What is the thickness of tacky sublimation paper?

Jul 01, 2025

Hey there! As a supplier of Tacky Sublimation Paper, I often get asked about the thickness of this unique product. In this blog, I'll share everything you need to know about the thickness of tacky sublimation paper and how it can impact your printing projects.

First off, let's understand what tacky sublimation paper is. It's a specialized type of paper that has a sticky or tacky surface, which helps in better transfer of sublimation inks onto various substrates. This makes it ideal for applications where a strong bond between the ink and the substrate is required, like on textiles, ceramics, and metal.

Now, when it comes to the thickness of tacky sublimation paper, it's typically measured in grams per square meter (gsm). The thickness can vary depending on the specific requirements of the printing job and the type of substrate you're using. Generally, tacky sublimation paper comes in a range of thicknesses, usually from around 80gsm to 120gsm.

A thinner paper, say around 80 - 90gsm, is more flexible and lightweight. It's great for projects where you need the paper to conform easily to curved or irregular surfaces. For example, if you're printing on small, rounded ceramic mugs, a thinner tacky sublimation paper will wrap around the surface smoothly without creasing. However, it might not be as durable as thicker papers, and there's a slightly higher risk of tearing during the handling process.

On the other hand, a thicker paper, like 110 - 120gsm, is more rigid and sturdy. It can withstand more handling and is less likely to tear. This makes it a good choice for larger printing projects or when you're working with a more robust substrate. For instance, if you're printing on heavy - duty textile materials or large metal panels, a thicker tacky sublimation paper will hold up better during the transfer process.

Let's talk about how the thickness affects the sublimation process. Thicker papers tend to hold more ink. This means that you can achieve more vibrant and saturated colors in your prints. The extra weight of the paper also helps in keeping the ink in place during the heat transfer process, reducing the chances of ink bleeding or smudging. However, it might take a bit longer to heat up and transfer the ink compared to thinner papers. You'll need to adjust your heat press settings accordingly to ensure a proper transfer.

Thinner papers, with their lower ink - holding capacity, might result in slightly less intense colors. But they heat up faster, which can save you time in the long run, especially if you're doing a high - volume printing job. You also need to be a bit more careful with the heat settings, as they can overheat more quickly and cause the paper to burn or the ink to transfer unevenly.

Now, let me introduce you to some of the products we offer. We have the High Sticky Sublimation Transfer Paper, which is available in different thicknesses to suit your specific needs. This paper has a high - quality sticky surface that ensures a strong bond between the ink and the substrate. Whether you choose a thinner or thicker option, you can expect excellent transfer results.

Our Sticky Sublimation Transfer Paper is another great choice. It comes in a range of thicknesses, and it's designed to provide a reliable and consistent transfer of sublimation inks. It's suitable for a wide variety of substrates, from textiles to hard plastics.

If you're looking for a specific thickness, our 100gsm Sticky Back Sublimation Transfer Paper is a popular option. It strikes a good balance between flexibility and durability. It can hold a decent amount of ink while still being easy to handle and conform to different surfaces.

When you're choosing the right thickness of tacky sublimation paper for your project, you also need to consider the cost. Thicker papers usually cost a bit more because they use more raw materials. So, you need to weigh the benefits of a thicker paper against your budget. If you're working on a small - scale project with a tight budget, a thinner paper might be the way to go. But if you're looking for high - quality, long - lasting prints for a commercial project, investing in a thicker paper could be worth it.

In addition to the thickness, you should also pay attention to the quality of the tacky coating. A good quality coating will ensure a strong and even transfer of the sublimation ink. It should stick well to the substrate without leaving any residue behind after the transfer. At our company, we take great care in manufacturing our tacky sublimation papers to ensure that the tacky coating is of the highest quality.

To sum it up, the thickness of tacky sublimation paper plays a crucial role in the success of your printing projects. Whether you need a thin, flexible paper for delicate jobs or a thick, sturdy one for more demanding applications, there's a suitable option out there. And we're here to help you find the perfect tacky sublimation paper for your needs.

High Sticky Sublimation Transfer Paper-1100gsm Sticky Back Sublimation Transfer Paper-2

If you're interested in learning more about our tacky sublimation papers or want to discuss your specific requirements, don't hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to have a chat and help you make the right choice for your printing projects. Let's work together to create amazing sublimation prints!

References

  • "Sublimation Printing: A Comprehensive Guide" by Printing Press Publications
  • "The Science of Tacky Coatings in Sublimation Papers" - Journal of Printing Technologies