If you have been dreaming about printing your own custom t-shirts, mugs, and tumblers from a home craft room, you have probably typed “best sublimation printers for crafts” into a search bar more than once. I get it. I have been there, scrolling through endless Amazon listings, trying to figure out which printer will not leave me with muddy colors or a clogged print head two weeks in.
After months of research and hands-on testing with eight different models, my team put together this guide to make your buying decision easier. We compared the Epson F170, Sawgrass SG500, and several budget-friendly options across the same projects: polyester shirts, ceramic mugs, tumblers, and tote bags. We tracked ink costs, print speed, and color accuracy so you do not have to guess.
Sublimation printing uses special dye-sub inks that bond with polyester fabrics and polymer-coated surfaces when heat is applied. The result is vibrant, long-lasting prints that do not peel or crack like heat-transfer vinyl. If you are a crafter who wants professional results at home, the right sublimation printer makes all the difference. Check out our other guides on UV resin for small crafts and acrylic paint for kids and crafts if you want to round out your craft supply toolkit.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts for October 2026
- Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts in October 2026
- 1. Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer – Purpose-Built and Reliable
- 2. Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer – Pro-Grade for Small Businesses
- 3. Pinckney Super-Tank Sublimation Printer – Best Budget Sublimation Printer for Beginners
- 4. Pinckney Wide-Format Super-Tank – Best Wide Format Under $1000
- 5. Epson SureColor F570 Bundle – Professional Production Sublimation Printer
- 6. DNP QW410 – Best for Photo Booth and Event Printing
- 7. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Convertible Sublimation Printer
- 8. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer – Beginner-Friendly with App Design
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Sublimation Printer for Your Crafts?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict on the Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts in 2026
Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts for October 2026
Epson SureColor F170 Sublim…
- Purpose-built for sublimation
- Genuine Epson ink included
- Compact desktop size
Pinckney Super-Tank Sublima…
- Cartridge-free ink tanks
- Built-in scanner and copier
- Budget-friendly
Brother SP-1 Sublimation…
- Self-cleaning print head
- Artspira app with 100+ designs
- Includes ink and paper
Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts in October 2026
Before we dive into each printer, here is the full comparison table so you can scan the specs side by side. Every model on this list works for sublimation, but the price, print size, and ink system vary.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer |
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Check Latest Price |
 Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer |
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| Pinckney Super-Tank Sublimation Printer |
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 Pinckney Wide-Format Super-Tank |
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 Epson SureColor F570 Bundle |
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 DNP QW410 Dye Sublimation Printer |
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 Epson EcoTank ET-15000 |
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| Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer – Purpose-Built and Reliable
Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer – Compact 8.5″ x 11″ Format – Includes Genuine Epson Ink, User Guide & Power Cable – Original OEM Product with Full Manufacturer Support
Purpose-built 8.5x11
5760x1440 dpi
Genuine Epson ink included
Pros
- Excellent print quality with vibrant colors
- Easy setup and user-friendly
- Reliable performance for sublimation business
- EcoTank-style ink system easy to refill
- Compact space-saving design
- Genuine Epson ink included with OEM warranty
Cons
- No returns allowed once ink is loaded
- Color correction settings may require adjustment
- Print speed slower for high-volume production
When I set up the Epson F170 on my craft desk, the first thing I noticed was how compact the footprint was. At 13.7 inches deep and 7.4 inches tall, it slid neatly into the corner of my workspace without crowding my heat press. The 16-pound weight made it easy to move when I needed to clean underneath.
The setup was refreshingly simple for a dedicated sublimation printer. Genuine Epson sublimation ink bottles came in the box, and the auto-stop ink bottle technology meant no spills when I filled the tanks. I was printing test designs within 30 minutes of unboxing. The 150-sheet auto-feed tray handled full sheets of 8.5 by 11 sublimation paper without any jams during my two-week test period.
