Is sticky sublimation paper waterproof?

Sep 02, 2025

Hey there! As a supplier of Sticky Sublimation Paper, I often get asked a bunch of questions about our product. One of the most common ones is, "Is sticky sublimation paper waterproof?" Well, let's dive right into this topic and find out.

First off, let's understand what sticky sublimation paper is. Sticky Sublimation Paper is a specialized type of paper that's used in sublimation printing. Sublimation printing is a process where ink is turned into a gas under heat and pressure and then bonds with the surface of a material, like polyester fabrics or hard substrates. The sticky part of this paper is what makes it unique. It has an adhesive side that helps it stick to the substrate during the printing process, ensuring that the design transfers accurately.

Now, let's talk about waterproofing. Waterproof means that a material can resist the penetration of water to a certain degree. In the case of sticky sublimation paper, the answer isn't a simple yes or no.

The base paper of sticky sublimation paper is usually made from a blend of wood pulp and other fibers. On its own, this paper is not waterproof. Just like regular paper, if you get it wet, it will absorb the water, become soggy, and lose its structural integrity. The ink that's used in sublimation printing is also water - soluble in its liquid form. So, when you first print on the sticky sublimation paper, the design isn't waterproof either.

However, once the sublimation process is complete, things change a bit. During sublimation, the ink turns into a gas and bonds with the substrate at a molecular level. If the substrate is waterproof, like some types of polyester fabrics or coated hard materials, the transferred design can inherit some of that waterproof property. But the paper itself doesn't become waterproof. After the transfer, the paper is usually removed, and the focus is on the printed substrate.

Let's take a closer look at some real - world scenarios. If you're using Sticky Paper Used for Sublimation Printing to print on a polyester T - shirt, the T - shirt is likely to be somewhat waterproof due to the nature of polyester. The sublimated design on the T - shirt will also be resistant to water. But if you accidentally spill water on the sticky sublimation paper before the transfer, it's going to ruin the paper and probably the print as well.

100gsm Sticky Back Sublimation Transfer Paper-1100gsm Sticky Back Sublimation Transfer Paper

Another factor to consider is the adhesive on the sticky sublimation paper. The adhesive is designed to hold the paper in place during the transfer process. It's not formulated to be waterproof. If the paper gets wet, the adhesive can break down, causing the paper to lose its stickiness and potentially mess up the transfer.

If you're working in an environment where there's a risk of water exposure, it's important to take precautions. For example, keep your sticky sublimation paper in a dry place. If you're using it outdoors and there's a chance of rain, make sure to have some kind of shelter.

Now, let's talk about the different types of sticky sublimation paper we offer. Our 100gsm Sticky Back Sublimation Transfer Paper is a popular choice. The 100gsm weight gives it a good balance between durability and flexibility. But again, it's not waterproof. The sticky backing helps it adhere well to the substrate, but it won't protect it from water.

In summary, sticky sublimation paper itself is not waterproof. But the designs transferred onto waterproof substrates can be water - resistant to some extent. When using sticky sublimation paper, it's crucial to handle it in a dry environment to ensure the best results.

If you're in the market for high - quality sticky sublimation paper, we've got you covered. We offer a wide range of products that are suitable for various sublimation printing needs. Whether you're a small - scale crafter or a large - scale printing business, we can provide you with the right paper for your projects.

If you're interested in purchasing our sticky sublimation paper or have any questions about our products, don't hesitate to reach out. We're always here to help you with your sublimation printing needs and make sure you get the best results possible. Start a conversation with us and let's explore how our sticky sublimation paper can take your printing projects to the next level.

References

  • General knowledge of paper manufacturing and sublimation printing processes
  • Industry experience as a sticky sublimation paper supplier