Best Sublimation Paper For T-Shirts, Mugs, Epson Printers. – 2022

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To run a successful sublimation business, fulfilling your client’s demands and their satisfaction is necessary. This is achieved by providing them with the best quality product and the best quality is gained by the use of the best equipment. Paper is the canvas for your printing art. The better your canvas the better the art looks. Paper quality plays an important role in the final look of your image.

The smoothness of the paper makes the image clean and clear. The durability of the paper and the drying time plays a big role in the proper distribution of the ink. The color quality impacts the final image that is sublimated on the surface. All these factors show the importance of paper quality in sublimation printing.

Similar to sublimation ink, sublimation also requires a special kind of paper known as sublimation paper. With the recent influx in the number of brands selling sublimation paper, it can be hard to choose the best sublimation paper.

So to help you, I have compiled this review on different sublimation papers. Using my EcoTank 4760, I tested these papers which included A-Sub sublimation paper, different inkjet sublimation paper, sublimation paper for t-shirt printing, sublimation transfer paper, etc. Out of all these options, I have chosen the best 7 in my opinion. So let’s jump right into the review…

best-sublimation-paper-for-t-shirts-mugs-epson
IMAGE PRODUCT RATING PRICE
EDITORS CHOICE

A-Sub Sublimation Paper

A-Sub Sublimation Paper
10
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BUDGET PICK

Printers Jack Sublimation Paper

Printers Jack Sublimation Paper
9.7
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TOP CHOICE

9.5
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PICK

Seogol Sublimation Paper

Seogol Sublimation Paper
9.5
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PICK

Koala Sublimation Paper

Koala Sublimation Paper
9.2
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PICK

S-Race Sublimation Paper

S-Race Sublimation Paper
9.0
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PICK

Fole Sublimation Paper

Fole Sublimation Paper
8.7
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1) A-Sub Sublimation Paper – Sublimation Transfer Paper

EDITOR PICK
A-Sub Sublimation Paper
 
10/10 Our Score

Starting the list is my favorite A-Sub sublimation paper. They have been professionally making sublimation papers for 19 years making them a reliable brand. Their paper material and quality perfectly suit sublimation printing. With a near-perfect coating on both the sides of the paper, the overlapping of ink or damage to the image due to heat press is easily prevented.

The A-Sub sublimation paper comes in three different sizes that range up to 13″ x 19″. Due to this large sizing, it easily prints large images and logos. The paper pack comes with 110 sheets and each sheet has a written marking on it telling which side is the printing side and which one is the backside.

The colors appear wonderfully bright justifying the 80 Lumen brightness rating. The paper is pretty smooth and spotless resulting in a clear and clean print which also results in a clear image on the final product. For that you will also need to have one of the best sublimation printer. The paper has a high drying rate and 98% of transfer rate preventing any sort of unnecessary spread of ink.

The paper has a no fade and no fracture feature which means that the paper remains wrinkle-free. This keeps the image perfectly clean and sharp. The durability is also increased with these features giving you long-lasting clean prints.

A feature that I like a lot is that the sheet box comes with an instruction sheet that tells all the optimal conditions to get the best results on the paper. The temperature, time, etc, are provided on the sheet to help get a rough idea about the best conditions for the paper. The A-Sub sublimation paper is compatible with all inkjet printers.


Read about: Best Sublimation Printer For T-Shirts

Highlighted Features:

  • No Fracturing
  • Quick Drying Time
  • 98% Transfer Rate
  • High Brightness Rating
  • Coated Paper
  • Compatible With Inkjet Printers Using Sublimation Ink
  • Vivid and Bright Colors

Specifications:
BrandA-Sub Sublimation Paper
Paper Weight125 G
No. Of Sheets110 Sheets
Sizes8.5” x 11″ 13” x 19″
CompatibilitySawgrass, Epson, Ricoh, Inkjet Printer
Brightness Rating80 Lumen

2) Printers Jack Sublimation Paper – 13×19 Sublimation Paper

BUDGET PICK
Printers Jack Sublimation Paper
 
9.7/10 Our Score

Our second entry on the list is Printers Jack sublimation paper. Known for their sublimation accessories, their sublimation paper is no exception. Their sublimation paper is slightly cheaper as compared to A-Sub sublimation paper but in terms of quality, they are toe to toe with A-Sub.

The brand has three sizes ranging from 8.5″ x 11.7″ to 13″ x 19″. This makes it fairly adaptable to large size logos and designs. The paper comes with proper coating preventing the ink from leaving the top surface of the paper and passing on to the backside. In addition to this, the paper is super smooth and results in wonderful print quality which is then passed on to the final product.

With a high brightness rating of 80 Lumen, the colors appear beautifully. The fast-drying of ink and ultra-quick transfer rate also aid in the quality of print. The paper is wrinkle and fracture-free and can be used to sublimate on several surfaces such as mugs, polyester fabric, ceramic, pillowcases, phone covers, mousepads, etc.

