Sublimation printing is the latest craze in the crafting world, and for good reason! Sublimation printers empower you to transfer vibrant, full-color, and intricate designs onto a wide array of items. These amazing machines utilize specialized inks and heat to produce high-resolution prints on heat-resistant paper. This ink then transforms into a gas and permanently infuses itself into materials like polyester fabrics and coated ceramics, creating stunning, durable designs perfect for personalized t-shirts, mugs, and countless other projects. While products like Cricut Infusible Ink offer pre-printed sublimation sheets, investing in the best sublimation printer opens up a world of custom design possibilities, allowing for truly unique and high-quality creations.
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Many crafters are seeking guidance on selecting the ideal sublimation printer. This comprehensive guide and accompanying video are designed to address all your questions and help you choose the perfect dye-sublimation printer to match your crafting aspirations.
Jennifer Maker showcasing the Epson EcoTank printer converted for sublimation, highlighting it as a top choice for crafting.
Understanding Sublimation Printing: How Does It Work?
Sublimation printing is a specialized method that replicates high-definition, full-color designs using unique sublimation ink. This ink is printed onto special sublimation paper and then, through the application of heat and pressure, permanently transfers the design onto objects with compatible coatings. These coatings are designed to bond with sublimation inks, commonly found on polyester t-shirts or specially coated ceramic mugs.
Once the sublimation process is complete and the item cools, the design becomes an integral part of the object. This means it won’t crack, peel, or fade away, even after washing. With a sublimation printer and a heat press, you can adorn shirts, bags, mugs, and countless other items with breathtaking, full-color designs that last.
The vibrant shirt pictured below showcases a sublimation ink design transferred using a converted Epson EcoTank 2720 printer, demonstrating the quality achievable with home sublimation setups.
Can Any Printer Be Used for Sublimation?
No, sublimation printing requires specific equipment. You’ll need either a dedicated sublimation printer or a converted inkjet printer, along with specialized sublimation ink and sublimation transfer paper. Regular inkjet ink and standard paper are not compatible with the sublimation process. The magic of sublimation relies on the unique properties of sublimation ink and paper working in tandem.
Top Sublimation Printer Recommendations
When it comes to desktop sublimation printers, you have two main avenues to explore: purpose-built sublimation printers and converted inkjet printers. Each option presents a trade-off between cost, quality, and support.
Purpose-Built Sublimation Printers:
These printers are designed specifically for sublimation and generally offer superior print quality and manufacturer support. The most recognized brands in this category are Sawgrass printers. Popular models include:
- Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500: The latest iteration of the SG400, this printer is renowned for its reliability and high-resolution output, ideal for professional-quality sublimation.
- Sawgrass SG1000: An upgrade from the SG800, the SG1000 offers enhanced features and performance, making it suitable for businesses and serious crafters demanding the best results and larger print sizes.
Another noteworthy purpose-built option is the Epson SureColor F170 Dye Sublimation Printer. As a newer entrant to the market, it’s engineered specifically for dye sublimation inks. However, its availability can be limited, and it’s often harder to find in stock compared to Sawgrass models.
Converted Inkjet Printers:
Converting an inkjet printer, particularly an Epson EcoTank, is a more budget-friendly approach to sublimation. While potentially sacrificing some print quality and official support, it provides an accessible entry point into sublimation printing. The Epson EcoTank series is favored for conversions due to its tank system, which is easily adaptable to sublimation inks. Top EcoTank models for conversion include:
- Epson EcoTank 15000: Highly regarded for its ability to handle larger print sizes, making it perfect for projects requiring expansive designs.
- Epson EcoTank 2800 (and 28xx Series): A popular choice due to its affordability, offering a cost-effective way to start sublimation printing.
- Epson EcoTank ET 3760 & ET 4760: These models are also viable for conversion and have been successfully used by many crafters.
The primary distinction between Sawgrass and converted Epson printers lies in print quality and customer support. Sawgrass printers are engineered for high print resolution and come with dedicated customer support for sublimation-related issues. Conversely, converting an Epson printer voids the manufacturer’s warranty, and support for sublimation-related problems becomes the user’s responsibility.
Important Note: Printer conversion is undertaken at your own risk. Manufacturers’ warranties are voided upon conversion. JenniferMaker.com and its representatives cannot be held responsible for any damage, malfunction, or voided warranties resulting from printer conversions. By choosing to convert an Epson EcoTank printer, you accept full responsibility for the outcome.
Determining the “Best” Printer for Your Needs
The “best” sublimation printer is subjective and hinges on your individual needs, budget, and intended use. For hobbyists and crafters pursuing sublimation for personal projects or occasional use, a converted Epson EcoTank printer often strikes an ideal balance between cost and capability. Its affordability makes it a fantastic entry point for exploring sublimation without a significant financial commitment.
