How to Sublimate on Wood?

Sublimation on apparel is common. But sublimation on wood? Have you ever seen a project like that? Is it even possible?

Absolutely! Many crafters are already doing it to create stunning customized wooden pieces. Think of home décor signs, plaques, coasters, earrings, festive ornaments – plenty of crafting options. Want to give it a shot?

In this guide, we’ll take you through the wood sublimation printing process step by step—covering every tool and supply you need to get started. 

Can You Sublimate on Any Wood?

There’s a common myth that sublimation can’t be done on bare wood. Well, that’s not entirely true—you can sublimate on bare wood, but the results often fall short. The design tends to fade, and working with wet wood only makes things worse. So, it’s possible, but not recommended.

The best option? Go for laminated wood.

If you’re still set on using bare wood, you’ll need some extra steps and materials. Here are a few options:

• Lamination pouches: Heat-press the pouches onto the wood and trim off the excess to create a smooth surface for sublimation.
• Clear sublimation HTV: Similar to lamination pouches, this gives you a clean, even surface. The application method is also similar.
• Polycrylic coating: Apply this clear water-based coating to the wood and let it dry for a solid base.
• Matte sublimation spray: Spray it on and let it cure before sublimating.

Equipment and Supplies for Sublimation on Wood

Now that you’re clear on the process and its compatibility with wood, gather these supplies to move forward:

Sublimation Printer

Sublimation printing requires a sublimation printer that can handle its specialized ink. The regular inkjet printer won’t work here. For those looking to buy a new one, explore Epson and Sawgrass sublimation printers. 

Sublimation Ink

Just like the printer, you’ll need dedicated sublimation ink. This ink is specially formulated to turn into gas when heated and bond with the surface. Regular ink won’t behave that way.

Sublimation Paper

This is a coated paper that can hold sublimation ink temporarily and then release to the wood when heated. It ensures that your design transfers cleanly and vibrantly. An xTool-selected sublimation paper is available in our material store. You can try it out for best results.

Sublimation Wood Blank

As mentioned earlier, sublimation works best on coated wood. That saves a lot of effort doing the base coat. So, if possible, use wood that is pre-coated for sublimation. Test out xTool’s sublimation plywood – it’s perfect for small craft and décor projects.

Heat Press

The heat press is the most essential tool in this process. When using bare wood, you’ll need it twice—once to laminate the wood, and again for the sublimation. Normally, you’d need to consider the wood’s thickness when using a heat press.

However, with the xTool Heat Press, that’s no longer an issue. It can be used standalone without a stand, making it possible to press designs onto wood of any thickness. Although it offers a clamping setup like traditional presses, it’s lightweight and portable compared to the bulkier models on the market.

XTOOL HEAT PRESS

Heat Press for Sublimation, HTV, and DTF Transfers

Flexible heat press modes - portable or hands-free for most transfer needs.

Learn More

The controls are designed for user convenience. A wireless control device lets you adjust the heat and time from a distance, with settings up to 600 seconds and 400°F.

For added safety, the heat press is flame-retardant and has a strong, insulated base that protects the workspace. Plus, it automatically shuts off if left unattended, so you don’t have to worry about accidents.

Heat Resistant Tape

To prevent design shifting during the heat transfer process, get a heat-resistant tape. It keeps the transfer paper in place to reduce the chances of ghosting.

Protective Sheet

You do need a protective cover to place over sublimation paper. Use either silicone paper or uncoated butcher paper. Parchment paper or Teflon sheets can be used for vinyl heat transfers but they’re not good for sublimation transfer.

Additional Supplies (for Bare/Uncoated Wood)

If starting with a piece of plain wood, you will need one of these supplies to coat wood:

• Lamination pouches
• Clear sublimation HTV
• Polycrylic wood finish
• Matte sublimation coating spray

Step-by-Step Guide to Sublimate on Wood

With all tools in hand, here’s a simple procedure to follow:

Step 1: Prepare the Wood Surface

We recommend starting with laminated wood, as it’s ready for sublimation. Make sure to wipe off any dust with a microfiber cloth.

But, if you’re working with bare wood, ensure it’s completely dry before moving forward. Next, apply one of the available coatings to prepare the surface.

Lamination pouches are a popular choice—simply heat-press them onto the wood to create a smooth, even surface for sublimation.

Step 2: Get a Design

Choose any high-resolution design, whether it’s a photo or graphic. You can tweak it in Photoshop or any design software for resizing.

Online design resources like DesignBundles, Pinterest, and Etsy are great places to find inspiration or download designs that work for sublimation.

Step 3: Print on Sublimation Paper

Print the design on sublimation paper using high-quality print settings. Don’t forget to mirror the design before hitting the print command.

Step 4: Set up the Heat Press and Sublimate the Wood

Place the wood on the heat press. Now, if you're using bare wood, we suggest pre-heating it to remove any moisture.

For the final sublimation, position the sublimation paper with the printed side facing down. Cover it with a silicone sheet and press at 400°F for 60~70 seconds. Remove the paper and the sublimated wooden piece is ready. 

XTOOL HEAT PRESS

Heat Press for Sublimation, HTV, and DTF Transfers

Flexible heat press modes - portable or hands-free for most transfer needs.

Learn More

Wood Sublimation Printing Ideas

Want to see what can be made by sublimating on wood? Here are a few projects that xTool users have created with our tools and materials:

Colorful Puzzle

Sublimation is perfect for creating vibrant, photo-realistic puzzles like this colorful parrot puzzle. You may make multiple such customized puzzles for children, following this approach.

To recreate a project like this, you’ll need to combine sublimation with laser cutting. First, sublimate a wooden plank to transfer the design, then use a laser cutter to carve out the puzzle pieces.

Christmas Memorial Ornament

This project is a beautiful way to honor loved ones with a custom Christmas ornament. You can take this idea further by creating personalized keepsakes for families—add photos, names, or heartfelt messages.

Wood Stanley Toppers with UV Resin

What makes these Stanley toppers special is their colorful sublimation printing. You can sublimate any design, and to ensure it lasts, simply coat it with UV resin. This not only protects the design but keeps it looking bright and fresh for the long haul.

You can use this technique to create practical and eye-catching items, for instance, custom drink toppers or decorative jar lids, etc.

Wood Sublimation Printing FAQs

Can you sublimate directly on wood?

Yes, you can sublimate directly on wood, but the results are often less vibrant and may fade over time. To achieve better, long-lasting results, it's recommended to use wood that’s treated with a sublimation-friendly surface.

How to sublimate on uncoated wood?

There are multiple approaches to sublimating on uncoated wood, but the most popular method is using lamination pouches. Heat-press the lamination pouch onto the wood base, trim the edges for a clean finish, and the surface will be ready for sublimation. Other options include sublimating spray, polycrylic coating, or HTV base.

Hope you’ve learned something new with this sublimation technique. Now it’s your turn—give it a try and don’t forget to share your awesome designs with the xTool community.

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