Sublimation Ornaments

How to Make Sublimation Ornaments?

Looking for a heartfelt and personalized holiday gift idea? Sublimation ornaments are the perfect solution! They’re fun to make, look stunning on any Christmas tree, and are ideal for small businesses, family keepsakes, or craft fairs. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make sublimation ornaments at home using a few essential tools.

What is Sublimation?

Sublimation is a process where heat and pressure are used to transfer dye onto specially coated materials like metal, MDF, or ceramic. The result is a vibrant, long-lasting image that becomes part of the surface — not just printed on top.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Sublimation blank ornaments (MDF, aluminum, or ceramic)

• Sublimation printer (such as Epson EcoTank with sublimation ink)

• Sublimation paper

• Heat press (or EasyPress)

• Heat-resistant tape

• Lint roller (for prepping surfaces)

• Protective sheets (parchment paper or butcher paper)

• Holiday-themed designs (PNG or JPEG)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Choose and Prepare Your Design

Select a high-resolution holiday-themed image or personalized name graphic. Resize the image to fit your ornament shape in software like Canva, Photoshop, or Silhouette Studio.

2. Print Your Design

Use a sublimation printer with sublimation ink and mirror the image before printing it onto sublimation paper.

3. Prep the Ornament Surface

Use a lint roller to remove any dust or debris. This ensures a clean transfer.

4. Align and Tape the Design

Place the printed design face-down on the ornament and secure it with heat-resistant tape.

5. Press It

Follow the recommended time and temperature settings:

• MDF/Aluminum: 385°F / 195°C for 60 seconds

• Ceramic: 400°F / 204°C for 180 seconds
  Use medium pressure and protect your heat press with parchment paper above and below.

6. Cool and Reveal

Let the ornament cool for a few seconds before removing the sublimation paper. You’ll be amazed by the vibrant result!

Bonus Tips:

• Add a ribbon or twine to hang the ornament.

• Package in a small box or holiday-themed pouch for gifting.

• Consider making a matching ornament set for families or couples.