Choosing the best sublimation paper for your sublimation business or DIY project can be a daunting task. The Sublimation paper holds your sublimation ink; that is why it should be of the best quality. Delaying an annoying client’s order because you ran out of sublimation papers is devastating. Isn’t it? What’s more irritating is destroying the entire sublimation blank because of a wrong transfer paper.
Well! You’re no doubt looking for the best paper for sublimation because you’ve come this far. This is the reason we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top 5 sublimation papers with the help of our experts that you should not dismiss. Read on to see our top five choices!
Top Picks
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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A-SUB | Weight: 125g Thickness: 120-130 GSM Sheet: 110 |
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DYE Master | Weight: 113g Thickness: 105 GSM Sheet: 110 |
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Printers Jack | Weight: 120g Thickness: 120 GSM Sheet: 100 |
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5 Best Sublimation Papers
Sublimation paper enables the ink to be absorbed and maintained. When you place the paper on a blank surface and heat it, the ink is discharged onto the material. In the dye-sublimation process, sub printer paper is crucial because It’s the device that stores and transmits your artwork. To get full understanding of all paper you can also watch below video.
Without further ado, let’s get into the hot potato for today, i.e.,
1. A-SUB Crisp Sublimation Ink Paper:
Features:
Who wouldn’t want a product that has all the perfections? The A-sub sublimation paper is one such thing. Starting with its usage with almost every process, this paper has a long list of characteristics that make it easy to use, including the nearly perfect 98% transfer rate. It is pretty versatile; it may be used on pottery, tiles, phone covers, and metal plates, among other things. Aside from that, we can utilize it in sublimation on fabrics like polyester and others with less than 30% cotton.
It comes in various dimensions and sizes, making it easy to utilize in a variety of applications. 8.5″ x 11″, 11″ x 17″, 8.5″ x 14″, and 13″ x 19″ are the available sizes. So, in general, there is a size for every application, large or tiny. A thick paper is necessary for good sublimation printing because it prevents creasing and can bear stress. In my opinion, thicker paper allows for considerably better design transfers. This paper has a thickness of 120-130 GSM, more than the 123 GSM average for comparable sublimation papers. When transferring your design, the paper is less prone to wrinkle and can withstand a lot more force than thinner paper. This is the ideal sublimation paper for you since it dries quickly and saves time.
You can use this paper A-SUB is excellent in terms of quality, availability, and transfer. What’s the hitch, exactly? Well, it’s the cost. Quality comes at a cost, but it’s well worth it. With this sublimation, you can rest assured that your designs will not be fractured. It’s been created for sublimation printing with Epson printers and has a lot of positive feedback. So, indeed it is the best sublimation paper for Epson printers. Ready to work with any sublimation ink.
What We Like
What we may not expect:
How to Choose a-Sub Sublimation Paper Between 105g, 120g and 125g?
It depends on the Thickness and weight of a sub-paper.
- A-Sub 105g – works perfectly with light ink saturation.
- A-Sub 120g – Perfect for Light to Medium.
- A-Sub 125g – For high ink saturation designs.
If you’re worried about which one is perfect for you, you need to check whether your paper is curled at the time. If yes, then increase Thickness from 105g to 120g. If getting Ghosts during design, you must change the Thickness from 105g to 120. 125g is for high saturations designs.
2. TEX Print Paper – Compatible for Both Rico & Inkjet Printers
What’s the expert’s choice for a sublimation paper that exhibits vibrant colors? Undoubtedly! The tex print sublimation paper.
R and XPHR are the two primary varieties of TexPrint sublimation paper. The TexPrint DT Heavy and DT Light sheets are compatible with both Rico and Inkjet printers and are intended for certain ink types. But how do these two compete against one another? Here we’ll see.
Texprint R – DT Heavy:
Features:
With this sublimation paper, you can’t go wrong. It has everything you’ll ever require. It has an outstanding performance. The colors are vibrant, and it’s simple to use even if you’ve never done anything like this before. It’s ideal for printing your favorite patterns on keychains, phone covers, mousepad blanks, and a variety of other items. It has a specific sublimation coating that protects it from damage and works well with sublimation ink. It is relatively heavier paper; it comes as a pack of 110 sheets when you order.
Texprint Dye has a high transfer rate efficiency, good ink load stability, and a quick drying time. It’s also 100 per cent recyclable. Because of its adaptability, you won’t need to acquire several dye-sublimation papers for different products. It also provides a splash of color and texture to your design, making it a standout piece.
Ricoh and Virtuoso inkjet printers are compatible with this sublimation printer paper. Up to 95% of the ink from the paper is transferred to the target substrate during the transfer process. Sublimation papers are quick-drying, resistant to high temperatures, and do not wrinkle due to their morphology and specific porous structure due to the ink’s moisture. For even more benefits, pair it with Sublijet-R and Sublijet-HD sublimation inks.
