Instead of printing on transfer films, sublimation turns dyes or inks into gases that bond with the final product fibers completely. This is most commonly done on polyester or other synthetic fabrics. Also, it really only works well on white or very pale colored material.

Some of the steps in the process are quite similar to DTF transfers. You create the design using computer software of your choice, use a special printer to create the transfers, and then move it onto the fabric using a heat press and time. This bonds the ink with the material fibers, which makes the patterns or designs incredibly durable.

Besides the process explained above, the major differences in the sublimation printing vs dtf debate include material compatibility, color vibrancy, durability of the finished print, and overall cost.

First, it’s important to note that both DTF and sublimation prints offer high-quality results. The real measure involves how long those results last. With direct to film printing, you get a smooth and stretchable design. The only real issues with potential fading, cracks, or wear come if the product wearer or user fails to follow washing instructions. Sublimation lasts virtually forever, as the design infuses the fabric itself.

As with all printed designs, both DTF and sublimation use CMYK primary colors. This gives you the option to create any mixture you can dream of. Colors are precise and vivid, except when you’re purposefully going for a softer and more subtle look. One difference comes when you want to include white in your design. DTF uses white ink as a base. Sublimation doesn’t print in white at all. Instead, you use the base color of the fabric as the negative space in the design.

This is one of the major differences between the two popular types of product printing. With a DTF printer and transfer film, you can put your colorful design on virtually any material. This includes both natural and manufactured fabrics like cotton, polyester, and nylon, as well as hard items like plastic water bottles, ceramic mugs, and more.

Sublimation has serious limits as to the materials you can use. These dyes work well on synthetic fabrics only with pure polyester topping the list. While you can use these transfers for mugs and plastic doodads, you will need special poly-coated ones to make the design work.

Yes. With this DTF hack with a sublimation printer, you can use your existing equipment for the opposite transfer design printing option. The process itself follows the same basic steps. You create the design on your computer, send it to the machine, load up sublimation inks and DTF paper, and go. After printing, follow the steps for a DTF design using adhesive powder and a heat press.

However, there is one rather large limitation when it comes to choosing DTF paper for sublimation printer use. Sublimation machines do not use white ink. If you make a design with white or other pale colors, it will not show up well on darker fabrics at the end. You still need to put the image on white, off-white, or very light pastel polyester.

The first step is to determine if a DTF or sublimation printer will work best for the projects you want to do. Are you creating printed cotton t-shirts for your organization’s merch? Or do you want to design brightly patterned nylon sportswear? A DTF printer gives you more flexibility overall, but there are still many things to consider.

The direct-to-transfer process is simple to learn. You get clear setup and use instructions and reliable output as long as you don’t make any big mistakes. Procolored’s P13 DTF printer is quite popular with low-scale printers for both personal use and small business success. They’re truly plug and play, and you get responsive customer support too. Some people find sublimation printers easier because they don’t require the sometimes-messy adhesive powder step. The setup and printing process is much the same.

When it comes to sheer versatility, DTF wins over sublimation every time. You can print in any color including white and use the transfers on almost every type of material. For the best results, choose a printer with built-in white ink circulation, quick and steady transfer film feeding, and flexible integration with design software. This last point is very important. If you invest in a printer and later find out it does not support your chosen programs, you will have to spend more money and learn new methods rather quickly. Sublimation limits material types and colors for the end product.

As you research which printer to buy, carefully research things like the maximum size of the transfer output, how many films it can print in an hour, and the expected volume over time. This is especially true for crafters interested in starting their own printed products brand. Some only handle a few inches, while the most expensive commercial models can print 24” of more in a continuous roll.

If you only want to print items for your own use or learn a new, interesting craft, opt for a beginner’s model printer with a lower cost and output. A smaller model like Procolored F8 Panda Printer is a great option, although the final transfer size is limited to around eight inches.

The best DTF printer for small business is affordable, reliable, and has a fast enough output rate to make products to keep up with demand. This is especially true for companies who offer bulk item sales to customers instead of one-off designs. If an order comes in for 40 even t-shirts, you need to get them done quickly to impress the buyer.

Consider investing in a complete equipment bundle with a commercial DTF printer included. These also offer a convenient stand, inks and powders, a shaker oven, and a heat press. This economical option cuts down the costs of getting started in your new business venture.

When determining the difference between DTF and sublimation printer costs, you need to take more than equipment prices into account. In general, DTF printer price ranges from a few hundred dollars to many thousands. It all depends on the product you choose. Also, the transfer film and adhesive powder necessary to create products are also quite affordable. However, they do represent ongoing expenses.

Sublimation printers cost in the same general range. You will also need to buy sublimation paper and inks, of course. One of the larger potential costs comes from the specialty products you can print on. While a polyester shirt blank is cheap, a polyester-coated mug specifically made for sublimation will cost more than a standard ceramic option that takes DTF easily.

Beginners or even people who intend to run a small business selling printed items online or at flea markets do not have to invest in a $20k printer upfront. Those are for much larger commercial ventures. However, you do not want to skimp on quality or reliability either. While you can find ‘toy’ printers for very low prices, they usually only print tiny films, offer poor quality, or break before you even get your projects started.

When you compare dtf printing vs sublimation, there are many questions and considerations to take into account. With this guide and Procolored’s extensive collection of printers and their knowledge base, you are now better equipped to get the vibrant, precise printed designs you’ve always wanted.