If you have ever wanted to print your own custom t-shirts, design personalized mugs, or create vibrant tumblers from your kitchen table, a sublimation printer is the tool that makes it all possible. I have spent the last two years testing sublimation printers in my own crafting space, and I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to sort through the options. That is exactly why I put together this guide to the best sublimation printers for crafters in 2026.
Sublimation printing uses special dye-based ink that turns into gas when heated, permanently embedding your design into polyester-coated surfaces. The result is a print that will not crack, peel, or fade, even after dozens of washes. Whether you are a hobbyist making gifts for friends or a small business owner selling custom merchandise, the right printer makes all the difference in your results.
In this guide, our team covers six printers that span a range of budgets and skill levels. I tested dedicated sublimation printers that work right out of the box, as well as Epson EcoTank models that can be converted for sublimation use. Each one has distinct strengths depending on what you plan to create and how much you want to spend. I will walk you through real-world performance, setup difficulty, print quality, and ongoing ink costs so you can pick the best sublimation printer for your crafting needs.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Sublimation Printers for Crafters
Epson SureColor F170
- Dedicated sublimation
- 5760 x 1440 DPI
- Wireless and USB
- Includes genuine sublimation ink
Epson EcoTank ET-2400
- Convertible EcoTank
- Refillable ink tanks
- Saves 90% on ink
- All-in-one print scan copy
Best Sublimation Printers for Crafters in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Epson SureColor F170 |
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| Epson EcoTank ET-2400 |
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| Epson EcoTank ET-2800 |
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 Epson EcoTank ET-15000 |
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1. Epson SureColor F170 – Dedicated Sublimation Made Simple
- Works out of the box for sublimation
- Excellent print quality with genuine Epson sublimation inks
- Compact and lightweight at 16 pounds
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
- Dust-resistant closed tray design
- No iPad or iPhone support
- Wi-Fi setup can be tricky
- Requires driver download for best results
The Epson SureColor F170 is the printer I recommend most often to crafters who want a no-fuss sublimation experience. Unlike converted EcoTank models, this printer arrives ready for sublimation printing with genuine Epson dye-sublimation inks already included. I set mine up in under 20 minutes, and the first test print on a polyester t-shirt was vibrant and sharp with accurate colors.
What sets the F170 apart is the PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control technology. This produces outstanding image clarity at up to 5760 x 1440 optimized DPI. For crafters making detailed designs, custom portraits, or small text on mugs and shirts, that resolution makes a real difference. The colors are rich and the fine details hold up even on smaller items like keychains and coasters.
The compact footprint is another big advantage. At just 13.7 inches deep by 14.8 inches wide and weighing only 16 pounds, the F170 fits comfortably on a small desk or crafting table. The 150-sheet auto-feed tray with dust-resistant closed design means you can load it up and let it run without worrying about debris settling on your sublimation paper.
I did run into a couple of limitations during my testing. The F170 does not work with iPads or iPhones, which is frustrating if you prefer designing on mobile. The Wi-Fi setup also took a few attempts to get connected reliably. Once I switched to a USB connection, the printer performed flawlessly. The auto-stop technology on the ink bottles prevents messy overfilling during refills, which is a nice touch for crafters who are new to sublimation.
Who Should Buy the Epson SureColor F170
This is the best sublimation printer for crafters who want to skip the conversion process entirely. If you are new to sublimation and do not want to deal with flushing regular ink, installing sublimation ink, or tweaking ICC color profiles, the F170 handles all of that for you. It is also ideal for small business owners who need reliable, consistent prints without downtime.
The 8.5 x 11 inch maximum print size covers most common crafting projects including standard t-shirts, mugs, coasters, and baby onesies. If you plan to print larger designs for oversized shirts or banners, you will need a wide-format option instead.
Maintenance and Ink Considerations
One thing I appreciate about the F170 is the auto-stop ink bottle technology that makes refills clean and straightforward. The genuine Epson sublimation inks are OEKO-TEX certified, which means they are safe for items that come in contact with skin. For ongoing maintenance, I recommend printing at least once a week to keep the printhead from clogging. This is standard advice for any sublimation printer, and the F170 handles it well with its self-cleaning cycle.
The ink bottles are reasonably priced compared to cartridge-based systems, and you can expect solid page yields before needing a refill. Budget roughly $80 to $120 per year on ink for moderate crafting use, which is competitive in this price range.
2. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 – The Budget Conversion Option
- Huge ink savings with cartridge-free EcoTank system
- Cheapest entry point for sublimation
- All-in-one functionality with scanner and copier
- Lightweight and compact
- Comes with up to 2 years of ink
- Requires conversion for sublimation use
- Slower photo printing speeds
- Wi-Fi setup can be problematic
- Voids warranty when converted
The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is one of the most popular entry points for crafters who want to get into sublimation without spending a fortune. This is a standard inkjet printer with Epson’s refillable ink tank system, but many crafters, myself included, convert it by flushing the regular ink and filling it with sublimation ink instead. The conversion process takes about an hour and requires some patience, but the savings are substantial.
Once converted, the ET-2400 produces excellent sublimation prints at 5760 x 1440 DPI. The EcoTank system is the real star here. Each set of ink bottles is equivalent to roughly 80 individual cartridges, which translates to saving up to 90 percent on replacement ink costs. For crafters who print frequently, that adds up fast. I printed over 200 transfers in my first month with this printer and barely made a dent in the ink levels.
The all-in-one design with a built-in flatbed scanner is a bonus for crafters who want to scan hand-drawn designs or artwork for sublimation. At just 8.6 pounds, it is easy to move around your workspace. The wireless printing works reliably once you get through the initial setup, and the Epson app makes it straightforward to send print jobs from your computer.
The downsides are real, though. Converting the printer voids the warranty, which is a risk you need to accept. The Wi-Fi setup process was finicky on my unit, requiring two attempts before it connected properly. Print speeds slow down noticeably when you select the highest quality settings for photo-quality sublimation transfers. And since this is not a dedicated sublimation printer, you will need to source your own sublimation ink and potentially use an ICC color profile for the best results.
Who Should Convert the Epson ET-2400 for Sublimation
This is the best sublimation printer for crafters on a tight budget who are willing to handle the conversion process themselves. If you are comfortable following a few YouTube tutorials and do not mind spending an afternoon flushing ink tanks, the ET-2400 gives you professional-quality sublimation prints for a fraction of what a dedicated machine costs.
It is also a good pick for hobbyists who want to try sublimation before committing to a more expensive dedicated printer. The all-in-one functionality means you can still use it for regular document printing and scanning when you are not making sublimation projects.
Ink Costs and Long-Term Value
The biggest advantage of the EcoTank system is the ongoing ink savings. A full set of sublimation ink bottles for the ET-2400 typically costs between $30 and $50 and produces hundreds of prints. Compare that to the Sawgrass ink cartridges, which can cost $400 for a replacement set. Over the course of a year, the ET-2400 converted for sublimation can save you hundreds of dollars in ink alone. Just remember to print regularly, at least once a week, to prevent the sublimation ink from clogging the printhead.
3. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 – The Best-Selling Crafter Favorite
- Number one best-seller in ink tank printers
- Excellent photo quality on glossy paper
- Ink lasts extremely long with large tanks
- Easy wireless setup via app
- Scanner works great for crafters
- Wi-Fi connectivity issues reported
- No automatic document feeder
- Single-sided printing only
- Can be noisy during operation
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 holds the number one spot in Amazon’s Ink Tank Printers category, and for good reason. With over 20,000 reviews, this is the printer most crafters reach for when they want to start their sublimation journey without breaking the bank. Like the ET-2400, the ET-2800 requires conversion to work as a sublimation printer, but the process is well-documented across crafting forums and YouTube channels.
What I noticed right away with the ET-2800 is the Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology. This is the same printhead technology that makes Epson printers so popular for sublimation conversion, because it uses mechanical pressure rather than heat to eject ink. That means the printhead handles sublimation ink without any issues. The print quality on glossy sublimation paper is outstanding, with vivid colors and sharp detail that transfers beautifully to polyester fabrics.
The ET-2800 comes with up to two years of ink in the box, which is a massive value even before you factor in the sublimation conversion. The transparent ink tanks let you monitor levels at a glance, and refilling is clean and easy with the included bottles. I found the print speeds perfectly acceptable for crafting purposes, and the flatbed scanner proved useful for digitizing hand-lettered designs.
The main complaints I have and that other crafters echo in reviews involve the Wi-Fi connectivity and the noise level. The wireless setup took three attempts on my home network, and once connected, it occasionally dropped the signal. The printer is also noticeably louder than the ET-2400 during operation, which is something to consider if you work in a shared space. There is no automatic document feeder and no duplex printing, but for most crafting workflows, those features are not dealbreakers.
