The Best Sublimation Printer for T-Shirts

Larry Girty on May 1, 2024

Are you looking to make custom shirts with your personal designs and colors? To get professional-looking results, you’ll likely need the best sublimation printer for t-shirts. 

Below, we’ll examine some key factors when considering sublimation printers. Depending on your specific project and whether you want to make other custom items like mugs, bags, hats, or something else, you’ll also need different items and accessories. 

In other words, we’ll help you find the sublimation printer you are looking for and show you how to start your printing setup. 

How Does a Sublimation Printer Work? 

A sublimation printing machine uses a special type of ink that prints onto sublimation paper. Then, the ink is transferred from the paper to the item (in this case, fabric for t-shirts) with a heat press. 

Here are the steps of how it works: 

  1. Print your design onto the special sublimation paper. 
  2. The paper is placed onto the item (in this case, t-shirt) and heated with a heat press.
  3. The item absorbs the ink from the paper.
  4. The design is successfully transferred from the paper to the item. 

This process works well and creates some colorful, striking designs that don’t fade over time. 

Finding the Best Sublimation Printer for T-Shirts

When looking for the best sublimation printer for T-shirts, consider several things. Size, versatility, cost, design, ink type, maintenance, kits, warranty, and ease of use all come into play. Let’s break down what to consider with these critical points: 

  • Size: What size of designs will you be printing? You’ll need a printer that supports printing that size on t-shirt material. 
  • Cost: The price of sublimation printers can vary greatly, so to determine value, determine what you will be using the machine for, how long you intend to use it, and your overall budget. 
  • Ease of Use: Is the printer easy to set up and use? Can you learn quickly and do it yourself? Does it require any other technology? 
  • Versatility: Are you printing only t-shirts, or will you use it for posters, mugs, hats, or something else in the future? 
  • Kits & Bundles: Often, you can find a printer with start-up supplies or other materials needed for a convenient and quick start. 
  • Warranty: Is there a warranty? How long does it last? How are complications, repairs, and maintenance handled if you find yourself in those situations? 
  • Support & Training: Are there classes or tutorials to teach you how to start with the sublimation printer, make different designs/items, learn various skills, and get the most out of your machine? 

What is the Best Sublimation Printer for T-shirts? 

The Sublimation Station is an excellent printing machine for T-shirts. This all-in-one sublimation printer lets you quickly create custom designs for t-shirts, mugs, posters, bags, and other items. 

This sublimation printing machine provides a smooth finish for custom t-shirts and has enough versatility to become your go-to tool for all your custom printing needs. 

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It’s great for adding a personalized touch to your school stores, fundraisers, or other projects. The possibilities are endless! 

Here are some features that set the Sublimation Station apart: 

  • Full design software for unlimited creativity.
  • Approachable, user-friendly interface.
  • Bulk ink system for continuous, uninterrupted printing. 
  • Starter sublimation product kit with mugs, masks, and puzzles for practice.
  • Full support and training to get you started with confidence. 

Sublimation Printer Supplies for T-Shirts

To make sure you have everything you need to get started creating t-shirts with a sublimation printer, here’s a handy checklist of essential supplies: 

  • Ink: Make sure the printer has plenty of ink, and estimate how much you will need for the project. 
  • Sublimation Paper: You’ll need the right type (and amount) of sublimation paper that works with your machine. 
  • Blank T-Shirts: Choose the right type, size, and color of t-shirts for a smooth application. The AGC store carries a variety of shirts that work well with sublimation printing machines – available in youth and adult sizes.
  • Other supplies: Consider if other items would also be fun to design. This could be bags, mugs, cups, keychains, trophies, plaques, or other accessories. The possibilities are seemingly endless! 

What T-Shirts Should You Use With A Sublimation Printer? 

The ink used in the Sublimation Station transfers best onto 100% Polyester or a 50/50 fabric blend. Our sublimation supplies category has several examples of t-shirts that work well with a sublimation printer. The shirts come in different base colors and sizes (adult and youth). 

Is it Difficult to Use The Sublimation Printer?

The Sublimation Station has an easy-to-use interface, with a starter kit and implementation training. You’ll want to follow the training (which comes with the machine at no extra cost) and test out a few samples to get the hang of it, but it’s pretty intuitive after that! 

Also, AGC offers lifetime technical support. Over 90% of issues can be solved over the phone at no extra cost, but AGC provides on-site options if necessary.