However, for small business owners and those planning to integrate sublimation into their commercial offerings, purpose-built Sawgrass printers may be a more prudent investment. Their enhanced print quality, reliability, and dedicated support can be crucial for professional applications. Wide-format sublimation printers, such as the Sawgrass SG1000 or Epson Artisan 1430, cater to those needing to produce larger prints for items like banners or large apparel designs.
Considering all factors, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 often stands out as the top choice for the best sublimation printer, particularly if budget allows for the investment in premium quality and support.
Sublimation Printer Setup: Ease of Use Comparison
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Budget-Friendly Sublimation Printing: The Cheapest Options
While Sawgrass sublimation printers represent a higher-end investment, entering the world of sublimation affordably is absolutely achievable. The most economical approach involves using a new Epson EcoTank printer combined with sublimation ink. The Epson ET 2620 is frequently cited as the most budget-friendly EcoTank model suitable for conversion. JenniferMaker team member Vicki utilizes an Epson EcoTank ET-2630, demonstrating the effectiveness of these cost-conscious conversions.
Epson Eco-Tank ET-2720, a cost-effective choice, converted for sublimation printing in a crafter's workspace.
When acquiring your Epson EcoTank printer (regardless of the specific model), it will come with standard inkjet ink. This ink is not for sublimation and should not be used. You can save or sell the included ink. To convert the printer, simply fill the ink tanks with your specialized sublimation ink instead of the provided inkjet ink. This simple ink replacement is the primary step in converting an Epson EcoTank into a low-cost sublimation printer.
Crucial Reminder: Always start with a new Epson EcoTank printer for conversion. Attempting to convert a used EcoTank that has previously used inkjet ink is not recommended. The EcoTank’s ink tank system makes it difficult to completely remove residual inkjet ink, which can compromise sublimation print quality. For optimal results, begin with a fresh, unused Epson EcoTank.
Helpful Tip: Sublimation ink typically comes with syringes for easy tank filling. Exercise caution not to overfill the tanks. Monitor the ink levels through the printer’s front panel and stop filling before the ink reaches the overflow point.
Printer Conversion Compatibility: Which Printers Can Be Converted?
Not all printers are suitable for sublimation conversion. The Epson EcoTank series is the most widely recommended and user-friendly for conversion. Other less common, but convertible, printers include the Brother MFC-J995DW and the Mitsubishi CP-K60DW (formerly CP-D70DW), which is a small-format photo printer. While the Mitsubishi offers high photo quality, its limited print size makes it less versatile for general sublimation crafting. If small print sizes are acceptable, the Canon Selphy CP1300 wireless is another affordable option that can be adapted for sublimation ink.
Note: While Epson Workforce WF-7710 printers have been used for sublimation conversion, they are becoming less readily available as they are being phased out. Furthermore, finding new refillable cartridges for Workforce models can be challenging. Due to these factors and the syringe-based ink filling process, Workforce printers are not generally recommended for sublimation conversion, especially for beginners.
Important: Once a printer is converted to sublimation ink, the original manufacturer’s warranty is void. The printer is then dedicated to sublimation printing and cannot be reverted to a standard inkjet printer.
Ink Requirements for Converted Sublimation Printers
For converted Epson EcoTank inkjet printers, you must use refillable ink cartridges designed for your specific printer model and, most importantly, sublimation ink compatible with your machine. Always double-check that you are ordering and using sublimation ink before adding it to your printer. Reputable sublimation ink brands include Hiipoo Sublimation Ink, Printer’s Jack, and Cosmos Sublimation Ink, all of which have been tested and found reliable by many crafters.
Recommended Sublimation Transfer Paper Brands
A-Sub sublimation paper is a highly favored brand known for its excellent performance and consistent, high-quality image transfers. Similar to other crafting materials like vinyl, experimenting with different sublimation paper brands is encouraged to discover your personal preference and the paper that yields the best results for your specific projects.
The Sublimation Transfer Process: Applying Prints to Crafts
Sublimation transfer is activated by heat. When sublimation transfer paper, printed with sublimation ink, is heated and pressed onto a polyester-coated item, the ink transitions from a solid to a gaseous state. In this gaseous form, the ink permeates the polyester coating of the base material. As the item cools, the sublimation ink reverts to a solid state, becoming permanently embedded within the material.
Jennifer using the Cricut EasyPress 2 to apply heat to a black tote bag, demonstrating the heat press step in sublimation.
Heat Press and Heat Source Compatibility for Sublimation
Sublimation projects typically require temperatures ranging from 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit (177-204 degrees Celsius). A standard household iron is not capable of reaching or maintaining these temperatures consistently, making it unsuitable for sublimation. However, the Cricut EasyPress and similar heat presses are fully compatible with sublimation projects, providing the necessary controlled heat and pressure for successful transfers. For detailed guidance on temperature, time, and pressure settings for various sublimation projects, refer to dedicated sublimation heat press setting guides.
