Sublimation is a wonderful process for creating memorials because there are so many substrates available, and there is something for every budget.
Memory quilts are a popular way to memorialize loved ones, and you can use your sublimation techniques to create this nine-panel afghan as an homage that lets the end-user wrap in the warmth of those memories.
Supplies needed for the quilt
- Sublimatable substrate (blanket)
- Sublimation transfer
- Scratch paper
- Repositionable spray
Steps to sublimate the quilt
Step 1: Download a template for the nine-panel blanket. For best results, the printer and press should accommodate a size larger than 9″ X16″ (the panel size on the blanket). Adjust, so the artwork is a half-inch larger vertically and horizontally than the panel size. Cut down your transfer to 9.5″ X 16.5″ and sublimate one panel at a time.
Step 2: Adhere the transfer to the substrate with repositionable spray adhesive. Position the transfer over the white panel box. Have the transfer overhang onto the black.
Step 3: Layer the press from bottom to top as follows: scratch paper, substrate, transfer, scratch paper. Use these press settings:
- Temperature: 400 F
- Dwell time: 1:00 to 1:15
- Pressure: Medium-heavy
Step 4: Position a piece of larger scratch paper underneath the substrate and make sure all press areas are clean or covered. Move the blanket to center a new blank panel, and repeat steps until complete.
Step 5: Once a panel is done, try to keep that part away from the heat press. Otherwise, it will lighten once you hit it with the heat press again. Your final product is a warm, beautiful, heirloom-quality memorial that can be handed down for generations.