The box contains a total of 100 sheets. Printers Jack sublimation papers are easily compatible with Epson, Sawgrass, and Ricoh inkjet printers. They can also be used with Hp and Canon inkjet printers if they come with a piezoelectric printhead. The box also has an instruction and guide section printed on the backside of the box and the paper has a certain color on the backside to indicate the nonprinting side.


Highlighted Features:

  • Comes In Three Different Sizes
  • No Fading & Fracturing
  • Fast Drying Time
  • 98% Transfer Rate
  • High Brightness Rating
  • Properly Coated
  • Compatible With Inkjet Printers Using Sublimation Ink
  • Crisp and Clear Colors

Specifications:
BrandPrinters Jack Sublimation Paper
Item Weight1.46 Pound
No. Of Sheets100 Sheets
Sizes8.3” x 11.7″11” x 17″ 13” x 19″
CompatibilitySawgrass, Epson, Ricoh, Inkjet Printer
Brightness Rating80 Lumen

3) DyeMaster Sublimation Paper – Sublimation Paper

TOP PICK
DyeMaster Sublimation Paper
 
9.5/10 Our Score

Dye Master is another big brand when it comes to sublimation papers. They make professional-level sublimation papers that have a super-fast drying time. The average time frame of drying that I got was around 3-4 seconds resulting in clear and clean prints with no spreading of ink.

In terms of print quality, It was really hard for me to distinguish between the sublimated image from this paper and A-Sub sublimation paper. This proved the quality of the dye master as a sublimation paper brand. Moreover, the paper has a really high transfer rate and has the capability of producing sublimation prints on multiple surfaces such as mugs, ceramics, polyester fabric, pillowcases, etc.

The standard one paper box comes with 110 sheets, each one coated properly providing a great ink surface. The coating restricts the ink to the upper surface of the paper. The paper comes in the Legal size 8.5″ x 11″ and 13″ x 19″.

The DyeMaster paper is compatible with all Epson, Sawgrass, and Ricoh inkjet and desktop sublimation printers. However, the paper box is not provided with any instruction or guide sheet as compared to A-SUB or Printers Jack. It can be difficult to understand which side is the printing side.


Highlighted Features:

  • Properly Coated
  • No Fading & Fracturing
  • Super Fast Drying Time
  • Compatible With Inkjet Printers Using Sublimation Ink
  • Clean and Bright Images
  • Paper Count Of 110 Sheets

Specifications:
BrandDyeMaster Sublimation Paper
Paper Weight110 G
No. Of Sheets110 Sheets
Sizes8.5” x 11″13” x 19″
CompatibilitySawgrass, Epson, Ricoh, Inkjet Printer
Paper FinishCoated

4) Seogol Sublimation Paper – Epson Sublimation Paper

4TH PICK
Seogol Sublimation Paper
 
9.5/10 Our Score

Similar to sublimation ink, Seogol is also a manufacturer of high-quality sublimation paper. The paper has non-fading and non-cracking features. This prevents any kind of wrinkles from appearing on the paper due to moisture and keeps the colors finely spread and distributed. The paper is only suited for light or white color polyester fabrics or coated items.

Sizes of 8.5″ x 11″ and 11″ x 17″ are available with each box coming with a total of 100 sheets. The paper comes with proper coating making the paperless porous for the ink to penetrate to the other side. The paper sublimates a variety of surfaces such as polyester, fabric, mugs, ceramics, pillowcases, phone cases, plates, etc. Fabrics with less than 30% cotton can also be sublimated.

Printing quality is further enhanced thanks to the fast drying time. The prints dry quickly preventing any unnecessary spread of ink. Transfer rate touches an ultra-high 98% increasing the quality of the final image giving you a beautiful and vivid sublimated image.

All inkjet printers from Epson, Sawgrass, Ricoh, Hp, Canon, are compatible with Seogol sublimation paper. Do remember though, the printer should be using sublimation ink. A light pink color easily distinguishes the back and the front side of the paper. Instructions regarding the pressing temperatures for different materials are available on their site.


Highlighted Features:

  • Coated Paper Finishing
  • Transfer Rate Up To 98%
  • Fast Drying Speed
  • Compatible With Inkjet Printers Using Sublimation Ink
  • Non-Fading Feature
  • 5760 dpi Resolution
  • Applicable To Variety Of Surfaces

Specifications:
BrandSeogol Sublimation Paper
Resolution5760 dpi
No. Of Sheets100 Sheets
Sizes8.5” x 11″11” x 17″ 13” x 19″
CompatibilitySawgrass, Epson, Ricoh, Canon, Hp
Paper FinishCoated

5) Koala Sublimation Paper – Inkjet Sublimation Paper

5TH PICK
Koala Sublimation Paper
 
9.2/10 Our Score

Manufactured by the Koala Paper store, Koala sublimation paper is one the best sublimation papers in the market. With the latest updated model, the smoothness and flatness of the paper have been increased which has directly impacted the quality of prints. Furthermore, the quick dry time means that you get clean, clear, and bright prints that are then translated to the final product.

