Sublimation Mugs vs. Regular Mugs | What is the Main Difference?

Gone are the days when plain and unadorned mugs sufficed for our morning coffee rituals. As society embraces artificial aesthetics, the humble mug has transformed into a canvas of personal expression.

Enter the sublimation mug, a vessel that allows individuals to imprint their own pictures or beloved designs onto its glazed ceramic surface. In this article, we will delve into the realm of sublimation mugs versus regular mugs, exploring the intricacies and merits of each.

Sublimation Mugs vs. Regular Mugs: A Comparative Analysis

A sublimation mug, with its glazed ceramic surface, serves as a captivating medium for retaining sublimation ink. This versatile canvas enables individuals to personalize their mugs with cherished photographs or any other visual elements of their choosing. Conversely, regular mugs are adorned with sublimation printing, offering a wide array of pre-designed patterns and illustrations.

Have You Ever Used a Sublimation Mug? 

Most of the users would have already used it, or they probably have one in their cupboard. Maybe you have one but did not notice it. These are the mugs with your own pics or some landscape printed on them. 

Its surface is made with glazed ceramic to make a mug or tea cup suitable for sublimation, so the printing ink can stay on it and settle down quickly. Once the glazing surface is ready, your picture or landscape is printed. 

What is the purpose of Sublimation Mugs?

Our Top Pick
MYSUB Sublimation Mugs

MYSUB Sublimation Mugs

Specifications:

  • Brand: MYSUB
  • Color: 36pc White
  • Style: Modern

Different brands and companies use this method for advertisement purposes. Companies and brands sublimate their logos and slogans and then color such mugs to advertise their product. 

People sublimate mugs for different purposes. It can be for personalization, advertisements, or any other purpose. 

  • Printing your own picture on your mug is a good practice for making something personal.
  • Different brands and companies use this method for advertisement purposes. Companies and brands sublimate their logos and slogans and then color such mugs to advertise their product.
  • Sublimation mugs can also be used as a gift. These are the most beautiful used sublimation mugs. 

What is a Regular Mug/Cup?

Our Top Pick
Coffee Mug, Regular

Coffee Mug, Regular

Specifications:

  • Brand: Genuine Fred
  • Color: My Gift to You
  • Special Feature: Microwave Safe

The glazed ceramic surface is the main difference between a sublimation mug and a regular mug. Regular mugs do not have a glazed ceramic coating. 

The glazed ceramic surface is the main difference between a sublimation mug and a regular mug. Regular mugs do not have a glazed ceramic coating. These mugs are simply made of porcelain or ceramic. Some traditional mugs are made from glass. 

Volume of Mugs

Based on volume, these mugs are divided into categories. Here is the list

  • Espresso – 2 to 3 ounces
  • Cappuccino – 5 to 6 ounces
  • Classic – 8 to 15 ounces
  • Latte – 11 to 15 ounces

A regular cup holds between 8 to 10 ounces of liquid. Those who love drinking coffee or tea do not own these mugs. They like to have something with 11 to 15 ounces capacity. 

Printing On a Coffee Mug Using Your Own Printer

If you own a sublimation printer for mugs, you can easily print sublimation on the mug’s surface. All you have to do is follow the following steps.

Mug Selection

Mug selection is an important factor if you have decided to sublimate your mug or a mug for your friend as a gift. The mug should have a smooth finish. There should be dots. It should be even. Otherwise, the results will not be up to the mark.

Print out your desired picture or text

Make sure you use a sublimation printer to print your desired image or text. Avoid using ordinary paper. A sublimation paper will provide you with desired results. 

 As soon as the image comes out of the printer, it will go back to the original because it will be mirrored when the image is transferred onto the mug.

The inked Side of the Image Should be Facing the Mug.

The picture should be placed in your desired position against the mug with the ink side facing up on the mug. Ensure that the image is in the right position and facing the right way up once you have double-checked that it is in the right place. The ink cannot be removed from the mug once it has been applied.

You can place the picture anywhere you like. It doesn’t matter where you keep it. You can even place the image on the handle or bottom of the mug.

Heat Proof-Tape Will Secure Your Image 

While sublimating your mug, once you paste the sublimation printing paper, make sure to secure it with heatproof tape. It is good to paste on those sections where there is no text or image. 

Use Iron to Press the printing paper of the image

To get perfect results on your mug surface, heat iron for a short while. Once it heats up, moderately put it on the printing paper, rub, and pro. As soon as the ink dries out, remove the iron.

Remove the Printing Paper

Once you are done with the whole process, remove the printing paper. This is a simple process that requires some time to complete.

Note: Avoid washing the sublimation mugs with a dishwasher. It is better to wash it with your hands rather than using any detergent. 

Conclusion:

When it comes to functionality, both sublimation mugs and regular mugs excel in their primary task of holding liquid. However, sublimation mugs possess an undeniable allure, boasting visually appealing designs that can serve as effective advertising tools or thoughtful gifts. With their ability to captivate the eye and convey personal expression, sublimation mugs emerge as the frontrunner in this comparison.

Remember, whether you opt for a sublimation mug or a regular one, the joy of sipping from a well-crafted vessel remains unchanged. So, why not indulge in the artistry of sublimation mugs and elevate your coffee experience to new heights.

FAQs:

What are sublimation mugs?

Sublimation mugs are ceramic mugs with a glazed surface that allows for the retention of sublimation ink, enabling individuals to personalize them with their own pictures or preferred designs.

What are regular mugs?

Regular mugs are mugs that feature sublimation printing, showcasing a variety of pre-designed patterns and illustrations.

How do sublimation mugs differ from regular mugs?

Sublimation mugs allow for personalization, where individuals can imprint their own pictures or designs, while regular mugs come with pre-printed patterns. The glazed ceramic surface of sublimation mugs retains the sublimation ink, while regular mugs display sublimation printing.

Can sublimation mugs be used for advertising purposes?

Yes, sublimation mugs can serve as an effective advertising tool due to their visually appealing designs and personalized touch. They can be customized with brand logos, slogans, or promotional messages, making them a unique marketing medium.

Are sublimation mugs suitable as gifts?

Absolutely! Sublimation mugs make excellent gifts due to their ability to be customized with personal photographs or special designs. They offer a thoughtful and memorable way to show appreciation or celebrate special occasions.

Which type of mug is more visually appealing?

In terms of visual appeal, sublimation mugs tend to stand out. With the ability to showcase personalized pictures or designs, they offer a unique aesthetic that regular mugs cannot match. The personal touch makes sublimation mugs visually captivating and appealing to the eye.

Mark Bryant