A faint second outline beside sublimated text can be introduced during transfer even when the digital image has one clean edge. Investigate relative movement between the transfer paper and substrate. This is different from mirroring the image twice or a doubled face already present in an AI result. Check the file, paper and finished object as three separate stages.
Find the first double edge
Open the source artwork and inspect a thin line or readable word. Then examine the actual printed transfer before pressing. If the second outline is already on the paper, investigate printing rather than blame press removal. If it appears only on the finished surface, the transfer operation deserves closer review.
Record substrate, paper, heat press and fastening method. A double image can have several causes, so movement is a hypothesis to test, not a conclusion from any blurry print. Note whether the duplicate has a consistent small offset and whether its direction fits how the paper might have shifted.
Stabilize the supported transfer setup
Sawgrass's reference heat-press table includes transfer fastening and a protective sheet in its polyester-fabric guidance to avoid ghosting. It also says the table is a starting point and that substrate-manufacturer instructions matter. Do not use its fabric settings as a universal mug, tile or metal-panel recipe.
Use the fastening and removal method approved for the actual substrate and system. Arrange the sample so the paper cannot slide casually during placement or release. Keep the source layout and orientation unchanged while testing movement. Increasing image sharpness does not prevent a second physical exposure from landing beside the first.
Plan a controlled small proof
This is a reproducible test plan, not a tested sublimation repair. Prepare a small design with a word, a directional mark and a thin border. Verify that the digital master and printed paper each contain one version. Apply it to a supported spare blank using the documented settings and stable transfer handling.
Compare the finished edges with the paper and retain both. Record the fastening method and removal observations. If the duplicate remains, investigate the press and material route rather than assume any stronger tape is acceptable. Changing time, temperature, ink profile and fastening at once prevents a useful causal comparison.
Acceptance for photo keepsakes
Require a single intended outline, readable wording and preserved photo details on the final viewing side. A correct mirror orientation remains necessary where the workflow requires it, but orientation alone does not establish freedom from ghosting. Check edges around contrasting facial and clothing details as well as the test text.
Keep the approved print and transfer record before a full-size run. Imagild may supply the image artwork; the heat-transfer process is external. If the file is clean, avoid generating a new portrait solely to conceal a defect that began during pressing. Describe an unexecuted proof as a plan and an actual result only when it has been observed.