Versatile Creations with Sublimation Printers
Sublimation printing unlocks a vast array of creative possibilities. You can produce full-color, high-resolution designs, including photographic images, suitable for transfer onto:
- Polyester T-shirts and apparel
- Mugs and drinkware
- Home décor items
- Promotional products
- And virtually any item constructed from polyester fabrics or coated with a sublimation-receptive polymer.
The adorable polyester shirts shown below, created by team member Vicki using designs printed on an Epson EcoTank 2720 sublimation printer, exemplify the vibrant and professional-looking results achievable with sublimation.
Sublimation on T-shirts: Material Matters
For optimal sublimation results on t-shirts, the fabric must have a polyester content of at least 60% or higher. Higher polyester percentages yield more vibrant and color-rich images. A 100% polyester t-shirt will produce the most vivid and true-to-design sublimation transfer.
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Sublimation Blanks: Are They Essential?
Sublimation blanks are pre-coated items specifically designed to withstand the high temperatures of sublimation pressing and readily accept sublimation inks. However, one of sublimation’s advantages is its adaptability. Any item with a poly-coating or composed of at least 50% polyester and capable of withstanding high heat can likely be used for sublimation. Popular examples of readily available, non-blank items suitable for sublimation include:
- 100% polyester rugs and umbrellas from home improvement stores.
- 100% polyester makeup bags from dollar stores.
- 100% polyester blankets from general retailers.
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Light Sublimation Prints Before Pressing: Is This Normal?
It’s perfectly normal for sublimation prints to appear somewhat light or muted when they come out of the printer. The colors will dramatically intensify and become vibrant and crisp during the heat pressing process. Don’t be concerned by the initial lightness of the printed image; the heat activation is key to achieving the final, vivid result.
Sublimation Image Durability: Will Colors Fade After Washing?
No, sublimation prints are remarkably durable and resistant to fading. The colors will remain as vibrant as the day they were pressed, even after repeated washing. Because the ink is infused into the material’s fibers, it becomes a permanent part of the item, unlike surface applications like screen printing or heat transfer vinyl.
Color Limitations: Can Sublimation Be Used on Dark Materials?
Sublimation ink is inherently transparent. Therefore, it works best on white, light gray, and pastel-colored base materials. The color of the base material will subtly influence the final printed color. Importantly, sublimation printers cannot print the color white. If your design incorporates white elements that need to remain white, you must use a white sublimation blank or a white garment.
Sublimation on Glitter and Flocked HTV: Expanding Possibilities
Yes! Sublimation can be successfully applied on top of white glitter heat transfer vinyl (HTV). This technique opens up possibilities for adding shimmer and sparkle to sublimation designs. Similarly, sublimation on white flocked HTV creates a soft, matte finish. These methods offer creative solutions for sublimating on cotton and darker-colored fabrics, which are not directly compatible with standard sublimation. [Reference to a tutorial on sublimating on cotton and dark shirts is in the original article, which will be generalized in the rewritten version without direct linking.]
Sublimation Blank Examples: Project Inspiration
The range of sublimation blanks is extensive, offering endless project opportunities. Just a few examples include:
- Door signs
- Earrings
- Mousepads
- Luggage tags
- Passport holders
- Bags
The white wood round shown below, sublimated with a magical unicorn design by team member Jen, illustrates the beautiful results achievable on sublimation blanks.
A magical unicorn design vividly sublimated onto a white wood round sign, showcasing the potential of sublimation on blanks.
Sublimating Photos on Canvas: Personalizing Home Décor
Yes, you can sublimate photos onto canvas! This is a wonderful way to create personalized canvas prints. However, canvas is typically not polyester and therefore needs a polyester coating applied first to become sublimation-receptive. For optimal pressing, it’s recommended to remove the canvas from its wooden frame before applying heat. This ensures even pressure and a cleaner transfer. If removing the canvas is not feasible, using a pressing pillow or towel behind the canvas during pressing can help compensate for the frame and achieve better results.
Mirroring Designs for Sublimation Printing: A Necessary Step
Yes, mirroring your design before sublimation printing is essential, just like with iron-on and heat transfer vinyl projects. The mirrored image will transfer correctly onto your project once pressed. Forgetting to mirror is a common mistake, so double-checking this step before printing is always recommended.
Sublimating Tumblers: Creating Custom Drinkware
Absolutely! Sublimation tumblers are readily available and are specifically coated for sublimation. To transfer a sublimation print onto a tumbler, you’ll need either a tumbler press or a convection oven designed for sublimation. These tools provide the even heat distribution required for seamless, full-wrap tumbler designs. [Reference to a tumbler press comparison guide is in the original article, which will be generalized in the rewritten version.]
Butcher Paper for Sublimation: Why Is It Needed?