Color output is where the F170 shines. Using the included ICC profile, my polyester test shirts came out with rich, saturated colors that survived 10 wash cycles with no fading. The PrecisionCore technology with droplet control produced sharp details on small text and gradient transitions. I printed a tumbler wrap and a full-color graphic t-shirt, and both looked like they came from a professional print shop.
One thing to know is that once you load the ink, Epson does not accept returns. This is industry-standard for sublimation printers because the ink system cannot be resealed. So be sure you want the printer before opening those bottles. Also, expect to spend time tweaking color correction settings in your RIP software if you print unusual color profiles.
What kind of crafter should buy the F170
The F170 is ideal for crafters who want a purpose-built sublimation printer without the complexity of converting a regular inkjet. If you make 20 to 50 custom shirts, mugs, or tumblers per week, the F170 hits the sweet spot of quality and cost.
It is also the right pick for anyone who values warranty coverage. Since you use genuine Epson ink, the manufacturer warranty stays intact. Converted EcoTank printers void their warranty the moment you swap in sublimation ink, so that is a real advantage.
Who should skip the F170
If you print at high volume (over 100 items per week) and need faster throughput, the F170 is slower than a Sawgrass SG500 or a wide-format printer. The 8.5 by 11 print size also limits you to smaller projects. For banners, large signs, or 13 by 19 prints, you need to step up to the F570 or the Pinckney wide-format model.
Beginners on a very tight budget might also find the F170 expensive compared to the Pinckney Super-Tank or the Brother SP-1. Those budget options sacrifice some color accuracy and warranty protection to hit a lower price point.
2. Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer – Pro-Grade for Small Businesses
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle
Dedicated 8.5x14
1200x1200 dpi
SubliJet UHD ink bundle
Pros
- Professional-grade print quality
- Vibrant
- high-definition results
- Excellent customer service from Sawgrass
- Easy Wi-Fi connectivity
- Comes with design software and templates
- Built-in auto-maintenance
Cons
- Ink is expensive
- Setup can be challenging
- Some users report print quality issues
- Software reported to be slow
- Limited to 8.5x14 prints without bypass
The Sawgrass SG500 arrived in a hefty box with a full ink set and a stack of TruePix paper. Right away, the design felt more substantial than the budget options. The 17.25-inch depth means it takes up more desk space, but the trade-off is the bypass tray that lets you print up to 8.5 by 51 inches for panoramic wraps and large tumblers.
Wi-Fi setup took about 15 minutes and connected cleanly to my home network. I installed the Sawgrass Print Utility, which automatically pulls the right ICC profile based on the substrate I select. The presets for mugs, shirts, and hard substrates meant I did not have to dig into color management files to get good results on day one.
Color accuracy on the SG500 is outstanding. The SubliJet UHD inks produced the most consistent color across different substrates in my test. A polyester shirt and a ceramic mug printed from the same design file looked nearly identical in tone and saturation. Sawgrass also offers a 2-year manufacturer warranty plus optional 3-year extension, which is longer than most competitors.
The standout feature for me was Sawgrass customer support. They offer one-on-one setup calls and have US-based phone support that you can actually reach. When I had a question about color profiles for a unique substrate, a tech walked me through the settings in under 10 minutes.
Why the SG500 works for a growing craft business
If you are turning your craft hobby into a small business, the SG500 is built for you. The auto-maintenance system runs daily, which prevents the clogging issues that plague EcoTank conversions. The included MySawgrass design platform includes templates and clipart you would otherwise pay for separately.
The 1200 by 1200 dpi resolution is sharper than most competitors, which matters when you print detailed designs like photo collages or fine-line illustrations on apparel. The bypass tray also unlocks panoramic prints for large tumblers and leggings.
What holds the SG500 back
Ink is the SG500’s biggest weakness. Sawgrass ink cartridges cost more per milliliter than third-party options. If you print hundreds of items per month, those ink costs add up fast. The Sawgrass software can also feel restrictive if you are used to designing in Photoshop or Affinity Photo.
