What least expensive printer with dye sublimation can be used for small plaques ?
Hi everyone! I want to use dye sublimation to do small
plaques- 5x7 and smaller-. The plaques will have mainly
graphics with design backgrounds and some photos. I will be using hardboard or the plastic for sublimation. What would be the least expensive printer to use with a dye sub set up and still have a nice looking product to offer? This forum is great! Thanks to all who help us newbies.
Re: What least expensive printer with dye sublimation can be used for small plaques ?
Tom-
I may not be able to advice you on the least expensive printer that you can use for dye-sub; but I can give you some advice (if I may).
If you will be using the results from this printer (the transfers) to produce products for a profit; may I suggest you don't go with the cheapest printer you can find. If my mind serves me correctly, you can find inkjet printers for under $60 that can be used to create dye-sub transfers.
But.....I have heard of so many headaches with using less than professional grade printers. You don't have to go with the most expensive printer you can find, but I definitely wouldn't limit myself or my business to the cheapest printer you can find either.
As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Many times....something cheap bought for producing retail products ends up being a migraine.
Re: What least expensive printer with dye sublimation can be used for small plaques ?
I have been doing dye sub for over 8 years. You do not need a 6 or 8 color printer for great sublimation. CYMK is sufficient. For years I used an Epson C80, C88 series then 1280 and finally a 1400. With the Epsons, you will have to deal with head clogging issues. The ink is not cheap..about $75-$85 per cart and CIS is often a mess but can save some $$. If you are serious about sublimation look at the ricoh GX5050 It uses gel ink..seldom has ink issues, one of the fastest dye sub printer now in use... Otherwise, the least expensive way to start is if you can find an Epson C88+...would be under $100
Re: What least expensive printer with dye sublimation can be used for small plaques ?
The C88 prints just as nice as the larger more expensive printers. I have been using the Epson small format printers for many years with excellent results. If I were you I would go with this setup with the refillable cartridges & buy the ink in bulk. I have absolutely no issues with this setup.
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What least expensive printer with dye sublimation can be used for small plaques ? 
Re: What least expensive printer with dye sublimation can be used for small plaques ? 
