How to make lanyards

Creating sublimation lanyards involves a process of transferring a design onto a lanyard using heat. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make one:

Materials Needed:

1. Sublimation Printer  and Ink: This is a special type of printer with sublimation ink which turns into gas when heated.

2. Sublimation Paper: Paper specifically designed for sublimation printing.

3. Polyester Lanyard: The lanyard material must be polyester or a poly-blend to ensure the sublimation ink adheres properly.

4. Heat Press: A machine that applies heat and pressure to transfer the design.

5. Design Software: Software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator to create your design.

6. Heat Resistant Tape: To keep the paper in place during the heat press process.

7. Protective Paper: To protect your heat press and prevent ink transfer.

Steps

1. Design Creation: Use your design software to create the artwork for the lanyard. Remember to mirror the image as it will be reversed during the sublimation process.

2. Printing the Design: Print your design onto the sublimation paper using a sublimation printer. Ensure the print quality is high and the colors are correctly represented.

3. Preparing the Lanyard: Cut your polyester lanyard to the desired length and lay it flat.

4. Attaching the Design: Place the printed sublimation paper onto the lanyard. Ensure the printed side is in contact with the lanyard. Secure the paper with heat-resistant tape.

5. Heat Press: Set your heat press to the recommended temperature for sublimation (usually around 400°F or 204°C) and the time (about 30-60 seconds). Place the lanyard with the paper in the heat press between protective papers to avoid any ink transfer or damage.

6. Transferring the Design: Close the heat press and apply heat and pressure. This will cause the sublimation ink to turn into a gas and bond with the polyester fibers.

7. Removal and Cooling: After the allotted time, open the heat press, remove the lanyard, and carefully peel off the sublimation paper. Allow the lanyard to cool.

8. Finishing Touches: If necessary, add any hardware like clips or badge holders to the lanyard.

Tips

• Always perform a test print to ensure color accuracy and quality.

• Use a lint roller on the lanyard before pressing to remove any debris.

• Monitor the heat press closely to avoid over-pressing, which can cause colors to bleed or become dull.

Remember, safety is paramount when working with heat presses, so always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use heat-resistant gloves if necessary.