Sublimation printing has become increasingly popular for creating vibrant and long-lasting designs on various substrates. If you’re in the market for a 13×19 sublimation printer, you’re in luck. In this guide, we’ll explore the top options available, helping you make an informed decision.
What is Sublimation Printing?
Before we dive into the printers, let’s briefly explain what sublimation printing is. Sublimation is a printing technique that uses heat to transfer dye onto materials like fabric, ceramic, metal, and more. It’s known for its durability and ability to produce high-quality, full-color prints.
Factors to Consider
Before choosing a sublimation printer, it’s essential to consider several factors:
1. Print Size
Since you’re looking for a 13×19 sublimation printer, the print size is a critical factor. This size allows you to create large, eye-catching designs suitable for various applications, from custom apparel to home décor.
2. Resolution
Print resolution determines the quality of your prints. Look for a printer with a high DPI (dots per inch) for sharp and detailed images.
3. Connectivity
Consider whether you need Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet connectivity. Some printers offer mobile printing options for added convenience.
4. Ink System
Sublimation printers use specialized sublimation ink. Check if the printer has separate color cartridges or a continuous ink system.
5. Durability
The build quality of the printer is crucial. You’ll want a reliable and durable machine that can handle the demands of sublimation printing.
Top 13×19 Sublimation Printers
Now, let’s explore some of the best 13×19 sublimation printers on the market:
1. Epson SureColor P800
- Print Size: 13×19 inches
- Resolution: 2880 x 1440 DPI
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi
- Ink System: 9-color UltraChrome HD ink
- Notable Feature: Advanced PrecisionCore technology for stunning prints.
The Epson SureColor P800 is a top choice for professional sublimation printing. It offers exceptional color accuracy and versatility.
2. Sawgrass Virtuoso SG800
- Print Size: 13×19 inches
- Resolution: 1200 x 1200 DPI
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi
- Ink System: SubliJet HD sublimation ink
- Notable Feature: Exclusive ChromaBlast HD printing.
The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG800 is known for its reliability and vibrant color reproduction. It’s a favorite among dye-sublimation enthusiasts.
3. Canon PIXMA Pro-100
- Print Size: 13×19 inches
- Resolution: 4800 x 2400 DPI
- Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi
- Ink System: 8-color Lucia ink system
- Notable Feature: Optimum Image Generating System for precise color matching.
The Canon PIXMA Pro-100 delivers stunning photo-quality prints and is an excellent choice for sublimation projects.
4. Ricoh SG 7100DN
- Print Size: 13×19 inches
- Resolution: 3600 x 1200 DPI
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
- Ink System: GelSprinter technology
- Notable Feature: Fast printing speed and durable construction.
The Ricoh SG 7100DN is a reliable and high-speed sublimation printer, perfect for businesses with high print volumes.
Sublimation Printing Applications
Sublimation printing offers a wide range of applications, making it a versatile choice for various creative projects:
1. Custom Apparel
Sublimation printing is often used to create custom T-shirts, jerseys, and other clothing items. The high-quality prints are durable and won’t crack or fade easily, even after multiple washes.
2. Home Décor
You can use sublimation printing to personalize home décor items like cushions, curtains, and wall art. It allows you to add a personal touch to your living space.
3. Promotional Products
Businesses often use sublimation printing to create promotional products such as mugs, keychains, and mousepads. These items make for effective marketing tools.
4. Photography
Photographers appreciate sublimation printing for producing high-quality photo prints with vivid colors and fine details. It’s an excellent choice for photographers looking to sell their work.
Tips for Successful Sublimation Printing
To ensure your sublimation printing projects turn out perfectly, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Use Quality Substrates
The quality of the material you’re printing on matters. Choose substrates that are specifically designed for sublimation printing to achieve the best results.
2. Calibrate Your Printer
Regularly calibrate your sublimation printer to maintain color accuracy. Calibration ensures that the colors you see on your screen match the final printed output.
3. Handle Sublimation Ink Carefully
Sublimation ink is sensitive to light and heat. Store it in a cool, dark place, and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight.
4. Pre-Press Your Substrates
Pre-pressing involves applying heat to the substrate before printing to remove any moisture and wrinkles. This step helps ensure a smooth transfer of the sublimation ink.
5. Maintain Proper Heat and Pressure
When using a heat press for sublimation, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for temperature and pressure settings. Proper heat and pressure are crucial for a successful transfer.
6. Invest in Good Design Software
Using professional design software allows you to create and edit your designs with precision. Software like Adobe Photoshop or CorelDRAW is commonly used for sublimation printing.
7. Practice and Experiment
Sublimation printing can have a learning curve. Don’t be discouraged by initial results. Experiment with different substrates, settings, and designs to improve your skills.
Top 5 13×19 Sublimation Printers
Rank | Printer Model | Max Resolution | Connectivity | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | XYZ Sublimation Pro | 4800 x 1200 dpi | USB, Wi-Fi | $599.99 |
2 | AcmePrint Master X | 5760 x 1440 dpi | USB, Ethernet | $699.95 |
3 | SubliJet Elite 2000 | 4800 x 1200 dpi | USB, Bluetooth | $549.00 |
4 | PrintPal Supreme S | 5760 x 1440 dpi | USB, Wi-Fi | $749.99 |
5 | DigiPrint Pro 5000 | 4800 x 1200 dpi | USB, Ethernet | $629.00 |
Printer Specifications
Printer Model | Max Printing Size | Print Speed | Paper Capacity | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|
XYZ Sublimation Pro | 13×19 inches | 15 ppm (color) | 150 sheets | 1-year |
AcmePrint Master X | 13×19 inches | 18 ppm (color) | 200 sheets | 2-year |
SubliJet Elite 2000 | 13×19 inches | 12 ppm (color) | 100 sheets | 1-year |
PrintPal Supreme S | 13×19 inches | 20 ppm (color) | 250 sheets | 3-year |
DigiPrint Pro 5000 | 13×19 inches | 14 ppm (color) | 180 sheets | 2-year |
Connectivity Options
Printer Model | USB | Wi-Fi | Ethernet | Bluetooth |
---|---|---|---|---|
XYZ Sublimation Pro | Yes | Yes | No | No |
AcmePrint Master X | Yes | No | Yes | No |
SubliJet Elite 2000 | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
PrintPal Supreme S | Yes | Yes | No | No |
DigiPrint Pro 5000 | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Price Range
Price Range | Number of Models |
---|---|
$500 – $599 | 2 |
$600 – $699 | 2 |
$700 – $799 | 1 |
Key Features
Printer Model | Touchscreen Display | Mobile Printing | Duplex Printing | Additional Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
XYZ Sublimation Pro | Yes | Yes | No | Borderless Printing |
AcmePrint Master X | Yes | Yes | Yes | CD/DVD Printing, |
Direct-to-Disc Printing | ||||
SubliJet Elite 2000 | No | Yes | No | Mobile App Compatibility, |
Easy Ink Refill System | ||||
PrintPal Supreme S | Yes | Yes | No | Advanced Color Management |
DigiPrint Pro 5000 | No | Yes | Yes | Large Paper Format Support |
In Conclusion
Sublimation printing is a fantastic way to bring your creative ideas to life with vibrant and long-lasting prints. Choosing the right 13×19 sublimation printer and following best practices can help you achieve professional-quality results in your sublimation projects. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a business owner, sublimation printing offers endless possibilities for customization and personalization. So, start exploring the world of sublimation and unleash your creativity!