In recent years, sublimation printing has emerged as one of the most lucrative and innovative small business ventures. Sublimation printing can assist you in transforming your ideas into superior products, whether your goal is to launch your own T-shirt company, make personalised mugs, or provide personalised gifts. The best part is that sublimation printers are now more accessible and less complicated for novices than they were in the past. However, it’s not as easy as it seems to pick the best sublimation printer. Print quality, speed, durability, and overall business outcomes are all directly impacted by the printer you select.
This guide will outline the best sublimation printers for T-shirts and mugs in 2025, as well as how sublimation printing operates and what to look for in a printer.
Sublimation printing: what is it?
A unique kind of printing called sublimation printing uses heat to change solid dye into a gas without changing it into a liquid. Particularly for polyester textiles and coated objects like mugs, this dye forms a permanent bond with the material’s surface. The print is bright, durable, scratch-proof, and washable thanks to this process, which makes it perfect for:
- Personalised T-shirts
- Coffee Cups & Mugs
- Picture Frames
- Cases for phones
- Pillows
- Chains of keys
- Tiles made of ceramic
- Promotional Items
Sublimation is more resistant to fading, peeling, and cracking than vinyl printing.
The Reasons Sublimation Printing Will Be a Successful Enterprise in 2025
Small business owners love sublimation printing for the following reasons:
- Minimal startup expenses
- A high margin of profit
- No minimum order quantity is necessary.
- Consumers adore customised goods.
- Excellent for local shops, Instagram pages, Etsy, Daraz, and internet stores
Even from home, you can begin and gradually scale it up.
Important Things to Think About Before Purchasing a Sublimation Printer
Prior to purchasing a sublimation printer, take into account:
- Print Quality: Seek out colour output that is crisp and vivid.
- Ink System: EcoTank printers use less ink.
- Make sure it is compatible with coated mugs and polyester textiles.
- Maintenance & Refills: Simple refilling systems are reasonably priced.
- Print Size: Bigger T-shirt designs work better with larger print beds.
Top T-Shirt and Mug Sublimation Printers (2025)
The best sublimation printers for novices and small businesses are listed below:
1. The Epson EcoTank ET-2720
This is among the most well-liked options for novices launching a home-based sublimation company.
Why It’s Beneficial:
- saves money by using the EcoTank ink system.
- Sublimation conversion is simple.
- Good print quality for mugs and T-shirts
Ideal For: Novices & modest orders
2. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000
The ET-15000 is a fantastic upgrade if you want to print larger designs, particularly for full-size T-shirt prints.
Why It’s Beneficial:
- Prints up to 13 by 19 inches
- Excellent colour accuracy
- Perfect for clothing brands
Ideal For: Expanding companies
3. The Sawgrass SG500
Sawgrass printers are dependable and simple to use because they are made especially for sublimation.
Why It’s Beneficial:
- Included is expert colour management software.
- Durable prints
- No conversion is required.
Ideal For: Expert companies providing top-notch outcomes
4. Epson WorkForce WF-7720
A multipurpose printer that can convert to sublimation and handle wide formats.
Why It’s Beneficial:
- Large print size
- robust for large-scale tasks
- Excellent print quality
Ideal For: T-shirt companies that require more print space
How to Start Sublimation Printing Business (Basic Steps)
- Select your printer (considering print size and budget).
- Purchase sublimation paper and ink.
- Invest in a heat press machine.
- Select blanks that are suitable for sublimation (polyester shirts, coated mugs, etc.).
- Create your artwork with Photoshop or Canva.
- Print, Heat Press, and Done!
Selling your goods is simple at:
- Shop on Facebook and Instagram
- Shopify, Etsy, and Daraz
- School functions and nearby gift shops
How to Be Successful in the Sublimation Industry
- Start with basic designs and evaluate the quality of the prints.
- To prevent unsold inventory, accept custom orders.
- Make use of high-quality polyester textiles (at least 65% polyester).
- Use TikTok trending videos and Reels to advertise your products.
- To prevent ink clogging, keep your printer clean.
In conclusion
The most crucial step in launching a profitable custom T-shirt and mug business is selecting the appropriate sublimation printer. There is a printer for every budget and size of business, whether you’re just starting out or hoping to grow. Sawgrass printers provide professional-caliber results for well-established businesses, while Epson EcoTank models are ideal for novices because of their low cost and simple ink refilling process.
In 2025 and beyond, a home-based sublimation printing business can help you make a consistent income with the correct tools, imagination, and promotion.
