I thought I would do a sublimation paper comparison after converting an Epson printer to a sublimation printer. I have really enjoyed getting into sublimation crafts and wanted to make sure I was using the best paper possible. Is there any difference between sublimation papers? Does one work better than another? Let&#;s find out!
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Table of Contents
Want to see my entire comparison on video? You can just click play below to watch!
Can&#;t watch the video or missed some of the steps? You can also read more about the comparison below.
I am comparing three different brands of sublimation paper. They are as follows:
The other supplies I am using for this comparison are:
Here are the steps that I used to compare the three papers:
So, after pressing, what are my results? Let&#;s take a look at each paper and how it performed:
Overall I didn&#;t have any major differences between the three brands. So, which should you choose? Which is the best paper for sublimation? With current pricing, Printer&#;s Jack is more affordable than A-Sub so that is what I would choose currently. I am NOT a fan of the DyeMaster simply because it is hard to tell the front from the back.
Hopefully, this sublimation paper comparison helps you decide what paper to use in your printer.
If you haven&#;t already, check out my conversion of an Epson Eco-Tank printer to a sublimation printer. You can also see my favorite sublimation blanks here as you get started with dye sublimation. Between all of those posts and this sublimation paper comparison, you should be ready to jump in!
How to Use Flocked HTV on Your Crafts Learn how to use flocked HTV with your Cricut machine. We are covering how to cut it, apply it, and even add sublimation ink over it! Read More Sublimation Stamped Coasters You&#;ll love learning how to use a sublimation stamp pad to create custom projects! Grab your stamps, sublimation ink pad and start creating! Read More Tumbler And Mug Sublimation Using An Oven If you&#;re looking for a custom mug. you will want to know how create mug sublimation in an oven! You&#;ll have custom mugs in no time! Read More How to Make a Sublimation Grocery List Board Get this free kitchen SVG file to make a dry erase board grocery list to organize your kitchen! Perfect for using with your Cricut! Read MoreFor over a decade, I have been sharing Cricut tutorials and craft ideas here as well as on my YouTube channel. My passions include teaching others to be creative and learning as many new things as possible about crafting technology! Click here to read more about me!
If you&#;re on the hunt for the best sublimation paper to achieve vibrant and durable prints, the search can end here. Selecting the right sublimation paper for your sublimation projects is one of the factors that can be the deal maker vs the deal breaker, and that is where I step in. Discover which sublimation papers provide the highest quality prints, offer the most value, and align best with your printing needs. This comparison will walk you through the distinguishing features that set apart the preferred choices in the printing community, providing the clarity you need to make the right pick without overselling or unnecessary jargon.
First things first &#; if you are wondering what makes me qualified to articulate this review, I strive to bring you sublimation products that are well-researched that I have seen tests conducted on. This helps ensure you make quality purchases for your sublimation needs.
When it comes to sublimation printing, the paper you use can make or break the final result. So without further delay, lets get right into it. In my opinion, the best sublimation paper overall in is the A-Sub Sublimation Paper for converted EcoTank printers, which you can find here. For purpose built sublimation printers, I discuss recommended brands further in my article. Read on to learn why!
Now one fact I do want to mention &#; I have seen that different tests can yield different results for people. There are several brands of sublimation paper, and in this guide I articulate three brands among the top brands used by crafters, each with a test conducted. I also mention a couple of other brands towards the conclusion. However, you might need to experiment around to see which brand works best for you and suits your needs.
I began by summarizing my best picks for sublimation paper in the table above. Keep reading on for a sublimation paper comparison and more detailed insights into what sets each paper apart in its category.
Hiipoo Sublimation Paper is a staple in the world of sublimation printing, boasting a reputation for reliability and consistency that&#;s hard to beat. It&#;s the paper that keeps on giving, providing exceptional color fidelity and minimal color bleed, time after time. The paper is available in two sizes 8.5&#; x 11&#; and 8.5&#; x 14&#; and two weights (105g and 120g). But what exactly qualifies Hiipoo as the reliable performer in our selection?
Among its top features are superior quality and bright, vivid resulting colors, very high number of success stories with this paper and it easy to use and sublimates very well
However, it might not produce as vivid colors as some other brands such as the TexPrint sublimation paper (although this could vary from case to case) and there are a small number of bleeding issues reported by users.
Here I want to articulate a test that I saw performed with this brand. The test involved a converted ET- EcoTank printer. Once the printer was aligned and the design printed on to the Hiipoo paper, the design was pressed on to an infusible ink shirt by Cricut for 170 seconds at 345 degrees. The second test was conducted on a pillowcase and both results turned out really great.
