Come Sail Away, Caribbean-Inspired Sublimation Luggage Tags

Hello, everyone! I'm Christie Troxell, Artesprix's November Guest Designer! Sublimation art is one of my favorite creative activities. I'm sharing how I created beautiful, Caribbean-inspired luggage tags on the blog today. They're for an upcoming trip, made using Artesprix Iron-on-Ink markers, sublimation bag tags, and my heat press.

**This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher, but I may get compensated.**

Last month, we Troxells decided to schedule time with friends before holiday madness begins. We booked a dreamy Caribbean cruise to Belize, Honduras, and Mexico. Naturally, we can’t wait to soak up some sun. Undeniably, I'm inspired by gorgeous beaches and the vibrant culture of the Caribbean.

As I pulled out my suitcase to pack, I thought of crafting up something unique for my friend Desiree. Obviously, I said to myself, I'll make her a personalized bag tag! Coincidentally, Artesprix's sublimation luggage tag is this month's featured item. What a perfect canvas for this creative travel accessory!

Dreamily, I thought of tropical scenery, along with sandy beaches. Decidedly, I wanted each luggage tag to capture beautiful imagery from Belize, Honduras and Mexico. My imagination wandered to thoughts of sailing through turquoise waters, enjoying tropical Caribbean drinks with our friends. Picturesque images of cruise ships, sunsets and exotic islands in mind, I began sketching.

Supplies:

Artesprix Sublimation Markers
Artesprix Heat Resistant Tape
Artesprix Luggage Tags
Artesprix Protective Paper
Scissors
Plain White Printer or Copy Paper
Pencil
Regular black marker for tracing
Heat Press or Iron

Step-by-Step Tutorial:

Step 1: After sketching out several ideas, I created my template by tracing the luggage tag onto white copy paper with a pencil. 

Step 2: Sketching in pencil I scripted the word, "Cruisin" combined my writing to emulate waves around the ship in reverse. Pencil will not transfer. 

Step 3: To color my cruisy, island inspired art, I chose vibrant sublimation shades. Inspired, I pondered rows of unique colors of sublimation markers offered by Artesprix. Choosing from so many vibrant colors, my art came to life, a cruise ship against coral skies. 

Step 4: If you have a second tag or want to personalize both sides, create a second design. In this one, I blended sunset colors with the markers. Inspired,  I added some palm trees and in block letters, "Belize", in bright blue. Don't forget designs are created in reverse. 

Pro Tip: Be sure to color outside the perimeter to ensure my design would fill the blank.

Step 5: Satisfied with my art, I trimmed it down and taped each design onto sublimation luggage tags using heat-resistant tape. 

Step 6: Excitement growing, I added Artesprix protective paper over and under my secured project.

Step 7: Following Artesprix's heat press settings for sublimation, 400°F for 45 seconds, I carefully pressed my tag.

Step 8: With bated breath, I lifted the protective paper from one corner of the luggage tag to conduct my "peek test" and check my results. What a thrill to see how beautifully they turned out! Had my transfer not as been as bright as intended, I could have re-pressed since we did not move any tape out of place. 

Step 9: Allow to cool before personalizing the other side. Repeat steps 5-8 to personalize the second tag. 

These transferred sublimation designs are permanent; specifically, they'll never smear or fade. My DIY luggage tags turned out so well; however, now I’m torn – I can’t decide between them which to give to Desiree, and which to keep for myself!

Creating custom sublimation luggage tags isn't just about fun, easy crafting, it’s also unique! You can personalize your travel gear and create an instant souvenir. Bonus, these beautiful travel mementos will stand out on any baggage carousel. Double bonus, these eye-catching colors are permanent, they'll never fade!

Conveniently, with holidays fast approaching, sublimation luggage tags make wonderful DIY stocking stuffers! Getting them in bundles tops my holiday crafting supplies list! I love how easily they can be made into handmade ornaments, custom gift tags or even personalized place cards. Just switch out your hang tag with beautiful holiday ribbon.

Ready to make your own custom sublimation luggage tags with Artesprix markers? Explore their entire line of creative sublimation supplies online at Artesprix, or join me in their Facebook Group for endless inspiration!

Bon Voyage,

Christie Troxell 

 **This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided. The price you pay for the product or service is not higher, but I may get compensated.**