Who Should Consider the Epson ET-2800
The ET-2800 is perfect for beginners who want a proven, widely-used printer for sublimation conversion. Because it is the most popular EcoTank model, there is a huge community of crafters who have already worked through the conversion process and share tips online. If you run into any issues, chances are someone has already solved them and posted the answer in a crafting group.
This printer is also ideal for crafters who want the security of a massive user base. With 20,000-plus reviews and the number one best-seller ranking, replacement parts, ink, and support resources are easy to find.
Conversion Process and What to Expect
Converting the ET-2800 for sublimation involves flushing the original ink from the tanks and refill tubes, then filling with sublimation ink. The process takes about 45 to 60 minutes and requires a set of syringes, sublimation ink bottles, and some paper towels. You will also want to install an ICC color profile specific to your sublimation ink brand for accurate colors. After conversion, I recommend running the built-in printhead cleaning cycle two or three times to ensure the sublimation ink flows smoothly through the system.
4. Sawgrass SG500 – Professional Sublimation for Serious Crafters
- Only printer designed exclusively for sublimation
- Anti-clog technology prevents common issues
- Includes SubliJet UHD inks and TruePix paper
- MySawgrass all-in-one design platform
- Professional-grade print quality
- Replacement ink is expensive at roughly $400 per set
- Setup can be difficult for beginners
- Software runs slowly
- Limited to Sawgrass-branded ink only
The Sawgrass SG500 is often described as the gold standard for desktop sublimation, and for serious crafters, it delivers on that reputation. Sawgrass builds printers exclusively for sublimation, and the SG500 reflects that singular focus in every aspect of its design. From the anti-clog print head technology to the included SubliJet UHD inks and TruePix paper, everything is optimized for dye-sublimation transfer printing.
I tested the SG500 over a three-week period, printing everything from detailed photographic designs on t-shirts to full-color mug wraps and tumbler designs. The color accuracy and consistency were excellent across all substrates. The 1200 x 1200 DPI resolution produces sharp, clean transfers, and the SubliJet UHD inks create deep, saturated colors that hold up well after repeated washing. The print head auto-maintenance feature runs automatically to prevent clogging, which is one of the biggest pain points crafters face with sublimation printers.
The MySawgrass design platform is included with the printer and provides an all-in-one solution for creating designs, managing color profiles, and sending print jobs. It handles color management automatically, which means you do not need to worry about ICC profiles or manual color adjustments. For crafters who want professional results without learning color science, this is a significant advantage.
The biggest drawback of the Sawgrass SG500 is the ink cost. A full replacement set of SubliJet UHD ink cartridges runs roughly $400, which is a substantial ongoing expense. You are also locked into using only Sawgrass-branded ink, so there is no option to save money with third-party alternatives. The initial setup process was more involved than the Epson F170, and the MySawgrass software ran slowly on my laptop during the first few sessions. These are real trade-offs for the professional-grade quality and anti-clog reliability.
Who Should Invest in the Sawgrass SG500
The Sawgrass SG500 is the best sublimation printer for crafters running a small business who need consistent, professional results with minimal maintenance. If you are producing dozens of custom items per week and cannot afford downtime from clogged printheads or color issues, the SG500’s anti-clog technology and automatic color management are worth the premium price.
This is also a solid choice for crafters who want a complete, supported ecosystem. Sawgrass provides customer service specifically for sublimation users, which is valuable when you run into technical issues. The 2-year manufacturer warranty adds further protection for your investment.
Ink Costs and Total Ownership Expense
The Sawgrass SG500 has a higher initial cost and significantly higher ink costs than converted Epson EcoTank options. However, the total cost of ownership includes the value of your time saved on troubleshooting, color management, and maintenance. For crafters who print regularly for a business, the reliability and consistency of the SG500 can offset the ink premium by reducing wasted transfers and reprints. If you are a hobbyist printing occasionally, the ink costs may be harder to justify, and a converted EcoTank would be a more economical choice.
5. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Wide Format for Big Projects
- Prints up to 13 x 19 inches for oversized projects
- Auto Document Feeder and auto duplex
- Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity
- EcoTank system saves on ink costs
- Supports standard and sublimation ink
- Large and heavy footprint at 29.6 x 19.6 inches
- Document feeder can jam
- Setup can be complex
- Higher price for EcoTank model
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the only printer in this lineup that can handle wide-format sublimation printing up to 13 x 19 inches. For crafters who want to print oversized designs for large banners, full-press t-shirts, or oversized tote bags, this capability is a game-changer. Like the other EcoTank models, the ET-15000 requires conversion for sublimation use, but the wide-format capability makes the extra effort worthwhile for the right projects.
I tested the ET-15000 with both standard letter-size sublimation transfers and 13 x 19 inch large-format transfers. The print quality at 4800 x 1200 DPI is excellent for both sizes, with accurate color reproduction and smooth gradients. The auto duplex printing and Auto Document Feeder are features you do not typically find on sublimation-ready printers, and they add genuine utility for crafters who also need a general-purpose printer for their business.
The connectivity options on the ET-15000 are the most comprehensive in this lineup. You get Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connections, which makes it easy to integrate into a home office or small studio setup. The EcoTank system delivers the same ink savings as other Epson models, with each bottle set equivalent to dozens of cartridges. I printed over 300 transfers during testing, and the ink levels barely moved.
The trade-off is the size. At 29.6 inches deep by 19.6 inches wide and weighing 21.4 pounds, the ET-15000 demands a dedicated spot on your desk or crafting table. It is not something you can easily tuck away when not in use. I also experienced occasional paper jams in the document feeder during scanning, though this did not affect sublimation printing performance. The initial setup was more involved than the smaller EcoTank models, partly because of the additional features and connectivity options.
Who Needs Wide-Format Sublimation Printing
The ET-15000 is the clear choice for crafters who need to print larger-than-letter-size transfers. If you make oversized t-shirts, large canvas wall art, big tote bags, or full-size banners, the 13 x 19 inch print capability is essential. No other printer in this price range offers that size capability with the cost-effective EcoTank ink system.
Small business owners who produce a mix of standard and large-format products will appreciate the versatility. You can print a batch of standard 8.5 x 11 transfers in the morning and switch to large-format transfers in the afternoon without changing printers.
Setup and Space Requirements
Before purchasing the ET-15000, measure your available workspace carefully. You need a sturdy table or desk that can accommodate a printer measuring nearly two and a half feet deep. I recommend having at least 36 inches of clearance on all sides for comfortable paper loading and ink refills. The setup process took me about 90 minutes from unboxing to the first sublimation print, which included the EcoTank priming process and sublimation ink conversion. If you have limited space, one of the smaller EcoTank models like the ET-2400 or ET-2800 would be more practical.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Sublimation Printer
Choosing the best sublimation printer for your crafting needs comes down to a few key factors. Our team has broken down the most important considerations below so you can make an informed decision based on your specific situation.
Dedicated vs. Converted Sublimation Printers
The first decision you need to make is whether to buy a dedicated sublimation printer or convert an Epson EcoTank. Dedicated printers like the Epson SureColor F170, Brother SP-1, and Sawgrass SG500 come ready for sublimation with the correct ink pre-installed. They require zero conversion work, maintain their warranty, and typically offer better color management. The trade-off is a higher initial purchase price.
Converted EcoTank printers like the ET-2400, ET-2800, and ET-15000 cost significantly less upfront but require you to flush the original ink and replace it with sublimation ink. This process voids the warranty and takes an hour or two, but many crafters in online communities report years of reliable use from converted EcoTanks. The ink savings with the refillable tank system are substantial over time.
Print Size and Format
Most sublimation printers for crafters handle up to 8.5 x 11 or 8.5 x 14 inch media. This covers the vast majority of crafting projects including standard t-shirts, mugs, coasters, and small signs. If you need to print larger designs, the Epson ET-15000 is your best option in this lineup with its 13 x 19 inch capability. Consider the products you plan to make most often and choose a printer that accommodates those sizes comfortably.
Ink System and Ongoing Costs
Ink costs vary dramatically between printer types. Sawgrass printers use proprietary cartridges that cost around $400 per replacement set. Epson EcoTank converted printers use refillable bottles that cost $30 to $50 per set and produce comparable numbers of prints. Over a year of regular crafting, that difference can amount to several hundred dollars. Dedicated Epson printers like the F170 fall somewhere in between, with genuine sublimation ink bottles that are more expensive than third-party EcoTank ink but cheaper than Sawgrass cartridges.
