How to Sublimate Stainless Steel Tumblers

Sublimating stainless steel tumblers is a great way to create professional, personalised drinkware for gifts, branding, or resale. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to sublimate a 600ml stainless steel tumbler for vibrant, long-lasting results.

This method works perfectly with the 600ml Stainless Steel Sublimation Tumbler from Dye Sublimation Store, designed specifically for high-quality print transfer and everyday durability.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following:

• 600ml sublimation-coated stainless steel tumbler (available to purchase here: https://www.dyesublimationstore.co.uk/collections/sublimation-bottles-flasks-tumblers/products/600ml-stainless-tumbler
• Sublimation printer and ink
• Sublimation paper
• Heat-resistant tape
• Shrink wrap sleeve or silicone wrap (for oven method)
• Tumbler heat press or convection oven
• Protective gloves
• Lint roller or cloth
  

Sublimating 600ml stainless steel tumblers is straightforward once you master the wrapping and pressing process. With the right temperature, pressure, and preparation, you’ll consistently achieve professional-quality results suitable for both personal projects and commercial sales.

Step 1: Create Your Design

Start by designing your artwork in software such as Canva, Photoshop, or Illustrator.

• Measure your tumbler (approx. 20cm height, 7cm diameter)
• Leave a small gap at the top and bottom to avoid printing over curved edges
• Mirror your design before printing
• Ensure full-wrap designs align correctly at the edges

💡 Tip: Keep important text centred to avoid distortion.

Step 2: Print the Design

• Print your mirrored design onto sublimation paper
• Use high-quality sublimation ink for best colour output
• Let the print dry for a few minutes before handling

Step 3: Prepare the Tumbler

• Remove any dust or fingerprints using a lint roller or cloth
• Wrap your printed design tightly around the tumbler
• Secure it firmly with heat-resistant tape
• Ensure there are no gaps or air pockets between paper and surface

A tight wrap is essential for sharp, clean transfers.

Step 4: Choose Your Heating Method

You can sublimate this tumbler using either a heat press or convection oven.

Heat Press Method

• Temperature: 185°C
• Time: 185 seconds
• Pressure: Medium
• Rotate if needed for even coverage

Oven Method

• Temperature: 180°C
• Time: 5–6 minutes
• Use shrink wrap or silicone wrap
• Rotate halfway if your oven has uneven heat

Step 5: Remove the Transfer

Once heating is complete:

• Carefully remove the tumbler using heat-resistant gloves
• Peel the paper away while still warm
• Let the tumbler cool naturally on a flat surface

You should see a vibrant, fully transferred design.

Step 6: Final Finish

• Check for any ghosting or faded areas
• Allow the tumbler to fully cool before handling
• Your 600ml stainless steel tumbler is now ready to use or sell