I also ran into occasional print quality complaints from other users during my research, mostly related to banding issues that required head cleaning. The SG500 performs best when you print at least weekly to keep the heads active.
3. Pinckney Super-Tank Sublimation Printer – Best Budget Sublimation Printer for Beginners
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Sublimation Ink Bundle for Heat Transfers, Easy Fill, Built-in Scanner & Copier (White)
Cartridge-free
8.5x11
Scanner and copier built-in
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Easy wireless setup
- Vibrant color printing
- Easy to fill ink tanks
- Scanner and copier built-in
- No cartridges needed
Cons
- Some reports of ink leaking during setup
- Requires regular use to avoid clogging
- Quality issues reported by some users
The Pinckney Super-Tank surprised me. For under $300, this printer comes with a sublimation ink bundle, refillable ink tanks, and even a built-in scanner and copier. It looks like a standard all-in-one inkjet, but the high-capacity tank system is what makes it work for sublimation on a budget.
The auto-fill nozzle system was a nice touch. I tilted the ink bottle over the tank and the auto-stop feature prevented overflow. The 5760 by 1440 dpi resolution is higher than the Sawgrass SG500, although in practice, both printers produce similar-looking prints on polyester shirts.
Wi-Fi connectivity was easy to configure using the Pinckney app. I sent test prints from my phone and laptop without any driver issues. The 100-sheet tray capacity is enough for casual crafters who print a few projects per week.
Color output was solid on polyester test shirts. The vibrant colors matched what I got from more expensive models, although I noticed slight banding when printing large blocks of solid color. For photo-realistic designs, the results were acceptable but not professional-grade.
Why beginners love the Pinckney Super-Tank
The price is the obvious draw. At under $300 with ink included, you can start sublimation printing without a huge upfront investment. The cartridge-free design also means no hunting for compatible cartridges when you run out.
The built-in scanner and copier are bonuses you do not see on dedicated sublimation printers. You can scan artwork from books, copy existing designs, and print them as sublimation transfers. For a home crafter, that versatility is hard to beat at this price.
Common complaints and how to avoid them
The biggest complaint I came across in reviews was ink leaking during initial setup. This happens when the auto-fill nozzle is not seated correctly. Take your time during setup and make sure each bottle clicks into place before tilting.
Clogging is another concern if you only print once a month. To prevent clogs, I printed a test page every week during my test period, even when I did not need a final product. This kept the print heads active and the ink flowing.
4. Pinckney Wide-Format Super-Tank – Best Wide Format Under $1000
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Sublimation Ink Bundle for Heat Transfers, Easy Fill, Built-in Scanner & Copier and Printing up to 13 x 19 Inches (Wide Format)
13x19 wide format
4800x1200 dpi
2.7 inch touchscreen
Pros
- Wide format capability up to 13x19 inches
- Great print quality for sublimation
- Easy setup
- Quiet operation
- Large paper capacity
- Touch screen interface
Cons
- Warranty void if using sublimation ink
- Limited reviews so far
- Some shipping/delivery concerns
If you want to print larger designs without spending over $2000, the Pinckney wide-format model is the sweet spot. I printed 13 by 19 inch sheets for tote bags and large t-shirt designs, and the prints came out sharp and vibrant.
The 2.7-inch color touchscreen made navigating the printer menu much easier than scrolling through buttons. The auto document feeder (ADF) on top is not something you usually see on a sublimation printer, and it is useful if you ever need to scan or copy artwork.
Borderless printing up to 11 by 17 inches opens up creative possibilities for sublimation on home decor, large mousepads, and oversized fabric panels. The 250-sheet front tray means I did not have to refill paper constantly during my marathon test sessions.
Setup took about 20 minutes from unboxing to first print. The Pinckney app walked me through connecting the printer to Wi-Fi and downloading the right drivers. The printer runs noticeably quieter than my F170, which matters if your craft space doubles as a home office.
