How to Sublimate a Shot Glass: Step-by-Step Guide

To sublimate a shot glass, use a sublimation-ready blank with a polymer coating, create your artwork, print your design on sublimation paper, secure the transfer to the glass, and apply heat with a heat press or sublimation oven. 

These steps will empower you to create unique designs on your shot glasses that resist fading and peeling. With sublimation, you embed heat-activated ink directly into the cup surface, making it a highly durable printing method.

When it comes to sublimating shot glasses, crafters can use either a sublimation oven or a heat press with a shot-glass attachment to embed designs.

A heat press provides direct pressure around the blank, while an oven can sublimate multiple shot glasses at once. A dedicated sublimation oven also accommodates a wider range of shot glass shapes and sizes.

In this guide, we will unpack both methods for sublimating shot glasses, explaining each step in detail to help you achieve the best results.

By the end, you'll be in a great position to start creating breathtaking sublimated designs on your shot glasses.

What Shot Glasses Can I Sublimate?

Sublimation printing requires polyester fibers or special polymer coatings for the heat-activated ink to bond with the surface.

This means you need polymer-coated shot glass blanks to create permanent custom designs. The coating allows the dye to transfer from sublimation paper into the surface when exposed to heat.

Regular, uncoated shot glasses will not work for sublimation because untreated glass lacks the necessary polymer surface.

Instead, choose shot glasses labeled "sublimation-ready" when choosing your blanks.

Sublimation-ready shot glasses can be made from different materials, including coated glass, ceramic, and stainless steel. The important factor is the compatible polymer coating rather than the material beneath it.

Fortunately, you can find exactly what you need from a supplier specializing in sublimation blanks.

You can order high-quality shot glasses designed for sublimation at The Stainless Depot Company.

We offer sublimation shot glasses in a variety of materials and styles, including stainless steel, ceramic, and glass.

These blank shot glasses are specially designed for sublimation and can help you achieve professional results.

Now that you know exactly what kind of shot glass you can sublimate, let's take a look at the equipment and supplies you'll need to customize these cups.

What Do I Need to Sublimate a Shot Glass?

Before you start shot glass sublimation, you'll need equipment and supplies to print your design and heat your blank.

Gather the following items before you get to work creating stunning designs:

• Sublimation Shot Glass Blanks: Choose a shot glass with a polymer coating made for sublimation. It's best to purchase from a reputable sublimation blanks supplier, such as The Stainless Depot Company.
  
  
• Sublimation Printer and Ink: Use a printer designed for sublimation with compatible sublimation ink. The printer transfers your artwork onto sublimation paper before you apply it to the shot glass.
  
  
• Sublimation Transfer Paper: Sublimation paper holds the ink until you apply heat.
  
  
• Design Software: Create and size your artwork in design software that supports the file type and dimensions you need. Common software and applications for sublimation printing include Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and CorelDRAW.
  
  
• Shot Glass Sublimation Wrap Template: Use a shot glass template to size your artwork to the printable area of the blank. Sometimes, shot glass blanks come with free wrap templates.
  
  
• Isopropyl Alcohol and Lint-Free Cloth: Clean the shot glass before applying the transfer. Isopropyl alcohol removes fingerprints and oils, while a lint-free cloth helps remove dust and fibers that could interfere with the sublimation process.
  
  
• Sublimation Tape: You will secure the transfer to the shot glass with heat-resistant tape. Keeping the paper firmly against the coated surface helps prevent ghosting during heating.
  
  
• Heating Equipment: Use either a sublimation heat press with a compatible shot glass attachment or a dedicated convection oven.
  
  
• Heat-Resistant Gloves: Use heat-resistant gloves when handling shot glasses after pressing or removing them from the oven. Blanks are often extremely hot after the sublimation cycle.
  
  
• Shrink Wrap (if using a sublimation oven): Use shrink wrap when sublimating shot glasses in an oven. The wrap holds the transfer tightly against the glass as it heats.
  
  
• Heat Gun (if using a sublimation oven): A heat gun can shrink the wrap around the shot glass, creating firm contact between the transfer and the coated surface.
  
  
• Butcher Paper (if using a heat press): Use butcher paper to protect the heat press from ink that may transfer beyond the sublimation paper during pressing.