TexPrint XPHR – DT Light:
Features:
It works up to the nines with Epson printers. When printing the design, always be careful to grip the print as soon as it comes out of the printer because the printer ink is still wet and could produce blotching on the paper, ruining your blue-eyed design.
When sublimating using XPHR, avoid shadow issues. You can use normal sticky tape instead of heat resistant (thermal tape) during the heat press.
TexPrint DT Heavy will generate finished items as similar to your original artwork as possible, which is ideal for pictures. TexPrint DT Light improves image contrast and saturation, allowing solid and bright graphics to pop out even more. Which TexPrint paper you choose will ultimately rely on the type of photos or graphics you print most frequently, as well as the overall style you want to achieve. Compared to DT Heavy, TexPrint DT Light delivers more gas sublimation dye onto substrates.
So, why is Texprint placed second since it is an excellent sublimation paper brand? Simply said, it performs somewhat lower than A-SUB in all areas. It isn’t as well-known, hasn’t had as many positive reviews, and its transfers aren’t as high-quality. Second place, on the other hand, isn’t necessarily a bad thing! I would recommend giving texprint’s sublimation paper a try, especially if you aren’t interested in A-SUB.
What We Like
What We May Not Expect
Bottom Line:
This texprint sub paper is at your service. Suppose you want a vibrant colored, refined, and fantastic design. It has all the factors that will give you your desired outcome.
3. Dye Master – The Most Advanced Sublimation Printing Paper:
Features:
Another versatile choice that works on varied items is Dye Master Sublimation paper—known to be one of the most appropriate sublimation papers in the market. In terms of its outstanding performance, you’ll get excellent, high-quality outcomes in a matter of seconds. As a result, you shouldn’t worry about your sublimation paper drying too slowly. You just have to wait for 3 seconds with this paper, and you’re ready to go.
Dye Master delights your eyes with its brilliant hues; it’s a visual feast with 105 GSM thickness. So, no matter what media you use for your sublimation creations, this paper will be sure to catch everyone’s eye. What’s more appreciating is you receive fantastic results like a bat out of hell. It assures you that you’re getting high-quality products when you buy from Dye Master. Knowing which side of the paper is the front and the back might be difficult. It is vital to know which side of your sublimation paper is printed. As we all know, after printing, specific sublimation papers appear horrible. But the good news is that, with this one, you won’t have to be concerned about such things. It is designed to work efficiently with both Rico and Epson printers.
What We Like
What We May Not Expect
Bottom Line:
Thanks to its lightning-fast drying time and vibrant colors, the Dye Master Sublimation paper is a top pick among experts.
4. KOALA – Best for T-Shirts
Features:
Koala sublimation paper is the best paper for T-Shirts printers designed exclusively for Epson printers and supports inkjet printers. This one, like Dye Master, gives you incredibly vibrant colors and magnificently quick drying periods, saving you both energy and resources. The optimum drying time for this paper is 3 seconds. This Sublimation paper is stealing the light with a 92% transfer rate. You can get a smooth and dazzling color performance using paper. If you’re manufacturing T-shirts or phone cases, this is critical if you want your clients to have a well-designed T-shirt that feels smooth or a phone case that gives them confidence.
Must Read: Wondering how to do sublimation on cotton?
The Koala sublimation paper is available in two sizes: 8.5″ x 11″ and 11″ x 17″ for smaller jobs and 11″ x 17″ for larger jobs. Its thickness, between 120 and 130 GSM (to be more precise, 123 GSM), is ideal for preventing creases and folds in your transfers.
It has a logo at the back to assist you in differentiating between the front and back sides. With this sublimation paper, you can rest assured that your design will be free of any crack or fading.
It works best on cloth surfaces, according to specialists.
Pro tip: Add a personal touch to your wardrobe with your design sublimation on hats, cushions, and shirts.
If you want to see the comparison between Koala and other sublimation papers, then Watch this video.
What We Like
What We May Not Expect
Bottom Line:
Besides all the beautiful features, you do not necessarily have to be a cash cow to buy koala sublimation paper. It is reasonably priced. What’s more intriguing is that there is not even a bit of ink bleeding (not even the size of a millet seed).
5. Printers Jack – Best for Mugs & Tumblers Sublimation:
Features:
Finding cheap sublimation paper for mugs is challenging because some aren’t very good. They appear rushed and unfinished, and they waste your time and money. Printers Jack sublimation paper is perfect for printing vibrant pictures on mugs, purses, phone cases, and shirts. Aside from beautiful colors, Printers Jack’s paper boasts a 98 per cent transfer rate, assuring a reliable and straightforward operation. The reverse of this paper is a distinct color, making it easier to distinguish between the front and rear. It’s also cost-effective, so you can experience the benefits of sublimation paper without spending the last penny.