The game-changing feature of Hiipoo is its quick dry technology, which notably cuts down the waiting period prior to using a heat press machine on your design onto the preferred material. The colors come out striking and true to your original design, making it a favorite among crafters who demand great quality prints. And with user-friendly instructions, even novices in sublimation printing can achieve professional-looking results.
However, no product is without its flaws. Some common issues reported with Hiipoo Sublimation Paper, an inkjet heat transfer paper, include:
It&#;s important to be aware of these potential issues when using Hiipoo Sublimation Paper.
Overall, the reason I selected the Hiipoo sublimation paper as one of my top picks is the excellent combination of price and quality. When comparing this brand to its competitors, while other brands such as the TexPrint sublimation paper could potentially result in more vivid colors(this could vary from case to case), the Hiipoo sublimation paper is far more affordable, while at the same time being easy to use and boasting a significantly large number of success stories.
Lets take a look at the quantitative ratings for the item:
The next paper up here on my list is the A-Sub Sublimation Paper, one of the most reputed brands of sublimation paper.
A-SUB Sublimation Paper 8.5×11 Inch 110 Sheets is renowned for its exceptional ink quality, which translates into vibrant and sharp prints. It&#;s compatible with a wide array of inkjet printers, ensuring a smooth printing experience and a high-quality transfer on various sublimation projects. It is available in a wide range of sizes up to 13&#; x 19&#;.
Here I will outline a test conducted using the A-SUB brand. Two tests were performed on tumblers &#; the first test involved using an EcoTank ET- and Hiipoo ink, and the second using an EcoTank ET- and Printers Jack ink. In both cases, results were really beautiful. In another test conducted comparing multiple brands of ink, the A-SUB came out on top in terms of performance.
Lets take a closer look at the some of the pros of this item
A-SUB stands out for its remarkable features:
The company is the world’s best a4 sublimation paper OEM supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Despite its many strengths, A-SUB isn&#;t without its shortcomings. While I didn&#;t note many cons, it could be mentioned here that there are a small number of issues reported with this paper such as leaving black dots on mugs and residue on tumblers. When compared against competitors, it is also more expensive than some other brands such as the Koala, Hiipoo and HTVRONT sublimation paper. One of the other tests I looked at showed it produced less vibrant designs than its competitors (but once again, there can be variations from person to person).
A-SUB&#;s professional-grade quality is earning it popularity among newcomers as well, buoyed by the glowing reviews it receives across various platforms. Whether you&#;re working on cases or photo panels, A-SUB delivers consistent results with a high transfer rate that makes it worth the investment.
Overall, I selected the A-Sub paper as my best pick given the extraordinary number of success stories it boasts, its compatibility with larger formats and the capability to produce high quality prints with a range of printers.
Rating:
Next up on the list is the HTVRONT Sublimation Paper, another reputed brand amongst sublimation enthusiasts.
HTVRONT Sublimation Paper 8.5 x 11 inches &#; 150 Sheets is praised for its quick-dry technology and watermarked backside, which aids in correct placement and orientation for printing. It&#;s an economical choice for those starting out in sublimation printing, offering a substantial number of sheets per pack and delivering consistent results for a variety of projects. The paper is available in a variety of different sizes in addition to 8.5&#; x 11&#;, which offers flexibility to users.
Here I will outline a test conducted using the HTVRONT sublimation paper. An Epson sublimation printer was used, test involved pressing design on to a tumbler and a second test for can koozies, in both cases the resulting designs were really great.
HTVRONT Sublimation Paper is the go-to sublimation paper for those on a budget. Offering a great number of sheets per pack and user-friendly features such as a watermarked backside, it is especially suitable for hobbyists and beginners. How does HTVRONT balance its cost-effectiveness with its performance?
HTVRONT is a testament to the fact that you don&#;t have to break the bank to start sublimation crafting. The value it offers is unbeatable, with a competitive price and features like the easily identifiable printing side that prevent costly mistakes. The rapid-dry technology is another standout, enabling crafters to quickly move from printing to pressing without the dreaded wait.
Some of the other pros of the paper include:
Not everything is smooth sailing with HTVRONT, however. The colors might not be as bright as other brands, and there are some issues reported with print quality (such as minor streaks in lines). These issues could potentially be due to the lower price point.
For beginners dipping their toes into the vibrant waters of sublimation printing, HTVRONT is an ideal starting point. It offers a decent quality result for personal projects without a hefty price tag. While it may not rival the premium papers in terms of quality, it certainly holds its own in the budget-friendly category. Being offered in many sizes up to 13&#; x 19&#;, it provides flexibility for those with larger format needs.
