Sublimation printing is a popular method for creating vibrant and durable prints on various items, such as fabrics, mugs, and phone cases. If you’re a beginner looking to venture into sublimation printing, choosing the right printer is crucial. In this article, we will explore the best sublimation printers suitable for beginners and provide essential tips to get started.
Benefits of Sublimation Printing:
Sublimation printing offers several advantages that make it an attractive choice for beginners:
- Vibrant and Long-Lasting Prints:
- Sublimation printing produces vivid, high-resolution prints that resist fading, making them durable and long-lasting.
- The colors penetrate the fabric or coating, resulting in images that won’t crack or peel over time.
- Versatility and Customization:
- Sublimation printers allow you to print on a wide range of products, including garments, home decor items, and promotional merchandise.
- Customization options are virtually limitless, enabling you to create personalized designs with ease.
- Professional-Quality Output:
- Sublimation printers deliver professional-quality prints that rival those produced by commercial printing services.
- The level of detail and color accuracy achieved with sublimation printing is impressive, making it ideal for creative projects.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Sublimation Printer:
Before purchasing a sublimation printer, consider the following factors to ensure you make an informed decision:
- Printer Type:
- Sublimation printers come in different types, such as inkjet printers or all-in-one units. Choose a printer that suits your specific needs and workspace.
- Print Size and Resolution:
- Determine the maximum print size you require and ensure the printer supports it.
- Higher resolutions provide sharper details and better color accuracy, so opt for a printer with a high DPI (dots per inch) capability.
- Connectivity and Compatibility:
- Check if the printer offers the necessary connectivity options, such as USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet, to connect with your computer or mobile devices.
- Ensure the printer is compatible with your operating system and design software.
- Ink System and Cartridges:
- Sublimation printers use specialized sublimation inks. Consider the type of ink system and cartridges the printer utilizes.
- Some printers use individual ink cartridges for each color, allowing cost-effective replacement when a specific color runs out.
- Price and Budget:
- Set a budget for your sublimation printer and consider the ongoing costs of ink and paper. Balance your requirements with the available budget.
Best Sublimation Printer for Beginners
1. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Overall
$599.99
Save: 100
- Print, Copy, Scan, Fax
- EcoTank Pro Cartridge-Free Ink System
- Print Resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
- Maximum Print Size: 13 x 19″
- Maximum Scan Size: 8.5 x 14″
- 2.7″ Color Touchscreen
- 250-Sheet Input Tray & 35-Sheet ADF
- USB 2.0, Wi-Fi & Ethernet Connectivity
Everyone agrees that this printer is one of the best choices for sublimation work. It is one of the first things people suggest to people who are new to this field because it works well and is one of the first choices. People often call it a “all-in-one” printer because it works with both inkjet printing and dye sublimation printing.
Epson made a printer that is 22.7 inches tall, 17.6 inches wide, and 13 inches deep. It weighs 27.5 pounds. The default color on this printer is white, and to be honest, it looks great wherever you put it.
Because of how well the printer is made, it will last you a long time, just like every other Epson printer.
The EcoTank ET-15000 has a 2.7-inch touchscreen that we use to connect with it. It works perfectly and very correctly!
The sheets that this printer makes are 11 by 17 inches, which means that they are big enough to be used in any way and at any time. You can also print on papers or pictures that are 13 by 19 inches, and the printer can hold up to 250 sheets of paper. If you prefer smaller print sizes, on the other hand, you can copy and scan papers that are 8.5 inches by 14 inches with this printer.
You won’t want to get rid of this printer even if it costs you everything you own because the colors and quality of the prints are so good.
This printer also works with WiFi, and it has the fastest printing speed of any printer on the market right now. This printer works with all kinds of computers and desktop PCs, so you can use it with any of them.
2. Sawgrass SG500 – Best Runner-Up
Sawgrass is another great business that focuses on making sublimation printers. When talking about sublimation in general, they can’t be left out of the conversation because they sell the best printers that can be found anywhere else.
The SG500 is 22 inches long, 21.6 inches wide, and 13.2 inches high. It weighs 27.2 pounds. The printer is white, and I can promise that it is the best-looking printer you will ever see. I can say that with confidence. It looks great wherever you decide to put it!
Epson printers are known to last a long time, and this one is no different. You don’t have to worry about it at all! It is without question one of the best-built printers Sawgrass has ever made.
This is a printer that you have to run by hand! There are buttons on the front of this device, and you don’t have to worry about them not working because they do. This doesn’t mean that all other touchscreen gadgets are also automatic.
You can easily print 110 sheets that are 8.5 inches wide and 11 inches tall, and you can also print 330 sheets that are 8.5 inches tall and 8.5 inches wide.
Everything you print with this printer looks great and is clear. You can use this sublimation printer for whatever you need it for.
This printer can link with any electronic device because it uses a WiFi connection. This includes cell phones, tablets, desktop computers, laptops, and anything else that can connect to the internet via WiFi.
3. Epson WorkForce WF-7210
$528.99
Save: 41
- Wide-Format Printing
- Max Paper Size: 13 x 19″
- Max Print Resolution: 4800 x 2400 dpi
- Print Speed: 25 ppm Black / 12 ppm Color
- 2 x 250-Sheet Input Trays
- 2.4″ Color Touchscreen
- USB, Ethernet & Wi-Fi
- ENERGY STAR Certified & RoHS Compliant
We are about to set up another Epson printer, but this time we will use a different type. It’s called the WorkForce, and it does a great job of sublimation whenever it’s needed. It is also an inkjet printer, but once you learn how to use the dye-sublimation feature, you will find that it is more than enough.
This printer, which is 31.8 inches by 22.3 inches by 12.7 inches and weighs 32.8 pounds, deserves a special place in your office or at home. That could be a problem for people who are moving, but since the sublimation process is done by so many people in the same place, there is no problem.
