What Kind of Printer is Needed for Sublimation?
Find out what kind of printer is needed for sublimation printing. Learn about the best printer models and features to look for to get the best results.
What kind of printer is needed for sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing requires a specialized printer that uses sublimation ink to transfer designs onto materials with heat. These printers are usually modified inkjet printers and cannot be used for standard printing afterward. The best sublimation printers in 2023-24 include:
- Sawgrass SG1000: This is the most expensive and professional sublimation printer. It can print up to A3 size and has a high print of 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution. It also comes with software that helps you create and manage your designs.
- Epson SureColor F170: This is a more affordable option that can print up to A4 size and has a print of 1200 x 600 dpi resolution. It has refillable ink tanks with four bottles of sublimation ink (C, M, Y, K). It is easy to use and environmentally friendly.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This is another budget-friendly option that can print up to A4 size and has a print of 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution . It also has refillable ink tanks with two years of ink. It has great print quality and quick and easy connectivity from most devices.
Our top Pick Product selection
If you are interested in buying a sublimation printer from Amazon, you can check out the following products:
- Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG500 Sublimation Color Printer Starter Bundle: This includes the printer, inks, sublimation paper, tape, blanks, designs, and access to exclusive content. It costs $629.99 and has a 4.5-star rating from 191 reviews.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer: This printer has a cartridge-free design that saves you money on ink. It also has scan and copy functions and wireless connectivity. It costs $199.99 and has a 4.5-star rating from 3,511 reviews.
- Epson WorkForce WF-7720 Wireless Wide-format Color Inkjet Printer: This printer can print up to 13″ x 19″ and has scan, copy fax, and ADF functions. It also has two paper trays, automatic duplex printing, and wireless connectivity. It costs $299.99 and has a 4-star rating from 2,506 reviews.
How does sublimation printing work?
Sublimation printing uses heat to turn ink into a gas, bonding with the material you want to print on. The material must be polyester or have a special polyester coating for the ink to bond correctly. This is why you see sublimation mainly printing on items like mugs, mousepads, and shirts made of synthetic materials.
Sublimation printers typically have four different ink cartridges,
- Cyan
- Magenta
- Yellow
- Black
That allow for a wide range of color combinations. The main difference between a standard inkjet printer and a sublimation printer is that the latter uses heat to transfer the ink onto the substrate material.
What are the benefits of sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing offers a lot of benefits over other types of printing. The colors are vibrant and long-lasting, the images are crisp and clear, and you can print on various materials. Plus, because the ink is embedded in the material, it won’t peel or fade over time.
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What other equipment is needed for sublimation printing?
1. Heat Press
In addition to a sublimation printer, you’ll also need a heat press. A heat press is a machine that uses heat and pressure to transfer the sublimation ink from the paper onto the substrate. Different heat presses include clamshell, swing-away, and multi-function presses.
2. Sublimation Paper
You’ll also need sublimation paper, which is a special kind of paper that’s designed to work with sublimation ink. The paper has a special coating that helps the ink transfer to the substrate more effectively.
3. Sublimation Ink
Finally, you’ll need sublimation ink. This is a special kind of ink designed to turn into a gas when heated, allowing it to bond with the substrate. It’s essential to use high-quality sublimation ink to get the best results.
Tips for choosing the right printer for sublimation
- Look for a printer that’s designed specifically for sublimation printing.
- Consider the print quality and resolution.
- Think about the size of the printer and the types of materials you’ll be printing on.
- Look for a printer compatible with the sublimation ink and paper you plan to use.
How to set up a sublimation printer
- Install the printer drivers and software.
- Install the sublimation ink cartridges.
- Load the sublimation paper into the printer.
- Adjust the printer settings as needed.
- Print the design onto the sublimation paper.
- Heat press the design onto the substrate.
Explore the world of sublimation and printers with Subli Genius Print comprehensive guide, for more information or How-To-Guide.
Final Words:
Sublimation printing is a fun and creative way to personalize various items. You can create high-quality, long-lasting prints by choosing the correct printer and equipment to delight you and your customers. So don’t be afraid to give it a try!
While there is a learning curve, sublimation printing is not overly difficult to learn with practice and patience. Further Reading Sources: What is Sublimation Printing and How Does it Work?
