How to Sublimate MDF Coasters

If you’re looking to produce high quality personalised coasters with a professional finish, MDF sublimation blanks with cork backing are a fantastic option. They’re easy to work with, produce vibrant print results, and are ideal for both small business products and personalised gifts.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to sublimate MDF coasters step by step, including equipment, heat press settings, and practical tips to help you get consistent, high quality results.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following:

• MDF sublimation coaster blanks (round or square) - available to purchase here: https://www.dyesublimationstore.co.uk/search?q=mdf+coasters
• Sublimation printer & ink
• Sublimation paper
• Heat press
• Heat-resistant tape
• Protective paper or Teflon sheet
• Lint-free cloth
• Optional: silicone mat for even pressure

We recommend using high quality MDF coasters with a glossy sublimation coating and cork backing, as these produce the best colour vibrancy and durability.

About MDF Sublimation Coasters

Our MDF coasters are:

• Glossy white coated for vibrant prints
• Made from durable medium-density fibreboard (MDF)
• Backed with cork for grip and surface protection
• Ideal for personalised gifts and custom merchandise

Available in:

• Round MDF coasters
• Square MDF coasters

They’re perfect for:

• Personalised photo gifts
• Wedding favours
• Small business branding
• Retail product ranges

Step 1: Create Your Design

• Set your artwork to coaster size (approx. 9.6cm x 9.6cm for square or 9cm diameter for round)
• Use 300 DPI resolution for sharp results
• Mirror your design before printing

💡 Tip: Bold colours and high contrast work best on MDF for maximum vibrancy.

Step 2: Print Your Design

• Print onto sublimation paper using sublimation ink
• Allow ink to dry for a few minutes before handling

Step 3: Prepare the Coaster

• Ensure the coaster is clean and dust-free
• If needed, wipe with a lint-free cloth
• Let the coaster reach room temperature before pressing for best results

Step 4: Position Your Design

• Place your printed design face-down onto the coaster
• Secure firmly with heat-resistant tape
• Ensure the design is aligned correctly (especially important for square edges)

Step 5: Heat Press Settings

Recommended starting settings:

• Temperature: 160°C – 180°C
• Time: 100 – 120 seconds
• Pressure: Light to medium

💡 Tip: Every heat press varies slightly, so always test first.

Step 6: Press the Coaster

• Place protective paper on top and bottom
• Close the heat press and apply even pressure
• Do not move the coaster during pressing

For cork-backed MDF coasters, even pressure is key to avoiding uneven transfer.

Step 7: Remove & Cool

• Carefully remove using heat-resistant gloves
• Peel the paper immediately while warm
• Place on a flat surface to cool completely

💡 For best results, avoid stacking coasters while hot.

Step 8: Finished Product

Once cooled, your MDF coaster should have:

• Bright, vibrant colours
• Sharp image detail
• Smooth glossy finish
• Durable, professional appearance

Now it’s ready for use, gifting, or resale.

Pro Tips for Best Results

✔ Always use even pressure across the full surface
✔ Avoid moisture (MDF is sensitive before pressing)
✔ Don’t overpress — it can dull colours
✔ Use a silicone mat for consistent results if needed
✔ Let coasters cool flat to prevent warping

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not mirroring your design
→ Causes reversed prints

2. Uneven pressure
→ Leads to faded or patchy areas

3. Moving the coaster during pressing
→ Causes ghosting

4. Overheating
→ Can darken or blur colours

Why MDF Coasters Are Perfect for Sublimation

MDF sublimation coasters are:

• Affordable
• Easy to press
• Highly customisable
• Ideal for small businesses and craft sellers

The cork backing also adds a premium feel and protects surfaces, making them highly desirable for gifting and retail.

Final Thoughts

Sublimating MDF coasters is a simple, low-cost way to create high-margin personalised products. Once you’ve dialled in your settings, you can easily scale production for Etsy, Shopify, markets, or corporate gifting.