According to specialists, it isn’t quite as good as A-SUB or Koala sublimation paper. Printers Jack’s sublimation paper isn’t as thick as others on this list. However, it is capable of delivering your designs with ease. It also doesn’t come in a wide range of sizes, so it won’t be an essential choice for extremely small or large projects. When it comes to the total amount of paper, this is slightly less expensive than koalas, although the difference is negligible. So, you can save a bit but remember, only a bit saving can lead you to compromise the great quality of A-sub or other papers.
What We like
What We May Not Expect
Bottom Line:
If you are searching for a sublimation paper for mugs, then Printers Jack has got your back. You can fanatically trust this paper in case of sublimation on ceramic mugs.
Note: There is also one major issue regarding dark material. Most of the time, people ask this question about how to sublimate on dark material and which paper is best for dark material. There is no need to worry.
What is the Best Sublimation Paper for Dark Shirts?
It is impossible to sublimate dark shirts directly, and you must use HTV for this process. Siser Easy subli HTV is considered the best for sublimation on dark shirts. For more info, read this post on How to sublimate Dark shirts.
You can also participate in this discussion to learn more about this topic.
How Many Times Can You use the Same Sublimation Paper?
Only Once. You can’t reuse sublimation paper again because transferring an image onto design paper contain some residues of ink, which make them improper to use again.
Where to Buy Sublimation Paper
You can buy sublimation paper from different wholesale websites. But If you want it in Bulk, I would recommend you buy from
- Aliexpress- HTVRONT Sub Paper
- Amazon
- Walmart
Not only you can use these paper to sublimate on cotton fabric tumblers or mugs. You can also transfer design with these paper to other products like
Sublimation Papers Trend Last 12 Months
What to look for in the Best Sublimation Paper while Purchasing?
The majority of people have difficulty with this. And it’s not unexpected in the least. Choosing the best sublimation paper is a challenging feat, to put it lightly. Sublimation sheets are tough to choose, much as choosing scents is difficult. So, to help you select the best sublimation papers, our experts have compiled a list of guidelines.
Size of the sublimation Paper:
Choose a size that is appropriate for both your designs and your printer. If you want to transfer huge designs onto t-shirts or sweatshirts, you won’t be able to use ordinary A4 (8.5 x 11) paper. When it comes to smaller size transfers like socks or caps, a large size paper like Super B (13 x 19 sublimation paper) may be excessive.
Quality of the color:
You don’t want to roam around with items that have dull, fading hues; thus, sublimation sheets must bring out brilliant, lifelike colors. If you’re running a successful business, you need to use bright colors. People are more likely to glance at objects that are bright and colorful.
In reality, the drab hues will wreak havoc on your blank and design simultaneously. So, avoid burning your cash on useless purchases.
Transfer Rate (Percentage):
Your paper should have a minimum transfer ratio of 95% to ensure a successful printing process. A reasonable transfer rate should also produce high-quality, high-resolution prints with less color blur. Because of the high quality of today’s transfer papers, many of them have transfer rates of more than 95 per cent, if not up to 98 per cent.
Desiccation/ Drying Duration:
You should choose a sublimation paper that dries quickly. Many papers’ sublimation ink takes a long time to dry. This puts you under more stress and makes tasks longer and more complex. On the other hand, When it only takes a few seconds for something to dry, you can devote more time to growing your business.
Harmonious and Compatible:
Our list has choices that work effectively with Epson and Inkjet printers. Almost all sublimation papers are compatible with inkjet printers. Your equipment must be consistent with the sublimation paper. Check before purchasing if the Dye-sub paper you’re considering will work with your printer. The paper size you use, on the other hand, should be suitable for your printer. Your ink and paper must also be chemically sound.
Paper Thickness and Weight:
Always choose thicker paper while making your selection. Because if you’re printing damp artwork with a lot of ink, a thinner paper will curl and distort. A more comprehensive piece of paper, on the other hand, can resist more force and is less prone to crease or fold.
Warping Degree:
The paper used for sublimation is coated. The coating layer is uneven; thus, one side will dry faster while the other will take longer. In turn, it will affect the whole sublimation process. Before choosing your sublimation paper, be sure to verify the degree of warping and the coating consistency.
Blots on the paper surface:
Spots can be frustrating and disheartening. Blots and stains can be expected during the manufacturing process, decreasing image quality when printed. Furthermore, while simply transferring one color, the location of blots can affect the transfer results. As a result, choosing a transfer paper with a low number of spots on the surface is recommended.
FAQs:
Conclusion:
Do you despise receiving lifeless results from your sublimation paper? These best sublimation papers have nearly ideal transfer rates, so no more late nights trying to get the perfect outcome. For high-quality transfers, your sublimation paper is crucial. It is, after all, what transfers your designs. To get the nicest transfers, make sure you’re using the highest quality paper you can find. I hope this expert’s well-researched approach has helped you choose your next fantastic sublimation paper match.