San Diego Photo Gifts

Coffee Mugs Printing FAQs:

Q1 : What is Dye Sublimation?

Q2 : Are dye sublimated mugs dishwasher-safe/microwave-safe/food-safe?

Q3 : Do your mugs come in different colors?

Q4 : How will the artwork be displayed on the coffee mug?

Q5 : How do I design the image for my coffee mug?

Q6 : Can you design my image for me?

Q7 : What file formats do you take?

Q8 : How do I make the background of my image clear (to let the mug’s white background shine through)?

Q9 : Will you send us a mock-up of what the image looks like on the cup?

Q1 : What is Dye Sublimation?
Dye sublimation is a method of printing on polyester-coated wood, plastic, ceramic or aluminium, or polyester fabric. Instead of using a printer to create the image directly on the substrate, the image is printed with special inks onto transfer paper. The paper is then laid facedown onto the substrate and a large amount of pressure and high level of heat is applied. The colored dyes in the paper sublimate - turn into gas - and are infused into the fibers of the substrate, which expanded with the heat. Once the substrate has cooled and the fibers retracted, the image is trapped permanently within the surface. Sublimation is an excellent choice for branding items such as coffee mugs, t-shirts, and name plates, personalized gifts, and vibrant wall hangings. For more information, check out our dye sublimation guide.

Q2 : Are dye sublimated mugs dishwasher-safe/microwave-safe/food-safe?
In short, yes to all 3. The sublimated coating on the mug should hold up for many years of being washed in the dishwasher, but fading over time is normal. For a longer lasting image, place the mug on the top rack of the dishwasher and as far away from the heating element as possible. Microwaving your mug will not harm the image. The polyester based coating is also food-safe.

Q3 : Do your mugs come in different colors?
At the moment we only carry White Mugs in 11oz and 15oz, and Black Mugs in 11oz. New colors and sizes will be updated onto the website when they are available.

Q4 : How will the artwork be displayed on the coffee mug?
The center of your Coffee Mug Image directly aligns across from the handle of the cup.

Q5 : How do I design the image for my coffee mug?
We recommend cropping your image to fit the printable areas shown on our website (8.5x3 or 9x4). If you want your image on either side of the centre or handle, please build this into your image accordingly. If you need assistance, please send us an email.

Q6 : Can you design my image for me?
Yes! For a separate fee starting at $19, our graphic designer can help compose your pictures into a printable strip. Send us an email with your pictures to get the ball rolling.

Q7 : What file formats do you take?
We accept .jpegs, .tiffs, .pngs, .pdfs, or vector files such as .ai or .eps if necessary.

Q8 : How do I make the background of my image clear (to let the mug’s white background shine through)?
Make sure your file allows for transparency. Files such as .pngs and .tiffs will usually allow for this. If you experience any problems, send us an email for assistance.

Q9 : Will you send us a mock-up of what the image looks like on the cup?
Unfortunately at this time, mock-ups are not available. However, we will send you a proof if you are looking to get a mug designed, or if there are any issues with your file.

If you don't find the answer you're looking for here, please contact us.