Quantitative analysis:
When selecting sublimation paper, it is important to consider the printer model you are using. The above options I discussed might work well with converted Epson EcoTank printer models, if you are using a dedicated sublimation printer, it might be recommended to use sublimation paper designed for use with the specific printer, to increase chances of optimal results, especially in case of the SureColor F170. For the Epson SureColor F170, the recommended sublimation paper to use is the Epson DS Transfer Multi-Use Paper. This paper is specifically designed to work with Epson&#;s dye-sublimation printers and inks, and can be purchased here. If you are using the Sawgrass SG500, Sawgrass recommends to use SUBLIMAX Sublimation Paper, however, other options might work with Sawgrass printers too &#; do your research and select the best option based on your needs. This paper has been tested and certified by Sawgrass, increasing chances of high-quality transfers with vibrant colors and sharp details, and can be found here. For those of you using the Brother SP-1, an option for the brand to use is Brother sublimation paper. However, it might not be worth the additional cost, and you could probably get results with a brand such as A-Sub sublimation paper. However, if you do decide to go with the Brother brand, you can find it here.
After my detailed analysis, you might be wondering which paper is the top pick and why? As always, your choice should take into account your specific needs and preferences. I would also recommend you perform a few tests of your own with different brands to see which one works for you. Overall, I don&#;t think you can go wrong with anyone of the big brands if you follow proper procedures.
There are a number of other sublimation paper brands out there. I&#;ve seen a test result in which TexPrint sublimation paper outperformed its competitors &#; you can find the item here. However, as you can see, it is a more expensive brand than the other choices discussed in this article. Another choice is the TruePix sublimation paper, which is has been optimized for Sawgrass printers, and produces great results. However, it too is offered at a higher price point. You can view this brand here. Also keep in mind that weight of the paper is an important factor &#; for vibrant and full color designs a heavier weight might be needed.
For those of you using converted EcoTank printers, if you are starting out with sublimation and are on a budget, you can go for the HTVRONT Sublimation Paper, which can be found here. Overall, if you have a higher budget, I recommend you go for the A-Sub Sublimation Paper, given the number of success stories and how often it is recommended, high quality test results, and compatibility with a range of printers and sizes. You can find the brand here. For those of you using dedicated sublimation printers, consider using paper designed for the specific printer, as discussed above.
With all the options available, selecting the right sublimation paper for your project can feel overwhelming. But fear not! By focusing on key factors such as:
You can navigate the sea of choices with confidence.
Here are some tips to help you choose the best sublimation paper, including heat transfer paper, that will take your projects from good to great.
Matching your sublimation paper with the appropriate printer and ink is pivotal to obtaining high-quality results. Some papers are made to work flawlessly with specific printer brands. Always check for compatibility before purchasing to avoid any unwelcome surprises that could compromise your project.
Remember, other supplies like inks play a major role too, and using the right combination can significantly affect the outcome.
The essence of sublimation is the transmission of vibrant images onto your selected material using sublimation ink. A high transfer rate means less ink left on the paper and more vibrant results on your final product. The weight of the sublimation transfer paper can influence this, with heavier options like 125g often providing better saturation and efficiency. The sublimation process relies on sublimation printers to play a crucial role in achieving these desired results, with the specific sublimation printer used being an important factor.
Don&#;t overlook the importance of a paper&#;s special coating, designed to hold and release dye without blurring, ensuring your printed image remains vibrant even after multiple washes on polyester fabric.
We&#;ve covered a lot of ground in our exploration of sublimation papers, from the trusty Hiipoo to the professional-grade A-SUB, and the budget-conscious HTVRONT. Each paper has its own set of strengths and challenges, but the key takeaway is that there&#;s a perfect match for every sublimation project out there. By considering factors like compatibility, transfer efficiency, color vibrancy, and cost versus performance, you can select a paper that will elevate your work and delight your customers. It is important to make sure you are using the right sublimation ink too, and we cover sublimation ink brand reviews separately. We also cover the best sublimation paper for dark fabric in another guide.
Remember, the path to vibrant prints is paved with the right sublimation paper. Don&#;t be afraid to experiment with different brands and types to find your perfect fit. Happy printing, and may your colors always remain as bright and as enduring as your creativity!
You should use A-SUB sublimation paper for best results. It&#;s also recommended to choose paper with a weight of 110-120 gsm to ensure smooth printing and avoid issues with dampness and stiffness.
The 120 g sublimation paper is just as good as the 125 g paper and often less expensive, so it&#;s worth considering, especially if you&#;re experiencing wheel marks with the 125 gsm paper.
For tumblers, lighter sublimation paper is better as it holds less ink and is ideal for seamless designs, ensuring better results. Try using lighter paper for your sublimation tumblers for the best outcome.
Hiipoo Sublimation Paper stands out for its quick dry technology and vibrant colors ensuring reliable and consistent quality over multiple uses.
Yes, A-SUB Sublimation Paper can be used with any inkjet printer that supports sublimation ink.
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