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Customised Dye-Sub Puzzle
Turn your creativity into a hands-on keepsake with this easy and rewarding sublimation project. In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to create a vibrant personalised puzzle using our 19cm x 24cm Glossy Cardboard Puzzle — perfect as a unique gift, a display piece, or an engaging activity for kids and adults alike.
For this project we’ll be using our Underwater Echidna design, featuring a snorkling Echidna. This artwork is free with any dye-sub blank purchase from Echidna. However, you can also use your own artwork or photos—just ensure it’s sized correctly for the puzzle blank and prepared for sublimation printing. How to access provided artwork →
Whether you're creating a one-of-a-kind gift, a fun activity, or a meaningful keepsake, this puzzle project is a fantastic introduction to dye sublimation.
What you will need:
- Sublimation Printer & Inks (Sawgrass, Brother SP1)
- Sublimation Transfer Paper
- 19cm x 24cm Glossy Cardboard Puzzle
- 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 Underwater Echidna artwork. This design is included free with any dye-sub blank purchase from Echidna.
Formats included: PNG / PDF (A4 & Letter Size), suitable for 19cm x 24cm Glossy Cardboard Puzzle
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 19cm x 24cm Glossy Cardboard Puzzle Blank:
- Preheat your press to 190°C - 200°C
- Time: 60 seconds
- Pressure: Medium
- Print your design
Use the PDF template provided by Echidna, which is specifically designed to suit the 19cm x 24cm Glossy Cardboard Puzzle 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 puzzle
Carefully remove the puzzle from its plastic cover, keeping the backing card in place at the back to help hold the pieces together during handling. Clean the surface with a lint roller to remove any dust or debris that could affect the transfer. Avoid using a brand-new lint roller sheet, as it may be too sticky and could lift out individual puzzle pieces.
- Position the print ontop of your puzzle
Lay the puzzle (with the backing card still behind it) face up on your work surface. Then place your printed design face down on top of the puzzle, roughly aligning it so it covers the entire surface.
- Flip the puzzle and print
While holding both the puzzle and printed design together, gently flip the entire assembly so the printed design is now on the bottom and the puzzle is upside down on top.
- Tape the design
Use the alignment rectangle on the template to help you position the design accurately. Ensure the puzzle stays neatly within the rectangle, then secure the edges of the printed sheet to the back of the puzzle with heat-resistant tape. This will help prevent shifting during pressing and ensure a crisp, clean transfer.
- Place puzzle on heat press
Lay the taped puzzle with the paper face up (printed side facing the heating element).
- Place protective sheet and press
Place a second protective sheet over the puzzle 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 puzzle from the press and let it cool fully before handling.
- Enjoy your personalised creation!
Put the puzzle together and admire your personalised design! Use it as a fun activity, frame it for display, or gift it as a meaningful keepsake.
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.
Find out more >
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.
