[Powers]

I have never posted but have bought all my equipment on the advice of everyone on this site form looking through other post. I currently am running a GraphTec CE6000 a GeoKnight K20s press and now might as well jump into the sublimation process. I want to start this one a little cheaper and was considering the Epson WF7520 (or if there is another recommended epson printer under $300) and after doing hours of research on here am still a little confused if I can use the ink that comes with the printer stock. I understand it is more expensive than using a CIS system, but I just received a request for a "Photo" shirt and would like to start by using stock ink if I can to see if I really want to offer sublimation to my customers.
Thanks in advance!

 

[charles95405]

To do sublimation you have to use special sublimation ink. OEM ink will not work, however you can do inkjet transfer with Epson pigment ink which comes with some Epson printers. With sublimation you must use 100% polyester. White or light pastel

 

[Powers]

Thank you for the response now I guess I will research the difference between sublimation and inkjet transfers. Looks to me sublimation is for plaques, mouse pads, mugs etc so inkjet transfers are more designs or logos on shirts? I am not looking to do "vapor" type jerseys just want to do photos on shirts to start would this be transfer or considered sublimation?.

 

[Viper Graphics]

Thank you for the response now I guess I will research the difference between sublimation and inkjet transfers. Looks to me sublimation is for plaques, mouse pads, mugs etc so inkjet transfers are more designs or logos on shirts? I am not looking to do "vapor" type jerseys just want to do photos on shirts to start would this be transfer or considered sublimation?.

Powers, This information should help a bit...


T-Shirt Forums - Search Results for sublimation vs transfers

 

[calhtech]

Thank you for the response now I guess I will research the difference between sublimation and inkjet transfers. Looks to me sublimation is for plaques, mouse pads, mugs etc so inkjet transfers are more designs or logos on shirts? I am not looking to do "vapor" type jerseys just want to do photos on shirts to start would this be transfer or considered sublimation?.

Sublimation works very well for t-shirts too. As was mentioned already only works with 100% Poly apparel and white or very lite colors. If you are wanting to print photos on white cotton, your JPSS will work fine. However, if you plan to print photos on DARK garments, be prepared for a less than marketable output from DARK inkjet transfers. To date, the industry still does not have a marketable DARK inkjet transfer paper. The colors are great, but the feel is VERY plastic and heavy. With that said I pressed my first sublimation transfers last weekend (Thanks Dave at SKMFG) and they were great. Colors were vibrant, the hand was, well there was no hand at all. IF you want to test the water with sublimation, have a look at SKMFG.com for sublimation transfers. They are great to work with and reasonable too, no minimums. Good luck.

 

[Powers]

Thanks for all the replies and one thing I am still confused most on is some places you read that epson durabrite inks can be used for sublimation and also read that I should throw durabrite away and udurabritenon

Can I start out using durabrite just to get use to the process and can it be used on plaques and sublimation tees?

 

[sben763]

No. You must use sublimation inks. For tshirts you need polyester shirts. For hard surfaces you must use blanks for sublimation as they are coated with a polymer.

Durabrite is pigment ink and can be used for inkjet heat transfers

2 entire different process. Sublimation is printed on sublimation paper. When heated it goes from a solid to a gas without going to a liquid state and embeds in to the fibers or the polymer. Inkjet transfers are printed on to a polymer carrier and when heated ink stays a solid and the polymer carrier seals to the shirt.

 

[Powers]

Ok now that makes sense I have been talking about two different processes and confusing myself. Thanks again!

 

[calhtech]

Ok now that makes sense I have been talking about two different processes and confusing myself. Thanks again!

BTW, don't throw your Durabrite away! (I'll take it. It works just fine for inkjet transfers. I have held out on purchasing a SUBLIMATION setup ( I have 2 new printers in boxes) but because of all the hoopla over the SUBLIMATION ink I haven't taken the plunge. I am anxious to try this mainly for mugs, awards, mouse pads, and such. I hope to start later this year. Vinyl, and screen printing keep me pretty busy right now! Good luck...

CalhTech>