With the advancement in sublimation technology, sublimation printers are finding increased use in today’s world. Sublimation printers are used for printing sharp and high quality images that are sometimes better than photo lab quality images. If you are looking to buy your first sublimation printer, then let us look at some of the things you will need to know before you buy one.
What is a sublimation printer? A sublimation printer is a type of printer that uses the process of heat transfer to a substrate at 400 F. At this temperature, the ink turns into gas (like dry ice) and forms a permanent bond on the substrate. The substrate is a polymer coated item or synthetic fabric. The resulting print is a premium full color, photographic quality image that does not crack, peel or wash away.
Which are the items on which a sublimation printer can print? Some of the most common objects on which a sublimation printer can print are There are plenty of items that can be sublimated and newer products are being added to the list every day. Some of the most common products that can be sublimated are – aprons, tiles, dog tags, license plates, bag tags, ceramic mugs, door hangers, light switch covers, boxer shorts, clipboards, hardboard tiles, mini tees, tote bags, softlink t-shirts, plaques, pet shirts, neckties, travel mugs, ornaments, pet tags, puzzles, lab coats, dash plates, business card holders, name badges, jewelry, coaster, bookmarks, mouse pads, jackets, clocks and car flags. Apart from these, more items are being added every day.
What other items do you need in addition to a sublimation printer? Apart from the sublimation printer, there are some other items that are needed for sublimation printing.
• A computer with a good amount of RAM and hard drive storage space.
• A monitor that is able to display colors properly.
• Sublimation ink – ArTainium UV+ ink is perfect for Epson printers.
• ICC Profiles – This is an accurate method for color management that instructs the inks how to mix colors to produce the right color.
• Sublimation paper.
• Printer – Epson.
• Bulk ink.
• Heat press.
• Specialty tools for easy printing, photo enlargement and photo editing.
Is a sublimation printer costly? Sublimation printers are slightly more costly to purchase and operate than normal printers because they require special paper to print on.
Which substrate colors are ideal for sublimation printers? Since sublimation ink is translucent, white substrates replicate true colors. Ash gray substrates also work well. For other light colored substrates, if the print colors are dark and complementary, then sublimation can be done well. Darker substrates kill the color of the print.
Can I use a sublimation printer on cotton clothes? Cotton substrates cannot be sublimated. If there is a fabric that is 50-50 cotton and polyester, sublimation cannot be done. The image will look unimaginative, faded and dull. For decorating 50-50 cotton and polyester fabric, heat transfer paper should be used.
Are sublimation printers easily available? The breakthrough in sublimation technology has ensured that sublimation printers are now easily available in the market.