Cozy Cardinal Colorful Coasters with Artesprix Sublimation Ink

Hello and welcome! My name is Maria Russell, and I am the guest designer for Artesprix this October. I am excited to share my projects with you! For my project today, I plan to create seasonal coaster designs using the Artesprix Iron-On Sublimation Stamp Pads and Right At Home's Cozy Cardinal Stamp Set. The layering stamp allows me to use all the colorful inks from Artesprix! 

**This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided, without any additional cost to you**
What is Sublimation Iron-on-Ink?
Sublimation is a chemistry term that refers to a substance changing from solid to gas without becoming liquid. In custom goods design, sublimation allows for a lasting transfer of a design onto polyester surfaces, resulting in vibrant and durable products. You don’t need an expensive sublimation printer to try it; Artesprix makes sublimation accessible without one!

Supplies: 
Sublimation Ink Pads - All Bundle
Sublimation Markers - Basic Chisel
Polished Coasters Blank 4ct
Heat Tape
Protective Paper Roll
Acrylic Block
Cozy Cardinal Stamp Set
Misti Stamp Tool
Heat Source
Heat Protective Gloves
Clouds Stencil
Pencil
Plain Copy Paper
Finger Daubers

Step-by-Step Tutorial: 

Step 1: Trace the coaster onto copy paper. I traced it four times for my project to personalize all four coasters in the set.

Step 2: Use the Misti Stamping Tool to stamp the branch with the Brown Sublimation Ink Pad. I stamped it four times.

Step 3: Use different colors of the Sublimation Ink Pads to layer the Cardinal image. I selected colors that work well for each season.

Step 4: To enhance the Fall colors, use the Clouds Stencil and Finger Daubers with Yellow and Orange Sublimation Ink Pads. I also stamped the leaves with the Orange Sublimation Ink Pad. Repeat the steps above to finish the other designs. 

Step 5: For the Winter coaster design, stamp some berries and hollies with Black Sublimation Ink Pad and color them in with Red and Green Sublimation Chisel Markers.

Step 6: After completing the design, place your Polished Coasters Blank face down on each design and secure it with Heat Tape.

Step 7: Make your "sublimation sandwich"! Cut two pieces of Protective Paper to cover the top and bottom of the Heat Source. This protects the Heat Source and work surface from ink transfer.

Step 8: I used my Cricut Auto-Press to sublimate my designs at 400°F for 60 seconds.

Pro Tip: If you are using a handheld Heat Source, ensure not to shift the press while transferring, as this can cause ghosting, an issue where the design shifts slightly and creates a blurry, double image.

Step 9: Use Heat Protective Gloves to remove your design from the Heat Source. 

Step 10: Conduct a "peek test" by lifting up a corner of the paper to confirm your transfer is bright and vivid. By not moving anything out of place, this allows us to re-press if needed. 

Step 11: Wait a few minutes for your design to cool all the way before removing the tape to see your designs.

I hope you enjoyed my project and found the instructions easy to follow. Join the Artesprix Iron-on-Ink Inspirational Group on Facebook to share your projects! Use the tags #Artesprix and #IrononInk when posting on social media so we don't miss them.

Thanks so much for stopping by and Happy crafting!

Maria Russell

**This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may receive compensation if you purchase through the links I have provided, without any additional cost to you**