Do not remove any screws or covers.
Do not Power Off the Printer.
Verify your substrate is heat-safe before applying heat.
### Tool AnatomyAs we have recently purchased a new dye sublimation printer, this tutorial section is out of date.
[](https://protohaven.org/wiki/_detail/tools/dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image5.jpg?id=tools%3Adye_sublimation%3Astart "tools:dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image5.jpg")As we have recently purchased a new dye sublimation printer, this tutorial section is out of date.
[](https://protohaven.org/wiki/_detail/tools/dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image7.jpg?id=tools%3Adye_sublimation%3Astart "tools:dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image7.jpg") Click on the Sawgrass Print Manager icon situated in the hidden icons menu at the bottom right hand corner of the desktop. [](https://protohaven.org/wiki/_detail/tools/dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image3.jpg?id=tools%3Adye_sublimation%3Astart "tools:dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image3.jpg") Select “Open Local File” to upload your artwork. Sawgrass Print Manager accepts a range of file formats. Supported vector files: .eps .pdf Supported image files: .jpeg .png .tiff .tif .sg [](https://protohaven.org/wiki/_detail/tools/dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image9.jpg?id=tools%3Adye_sublimation%3Astart "tools:dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image9.jpg") Set the type of substrate you’ll be using for your final material surface. Select “TexPrint-R” for Protohaven-supplied paper. [](https://protohaven.org/wiki/_detail/tools/dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image8.jpg?id=tools%3Adye_sublimation%3Astart "tools:dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image8.jpg") Set the layout. [](https://protohaven.org/wiki/_detail/tools/dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image1.jpg?id=tools%3Adye_sublimation%3Astart "tools:dye_sublimation_printer_tool_tutorial_image1.jpg") Set the color mode. Photographic mode optimizes color output for photos. Vivid mode optimizes for high contrasting elements, like vectorized graphics. #### Color Output Color management is an important aspect for all forms of digital printing. In terms of sublimation, there are several factors that can affect the color including the printer, the ink, the paper and the substrates. Sawgrass created Sawgrass Print Manager to address these issues and provide tools to ensure the accuracy of the color output. #### Common Settings| Substrate | Press Time | Temp | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic Mugs | 150-210 sec | 350-400º F | Time varies. Press into silicon pad. Mugs should be cooled in warm water or using a cooling plate after transfer. |
| Poly Fabric | 35-40 sec | 400º F | Pre-press shirt for 3-5 min to eliminate moisture. |
| Vapor Apparel | 45-55 sec | 380-390º F | See [vaporapparel.com](https://vaporapparel.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1676742597085566&usg=AOvVaw3075h6-qPYFBnkumwgVf60 "https://vaporapparel.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1676742597085566&usg=AOvVaw3075h6-qPYFBnkumwgVf60") for tips on reducing presslines |
| Mousepads (neoprene) | 45 sec | 400º F | Look for a tight knit and high white point for more brilliant color results. |
| Metal (Unisub) | 60 sec | 400º F | Use blow-out paper. Remove plastic coating before pressing. |
| Metal (Other Brands) | 60 sec | 375-400º F | Time varies. Place absorbent sheet on the bottom of heat press. Then, place product transfer side DOWN on top of the absorbent sheet. |
| Outdoor Metal Panels | 60-90 sec | 400º F | Time varies. Place absorbent sheet on the bottom of heat press. Then, place product transfer side DOWN on top of the absorbent sheet. |
| Unisub Products | 60 sec | 400º F | Remove plastic coating. Tear transfer paper away immediately after pressing. |
| Fire Retardant Plastics | 40-75 sec | 400º F | Remove plastic coating. Tear transfer paper away immediately after pressing. |
| Glass/Ceramic Flat Tiles | 300-720 sec | 400º F | Time varies. Press tiles from back (transfer side down). Press into silicon pad. |