If you have been following along in my craft studio for any amount of time, you already know that sublimation is one of my favorite ways to create vibrant, long lasting custom projects. I use it for shirts, mugs, tumblers, ornaments, slate, MDF blanks, and so much more. But I get asked this constantly. What do I really need to start sublimation? Well, I’m here to help, so let’s get started!
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10 Things You Actually Need to Get Started with Sublimation
There is a lot of information out there, and it can feel overwhelming when you are just getting started. So today I am breaking it down into the ten essential tools and supplies you truly need for sublimation printing, along with what each one does and why it matters.
If you are building your sublimation setup or starting a sublimation business, this guide will help you focus on what actually matters.
1. A Sublimation Printer
My preference – Epson SureColor F170
Everything starts with your printer. In my studio, I use the Epson SureColor F170, which is designed specifically for sublimation. I have not personally worked with converted printers, and I chose a dedicated sublimation printer intentionally.
Here is why.
A printer built for sublimation is simple to set up. You are not flushing ink. You are not replacing factory cartridges. You are not installing third party systems. You fill it with sublimation ink, install the driver, and you are ready to print.
It also includes proper color management settings designed specifically for sublimation ink. That matters because sublimation prints look dull on paper. The color transformation happens when heat is applied. Having accurate color handling reduces frustration and improves consistency.
Another important benefit is warranty protection. Converting a printer voids the warranty. A dedicated sublimation printer maintains manufacturer support, which is important if you are using it for business.
If you are new to sublimation, reducing technical variables makes learning much easier.
I also have the Epson f570 which a large format sublimation printer, it’s an upgrade for sure and is amazing!
2. Sublimation Ink
My Preference – Epson Sublimation Ink
Sublimation ink is completely different from regular inkjet ink. It is specially formulated to turn into gas under high heat. That gas bonds permanently with polyester fibers or polymer coated surfaces. That is why sublimation designs do not crack or peel. They become part of the material. Always use ink that is made for your specific printer model. Using incompatible ink can cause clogs or inconsistent color. The ink is what makes sublimation possible, so quality matters. I use Epson sublimation ink with both my printers and the results are always amazing.
3. Sublimation Paper
My Preference – ASUB Paper 125g
Paper plays a bigger role than many beginners realize. Sublimation paper is designed to hold ink on the surface rather than absorbing it deeply like regular copy paper. This allows the ink to release efficiently during pressing.
I useASUB sublimation paper because it consistently produces vibrant transfers. Using low quality paper will result in faded, dull designs. Good paper ensures strong color payoff and clean transfers.
4. Heat Press and Tumbler or Mug Press
My Preference HTVRONT Heat Press and Tumbler Press
Heat is what activates sublimation.
For clothing and flat surfaces like shirts, tote bags, coasters, and plaques, you need a flat heat press. A quality heat press provides consistent temperature and even pressure, which are both critical for clean transfers.
Most flat sublimation projects press between 375 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the blank.
For mugs and tumblers, you need a tumbler press or mug press. A flat press cannot properly apply even heat to curved surfaces. A tumbler or mug press wraps around the cylinder and applies consistent pressure all the way around.
If you plan to sublimate drinkware, investing in a tumbler press or mug press is essential. But before you jump in with both feet, you might want to test the waters with a heat gun, I share how HERE.
In my studio, I use a flat heat press for clothing and flat blanks, and a dedicated tumbler or mug press for drinkware. Each tool serves a specific purpose, and using the correct press prevents uneven transfers and faded areas.
There are a lot of choices out there, and I have several brands of heat presses and tumbler presses. But I find myself reaching for the HTVRONT tumbler press the most for straight tumblers and mugs (I personally don’t like the tapered tumblers). I love my Transpro Heat Press, but sadly it’s no longer available. But the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press 2 is a good starter, it has adjustable pressure so it can be used for everything from HTV, Sublimation to DTF transfers. It isn’t just for garments either, it works well on hard substrates like sublimation cutting boards, ornaments and sublimation acrylic projects.
