Ultimate Chromaluxe Pressing Guide: Achieve Flawless Sublimation Prints Every Time

1. Preparation

• Clean the Chromaluxe Panel: Start by wiping the surface of the Chromaluxe panel with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove any dust or debris. This ensures a flawless transfer of your image.
• Preheat the Heat Press: Set your heat press to the recommended temperature for Chromaluxe panels, which is typically around 400°F (204°C). Allow the press to reach the desired temperature to ensure consistent heat distribution.

2. Arranging the Print

• Hover Transfer Under Open Heat Press: Before arranging, hover the transfer under an open heat press for 10 seconds to dry any excess moisture. This helps prevent steam issues during the pressing process.
• Position the Transfer Paper: Lay the printed side of your sublimation paper onto the Chromaluxe panel. Make sure it’s properly aligned and covers the entire area of the panel.
• Tape the Transfer: Tape the transfer to the face of the substrate with short tape strips running parallel to the edge of the substrate. This keeps the transfer in place but allows for easy removal post-pressing.
• Preparation for Pressing: Lay the substrate face up, transfer on top, on a piece of protective paper on the bottom table of the press.
• Cover with Poly-Poplin Fabric: Cover with one layer of poly-poplin fabric (e.g., Endura®) to distribute pressure and reduce stress on the coating. This step is crucial for larger prints (11x17 inches or more).
• Press the Setup: Proceed to press for the prescribed time, temperature, and pressure settings.

3. Pressing Process

• Time and Temperature Settings: Press the panel at 400°F (204°C) for about 90-120 seconds, depending on the size and thickness of the Chromaluxe panel. The exact time can vary, so it's important to refer to specific product guidelines.
• Apply Pressure: Close the heat press and apply medium to high pressure to ensure the transfer paper is in full contact with the panel, which is crucial for an even and vivid transfer.
• Completion: Once the time is up, carefully lift the heat press and remove the sublimation paper immediately to prevent ghosting or blurring of the image.

4. After Press Care

• Cooling: Allow the Chromaluxe panel to cool on a clean, flat surface to prevent any warping or damage. Cooling should be done face up to avoid any contact that might smear the still-sensitive ink.
• Handling: Once cooled, the Chromaluxe panels are ready to be handled. They can be framed, mounted, or prepared for display as desired.

• Color Shifts: If you notice unusual color shifts, ensure your sublimation ink is stored properly and check that your heat press is reaching the correct temperature uniformly.
• Ghosting: Ghosting can occur if the transfer paper shifts during the pressing process. Use proper taping methods and ensure not to move the substrate until it has fully cooled.
• Uneven Pressing: For uneven pressing, check if the pressure applied by the heat press is consistent across the substrate. Adjust the pressure settings if necessary and consider using a silicone pad for better heat distribution.

• Enhancing Color Vibrancy: Optimize your color output by calibrating your sublimation printer regularly and choosing high-quality sublimation inks specifically designed for Chromaluxe materials.
• Maximizing Longevity of Prints: To ensure your Chromaluxe prints last as long as possible, use UV-resistant sublimation inks and display the prints in areas away from direct sunlight.

Note: The above times are guidelines and may need adjustment based on your specific heat press model and environmental factors.