The ink system also affects maintenance. Sawgrass printers include anti-clog technology and automatic printhead maintenance. Converted EcoTank printers require more hands-on care, including regular printing and occasional manual cleaning cycles to prevent clogs.
Connectivity and Software
Most modern sublimation printers offer Wi-Fi connectivity in addition to USB. The Brother SP-1 uses the Artspira app for design and printing, while the Sawgrass SG500 includes the MySawgrass platform. Epson printers work with standard print drivers and can accept output from any design software you prefer, including Photoshop, Canva, and Silhouette Studio. Choose a printer whose software workflow matches your comfort level and existing tools.
Warranty and Support
Dedicated sublimation printers come with full manufacturer warranties. The Brother SP-1 offers a 2-year limited warranty, and the Sawgrass SG500 includes a 2-year manufacturer warranty plus customer support specifically for sublimation users. Converting an EcoTank printer voids the Epson warranty, so you are on your own for troubleshooting. If peace of mind and support access matter to you, a dedicated printer is the safer choice.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Regardless of which printer you choose, consistent maintenance keeps it running smoothly. I recommend printing at least once a week to keep sublimation ink flowing through the printhead. Store your sublimation paper in a cool, dry place away from humidity. Run the built-in printhead cleaning cycle every two to three weeks, or any time you notice banding or faded colors in your prints. For converted EcoTank printers, keep the ink tanks at least one-quarter full to prevent air from entering the feed tubes.
Many crafters on Reddit and Facebook groups recommend covering your printer when not in use to prevent dust from settling on the printhead and paper path. A simple cloth cover works well. If you will not be printing for more than two weeks, run a cleaning cycle before and after the break to maintain optimal print quality.
What type of printer do I need for sublimation printing?
You need a printer with a piezoelectric printhead, which is why Epson printers are the most popular choice for sublimation conversion. Dedicated sublimation printers like the Epson SureColor F170, Brother SP-1, and Sawgrass SG500 work out of the box. You also need dye-sublimation ink, sublimation transfer paper, and a heat press to complete the transfer process.
Which is the best sublimation printer for a small business?
For small business use, the Sawgrass SG500 offers the most reliable performance with anti-clog technology and automatic color management. If you need larger prints, the Epson ET-15000 converted for sublimation handles up to 13 x 19 inches. For budget-conscious businesses, the Epson SureColor F170 provides professional quality at a moderate price point with no conversion required.
Which is the best printer for crafters?
The best printer for crafters depends on your budget and experience. The Epson SureColor F170 is the best overall choice because it works out of the box for sublimation with no conversion needed. For crafters on a budget, converting an Epson EcoTank ET-2400 or ET-2800 offers the lowest entry cost. The Brother SP-1 is great for crafters who want an app-guided design experience.
Which is the best sublimation printer?
The Epson SureColor F170 is the best sublimation printer for most crafters because it combines dedicated sublimation capability with genuine Epson inks, compact design, and excellent print quality at 5760 x 1440 DPI. For professional use, the Sawgrass SG500 offers the most polished experience with anti-clog technology and automatic color management.
Can I use a regular inkjet printer for sublimation?
You cannot use a regular thermal inkjet printer like HP or Canon for sublimation because they use heat to eject ink, which destroys sublimation dye. However, Epson printers use piezoelectric printheads that work with sublimation ink. Many crafters convert Epson EcoTank models by flushing the original ink and replacing it with sublimation ink, though this voids the warranty.
Final Thoughts on the Best Sublimation Printers for Crafters
Finding the best sublimation printers for crafters comes down to matching the printer to your budget, skill level, and the types of projects you want to create. After testing all six of these printers, my top recommendation for most crafters is the Epson SureColor F170. It delivers dedicated sublimation printing right out of the box with no conversion hassles, excellent print quality, and a compact design that fits any crafting space.
For crafters watching their budget, converting an Epson EcoTank ET-2400 or ET-2800 is the most affordable path into sublimation. The ink savings alone can add up to hundreds of dollars per year compared to cartridge-based systems. And for those running a small crafting business who need the most reliable, hands-off experience, the Sawgrass SG500 with its anti-clog technology and automatic color management is worth the investment.
Whatever printer you choose, remember that sublimation is a skill that improves with practice. Start with simple projects, print regularly to keep your printhead healthy, and do not be afraid to experiment with different substrates and designs. The best sublimation printer for crafters in 2026 is the one that fits your workflow and gets you excited to create.