As you gather your equipment and supplies, you will need to decide whether to use a sublimation oven or a heat press with a shot-glass attachment.

In the next section, we will explain the differences and benefits of both devices.

Shot-Glass Heat-Press Attachment vs Sublimation Oven

The main difference between using a heat press with a shot-glass attachment and a sublimation oven is how they apply heat and pressure.

A shot-glass heat-press attachment holds the blank against the heated surface while applying pressure around it. The device provides consistent contact with the transfer without requiring additional supplies.

While using this attachment is convenient, you usually need to rotate shot glasses halfway through the heating process to apply full coverage. Also, most heat presses can only sublimate one shot glass at a time.

It's also important to note that not all heat presses come with these shot-glass attachments. Purchasing a compatible heat press can add to the overall cost of your setup.

Sublimation ovens, on the other hand, work slightly differently than heat presses. These devices heat the entire surface of the shot glass by circulating hot air.

Important Note: Never use a sublimation oven for heating food. Sublimation inks and coatings can release residues or fumes that may contaminate an oven. You should only heat your blanks in a designated convection oven for sublimation.

The primary benefit of using a sublimation oven is that you can sublimate multiple shot glasses at once.

Plus, you can sublimate shot glasses in different shapes and styles that may not fit standard shot-glass heat-press attachments.

Although the sublimation oven definitely has its advantages, this heating method requires extra supplies. You will need shrink wrap and a heat gun to secure the transfer tightly against the shot glass.

Here's a chart breaking down the key differences and benefits of these devices:

Feature	Shot-Glass Heat-Press Attachment	Sublimation Oven
Heat application	Direct heat from the press	Circulating heat from the oven
Pressure	Press applies pressure around the blank	Shrink wrap holds the transfer against the blank
Shape compatibility	Only works with blanks that fit the attachment	Accommodates a wider range of shapes and sizes
Quantity	Generally one blank at a time	Can accommodate multiple blanks, depending on oven size
Equipment	Heat press and compatible shot glass attachment	Dedicated sublimation convection oven
Additional Supplies	Butcher paper	Shrink wrap and heat gun
Best use	Shot glasses that fit the attachment	Different shapes or multiple shot glasses
Main consideration	The attachment must fit the blank properly	The transfer must maintain firm contact during heating

The best heating method for you will likely depend on your desired workflow and whether you have compatible equipment.

Those who do not already have a heat press with a shot-glass attachment will likely prefer using a sublimation oven, as this device allows you to sublimate a wider range of blanks.

Once you've chosen your heating method, you're ready to prepare and apply your one-of-a-kind designs to your shot glasses.

How to Sublimate a Shot Glass

Sublimating a shot glass involves creating a properly sized design, preparing the coated blank, securing the transfer, and applying heat with either an oven or a press.

In this section, we will explain how to use both a sublimation oven and a heat press to transfer your sublimation designs.

The steps below cover both methods, from creating the design to cooling and revealing the finished shot glass.

Step 1: Create the Sublimation Design

Creating your custom shot glass starts with designing and sizing your artwork.

Because these glasses have curved surfaces, a shot-glass sublimation template can help you create a wrap that fits the shape more precisely.

Check with your shot glass supplier to see if your blank includes a free digital wrap template.

Here's how to create and size your design for your shot glass:

1. Select Your Design: Create or select the artwork you want to apply to the shot glass. You can develop your own artwork using Canva, Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or another suitable program.
   
   
2. Use a Shot-Glass Sublimation Template: If available, import a template that matches the size and shape of your blank. The template will guide you on sizing your artwork for your shot glass.
   
   
3. Size the Artwork: Adjust the design so it fits within the template's printable area. Check the artwork around the full wrap to ensure important details are positioned correctly.
   
   
4. Mirror the Design: Flip the artwork horizontally before printing. This ensures the design appears in the correct orientation when you place the transfer against the shot glass.

Now that you have designed, sized, and mirrored your image, you can print it onto sublimation transfer paper.

Step 2: Print the Sublimation Transfer

With your artwork ready, it's time to print it onto specialty transfer paper.

