Heating a mug in a press before applying sub paper

[MikeJB]

I've seen a few posts where some folks warm the base of their mugs in a press for about 10-15 seconds before applying the sublimation paper and cooking them proper. This led me to wonder exactly at what temperature can a standard mug be heated to (without the sub paper attached) before it makes the mug unusable, or is the surface of the mug only activated when the sublimation paper is used?

[UK Printed Mugs]

Heating the base is important but not really the whole mug. The base is thicker and so a little heat before pressing helps to maintain a consistent temperature across the mug. It is the temperature that activates the "ink" (not really an ink) and turns it into a gas. We wouldn't heat a mug in a press though but recommend a heat plate on a low setting. We use this https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00 ... UTF8&psc=1

[MikeJB]

Thank you.

[webtrekker]

Hi Mike. I've had a lot of trouble in the past with faded bottom edges to my designs. The best solutions I have found so far are -

1. Alter my designs to fit a smaller area of the mug, well away from the bottom, or

2. Use a halogen oven and silicone wraps for any designs needing full coverage. This is now my preferred method and I get minimal rejects.

[MikeJB]

Yes, I knew about warming the base up. I tend use the technique shown below at 2:23 and it has helped me get full coverage to the base without any fading. I was just curious as to whether the entire mug could be safely pre-warmed if the mugs were stored in an especially cold environment.

https://youtu.be/as0eExWknHs?t=143

[webtrekker]

To warm an entire mug I use my second mug press, attach the wrap to the mug and heat to 110° C for 3 to 4 minutes. This is enough to pre-heat the mug without starting the sublimation process. I then transfer the mug to my other press which is set at 180° C for 180 secs to complete the process. Obviously, not an option if you only have one mug press.

It beats me how he managed to get a good print in that video! What a faff! Taking as much time to remove a wrap usually results in ghosting or blurring of the image for me. Also, look how far his print is away from the handle!

[robhil]

Would he get an even print putting heat tape over the print

[webtrekker]

I've not really found any problem with part of the heat tape over the image. I've cut a teflon sheet too to wrap over the mug while in the press.

[MikeJB]

Yes, the guy was taking his sweet time getting the tape off! I usually fold over my tape at one end to make it easier to remove after the cook.

[smiley_mug]

the best tip i've read for pre heating the mug is to stand it on an upside down mug that has just come out, it is win win as it is also helping to cool the mug that has just come out!