10 Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts in 2026: Easy Picks for Custom Projects

The best sublimation printers for crafts make it easier to create vibrant shirts, mugs, tumblers, gifts, and personalized décor at home. The right choice depends on more than print quality: ink costs, paper size, setup, software, and included supplies all affect your results.

We compared compact printers, starter bundles, wide-format options, and craft-focused machines to help you match your workspace and project goals with a practical setup.

Best 10 Sublimation Printers for Crafts Picks for 2026

Best Overall – Epson SureColor F170

The Epson SureColor F170 is a strong choice among sublimation printers for crafts when you want genuine dye-sublimation hardware, a compact footprint, and dependable print quality. Its enclosed 150-sheet tray, included OEM ink, and Windows and macOS support make it practical for hobby projects and small-batch work.

Best For: Crafters and small-business owners who want an original Epson sublimation printer with manufacturer support.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks.
• PrecisionCore printhead supports detailed, clear transfers.
• Enclosed 150-sheet tray helps keep media clean and organized.
• Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity.

Cons:

• Maximum media width is 8.5 inches.
• Mobile-device connectivity is not supported.
• Designed for simplex printing only.

The F170 balances compact sizing with purpose-built sublimation features. It is especially appealing if Epson documentation, OEM supplies, and full manufacturer support matter more than wide-format output.

Best for App-Based Design – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer

The Brother SP-1 stands out among sublimation printers for crafts for its Artspira integration and straightforward wireless workflow. You can create or import designs in the app, print them, and heat-press the transfers onto suitable blanks such as shirts, bags, mugs, and tumblers.

Best For: Beginners and mobile-oriented crafters who want app-based design access and a compact Brother system.

Pros:

• Artspira supports saved images, design patterns, and poster-style conversions.
• Includes Brother genuine CMYK sublimation ink and a starter paper pack.
• Wi-Fi connectivity supports a convenient wireless workflow.
• Brother describes the transfers as suitable for washable polyester-coated items.

Cons:

• A heat press is required and sold separately.
• The printer is intended for US 120-volt use.
• Its maximum media size is 8.5 by 11 inches.

This SP-1 is a practical entry point for craft projects when design convenience is a priority. Artspira adds creative flexibility, while the included ink and starter paper help you begin without sourcing every consumable separately.

Best Wide-Format Option – Epson EcoTank ET-15000

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a flexible alternative for sublimation printers for crafts when you also need a general-purpose office machine. It offers wide-format printing up to 11 by 17 inches, refillable tanks, scanning, copying, faxing, and automatic duplex printing; however, the supplied notes identify it as an inkjet printer rather than a dedicated dye-sublimation model.

Best For: Crafters who need one wide-format all-in-one printer for standard documents and potential sublimation-ink use.

Pros:

• Supports media up to 11 by 17 inches.
• Refillable EcoTank design can reduce cartridge handling.
• Combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing.
• Offers Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity.

Cons:

• It is listed as an inkjet printer, not a dedicated dye-sublimation printer.
• Its suitability depends on using compatible sublimation ink and the appropriate workflow.
• The all-in-one design is larger and heavier than compact craft printers.

The ET-15000 makes the most sense when sublimation is only part of your setup. Its wide media support and office features are useful, but dedicated sublimation buyers should verify ink compatibility and process requirements before choosing it.

Best Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Craft Bundle

This Brother SP-1 bundle is one of the more complete sublimation printers for crafts packages for getting started quickly. Along with the dye-sublimation printer and full CMYK ink set, it includes transfer paper, 50 blanks, heat-resistant tape, design resources, and Artspira access.

Best For: New crafters and small-business starters who want supplies for testing several sublimation projects.

Pros:

• Includes Brother SP-1 printer with full black, cyan, magenta, and yellow ink set.
• Provides 160 total sublimation transfer sheets.
• Includes 50 blanks, four tape rolls, and design resources.
• Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections and Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.

Cons:

• The bundle does not state that a heat press is included.
• Its 600-by-600-dpi resolution is more modest than some listed alternatives.
• Maximum media sizes are limited to legal width and 8.5-by-11-inch paper options.

For beginners, the bundle’s included consumables can simplify the transition from setup to finished projects. It is a particularly convenient pick if you want to try apparel, drinkware, coasters, and other blanks without buying each accessory separately.

