Creating Unique Sublimation Patches with Artesprix Iron-On Ink

Hi guys! I’m Debbie from Debbie J’s Crafting Corner. Today, I’m thrilled to share an exciting new project with you. We’re diving into the world of sublimation to create some adorable and unique sublimation patches using Artesprix Iron-On Ink. Let’s get crafty!

What is Artesprix Iron-on-Ink?

Artesprix Iron-on-Ink is specialty sublimation ink in craft form. Traditionally sublimation ink is found in a fancy (expensive) printer. However, Artesprix hit the crafting scene in 2018 giving Makers, like me, the ability to experience sublimation without high-end equipment. Sublimation is when ink transforms to a gas and then binds to a compatible blank once combined with heat and pressure. The big deal? Once the design is infused to the polyester coated blank or polyester fabric, it is lifetime permanent!

Supplies:

Step-by-Step Tutorial:

Step 1: Preparing the Blanks

Start by tracing around the outside of your circular blanks onto a piece of paper. This will be your guide for the design. Remember, the textured side is where you’ll be decorating, while the shiny side has adhesive for later application.

Step 2: Creating Masks and Background

Use Post-it tape to create masks for your design. Stamp your images onto the tape and cut them out using dies. This will help you create a layered look for your background.  Apply the masks to your template where you want the flowers to be.

For the background, we’re using Simon Hurley’s stamping foam and an embossing folder to create a textured stamp. Heat the foam with a heat gun and press it into the embossing folder to capture the texture.

Step 3: Stamping and Coloring

Apply ink to your textured stamp and press it onto your paper over the masked areas. This creates a beautiful background for your design. Next, remove the masks and stamp your floral images from the “Beautiful Bloom” set onto the unmasked areas using black sublimation ink.

Color your images using Artesprix markers. While these markers don’t blend like alcohol markers, they provide vibrant, solid colors perfect for sublimation.

Step 4: Assembling the Sublimation Sandwich

Tape your design to the textured side of the patch using Artesprix heat tape. Make sure everything is securely in place to avoid shifting during the heat transfer.

For the “Sublimation Sandwich” you need protective paper. I cut a piece and folded in half. Make sure that each half is larger than your blank and design. The protective paper is used to “protect” your heat press from the ink. The ink is transferred by heat. And, if you transfer some to your press, you MAY transfer some to your NEXT project. And in areas that you don’t want.

Make your sandwich like this:

1. Protective paper on the bottom (bottom bun)

2. Your blank with taped design (the blank is the burger, the design in the cheese)

3. And another layer of the protective paper on top. (top bun)

Step 5: Heat Pressing

Now it’s time to transfer! I placed my “sublimation sandwich” onto my Protective Project Mat. Always make sure that the paper with the design (The Cheese in our sandwich) is closest to the heat. I set the temperature and time on my Cricut Easy Press and let it heat up. Once it is hot enough, I “pressed” the design with my easy press.  Be careful not to slide the press because you COULD get ghosting. 

Pro Tip: Check the instructions for your sublimation blank. The Artesprix website gives transfer specifications of 400℉ for 60 seconds with medium pressure for the seconds for the Patch Blank.

Step 6: The Peek Test

Before removing all the tape, peel back a small section of your design to ensure a successful transfer. If everything looks good, remove the tape and reveal your beautiful new patch.

Step 7: Admiring the Finished Product

Once you confirmed your transfer was successful, remove your design for the big reveal!  Let your patches cool completely for about an hour. Once cooled, they’re ready to be adhered to your favorite fabric items, adding a unique and personal touch.

Thank you for joining me today as we explored the fun of sublimation with Artesprix Iron-On Ink.

If you do not have any in your Maker’s toolbox yet, head on over to the Artesprix Shop, right now! They have a “Starter Kit” that I highly recommend. (It even comes with several blanks, including some drawstring bags similar to this one, to get you started!)

I would love to see what you create using your craft supplies and Artesprix Iron-On Ink!

Share your Artesprix projects with us by using #debbiejscraftingcorner, #Artesprix and #IrononInk or post it to the Artesprix Facebook Group.

Because, if I can make it, You Can too!

~Big Hugs!

Debbie J