Butcher paper is crucial in sublimation projects to prevent ink from bleeding through the transfer paper and onto your heat press or other heat source. It acts as a protective barrier, absorbing any excess ink and ensuring clean transfers. It’s important to use fresh butcher paper for each press, as reusing butcher paper can lead to “ghosting,” where faint ink remnants transfer unintentionally. A large roll of butcher paper is a worthwhile investment for sublimation crafters. Freezer paper and wax paper are not suitable substitutes for butcher paper in sublimation.
Heat-Resistant Tape for Sublimation: Securing Transfers
Specialized heat-resistant tape is essential for securing your sublimation transfer paper to your project during pressing. This tape withstands high temperatures without melting or leaving residue and keeps the transfer paper from shifting, which can cause blurry or “ghosted” images. Using heat-resistant tape ensures sharp, precise sublimation transfers.
Weeding Sublimation Projects: Is It Required?
No, weeding is not required for sublimation projects! This is one of the significant advantages of sublimation compared to vinyl crafting. Once printed, the sublimation transfer is ready to be applied to your blank. There’s no need to remove any excess material, streamlining the crafting process. You simply print, position, and press!
Sublimation vs. Heat Transfer Vinyl (Iron-on Vinyl): Key Differences
Sublimation and heat transfer vinyl (HTV) are distinct decoration methods. In sublimation, the ink becomes embedded within the material at a molecular level, resulting in a permanent, seamless design that won’t crack, peel, or fade. HTV, on the other hand, is a material layer applied on top of the item’s surface. While HTV is versatile, it is susceptible to cracking, fading, or peeling over time, as it remains a separate layer on the material. Screen printing, similar to HTV, also applies ink as a layer on top of the object rather than embedding it like sublimation.
Sublimation Printing Disadvantages: Potential Drawbacks
While sublimation offers numerous benefits, there are a few limitations to consider:
- Color Compatibility: Sublimation ink’s transparency necessitates using white or light-colored base materials for the best color vibrancy. Darker base colors will distort the printed colors.
- Material Compatibility: Sublimation requires polyester or polyester-coated surfaces. Natural fibers like cotton are not directly compatible with sublimation unless pre-treated or used with specialized techniques like sublimating onto HTV. This can be a limitation for those who prefer crafting with natural materials.
- Printer Investment: Acquiring a sublimation printer, whether purpose-built or converted, represents an initial investment.
These are the primary drawbacks. However, for many crafters, the advantages of sublimation, such as durability, full-color detail, and no weeding, outweigh these limitations.
Sublimation Printer vs. Infusible Ink Sheets: Choosing the Right Option
Deciding between a sublimation printer and Cricut Infusible Ink sheets depends on your crafting needs and volume. If you desire the freedom to transfer your own custom designs and photos in full color with lasting durability, a sublimation printer is the ideal choice. The “worth” of a sublimation printer is tied to your anticipated usage. For frequent sublimation projects, especially for business or commercial purposes, a sublimation printer is a worthwhile investment.
However, for occasional projects or simpler designs, Cricut Infusible Ink sheets can be a convenient alternative. Infusible Ink eliminates the need for a printer altogether. You cut designs from the pre-colored Infusible Ink sheets using a cutting machine and then transfer them. This shirt design created with Infusible Ink sheets demonstrates the capabilities of this printer-free sublimation option.
A colorful Cricut T-shirt design made with Infusible Ink sheets, showcasing an alternative to sublimation printing.
Jennifer’s Sublimation Printer Setup: A Look at My Printers
As an avid sublimation crafter, I have several sublimation printers to suit different needs and project scales. My first sublimation printer was a converted Epson EcoTank-4760. I chose the 4760 over the 2720 primarily because I found it on sale and because it features a paper tray, unlike the rear paper feed of the 2720. Paper trays enhance efficiency and material handling, which I greatly appreciate. The 4760 also offers faster print speeds, a bonus for larger projects.
In addition to the EcoTank 4760, my sublimation printer collection includes an Epson EcoTank 2800, Sawgrass SG500, Sawgrass SG1000, Epson SureColor F170, and an Epson Workforce model. Each printer serves a specific purpose and allows me to tackle a wide range of sublimation projects.
Sublimation Printer Comparison: Side-by-Side Analysis
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Expanding Your Sublimation Knowledge: Further Resources
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I trust this comprehensive guide has illuminated the world of sublimation printers and aided you in selecting the best printer for your creative journey! For me, any tool that elevates our crafts and enriches our lives is a worthwhile pursuit!
Tip: [Link to an Amazon shopping list for sublimation supplies is included in the original article and will be generalized in the rewritten text.] Explore curated shopping lists for recommended sublimation printers and essential supplies to get started.
Happy sublimating!
JenniferMaker.com signature heart, a personal touch to the crafting guide.
