Jiffy Transfers Sublimation FAQs
Image Guidelines
- Original image should be minimum 300 dpi and in PNG, SVG or JPEG format.
- Note: enlarging a 300dpi image (i.e. from 3" to 9") and exporting it may cause pixelation and quality issues.
- Color shifts can occur when converting to CMYK for Sublimation printing.
- Do not mirror your image.
- We recommend a minimum of 2pt or 4px for small fonts or thin lines to ensure the ink is applied properly.
- Avoid neon glow, gradients, and soft edges. DTF printers can have issues printing these designs accurately.
- We print what we receive. Spelling, placement, sizing, and image quality will not be fixed by our team.
What are Sublimation Transfers?
Sublimation transfers use heat to transfer dye onto a variety of polyester or polymer-coated surfaces. In this process, specialized inks are transformed into a gas under heat and pressure, bonding with the material. The design does not sit on top of the product (like screenprinting, HTV, and even DTF), but rather fuses to it.
This results in vibrant, durable, and high-resolution prints on polyester or blended apparel, as well as polymer- or polyester-coated promotional products like drinkware. Sublimation transfers offer a soft, barely noticeable finish, excellent color retention, and are known for their ability to reproduce intricate details. These transfers are applied using a heat-press, making it a great option for creating professional-quality products at home.
How is Sublimation different from DTF and UV DTF?
When it comes to apparel, Sublimation is only suitable for garments that are either 100% polyester or a poly-rich blend, whereas DTF can be applied to any material. Sublimation is also better used on bright garments, while DTF can be applied to any color garment without impacting the vibrancy of the design.
For hardgoods, Sublimation is only suitable for white or bright polymer-coated substrates (only use hardgoods that come pre-treated for sublimation!). UV DTF can be applied to anything you can stick it to.
However, there are some reasons you may choose Sublimation over DTF or UV DTF:
- Sublimation transfers dye your product directly and have no hand-feel - they are barely noticeable, with a soft and smooth finish.
- Since sublimation transfers fuse to the product, they offer longevity and resistance to washing. They will never peel off or crack, and are resistant to fading.
- Sublimation transfers do not rely on an adhesive, so you can accomplish incredibly fine details, very thin lines and text, and complex, durable patterns that will never release from your product.
- While sublimation transfers can be applied to fewer products (since they require a bright substrate and polyester content), you can use the same transfer for both apparel and hardgoods, which may simplify your ordering process and inventory management.
What kind of products should I use with Sublimation transfers?
Since sublimation ink can only bind to polyester, these transfers require polyester apparel or polymer/polyester coated hardgoods in order to adhere properly.
Bright or light colored products are also required for vibrancy, as there is no white base layer for sublimation transfers, and the ink is semi-translucent. We recommend white, 100% polyester apparel for best results, although brighter colors will also work well. For hardgoods, the same rule applies - try to use brighter colors to ensure your design really pops. Don’t try to apply sublimation transfers onto a black shirt or mug!
Using polyester-heavy blends, like 65% polyester / 35% cotton, can achieve a vintage look - because only the polyester will be dyed, the result is a faded, worn look for your design.
How do I ensure optimal quality for my designs when uploading them?
To achieve the highest quality printing results, your design files are required to have a minimum of 300dpi. We accommodate various file types, including PNG and SVG (vector). Please ensure your design is clear and of high resolution to achieve the best results.
How can I achieve 300 DPI?
Achieving 300 DPI (dots per inch) ensures high-quality prints. To achieve 300 DPI with your image, multiply the print size (width and height in inches) by 300 to find the right pixel dimensions.
Are there discounts for bulk orders?
Absolutely! Just like our shirts, our tiered pricing ensures that the more transfers you order, the more you save, all while ensuring top-notch quality.
Can I order both DTF transfers and blank shirts together?
Yes. Jiffy Transfers facilitates a seamless shopping experience for crafters. You can either order the Submilation DTF transfers separately or add them to your blank shirt or regular DTF order at checkout. Blanks and transfers will be processed and shipped separately, though we strive to align delivery times of blanks and transfers whenever possible.
What’s the turnaround time for my DTF print orders?
Speed is one of our strengths. Typically, Sublimation DTF orders are produced and shipped within a business day, and similar to blanks, we utilize the fastest ground shipping methods available.
What are the shipping procedures, and are there promotional offers?
Similar to blanks, Sublimation DTF orders that exceed $59 will enjoy free shipping. This can also be combined with regular DTF to hit the $59 required for free shipping!
In case of questions or concerns, how can I get assistance?
Our Customer Support Team is here to help. Whether you have questions, seek guidance, or encounter challenges, we're here to help with the same support JiffyShirts’ customers have come to expect.
What's Jiffy Transfers's stance on trademarked designs?
Jiffy Transfers does not print trademarked designs without rights holder permission. Customers must ensure their designs don't infringe on copyrights or trademarks. Unauthorized submissions can result in order cancellations.
Why opt for Jiffy Transfers over competitors for DTF needs?
We have designed our service to provide customers with an industry-first, nationwide network of high-quality Sublimation DTF printers to fully unlock Sublimation DTF as a reliable, accessible, and cost-competitive imprinting method for our customers.
Do I need to cut the prints myself OR do they come pre-cut?
Currently, our Sublimation DTF transfers arrive as intact sheets, requiring manual cutting.
How should I apply the DTF transfers I get from Jiffy Transfers?
No special equipment is required to apply Sublimation DTF transfers to your product!
Follow these instructions for best results:
- Clean the product you are applying the transfer to using an alcohol wipe or gentle dish soap, then let dry completely.
- Peel the transfer off of the white backing, ensuring all pieces lift off evenly. Be careful not to touch the adhesive.
- Position the transfer and then slowly stick it onto the product (remember these transfers are meant to be permanent, so apply carefully).
- Once the transfer is applied, remove any bubbles or wrinkles with firm pressure using your fingers or a credit card edge, starting from the middle, and smoothing outwards.
- After you have smoothed the transfer out, apply pressure using your fingers to ensure it has adhered evenly.
- Finally, slowly peel the clear layer on the front of your design. Do this diagonally (from the top left corner to the bottom right corner, for example).
Note: If the transfer pulls up with the clear layer, push it back down and firmly press it back into place before trying to remove it again.
Care Instructions: While Sublimation DTF is incredibly durable, to ensure longevity we recommend avoiding dishwashers and microwaves whenever possible. Handwashing will help maintain the quality and adherence of the transfer for years to come. Sublimation DTF will hold up well to wear and tear, but be aware that a hard drop or tough scratch may still cause damage to the transfer.
What is Jiffy Transfers's cancellation and refund policy?
Due to each Sublimation DTF print being a custom image, Jiffy Transfers does not allow for cancellations or refunds. If you receive a transfer that is damaged or encounter any issues with your order, please reach out to our support team.
As long as instructions are followed and the artwork you use is print-ready, we will always make sure you're happy with your transfers!
100-Day Satisfaction Guarantee:
We’ll reprint for free if there’s a defect with your order that includes the following:
- Image quality issues when using a 300 DPI image
- Adherence issues
- Damage caused by shipping