Best All-in-One Sticker Maker – Liene PixCut S1

Liene PixCut S1 Color Sticker Printer & Cutting Machine - All-in-One Sticker Maker for DIY Crafts, Custom Labels & Gifts. Thermal Dye-Sublimation Photo Printer, 300 DPI, Precise AI Auto-Cutting

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The Liene PixCut S1 is a practical choice for crafters who want a compact sublimation printer for crafts that also handles cutting. It prints 300 DPI, full-color photos, stickers, and labels from the Liene app, then uses AI-assisted image extraction and precision cutting to finish projects in one workflow.

Best For: DIY stickers, custom labels, phone skins, badges, and small personalized gifts.

Pros:

• Combines thermal dye-sublimation printing and cutting in one device.
• AI image extraction helps create precise sticker outlines.
• Four-layer printing automatically laminates stickers for waterproof and scratch-resistant results.
• Bluetooth app support includes templates, design elements, and AI art tools without a subscription.

Cons:

• Its primary focus is stickers, labels, and photo-style projects rather than transfer printing for shirts or mugs.
• The 6.2-pound unit is less portable than a pocket-sized photo printer.

The PixCut S1 stands out when convenience matters more than broad substrate compatibility. Its integrated cutter and durable laminated output make it especially appealing for sticker-focused craft projects.

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Best for Growing Craft Businesses – Sawgrass SG500

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle

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The Sawgrass SG500 is a strong desktop sublimation printer for crafts when you need professional-looking transfers for products such as shirts, drinkware, signage, and promotional items. It supports vivid CMYK printing, Wi-Fi connectivity, and media up to 8.5 by 14 inches, with a bypass tray for prints up to 8.5 by 51 inches.

Best For: Home-based entrepreneurs, small businesses, and crafters producing hard and soft sublimation products.

Pros:

• Includes a full 31 mL SubliJet UHD CMYK ink set and paper bundle.
• Prints up to 8.5 by 14 inches, with longer media supported through the bypass tray.
• MySawgrass and Sawgrass Print Utility provide templates, smart presets, and color-control tools.
• Wi-Fi connectivity and automatic print-head maintenance support regular use.

Cons:

• It uses a larger desktop footprint than compact craft printers.
• The listed electrical specification is for standard 110/120V US and North American outlets.

The SG500 offers a useful balance between a manageable desktop size and business-oriented features. It is the more suitable pick for crafters who expect to produce varied sublimation merchandise and want software support as they grow.

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Best for Comfort – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer

Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer with Full CMYK 47ml Ink Set, 10 Dye-Sublimation Transfer Sheets & Artspira Design Software

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The Brother SP-1 is a well-equipped sublimation printer for crafts beginners who want supplies and design software included. Its 1200 by 1200 resolution, full 47 mL CMYK ink set, starter paper, and Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity support projects ranging from apparel and tote bags to mugs, tumblers, coasters, and metal goods.

Best For: New sublimation crafters, artists, and small-business users making apparel and personalized blanks.

Pros:

• Includes 47 mL each of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow sublimation ink.
• Comes with 10 sheets of 8.5 by 11-inch sublimation paper.
• Artspira software includes 100 sublimation designs and works with Windows, Mac, and the app.
• Offers both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity with a maximum legal-size media capacity.

Cons:

• The bundle includes only 10 starter sheets, so additional paper may be needed for frequent projects.
• It is a print-only machine and does not include an integrated cutting function.
• Its listed warranty is different from the longer support period advertised for product support.

The SP-1 is an approachable way to start sublimation without sourcing every essential separately. Its included inks, paper, and Artspira designs make it particularly convenient for first projects and personalized craft orders.

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Best All-in-One Value – Pinckney Cartridge-Free Sublimation Printer

For crafters who want an affordable, flexible option among sublimation printers for crafts, the Pinckney combines sublimation printing with scanning and copying. Its refillable super-tank design, wireless connectivity, and broad paper-size support make it practical for home projects and heat-transfer work.

Best For: Home crafters who want an all-in-one printer with refillable sublimation ink tanks.

Pros:

• Includes high-capacity sublimation ink tanks with an easy-fill nozzle and no cartridges.
• Functions as a wireless printer, scanner, and copier.
• Supports multiple paper sizes, including letter, legal, A4, and select smaller formats.
• Offers up to 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution.

Cons:

• It is a converted ET-2800 or ET-2803 rather than a dedicated sublimation-only model.
• Mobile and computer connectivity may require setup through Wi-Fi or USB.
• Printed sublimation designs may look dull before heat transfer, so nozzle checks and alignment may be needed.

The Pinckney is a versatile choice when scanning and copying matter as much as transfer printing. Its tank system can reduce cartridge handling, while the included ink and one-year limited warranty add convenience for new crafters.

