For makers
Print instructions.
Everything you need to sublimate the Lead Sleeve cleanly, every time — recommended settings, a step-by-step process, tips and troubleshooting.
Recommended press settings
Time
50–60 seconds
Temperature
410–420°F (215°C)
Pressure
Medium
Equipment & accessories
- Sublimation printer
- Standard flat heat press — swing-away style recommended
- Heat tape
- Teflon sheet or blowout paper
Step by step.
Follow these in order for a clean, vivid press.
- 1
Preheat the heat press to 410–420°F. Set the time to 50–60 seconds and pressure to medium.
- 2
Print the image onto sublimation transfer paper. The print doesn't need to reach the paper's edge — just make sure the paper extends past the sleeve so it can be taped to the back.
- 3
Lay the printed transfer face up on a flat surface. Place the blank Lead Sleeve face down onto the transfer, aligning the printed area with the sleeve's print panel.
- 4
Fold the top Velcro strip back so the print can fully cover the white space.
- 5
Secure the edges of the transfer paper to the back of the sleeve with heat tape.
- 6
Place blowout paper or a Teflon sheet onto the press platen.
- 7
Place the sleeve with the attached transfer onto the sheet, transfer paper facing up.
- 8
Place a second sheet of blowout paper or Teflon on top of the transfer.
- 9
Close the press and press for the recommended time.
- 10
Open the press, remove the sleeve and discard the transfer paper.
Tips & tricks
For best image placement, use the product template — request it from info@leadsleeve.com.
Fold the top Velcro strip back and pre-press to remove any moisture and ensure the full print area is covered.
Avoid excess press pressure — too much can flatten the piping around the product.
Troubleshooting
The image came out light or faded.
- Increase the time setting.
- Increase the temperature setting.
- Increase pressure for better contact between transfer and sleeve.
- The press may not be reaching the temperature shown on the display.
- The image may have been printed on the wrong side of the sublimation paper.
Colours look dull on the finished sleeve.
- Decrease the press time.
- Decrease the press temperature.
- Adjust print settings — confirm the correct paper type and colour profile are selected.
Colours don't match the original artwork.
- Adjust print settings and confirm the correct paper type and colour profile.
- Convert all colours in the artwork to RGB before printing.
- Convert any spot colours (common in logos) to RGB before printing.
Sublimation paper is browning and sticking to the product.
- Decrease the press time.
- Decrease the press temperature.
- Decrease the pressure.
- Try a different brand or type of sublimation paper.
The image looks blurry or fuzzy.
- Increase the pressure setting.
- Secure the transfer paper more firmly so it can't shift during pressing.