Whether you’re starting a small crafting business, producing custom apparel, or scaling a full sublimation shop, choosing the right sublimation printer is the most important step. A sublimation printer determines your print quality, color accuracy, efficiency, and overall production workflow. With so many models available—Epson EcoTank, Sawgrass, converted printers, and commercial wide-format machines—it can be challenging to know which one is right for your needs.
This comprehensive guide explains how sublimation printers work, the differences between models, what features matter most, common issues to avoid, and how to choose the best sublimation printer for your business.
What Is a Sublimation Printer?
A sublimation printer is a machine that prints designs using sublimation ink, which turns into gas during heat pressing. The ink bonds permanently into polyester fabric or polymer-coated hard items such as mugs, tumblers, metal, keychains, and ornaments.
Unlike inkjet printers that use pigment or dye ink, sublimation printers require specialized ink that can sublimate under high heat—typically between 380°F and 400°F.
How Sublimation Printers Work
Understanding the process helps you choose the right machine:
Step 1: Load Sublimation Ink
The printer uses CMYK sublimation ink. Some printers also support additional colors for expanded accuracy.
Step 2: Print on Sublimation Paper
The image is printed in reverse (mirrored) onto sublimation paper, which holds dye until heat is applied.
Step 3: Transfer with Heat
The printed paper is pressed onto the final product using a heat press. Heat turns the ink into gas, and pressure embeds it into the substrate.
Step 4: Final Cooling
Once cooled, the design becomes permanent, vibrant, and smooth.
Types of Sublimation Printers
There are three main categories:
1. Dedicated Sublimation Printers (Best for Beginners & Pros)
These are printers designed specifically for sublimation ink.
Most popular models:
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Sawgrass SG500
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Sawgrass SG1000
Pros
✔ Plug-and-play setup
✔ Excellent print quality
✔ Color management software included
✔ Great technical support
✔ Reliable & consistent
Cons
✘ Higher ink cost
✘ More expensive upfront
2. Converted Sublimation Printers (Budget-Friendly Option)
Many people use Epson EcoTank printers for sublimation by filling tanks with sublimation ink instead of regular ink.
Popular models:
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Epson EcoTank ET-2800
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Epson EcoTank ET-15000
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Epson EcoTank ET-8550 (photo-quality)
Pros
✔ Affordable
✔ Easy to convert
✔ Low ink cost
✔ Great for beginners
Cons
✘ No official support for sublimation
✘ Requires ICC color profiles
✘ Potential clogging if not used regularly
3. Wide-Format & Commercial Sublimation Printers
Used by professional shops for large-scale production.
Top brands:
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Epson SureColor F-Series
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Mimaki
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Roland
These printers are ideal for:
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large all-over shirt prints
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blankets
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wide banners
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commercial production
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high-speed workflows
Pros
✔ Fast printing
✔ Industrial durability
✔ Consistent color reproduction
✔ Huge capacity
Cons
✘ Expensive
✘ Requires more space
✘ Higher maintenance
What to Look for in a Sublimation Printer
Choosing the right model depends on your needs. Consider these factors:
1. Print Size
Determine what products you want to make:
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8.5 x 11 inch printers → small items
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8.5 x 14 inch legal → shirts, small trays
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13 x 19 inch tabloid → large shirts, larger products
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24”-44” wide format → blankets, full shirt panels
The larger the print capability, the wider your product range.
2. Print Quality
Look for:
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high-resolution printing (up to 4800 dpi)
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smooth gradients
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accurate color reproduction
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sharp text & fine details
Sawgrass is known for its superior color management.
3. Ink Cost & Efficiency
Ink cost is one of the biggest long-term expenses.
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Sawgrass ink = premium quality, higher price
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EcoTank ink = lower cost, great for high-volume printing
4. Reliability & Clogging
Converted Epson printers need frequent use to prevent clogs.
Sawgrass printers handle long breaks better.
5. Warranty & Support
Sawgrass printers provide full support for sublimation.
Converted printers lose warranty if sublimation ink is used.
Best Sublimation Printers by Category
Best Overall Sublimation Printer
⭐ Sawgrass SG1000
Best Budget Sublimation Printer
⭐ Epson EcoTank ET-2800
Best for Shirt Businesses
⭐ Epson EcoTank ET-15000 (13×19 prints)
Best for High-End Color Accuracy
⭐ Sawgrass SG500
Best for Large-Scale Production
⭐ Epson SureColor F570 (wide-format)
Sublimation Printer Setup: Step-by-Step
1. Unbox & Prepare Your Printer
Remove packing materials, install print heads, and plug in the printer.
2. Fill Ink Tanks or Cartridges
Use only sublimation ink. Avoid mixing brands.
3. Install Printer Drivers
Download driver and ICC profile (if needed).
4. Load Sublimation Paper
Smooth, bright-white paper produces the best results.
5. Adjust Print Settings
Set:
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High-quality print mode
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Mirror printing
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Correct ICC profile
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CMYK or RGB based on your workflow
6. Perform Test Prints
This ensures accurate colors and a clean print head.
Common Sublimation Printer Problems & Fixes
1. Clogged Print Heads
Fix:
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Run a cleaning cycle
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Print a color sheet daily
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Use high-quality inks
2. Incorrect Colors
Fix:
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Install correct ICC profile
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Use recommended paper
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Avoid mixing ink brands
3. Banding or Streaks
Fix:
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Print head alignment
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Replace sublimation paper
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Increase print quality settings
4. Bleeding or Blurry Prints
Fix:
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Reduce heat time
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Pre-press fabric to remove moisture
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Avoid oversaturation
Best Sublimation Products for Each Printer Size
Small Printers (8.5×11)
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keychains
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mugs
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baby onesies
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coasters
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small shirts
Medium Printers (13×19)
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adult shirts
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tote bags
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signs
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cutting boards
Wide-Format Printers
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blankets
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all-over prints
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curtains
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large flags
Sublimation Business Ideas Using Your Printer
1. Custom T-Shirts
One of the highest-demand niches.
2. Tumblers & Mugs
Great profit margin and repeat buyers.
3. Personalized Gifts
Birthdays, events, weddings, holidays.
4. Business Branding Products
Bulk orders for companies.
5. Home Décor
Sublimated pillows, metal prints, ornaments, and more.
6. Selling Digital Designs
Expand your revenue by offering sublimation files.
How Long Does a Sublimation Printer Last?
A good sublimation printer can last 3–7 years, depending on:
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ink quality
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cleaning routine
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frequency of use
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environment (avoid dust and humidity)
Sawgrass models tend to last the longest due to their dedicated sublimation build.
Is a Sublimation Printer Worth It?
Absolutely—especially if you’re selling:
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shirts
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mugs
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tumblers
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keychains
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ornaments
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coasters
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signs
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gifts
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personalized products
Profit margins can range from 200% to 600%, depending on the product.
Final Thoughts
A sublimation printer is the heart of any successful sublimation business. Choosing the right machine determines your print quality, product range, and long-term profitability. Sawgrass printers offer unmatched ease and color accuracy, while Epson EcoTank models provide affordability and flexibility for beginners and high-volume sellers.
Whether you’re making shirts, mugs, tumblers, or custom gifts, the right sublimation printer unlocks endless creative and business opportunities. With proper setup, maintenance, and high-quality materials, you can produce vivid, durable, and professional products that customers love.
Shop the best sublimation printer designs at creative inkers: https://creativeinkers.com/shop/