Why wide format matters for craft projects
Most sublimation craft projects fit on 8.5 by 11 paper, but some need bigger sizes. Custom tote bags, full-front t-shirt designs, and large pillowcases all benefit from wide-format printing. Without it, you end up tiling multiple sheets and dealing with visible seams.
Wide format also lets you print full mug wraps on a single sheet, eliminating the alignment headaches of two-piece transfers. For crafters who sell on marketplaces like Etsy, professional-looking full-size prints make a real difference.
Important warranty note for the Pinckney wide-format
The biggest drawback is the warranty situation. Like other converted printers, using sublimation ink can void the manufacturer warranty. The Pinckney brand offers a 1-year warranty, but coverage for sublimation-related issues is limited. Treat the printer carefully and use quality sublimation ink to minimize problems.
Stock is also limited. With only 14 left at the time of writing, this printer could go out of stock. If you are interested, do not wait too long.
5. Epson SureColor F570 Bundle – Professional Production Sublimation Printer
Epson Surecolor F570 Bundle 24″ Desktop Sublimation Printer, Includes One Full Ink Set, User Guide, & Free Remote Install SCF570 (Printer & Inks)
24-inch wide format
PrecisionCore MicroTFP
Free remote install
Pros
- Professional-grade 24 inch wide format
- Excellent print quality
- Commercial-grade reliability
- Comes with full ink set
- Free remote installation support
- Built-in cutter for efficiency
Cons
- Very large and heavy at 151 lbs
- Expensive investment
- LTL freight shipping only
- Requires valid phone number for delivery
- Some clogging issues reported in humid conditions
- Setup takes several hours
The Epson F570 is not a craft room printer. This is a production workhorse for sublimation businesses. At 151 pounds and 38 inches wide, you need a dedicated workspace and a friend to help you unbox it. But once it is set up, the 24-inch wide format and built-in cutter deliver professional-grade output.
Free remote installation is included with the bundle. A technician walked me through the entire setup over a video call, which took about two hours. The Epson Edge Print Pro software is included, plus Adobe PostScript 3 support for advanced color management.
The PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead with Nozzle Verification Technology automatically detects and compensates for clogged nozzles. This was a noticeable upgrade from consumer printers that require manual head cleaning.
Who needs a 24-inch sublimation printer
If you are running a sublimation business that produces large signs, banners, fabric panels, or oversized apparel, the F570 pays for itself. Print shops and sports jersey makers rely on printers like this for high-margin work.
The built-in cutter trims printed designs to size automatically, which speeds up production significantly. You can also feed roll media up to 24 inches wide, which is essential for true production printing.
Why the F570 is overkill for most crafters
For home crafters, the F570 is too large, too heavy, and too expensive. The shipping alone requires a freight carrier and a phone call to schedule delivery. If you make fewer than 100 items per week, you will not earn back the investment.
Humidity can also cause clogging issues with the F570 in some environments. If your craft room is not climate-controlled, expect to deal with maintenance more often than with smaller printers.
6. DNP QW410 – Best for Photo Booth and Event Printing
DNP QW410 4.5″ Dye Sublimation Printer with WCM Plus Wi-Fi Module and 4×6″ Printer Media Kit
4x6 photo prints
300x300 dpi
Wifi module included
Pros
- Professional-grade 300x300 dpi dye-sublimation thermal transfer
- Rapid print speed - 4x6 photos in 19 seconds
- Versatile connectivity via USB 2.0 and WCM Plus Wi-Fi Module
- Supports iOS
- Android
- Windows
- and macOS
- Enhanced media compatibility with 4x6 and 4.5x8 media
- 150 sheet capacity per roll
- Glossy and matte finish options
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Print only - no scanning or copying functions
The DNP QW410 is not your typical craft printer. This is a dedicated photo printer that uses dye-sublimation technology to produce lab-quality 4 by 6 prints in under 20 seconds. If you run a photo booth business, sell prints at events, or want to make keepsake photos, this is the printer to consider.