A few simple printing steps will help you produce a clean transfer that fits your shot glass correctly:

1. Load the Sublimation Paper: Place the sublimation transfer paper into your printer according to the paper manufacturer's instructions. Check that the printable side is facing the correct direction.
   
   
2. Check Your Printer Settings: Select the appropriate settings for your sublimation printer, ink, and transfer paper. Use the manufacturer's recommended settings whenever available.
   
   
3. Print the Design: Print the mirrored artwork at the dimensions specified by your shot-glass sublimation template. Keep the print size consistent with the template so the design fits properly around the curved surface.
   
   
4. Inspect the Transfer: Look for smudges, missing areas, streaks, or other printing issues. Your printed image should match your artwork, but the colors may differ slightly before you apply it to your shot glass.

A clean, properly sized print will make the application process easier and prevent alignment and transfer issues.

You will also help prevent printing issues by cleaning your shot glass and firmly securing your printed transfer to its coated surface.

Step 3: Prepare the Shot Glass

Getting your shot glass ready for sublimation involves cleaning its surface and securing the printed transfer with sublimation tape.

These steps will help you prepare the blank and keep the transfer securely in place:

1. Clean the Shot Glass: Wipe the surface with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth. This removes fingerprints and oils that could interfere with the sublimation process.
   
   
2. Position the Transfer: Wrap the printed sublimation transfer around the shot glass with the printed side facing the polymer-coated surface. Make sure the artwork is aligned with the printable area.
   
   
3. Secure the Transfer: Use high-temperature tape to hold the transfer firmly against the shot glass. Pay close attention to the edges and seams because movement during heating can cause ghosting.
   
   
4. Check the Contact: Smooth the transfer against the shot glass so there are no loose areas, wrinkles, or gaps. Firm contact between the transfer paper and glass helps produce a cleaner design.
   
   
5. Add Shrink Wrap (for sublimation oven): If you're using a sublimation oven, cover the prepared shot glass with shrink wrap according to the product instructions. Use a heat gun to tighten the wrap around the blank so the transfer stays firmly in place during heating.
   
   
6. Wrap the Shot Glass in Butcher Paper (for heat press): Wrap the prepared shot glass with a fresh sheet of butcher paper. This will protect your press from stray ink that may escape from the transfer during heating.

With the cup clean and the transfer paper secured, your shot glass is now ready for the heating process.

First, we will explain how to sublimate a shot glass in an oven, and then detail how to use a shot-glass heat-press attachment.

Step 4A: Sublimate the Shot Glass in a Convection Oven

When using a sublimation oven for shot glasses, the device's circulating heat transfers the dye from the sublimation paper into the blank's polymer coating.

As we've discussed, this method works well if you want to decorate multiple glasses at once or sublimate various shapes and styles.

Follow these steps to apply heat safely and get the best results:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your sublimation oven to the manufacturer's recommended temperature. Sublimation shot glasses often require 350°F to 380°F, but this can vary based on the blanks and your specific oven. Additionally, never use an oven that you also use to prepare food.
   
   
2. Place the Shot Glass in the Oven: Put the prepared shot glass or multiple glasses inside the preheated convection oven. Make sure each glass is positioned securely and has enough space around it for air to circulate.
   
   
3. Set the Sublimation Time: Use the recommended heating time for your blank and oven. Shot glasses frequently need 7 to 8 minutes in the oven, but the exact duration can vary.
   
   
4. Rotate the Shot Glass if Needed: If your oven does not provide even heat around the blank, rotate the shot glass 180 degrees halfway through the heating cycle. This can help produce more consistent coverage, particularly when the shot glass is positioned horizontally.
   
   
5. Remove the Shot Glass: Once the time is complete, carefully remove the shot glass while wearing heat-resistant gloves.

If you choose to sublimate your shot glass in an oven, skip to Step 5 to finish the process. 

Next, we will explain how to sublimate these miniature cups with specialized shot-glass heat-press attachments. This process is similar to using an oven, but it relies on direct contact with the press rather than on heat circulation.

Step 4B: Sublimate with a Shot-Glass Heat-Press Attachment

A heat press with a shot-glass attachment lets you apply direct pressure around the blank without requiring shrink wrap or a heat gun.

