Fix Dull Sublimation Prints

Why Are My Sublimation Prints Dull? 10 Fixes That Actually Work

Let’s be honest. Dull sublimation sucks.

You buy the printer. You stack up on blanks. You go down the YouTube rabbit hole. Then you press your first design and… it looks like you used a toaster.

We’ve all been there. The good news is, it’s not your fault. And no, you don’t need a $3,000 printer or some secret hack. You just need the right process and good blanks. That’s why we exist.

Here are 10 real reasons your sublimation prints look faded and how to fix them.

1. Prints Always Look Dull on Paper

Don’t freak out when your print looks pale coming off the printer. Sublimation ink only comes alive with heat and pressure. The magic happens in the press.

2. Bad Blanks = Bad Results

Sublimation only works on polyester or sublimation-coated blanks. Cotton shirts, cheap mugs, or dollar-store tumblers will never hold color. That’s why at Pressing Images, we only stock blanks that actually take ink.

3. Printer Settings Matter

Using “draft mode” or “fast print” kills your color. Here’s what to do:

• Set your printer to Best Quality

• Always mirror your design

• Install the right ICC profile

4. Ink Flow Issues

If you just refilled your ink, your first few prints may look washed out. Run a nozzle check or press a couple of test sheets to get the ink flowing.

5. Ghosting Looks Like Double Vision

When your transfer paper shifts in the press, you’ll see a shadow effect. Use heat-resistant tape to keep your design locked in place.

6. Moisture is the Silent Killer

Moisture in your shirt, mug, or tumbler will cause faded spots. Do a quick pre-press to remove all moisture before transferring.

7. Low-Res Designs Ruin Prints

Blurry art will always look bad, no matter how great your press is. Start with high-resolution files sized properly for your blank.

8. Stray Ink Transfers Too

Smudges on your fingers or ink on the edge of your paper will press right onto your blank. Trim the paper or cover those spots with tape before pressing.

9. Banding Means Clogged Nozzles

Lines running through your design? That’s banding. Do a nozzle check and clean your print head if needed. Don’t go overboard though - too much cleaning wastes ink.

10. Heat Press Settings Are Off

This is the big one. Too hot and your colors shift or scorch. Too cool and they look faded. Every blank has a sweet spot for time, temperature, and pressure. Start with your supplier’s guide, then test until you find what works best for your setup.

The Quick Fix Plan

• Use blanks made for sublimation

• Set up your printer with the right settings and ICC profile

• Nail your press settings for time, temperature, and pressure

Do those three things and your prints will finally pop.

Stop Wasting Blanks and Start Pressing Like a Pro

If you’re tired of throwing money at dull results, stop guessing. Use tested blanks and supplies that give you consistent, vibrant color.

Shop sublimation blanks, UV DTF transfers, and DTF transfers now at PressingImages.com

Your next press doesn’t have to be a disappointment.