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Create Your Own Dye-Sub Mouse Pad
Add a creative and personal touch to your workspace with this easy and rewarding sublimation project. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to create a vibrant custom mouse pad using our 22cm x 18cm fabric-top sublimation mouse pad perfect for the home office, gaming setup, or as a practical personalised gift.
For this project we’ll be using our Rainbow Lorikeet Taking Flight design, featuring a vibrant lorikeet mid-flight. This artwork is free with any dye-sub blank purchase from Echidna. However, you can also use your own artwork or photos—just make sure it’s sized correctly for the mouse pad and prepared for sublimation printing. How to access provided artwork →
Whether you're designing for yourself or making a thoughtful gift, this mouse pad project is a fantastic way to explore dye sublimation.
What you will need:
- Sublimation Printer & Inks (Sawgrass, Brother SP1)
- Sublimation Transfer Paper
- 22cm x 18cm Fabric-Top Sublimation Mousepad Blank
- Heat Resistant Tape
- Protective Heat Resistant Sheet x 2
- Plain Copy Paper
- Flat Heat Press
- Lint Roller
- Heat Gloves (Optional)
For more information on Essential Equipment for Dye Sublimation, take a look at our article →
Shop online:
Download the artwork:
This project uses our Rainbow Lorikeet Taking Flight artwork. This design is included free with any dye-sub blank purchase from Echidna.
Formats included: PNG / PDF (A4 & Letter Size), suitable for 22cm x 18cm Fabric-Top Sublimation Mousepad Blank
Already purchased a blank? Learn how to access the artwork →
⚠️ Tip: Planning to use Artspira on your phone or tablet? Be sure to download the files straight from our website using that same device.
Printing help:
In this tutorial, we’re using the Brother SP1 with A4 paper and printing directly from the ready-made PDF template provided. If you prefer to use your own artwork or are working with a different blank size, you can use any sublimation printer and compatible software. Refer to the helpful links below for guidance tailored to your setup.
Helpful Links
Brother SP1 Users
- Creating your own artwork in Artspira? Learn how to Upload & Print from Artspira.
- Using a PDF with correct sizing? Refer to Brother's video on How to print from PC.
Sawgrass Users
- Creating your own artwork in CreativeStudio or printing directly via the Print Utility? Refer to the Sawgrass Knowledgebase for help.
Detailed instructions:
Pressing guide for instructions 22cm x 18cm Fabric-Top Sublimation Mousepad Blank:
- Preheat your press to 190°C - 200°C
- Time: 45 seconds
- Pressure: Medium
- Print your design
Use the PDF template provided by Echidna, which is specifically designed to suit the 22cm x 18cm Fabric-Top Sublimation Mousepad Blank and includes a helpful alignment rectangle for easy positioning. The template is available in both A4 and Letter sizes, so be sure to select the version that matches the paper you are using. To ensure correct sizing and positioning, we recommend following Brother’s video guide on How to print from PC for the Brother SP1. Most importantly, don’t forget to enable the mirror image setting in your printer options before printing.
- Protect your press surface
Place a protective heat-resistant sheet on the bottom platen of your press. This shields your equipment from ink bleed during the pressing process.
- Protect your sheet
Place a plain sheet of copy paper on top of the protective sheet. This extra disposable layer absorbs any excess ink and helps keep your protective sheet clean.
- Prepare the mousepad
Clean the surface of the mousepad with a lint roller to remove any dust or debris that could affect the transfer.
- Tape the design
Position the mousepad (white side down) onto your printed design and use the alignment rectangle on the template to help you position the design accurately. Ensure the mousepad stays neatly within the rectangle, then secure the edges of the printed sheet to the back of the mousepad with heat-resistant tape. This will help prevent shifting during pressing and ensure a crisp, clean transfer.
- Place mousepad on heat press
Lay the taped mousepad with the paper face up (printed side facing the heating element).
- Place protective sheet and press
Place a second protective sheet over the mousepad and press according to your blank’s recommended settings (Refer to Pressing guide for instructions above for more information).
- Allow to cool completely
Carefully remove the mousepad from the press and let it cool fully before handling.
- Enjoy your custom creation!
Add it to your workspace and enjoy using a mouse pad that’s uniquely yours. It also makes a thoughtful and functional gift!
Free Embroidery Designs
We're excited to offer our free Echidna designs available for download. These free designs are perfect for those at a beginner or an advanced level. Add these designs to your stash and create incredible embroidery!
View all free designs >
Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machines
Interested in learning how to sew, quilt or embroider? Take a look at the innovative Brother machines available for purchase at Echidna Sewing. Wherever possible we will beat any deal and you will always receive ongoing service and support!
Find out more >
Learn to Sew or Embroider with Echidna Sewing
Come along to our fun-filled classes to learn more about sewing, embroidery and crafting. Classes cater for all skill levels, whether you're just starting out or already have advanced knowledge.
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Echidna project material/ fabric requirements are an indication only and can seem to be generous. This has been intentional. Should you make a cutting or embroidery mistake you will have sufficient fabric to rectify your error.
