Do you want to start a sublimation printing business or are you an art enthusiast who wants to give a try to your curiosity and art? You are anyone from this. But I’m sure that if you don’t have a compatible printer then you won’t get the result you desire. But there is a big question mark in front of everyone. There are so many brands and products available in the market. How do I select the best for me? How do I know which is best for me?
Don’t worry! I’m here with 15+ years of experience with sublimation. Today in this article I’ll give you all-around information about the sublimation printer, why it is so important to choose the right one and all other important information related to it. So with that, let’s get started!
What is sublimation printing?
Sublimation Printing is the process of transferring a design onto the substrate (an item on which sublimation is done) with the heat effect. In this process, the design will be printed on the transfer paper with the help of a compatible printer. Then this print will wrap with the substrate and then heat is applied with the help of a heat press. The ink will be directly converted into the gaseous form from a solid state and stick to the substrate.
This printing is completely based on the chemical principle of sublimation. Hence it is named sublimation printing.
What does a sublimation printer do?
In the sublimation printing process, the printer plays a very small but important role. Let’s say you have something which you want to print. In that case, the sublimation printer prints that design onto the special transfer paper specifically used for the sublimation printing.
What kind of printer is ideal for sublimation printing?
Now you know about sublimation printing very well. You know that it is essential to have the best quality sublimation printer you have with you. But what kind of sublimation printer do you need? Please keep in mind the following criteria while selecting a sublimation printer and the criteria are:
- Please please always go with the sublimation printer or a converted inkjet printer for sublimation.
- Always use Special ink with a special paper designed for sublimation.
- My ideal choice is the Inkjet printer. Because it consists of heat-free piezoelectric printheads.
- A printer with a piezo printhead nozzle can pressurise sublimation ink and can be transferred on sublimation paper.
- It is your wrong decision if you’re using the thermal printer for your sublimation project. ‘
You may also check – What is a Sublimation Printer
Can I sublimate with any printer?
No, you cannot sublimate with any printer. For sublimation, it is necessary to use a special sublimation printer or converted inkjet printer to get the desired result.
What sublimation printer do you recommend?
Here you have 2 options:
- Use a printer specifically designed for the sublimation process. However, the purpose-built Sawgrass sublimation printers have a high print resolution. And you can get customer support if you have issues.
It is costly but worth the money.
Ex. Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500,
Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400
Epson SureColor F170
- Go with the converted inkjet printer. If you go the conversion route, you’re on your own because you’ve voided your warranty in the process of conversion.
It is somewhat cheap compared with the specifically designed printers.
Ex. Epson EcoTank Printers
What is the best sublimation printer?
It all depends on your need, use and budget as well. You can go with any of the above two options as discussed above. The best sublimation printers in the market are;
- Sawgrass SG500
- Brother Sublimation Printer
- Epson EcoTank ET-15000
- Epson EcoTank ET-2800
Can I convert any printer to sublimate?
No, only certain printers can be converted to sublimation printing, such as Epson EcoTank. But there is a problem while converting a printer. Once you have converted your printer to sublimation ink, the printer warranty is void and you will not be able to use it as a normal inkjet printer again.
What kinds of things can I make with a sublimation printer?
You can make hundreds of things by using sublimation printing. As it is one of the best and quickest methods to get high-resolution results with clear and bright colours.
The list of the items you can make by using sublimation printing is as follows:
- T-shirts
- Shirts
- Jars
- Tumblers
- Mugs
- Glasses
- Drinkware
- Non-fabric items
- Banners
- Custom tote bags
- Home Decor
- Canvas
- Magnets
- School Apparel
You may also check – How to Sublimate on Dark Color T-Shirts
Why does my sublimation printer print my projects so lightly?
It’s normal. It is okay if your printer prints light on the paper. Because you are doing sublimation and the ink you are using is special-purpose ink. Sublimation ink is a dye-based ink and blows when it gets heat through a heat press.
Is it worth it to get a sublimation printer, or just use Infusible Ink sheets?
It depends on your use. If you are a hobbyist and want to print less then it is not worth buying a printer. Instead, you can buy infusible ink sheets and use them.
But if you are a business/startup owner who is doing sublimation for their customer then it is a must to buy the best quality sublimation printer. So I advise you to first recognize your needs and spend your money wisely. I’m a business owner. So I have my own specially purpose sublimation printer. So that I get the desired results that satisfy my customers too.
You may also check – Sublimation on T-Shirts for Beginners
Conclusion:
Hope you get all your questions answered. Just read the blog carefully. Recognise your and your business needs. And take the decision wisely. And yeah, if you have any query regarding these please drop me a mail. I’m very happy to help you.
Bye!