This method works well when the blank fits securely inside the attachment, allowing the heated surface to maintain firm contact with the shot glass. The attachment keeps the shot glass and transfer in position while the press delivers heat and pressure throughout the sublimation cycle.

Use these steps to secure the blank and dial in the best heat press settings:

1. Preheat the Heat Press: Preheat your heat press before placing your shot glass inside. Shot glasses often require 390°F, but the recommended temperature can vary by blank and equipment.
   
   
2. Position the Shot Glass: Place the prepared cup into the shot-glass heat-press attachment.
   
   
3. Set the Pressure: Adjust the press to medium-to-firm pressure, as specified by the manufacturer's instructions. The transfer should remain tightly against the shot glass without applying excessive force.
   
   
4. Press the Shot Glass: Close the press and heat the shot glass for 190 seconds, or for the time recommended by your blank and equipment manufacturers. Rotate the shot glass halfway through the heating process to apply even coverage.
   
   
5. Remove the Shot Glass: Carefully release the press, then remove the hot blank using heat-resistant gloves.

With your heat press finished, it's time to remove the sublimation paper and reveal the design underneath.

Step 5: Cool and Reveal the Design

After heating, your shot glass may need a moment to cool before you remove the transfer paper, but this varies depending on the shot glass material and the manufacturer's guidelines.

While exact instructions can vary, here's a general guide on cooling your shot glass and removing the transfer paper:

1. Let the Shot Glass Cool: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for when to remove the transfer. Ceramic blanks may call for immediate removal or a brief 30-60-second cooling period, while glass should cool naturally to reduce the risk of thermal shock. Use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot blanks, and never rapidly cool hot glass with water.
   
   
2. Remove the Transfer: Carefully peel away the high-temperature tape and sublimation paper to reveal the design.
   
   
3. Inspect the Design: Check the finished shot glass for even color, sharp details, and complete coverage. A properly sublimated design should be permanently transferred into the coating rather than sitting on top as a separate layer.

With the right blanks and a little practice, you can craft one-of-a-kind drinkware that's perfect for parties and events. Follow these instructions to get started creating breathtaking shot glasses for yourself, loved ones, or customers.

Sublimation Shot Glass FAQs

Will Sublimation Work on Glass Shot Glasses?

Sublimation will work on glass shot glasses with compatible polymer coatings. The polymer coating allows the sublimation ink to bond with the glass during heating. When shopping for shot glass blanks, check that the product is specifically made for sublimation.

How to Put an Image on a Shot Glass?

You can put an image on a shot glass using sublimation, UV DTF transfers, vinyl, or engraving, depending on the type of blank and the finish you want. You can use sublimation printing to permanently decorate polymer-coated shot glasses.

How Do You Sublimate on Shot Glasses?

To sublimate a shot glass, use a polymer-coated blank, print a mirrored design on sublimation paper, and secure the transfer firmly against the surface with high-temperature tape. From there, you can use a heat press with a shot-glass attachment or a sublimation oven to infuse the ink directly into the shot glass's surface.

Where to Buy Wholesale Sublimation Shot Glasses?

The Stainless Depot Company offers sublimation shot glass blanks in bulk for businesses and serious crafters. These wholesale options include sublimation-ready glass, stainless steel, and ceramic in different styles, perfect for customization.

Order High-Quality Sublimation Shot Glasses Today

Learning how to sublimate a shot glass starts with creating and sizing your design, printing it on sublimation paper, and securing the transfer firmly against the surface with sublimation tape.

Next, you can use a heat press with a shot-glass attachment or a sublimation oven to apply heat. A press provides direct pressure around the blank, while an oven uses circulating heat to embed the design.

Regardless of whether you use a heat press or oven, the sublimation process starts with polymer-coated shot glasses. You can order high-quality sublimation shot glasses from The Stainless Depot Company to help you achieve the best results.

These shot glasses are available in stainless steel, ceramic, and glass, and you can purchase them in various shapes and styles.

Plus, you can shop for a wide range of other sublimation blanks and supplies on our website, empowering you to create long-lasting, customized drinkware.

Whether you're crafting stunning drinkware for yourself or running a small business, you can count on The Stainless Depot Company to help you bring your designs to life.