29 March 2026 · Lead Sleeve
The mirror-print checklist every sublimation maker needs
A short pre-press checklist that stops the most expensive sublimation mistake — printing artwork the right way round.
The single most expensive sublimation mistake is forgetting to mirror your artwork. The press transfers a backwards print onto your blank with no recovery.
Also known as: dog leash sleeve, personalized dog leash, custom dog leash, leash cover, lead wrap. Lead Sleeve ships worldwide — UK, US, EU, Canada, Australia, Asia, LATAM.
Pre-press
- Open the export-ready file (not the working file).
- Confirm the artwork is mirrored — text should be backwards on paper.
- Confirm final print size, not scaled.
- Confirm ICC profile selected.
- Confirm "printer manages colour" is off.
- Load fresh sublimation paper, coated side up.
At the press
- Pre-press the blank for 5–10s to remove moisture.
- Lay flat. Slip a card inside a sleeve.
- Place printed paper face-down (printed side touches blank).
- Tape paper down.
- Cover with butcher paper.
- Press at recommended settings.
- Don't open early.
- Peel while warm. Inspect.
Post-press
- Photograph good units immediately.
- Bag and label rejects so you don't ship them.
- Log time, temperature, outcome for the first month.
Print this list and stick it above your press.
Keep reading
- US State Pride on the Lead: A 50-State Guide to Personalised Dog Sleeves
From Texas to Vermont — how Americans are using personalised dog lead sleeves to fly the flag for their home state on every walk.
- Welcome to the Lead Sleeve blog
A new home for guides on sublimation, dog gifting and running a maker business — built around the Lead Sleeve.
- Team Colours on the Lead: Sports Fan Dog Sleeves Done Right (and Legal)
How fans turn their dog into part of the supporters' end — without falling foul of NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAA or Premier League trademark rules.