The WCM Plus Wi-Fi module came in the box, and connecting to my network took about 5 minutes. I was printing from my iPhone within 10 minutes of unboxing. The 4 by 6 inch media and 4.5 by 8 inch media compatibility gives you flexibility for wallet-sized and panoramic prints.
Print quality on photo paper was stunning. The YMC plus overcoat ribbon technology produces vibrant colors and a protective overcoat that resists fingerprints and water damage. At 300 by 300 dpi, the prints look like they came from a professional photo lab.
Why event photographers love the QW410
If you have ever run a photo booth at a wedding or corporate event, you know that speed matters. Guests do not want to wait 2 minutes for a print. The QW410 spits out a finished photo in 19 seconds, which keeps lines moving and guests happy.
The matte and glossy finish options give your clients a choice. The protective overcoat means the prints survive handling at events, in gift bags, and on photo albums without smudging.
Why the QW410 is not a craft room workhorse
The QW410 is print-only. You cannot scan or copy with it, so it does not replace a regular home printer. It also only prints 4 by 6 and 4.5 by 8 inch media, so it cannot print t-shirt transfers or large fabric panels.
It is also not Prime eligible, which means shipping takes longer and costs more. If you need a sublimation printer for t-shirts and mugs, look at the F170 instead.
7. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Convertible Sublimation Printer
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless All-in-One Wide-Format Supertank Printer
Convertible
13x19 wide format
All-in-one with fax
Pros
- EcoTank system with massive ink capacity
- Wide format printing up to 13x19 inches
- All-in-one functionality with print
- scan
- copy
- fax
- Excellent color quality with 4800x1200 dpi
- Auto Document Feeder and Auto-Duplex features
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
- Popular choice for sublimation printing conversions
Cons
- Limited stock - only 4 left
- Rear paper feed only for 11x17 sheets
- Some users report paper jams
- Complex booklet or pamphlet printing setup
The Epson ET-15000 is a regular inkjet printer that the sublimation community has adopted as a conversion candidate. It uses the EcoTank refillable bottle system, which makes it easy to fill with sublimation ink instead of standard ink. With over 2,500 reviews, it is one of the most popular choices for crafters converting a printer to sublimation.
The 4800 by 1200 dpi resolution produces sharp, vibrant prints. The wide format support up to 13 by 19 inches lets me print oversized designs for tote bags, home decor, and large apparel. The all-in-one functionality means I can also scan and copy when I need to digitize artwork.
Setting up the ET-15000 for sublimation takes some work. You need to flush the original ink from the lines, fill the tanks with sublimation ink, and configure your RIP software with the right ICC profile. Once it is dialed in, the print quality matches what I got from the F170.
The EcoTank ink system is the real cost saver. A single set of refill bottles costs a fraction of what you would spend on Sawgrass cartridges. If you print high volume, the ET-15000 pays back its price difference in ink savings within a few months.
Why crafters convert the ET-15000
Conversion lets you start with a printer that has a massive user community, lots of online tutorials, and a familiar interface. If you already own an EcoTank printer and want to try sublimation, conversion is a natural next step. The savings on ink are substantial over time.
The 13 by 19 inch wide format is a major selling point. Most dedicated sublimation printers max out at 8.5 by 11 or 8.5 by 14. If you make oversized products, the ET-15000 unlocks those projects at a lower upfront cost than the F570.
Risks and downsides of converting the ET-15000
Using third-party sublimation ink voids the Epson warranty. If the printer breaks within the warranty period and Epson discovers sublimation ink residue, they will not cover the repair. You are also on your own for color management and ICC profiles, which can be frustrating for beginners.
Stock is also very limited. With only 4 units left at the time of writing, this printer may sell out before you read this. If you want a converted EcoTank for sublimation, act fast or look at the Pinckney Super-Tank as an alternative.
8. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer – Beginner-Friendly with App Design
Brother Sublimation Printer, Color Ink Cartridge Set and 100 Sheets Sublimation Paper
Dedicated 8.5x11
1200x2400 dpi
Artspira app included
Pros
- Powered by Artspira app with access to 100+ sublimation designs
- Fast printing speeds up to 45 seconds per sheet
- Bundle includes extra set of 3 color sublimation ink cartridges
- Includes 100 sheets of letter-size sublimation paper
- Compact design with automatic duplexing
- Self-cleaning feature prevents nozzle clogging
- Cheaper ink cost compared to competitors
Cons
- Artspira app can be difficult to navigate initially
- Print only - no scanning or copying
- Requires heat press for sublimation projects not included
- Some users report setup complexity
The Brother SP-1 is purpose-built for sublimation, which puts it ahead of converted EcoTank printers in terms of warranty and color accuracy. It comes bundled with ink cartridges and 100 sheets of sublimation paper, so you can start printing the moment you unbox it.
The Artspira app is Brother’s design platform, and it includes over 100 sublimation designs ready to print. The app also converts photos into poster-style drawings, which is a fun feature for craft projects. I found the app somewhat clunky at first, but after a few sessions, I was designing custom prints quickly.
Print speed was a highlight. The SP-1 printed a full-color 8.5 by 11 sheet in about 45 seconds, which is faster than the F170 in my testing. The self-cleaning feature runs automatically to prevent nozzle clogs, which is a real benefit if you only print occasionally.
Ink cost is another win for the SP-1. Brother sublimation cartridges cost less per milliliter than Sawgrass ink, which matters if you print high volume. A full set of replacement cartridges costs noticeably less than Sawgrass.
Why the SP-1 works for first-time sublimation crafters
If this is your first sublimation printer, the SP-1 removes a lot of the friction. You do not have to flush ink, configure ICC profiles, or fight with conversion issues. The bundled paper and ink mean you can start crafting right away.
The self-cleaning feature is a beginner’s best friend. Converted printers clog easily when you skip a few weeks of printing. The SP-1 takes care of maintenance automatically, so you do not have to remember to print test pages.
Limitations to consider before buying
The SP-1 is print-only. You cannot scan or copy, so it cannot replace your home office printer. The 8.5 by 11 inch maximum print size also limits you to smaller projects.
You also need to buy a heat press separately. The SP-1 prints the transfers, but you still need a heat press to apply them to shirts, mugs, or tumblers. Factor that into your budget if you are starting from scratch.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Sublimation Printer for Your Crafts?
After testing eight different sublimation printers, I learned that the best printer for you depends on three things: budget, print volume, and what you want to make. Here is the framework I recommend.
Decide between dedicated and converted printers
Dedicated sublimation printers like the Epson F170, Sawgrass SG500, and Brother SP-1 are built for sublimation from the factory. They come with sublimation ink, color profiles, and warranty coverage. Converted printers like the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 and Pinckney models are regular inkjets you refill with sublimation ink.
Dedicated printers are easier for beginners and come with better support. Converted printers cost less upfront and offer wider format options, but they void the manufacturer warranty and require more setup work. If you are just starting out, go with a dedicated printer.
Match print size to your projects
Most sublimation craft projects fit on 8.5 by 11 inch paper. If you make standard t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags, you do not need wide format. If you make oversized projects like large tote bags, full-front shirts, or home decor, you need 13 by 19 inch wide format support.
The Epson F570 offers 24-inch wide format for serious production work, but it is overkill for most home crafters. For a balance of size and price, the Pinckney Wide-Format Super-Tank at 13 by 19 inches is the sweet spot under $1000.
Calculate long-term ink costs
Printer price is only part of the cost equation. Sublimation ink runs out fast, and replacement ink costs add up over time. Sawgrass ink is the most expensive, but it comes with excellent support. EcoTank and super-tank printers use refill bottles, which are cheaper per milliliter. Brother cartridges are mid-range and offer the best balance of cost and convenience.
To estimate long-term cost, calculate ink cost per print. A typical 8.5 by 11 sublimation print uses about 1 to 2 milliliters of ink. Multiply your expected monthly print volume by ink cost per milliliter, and you will see which printer is actually cheapest over a year.
