo

Sublimated gold metal plates with full color logo

Our Mission is simple:
To offer high quality Awards at the best possible price, while maintaining a superior level of customer service.