Best Dedicated Printer – Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer

The Epson SureColor F170 is a dedicated option for crafters comparing sublimation printers for crafts and small-batch transfer projects. It includes genuine Epson ink, starter supplies, and a 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray, offering a more purpose-built workflow than a converted multifunction printer.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small business owners who want a dedicated Epson sublimation printer.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks with auto-stop bottles for cleaner refills.
• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control is designed for clear image output.
• Includes sublimation paper, thermal tape, and starter blanks.
• Its dust-resistant 150-sheet tray supports a more organized printing workflow.

Cons:

• It prints only and does not include scanning or copying functions.
• Mobile-device connections are not supported.
• Maximum media width is listed as 8.5 inches.

The F170 is a strong fit for users who prioritize a dedicated, compact sublimation system and genuine manufacturer supplies. Its included starter materials can help reduce the number of add-on purchases for initial projects.

Best Simple Pick – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer

The Brother SP-1 stands out among sublimation printers for crafts for its Artspira-centered design workflow. Crafters can create or import artwork in the free app, print in up to 45 seconds per sheet, and use the included extra color cartridges and 100 sheets of letter-size sublimation paper to get started.

Best For: DIY crafters who want app-based design tools and a quick path from artwork to heat-press transfer.

Pros:

• Artspira supports image importing, design access, and poster-style image conversion.
• Includes access to more than 100 sublimation designs through the app.
• Prints a sheet in up to 45 seconds.
• Includes an extra cyan, magenta, and yellow cartridge set plus 100 paper sheets.

Cons:

• Artspira must be downloaded before using the printer.
• A heat press is required and sold separately.
• Uses cartridges rather than a refillable tank system.

The SP-1 is especially appealing for beginners who prefer designing from a phone or tablet and want bundled consumables. It is less suited to shoppers seeking a tank-based printer or an all-in-one scanner and copier.

How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts

We evaluated these models and bundles based on their suitability for heat-transfer projects, print size, included ink and paper, setup requirements, connectivity, and overall flexibility. We also considered whether each option is better suited to beginners, occasional crafters, or users producing designs regularly.

Because product listings can vary by seller, verify the included accessories, ink capacity, supported media, and warranty before ordering. Some printers are sold as complete starter packages, while others may require separate sublimation paper, a heat press, or compatible blanks.

Quick Comparison

• Best compact dedicated option: Epson SureColor F170 models offer a focused desktop setup for standard-size projects.
• Best starter bundles: Brother SP-1 packages include useful combinations of ink, transfer sheets, blanks, tape, or design tools.
• Best wide-format flexibility: The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is appealing for larger media and all-in-one office functionality, but confirm sublimation compatibility and supplies.
• Best production-oriented alternative: The Sawgrass SG500 is designed around sublimation printing and may suit users who value a dedicated ecosystem.
• Best for small stickers and labels: The Liene PixCut S1 is a cutting-and-printing tool rather than a conventional sublimation printer.

Key Buying Factors for Sublimation Printers for Crafts

Print Size and Project Type

Check the maximum printable area before choosing a model. Standard letter-size printing works well for many shirts, mugs, ornaments, and small signs. Wide-format printers provide more room for larger apparel designs, but they generally require more workspace and may cost more to operate.

Ink System and Running Costs

Dedicated sublimation printers and converted tank printers use different supply ecosystems. Look for clearly identified sublimation ink, easy refills or replacements, and transparent costs for future ink sets. Bundles can reduce the initial expense, but compare the quantity and quality of every included item.

Software, Connectivity, and Setup

Wireless printing is convenient for craft rooms, while included design software can simplify layout and color adjustments. Beginners should favor clear setup instructions and a supported workflow. If accurate color matters, confirm whether the printer supports suitable color-management tools or profiles.

Required Accessories

A printer alone does not complete a sublimation setup. You will also need a compatible heat press, sublimation blanks, transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, protective paper, and appropriate ventilation and handling practices. Starter bundles are useful when their included supplies match your intended projects.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printers for Crafts?

Choose a compact Epson or Brother setup if you want a straightforward desktop printer for occasional apparel, mugs, and gifts. Choose a Brother starter bundle if you are new to sublimation and want supplies included with the printer. Consider the Epson wide-format model if larger designs and multifunction printing are important, but verify its exact sublimation workflow first. Choose Sawgrass if you prefer a dedicated sublimation platform and expect to print regularly. For sticker-focused projects, the Liene PixCut S1 may be the better fit, though it should not be treated as a replacement for a true dye-sublimation printer.