5. Butcher Paper
Butcher paper protects your equipment and your projects.
When sublimation ink turns into gas, it can travel beyond your design area. If you do not use a protective sheet, that ink can stain your heat press or transfer onto your next project.
I always place butcher paper underneath and on top of my blank during pressing.
It is inexpensive and saves you from damaging your equipment. I get the large rolls at Costco Business Center. Sam’s Club used to carry it also, but it seems to have been discontinued. I keep it on a metal dispenser for easy cutting.
6. Heat Tape and a Heat Tape Dispenser
Heat resistant tape keeps your design from shifting while pressing.
If your sublimation paper moves even slightly when heat is applied, you can get ghosting, which looks like a shadow around your design. I secure my prints with heat tape before pressing. A tape dispenser makes it faster and keeps everything organized, especially when working on multiple projects. This small tool makes a big difference in workflow.
I no longer use the yellow tape, I found that it would leave marks on my sublimation projects. My preference is the blue heat resistant tape.
7. Polyester or Sublimation Coated Blanks
Sublimation only works on polyester or polymer coated surfaces. For fabric, that means high polyester content. The higher the polyester percentage, the more vibrant your design will appear. For hard goods like mugs, tumblers, slate, and aluminum panels, they must have a special coating that allows the sublimation ink to bond. You cannot sublimate directly onto 100 percent cotton without special coatings. Choosing the correct blank ensures your design transfers properly and lasts. There are a lot of choices out there and it seems like new substrates hit the market regularly. Everything from ornaments to puzzles to mousepads to wind spinners! There are a lot of blanks to choose from, just make sure you follow the temp and time for each item, they all vary.
8. A Quality Image Library
Creative Fabrica
Your equipment is important, but your designs are what people see. I use Creative Fabrica for graphics and fonts because it provides high resolution files with commercial use options. Having access to quality artwork saves time and helps you create polished projects.
If you plan to sell sublimation products, always verify that your designs include commercial rights. Strong designs elevate your finished products and your brand.
9. Design Software
You need software to size and mirror your images before printing. Sublimation designs must be mirrored prior to printing so they appear correctly after pressing. Whether you use Canva, Photoshop, Silhouette Studio, or another program, you need control over sizing, layout, and resolution. Proper setup prevents wasted blanks and misaligned transfers.
Here is a short video on how I use Canva to create my tumbler prints:
10. Lint Roller, Prep Tools, and Heat Resistant Gloves
Preparation is one of the most overlooked steps in sublimation. I always lint roll fabric blanks before pressing. Even tiny fibers can show up as unwanted specks because sublimation ink bonds with stray polyester fibers. I also pre press shirts briefly to remove moisture and wrinkles.
Heat resistant gloves are especially important when working with mugs and tumblers. Drinkware becomes extremely hot during pressing, and gloves protect your hands when removing items from a mug or tumbler press. Taking a few extra moments to prep properly leads to cleaner, more professional results.
Starting Sublimation
When you break it down, sublimation is not complicated. It just requires the right combination of tools working together.
- You need a reliable sublimation printer.
- You need the correct ink and paper.
- You need a flat heat press for clothing and flat surfaces.
- You need a tumbler or mug press for drinkware.
- You need compatible blanks.
- And you need quality designs.
Everything else supports those essentials.
Sublimation has become one of the most versatile tools in my craft studio. Whether you are creating for fun or building a business, starting with the right equipment makes the process smoother and far more enjoyable. If you are serious about long term results and ease of use, investing in equipment designed specifically for sublimation will save you time, frustration, and wasted materials.
I have a lot of sublimation ideas here, so be sure to check them out!
Now tell me. Are you starting with shirts, mugs, or tumblers first?
Happy Crafting!
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- Cricut Glue Gun Product Review
- How to Sublimate Frosted Glass Can Tumblers with the Cricut Mug Press
- How to Sublimate Tumblers with the Cricut Mug Press
- How to Sublimate on Wood With or Without a Sublimation Printer