← All symptoms
Safety stop: Stop the process if there is smoke, an electrical fault, a strong unfamiliar odor, melting, cracked glass, or evidence that the material is not heat-rated. Follow the equipment and blank manufacturer’s safety instructions.

Describe what you can observe

These answers only reorder checks. They do not create a diagnosis from unsupported inputs.

Did the symptom affect the whole image or only part of it?
Does it repeat in the same location on another blank?

Prioritized checks

Starting order

Confirm or weaken each cause before changing the next variable.

1

Source artwork lacks output resolution

Evidence that supports it

  • Pixelation is visible in the print before pressing.
  • The design was enlarged beyond its prepared size.

Evidence against it

  • The transfer print has crisp detail under magnification.

Safe next actions

  1. Inspect the printed transfer before pressing.
  2. Re-export at final output size using an appropriate source file.
2

Transfer moved or did not maintain flat contact

Evidence that supports it

  • Blur is directional or strongest near a lifted edge.

Evidence against it

  • The transfer was fully secured and the blur is in the source print.

Safe next actions

  1. Secure the transfer without placing tape in the image area.
  2. Lift the press vertically and avoid sliding the stack.
3

Time or temperature is excessive for the coating

Evidence that supports it

  • Paper browning or dye spread accompanies the blur.

Evidence against it

  • The transfer is faint and underdeveloped.

Safe next actions

  1. Return to the exact product instruction.
  2. Reduce only one variable within the supported range.

Evidence

Sources

  1. Sawgrass TechnologiesHow to Troubleshoot Sublimation Color IssuesOfficial source · last checked 2026-08-04
  2. Johnson Plastics PlusSublimation Technology FAQsOfficial source · last checked 2026-08-04