The way the printer is put together is top-notch. It can handle sudden things that might happen, and like the one we talked about earlier, almost all Epson printers are long-lasting and strong.
The LCD touch screen on the WorkForce WF-2800 is 2.2 inches in size. This screen works better than you could think, and it’s easy to move around because of how it’s made.
Almost everywhere you look, it says that this Epson printer can make any kind of wide-format print. This printer can make prints that are 13 inches by 19 inches, and one of its unique features is that it can print on both sides of the paper. This printer can handle up to 500 sheets at once, which is a huge amount.
The printer works with WiFi, USB, and NFC (near-field connection) technologies. In a word, this printer works with everything you might need and everything you might already have.
This printer’s ability to make prints with perfect color reproduction is definitely something that should be said about it. Everything is shown to you in perfect detail, just as it looks on whatever device you’re using.
4. Epson EcoTank ET-2800
$199.99
Save: 80
- Print, Copy, Scan
- EcoTank Cartridge-Free Ink System
- Black Print Speed: 10 ppm
- Color Print Speed: 5 ppm
- Print Resolution: 5760 x 1440 dpi
- Maximum Print Size: 8.5 x 47.2″
- Flatbed Scan Area: 8.5 x 11.7″
- Printing from Smartphones & Tablets
- 100-Sheet Input Tray
- USB 2.0 and Wi-Fi Connectivity
Epson is a well-known company that makes many different kinds of printers. Those made by this brand give you the guarantee that they will do their jobs right! Even though it is an inkjet printer, when you use dye sublimation with this printer, the sublimations will be the best you have ever seen.
This printer is 22.8 inches tall, 14.8 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, and it weighs 11.97 pounds. Even though it’s pretty big, I don’t think you’ll need to move it once you’ve put it where it belongs. It comes in the color white.
The printer is put together very well. Epson promises that if you buy the EcoTank ET-2800, you will be able to do whatever you want for a very long time. This shows that it is a long-lasting piece of printing tools.
To use this printer, you will need to find your way around the buttons that are in front of it. They are right on, and there are no problems with how they work. As it should be, to the letter.
You can print the paper in many different ways! It gives you regular paper, as well as picture paper with a glossy finish and envelopes. It comes in 2.2 x 3.4-inch, 4 x 6-inch, 5 x 7-inch, A4 sheet, and A6 paper sizes. You can also choose a size between 8.5 inches by 47.2 inches and 2.2 inches by 3.4 inches. The better job you’ll get, the more choices you have.
When it comes to connecting this printer to your other devices, you have two choices. It can also connect to USB and WiFi networks. The WiFi is pretty accurate, and it can connect to many different kinds of gadgets.
Everything you print with this one will be of a very good quality that you can enjoy.
Tips for Getting Started with Sublimation Printing:
To ensure a smooth start with sublimation printing, follow these helpful tips:
- Gather the Necessary Supplies:
- Besides a sublimation printer, you’ll need sublimation ink, transfer paper, and the items you wish to print on (e.g., fabrics, mugs, or phone cases).
- Prepare Your Design and Image Files:
- Create or obtain high-resolution designs and image files compatible with the printer software.
- Use design software to adjust colors, resize images, and add any desired text or graphics.
- Test and Calibrate Your Printer:
- Before printing on your final products, perform test prints to ensure color accuracy and proper image transfer.
- Calibrate your printer settings according to the specific sublimation ink and paper you’re using.
- Transfer Process and Heat Pressing:
- Use a heat press machine to transfer the sublimation ink from the paper to your chosen item.
- Follow the recommended time, temperature, and pressure settings to achieve optimal results.
- Finishing and Post-Processing:
- After heat pressing, remove the transfer paper and allow the printed item to cool completely.
- Depending on the item, additional steps like cutting, sewing, or coating may be required for a finished product.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing is a process where heat and pressure are used to transfer sublimation inks onto various items, creating vibrant and durable prints.
Can I use a regular printer for sublimation printing?
No, sublimation printing requires specialized sublimation printers that can handle the sublimation ink and transfer process.
What materials can I print on using a sublimation printer?
Sublimation printing is commonly used on polyester or polyester-blend fabrics, mugs, phone cases, and other items with a special sublimation coating.
How long does a sublimation print last?
Sublimation prints are known for their longevity and resistance to fading. With proper care, they can maintain their vibrancy for many years.
Is sublimation printing suitable for small-scale or home-based businesses?
Yes, sublimation printing can be a great option for small-scale or home-based businesses, as it allows for customization and the production of high-quality prints.
Can I use a regular inkjet printer for sublimation printing?
No, sublimation printing requires specialized sublimation inks and printers capable of handling the sublimation process.
How do I choose the right sublimation ink for my printer?
Choose sublimation inks specifically formulated for your printer model to ensure optimal performance and color vibrancy.
Is sublimation printing cost-effective for beginners?
Sublimation printing can be cost-effective in the long run, considering the quality and durability of the prints. However, initial setup costs and ongoing expenses should be considered.
Can I print on any type of fabric with a sublimation printer?
Sublimation printing works best on polyester or polyester-blend fabrics. Natural fibers like cotton may not yield the same vibrant results.
What maintenance is required for sublimation printers?
Regular maintenance includes printhead cleaning, replacing cartridges or ink bags, and keeping the printer and workspace clean to prevent ink contamination.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best sublimation printer for beginners is crucial to ensure quality prints and a smooth printing experience. Consider factors like printer type, print size, connectivity, and budget when making your selection.
Remember to gather the necessary supplies, prepare your designs, and follow proper printing and heat pressing techniques for optimal results. With the right printer and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning sublimation prints.