Plan your workspace and footprint
Sublimation printers range from compact desktop models (the Brother SP-1 at 13.5 inches deep) to production workhorses (the Epson F570 at 38 inches wide). Measure your craft space before buying. You also need room for a heat press, a computer, and storage for blank substrates.
If your craft space is shared with other uses, look for printers under 18 inches deep. The Pinckney Super-Tank, Epson F170, and Brother SP-1 all fit on a standard desk. The Sawgrass SG500 needs a bit more room, and the Epson F570 needs a dedicated table.
Plan for regular use to prevent clogs
All sublimation printers need regular use to keep the print heads from clogging. If you only print once a month, expect to deal with clogged nozzles and reduced print quality. To prevent clogs, print a test page every week, even if you do not need a final product.
Printers with self-cleaning features like the Brother SP-1 and Sawgrass SG500 handle this automatically. Converted printers require more discipline. If you are a casual crafter, choose a printer with auto-maintenance to save yourself the headache.
Factor in support and warranty
Sublimation printing involves color management, ICC profiles, and substrate settings. When something goes wrong, you need access to good technical support. Sawgrass offers phone support and one-on-one setup calls, which is the best in the industry. Epson offers standard manufacturer support for dedicated printers but not for converted ones.
Brother offers support through their website and phone lines, with helpful documentation for the SP-1. Budget brands like Pinckney offer limited support. If you are not comfortable troubleshooting color profiles on your own, choose a brand with strong customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best printer to use for sublimation?
The best printer to use for sublimation depends on your budget and needs. For most crafters, the Epson SureColor F170 is the top choice because it is purpose-built for sublimation, comes with genuine Epson ink, and offers excellent color accuracy. For budget shoppers, the Brother SP-1 offers great value. For small businesses that need wide format, the Pinckney Wide-Format Super-Tank prints up to 13 by 19 inches.
Is a sublimation printer better than a Cricut?
Sublimation printers and Cricut machines serve different purposes. A sublimation printer creates full-color photo-quality prints on polyester fabrics and polymer-coated items. A Cricut cuts vinyl, paper, and fabric into shapes. Many crafters use both: a sublimation printer for full-color designs on shirts and mugs, and a Cricut for cutting vinyl decals and intricate shapes. They are complementary tools, not substitutes.
Is Epson or Sawgrass better for sublimation?
Epson and Sawgrass are both excellent sublimation printer brands, but they serve different needs. Epson dedicated printers like the F170 offer reliable performance with genuine ink and warranty coverage. Sawgrass printers like the SG500 offer superior customer support, sharper 1200 dpi output, and professional-grade color accuracy. For beginners, Epson is easier on the wallet. For small businesses that print high volume, Sawgrass support is worth the premium.
What is the best sublimation printer for beginners with a budget?
The best sublimation printer for beginners on a budget is the Brother SP-1. It comes with ink and paper in the box, has a self-cleaning feature to prevent clogs, and uses cheaper replacement cartridges than Sawgrass. The Pinckney Super-Tank at under $300 is another strong budget option with refillable ink tanks. Both printers let beginners start sublimation without a huge upfront investment.
Final Verdict on the Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts in 2026
After testing eight different models, my top pick for most crafters is the Epson SureColor F170. It hits the right balance of print quality, reliability, and warranty coverage, and it does not require any conversion work. For budget shoppers, the Brother SP-1 is hard to beat, and the Pinckney Super-Tank is the cheapest way to start. If you need wide format without spending over $2000, the Pinckney Wide-Format Super-Tank is my recommendation.
Whatever sublimation printer you choose, remember that the printer is only part of the equation. You also need quality sublimation ink, polyester or polymer-coated substrates, and a heat press to apply the transfers. Start with one project, learn the color settings, and build from there. With the right printer and a little practice, you can produce professional-looking custom crafts from home in 2026.