Are you eager to create eye-catching sublimation prints on t-shirts? Then you’ll need a dye sublimation printer to get the job done.
But how do you choose the right printer for sublimation?
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
In this blog post, I’ll reveal the top 7 sublimation printers for t-shirts, 3 printers that just won’t cut it for sublimation, and handy buying tips to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
Let’s dive in!
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What Does a Sublimation Printer Do?
These specialized printers utilize sublimation ink, which transforms into gas when heated, seamlessly transferring your design onto the fabric.
This technique produces long-lasting, high-quality prints that’ll make your t-shirts stand out.
Printers that DO Work for Sublimation
- Sawgrass Virtuoso SG 1000
- Epson SureColor F 570
- Brother MFC-J995DW
- Epson EcoTank ET-2760
- Epson Artisan
- Epson Stylus C
- Epson WorkForce WF-7720
Printers that DON’T Work for Sublimation
- Canon PIXMA MG – The Canon Pixma series are thermal printers and can’t be converted into a sublimation printer. I’ve got the MG3650 and it’s great for printing documents but don’t try to use it to sublimate shirts.
- Canon PIXMA G – Once again, this is part of the Pixma series and is not capable of doing sublimation printing.
- Canon SELPHY CP 1300 – This wireless compact printer is best for printing small photos (4 x 6 inches) for mobile events.
1. Sawgrass SG1000
The Sawgrass SG 1000 is an ideal printer for growing businesses, offering pro-level print consistency and versatile dimensions. It prints up to 11″ x 17″ with the standard tray and is compatible with SG800 accessories for larger media sizes. The printer features:
- Wifi Capability
- Backlit LCD Screen
- Two-Year Warranty
Like all Sawgrass printers, the SG1000 performs its own automatic maintenance cycle for trouble-free printing. It is perfect for producing high-volume small products or larger personalized items.
2. Epson SureColor PRO F570
The Epson SureColor F 570 offers a wide format printer option that can handle various materials and print sizes. It has a built-in cutter, and it comes with a software bundle for editing and printing. This printer is great for small business owners looking to create large quantities of sublimation prints.
3. Brother MFC-J995DW
The Brother MFC-J995DW is a multifunctional printer that can handle sublimation printing. It uses standard inkjet printer technology with dye-sublimation ink to produce vibrant colors. This printer model is a good choice for those who want a printer that can also handle regular print jobs.
4. Epson EcoTank ET-2760
The Epson EcoTank ET-2760 is the updated version of the Epson EcoTank ET-2720. Like all Eco tanks, it saves you up to 90% with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges. If you print in high quality, you’ll find that the printer uses more ink, but you’ll still have so much left over. In the long run, it actually saves you money on ink. It gives quality sublimation prints that look really good.
5. Epson Artisan 1430
Epson Artisan printers are known for their high resolution and excellent print quality. They offer a great option for small businesses and personal use. They are a fantastic choice for crafting sublimation prints on a wide range of materials, such as t-shirts for adults, kids, and babies. Equipped with six ink cartridges, this printer generates top-notch prints boasting vivid colors. It’s an excellent fit for small business owners aiming to diversify their product lineup. The Epson Artisan series is a solid choice for sublimation printing.
6. Epson Stylus C
Epson Stylus C printers are reliable and offer good print quality, they can be converted for sublimation printing. But they have been known to use a lot of ink. With a compact design and ease of use, the Epson Stylus C series is an ideal choice for home use if you’re not going to use a lot of ink at one time.
7. Epson WorkForce WF-7720
The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 is a versatile printer that can handle a wide range of tasks. You can convert it to be able to work for sublimation printing by replacing the cartridges with sublimation ink bottles. With features like a high-capacity paper tray, large format printing, and high-quality images, this printer is perfect for beginner sublimation businesses that want to produce a variety of products.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sublimation printer for your needs can be a challenge, but with this list of the best sublimation printers and a few to avoid, you’ll be on your way to creating high-quality prints in no time.
Remember to consider factors like print quality, connectivity options, and ease of use when making your decision.
FAQ
Sublimation printing uses heat to transfer dye onto materials, while screen printing uses a stencil and ink to create the design. Sublimation is best for polyester and other synthetic materials, while screen printing works well on natural fibers like cotton.
No, you need a printer specifically designed for sublimation or a printer that can be converted for sublimation by using sublimation ink.
Polyester and other synthetic materials are best for sublimation printing, as they can withstand the high heat required for the process.
Yes, a heat press machine is necessary to apply the high heat and pressure required for the sublimation process.