Available in three different sizes of  8.5″ x 11″, 11″ x 17″, and 13″ x 19″, printing large size logos and images is no big issue. The high brightness rating is pretty evident from the vivid colors of the print. Moreover, the coating of the paper aids in the proper appearance of ink on the upper side of the paper and does not breach on the other side.

The standard box has a 100 sheet quantity. However, boxes with a sheet capacity of 120 are available at their store. The papers have thick layering and a high transfer rate of up to 98%. Both the features increase the quality of colors and the proper distribution of ink on the paper.

The paper is compatible with Sawgrass, Epson, Hp, Canon, and Ricoh inkjet printers. However, the printer must use sublimation ink. The paper only works with fabrics with a polyester percentage of more than 70. For cotton-containing fabrics, the percentage of cotton should be less than 30. Other than fabric, multiple surfaces such as mugs, phone cases, ceramics, metal plates, etc, can easily be sublimated.


Highlighted Features:

  • Coated Paper Finishing
  • Smooth & Flat Paper
  • Fast Drying Speed
  • Compatible With Inkjet Printers Using Sublimation Ink
  • High Brightness Rating
  • High Color Performance

Specifications:
BrandKoala Sublimation Paper
Paper Weight123 G
No. Of Sheets100-120 Sheets
Sizes8.5” x 11″11” x 17″ 13” x 19″ 
CompatibilitySawgrass, Epson, Ricoh, Inkjet Printer
Brightness Rating80 Lumen

6) S-Race Sublimation Paper – Sublimation Paper For T-Shirt Printing

6TH PICK
S-Race Sublimation Paper
 
9.0/10 Our Score

S-Race sublimation paper is another amazing product. The paper has one of the best color-quality displays. The colors appear aesthetically pleasing and have a vivid appearance. Thanks to the amazing paper quality, the colors remain vibrant after being sublimated. The paper has a high and precise transfer rate aiding in increasing the quality of the print.

The colors properly spread throughout the surface giving a clear and clean image. The paper also has a low ink consumption making it a cost-effective option. To get a detailed review on what is sublimation priting, you may read this article.

The paper is available in three sizes which include Letter size, Tabloid size, and Super-B size. These sizes provide you with a large printing area. My purchase of the standard box provided me with a total of 100 sheets and each sheet was specially coated. This prevents the ink from leaking to the backside of the paper.

Fast-drying speed makes the paper ready to be used immediately for sublimation. The paper gives beautiful sublimated prints on polyester fabric, photo panels, ceramic mugs and tiles, mousepads, etc. Hard surfaces such as fiberglass, boards, etc, can also be sublimated if they are poly-coated.

Inkjet printers from Epson, Sawgrass, Ricoh are compatible with the paper if they use sublimation ink. An instruction sheet is also provided with the box which helps you in understanding the best heat press temperatures for different surfaces and objects.


Highlighted Features:

  • Specially Coated Paper
  • Vibrant Colors
  • Instant Drying Time
  • Compatible With Inkjet Printers Using Sublimation Ink
  • Available in 3 Different Paper Sizes
  • High & Precise Transfer Rate
  • Applicable To Variety Of Surfaces

Specifications:
BrandS-Race Sublimation Paper
Paper Weight120 G
No. Of Sheets100 Sheets
Sizes8.5” x 11″11” x 17″ 13” x 19″
CompatibilitySawgrass, Epson, Ricoh, Inkjet Printer
Paper FinishCoated

7) Fole Sublimation Paper – Sublimation Paper for Mugs

7TH PICK
Fole Sublimation Paper
 
8.7/10 Our Score

Fole sublimation paper makes up our last entry on the list. Fole sublimation paper sublimates on a variety of surfaces. Ceramic tiles, polyester fabrics, mugs, metal plates, bags, pillowcases, etc, are surfaces that can be sublimated using Fole paper.

Similar to other sublimation papers, Fole sublimation paper also has a non-fading and nonfracturing feature. This reduces the appearance of too many wrinkles on the paper giving prints and images which have long-lasting colors and vividness.

Fole sublimation paper is purchasable in three different sizes. Each paper has a fast-drying feature and a transfer rate of 98%. Both these features translate into the quality of the paper. High quality of prints is achieved due to these features.

Any inkjet printer that uses sublimation ink is compatible with this sublimation paper. 100 sheets are obtained with the purchase of the standard Fole sublimation paper box.


Highlighted Features:

  • 3 Different Sizes Available
  • High-Quality Color Appearance
  • Extremely Fast Drying Speed
  • Compatible With Inkjet Printers Using Sublimation Ink
  • High Transfer Rate
  • 100 Sheet Box

Specifications:
BrandFole Sublimation Paper
Paper Wight120 G
No. Of Sheets100 Sheets
Sizes8.5” x 11″ A411” x 17″ A313” x 19″
CompatibilitySawgrass, Epson, Ricoh, Inkjet Printer

Best Sublimation Paper – Buying Guide:

Knowing the factors you need to check in a product before purchasing it is an important thing. A purchase that does not fulfill your needs or is not compatible with your equipment results not just in waste of money, but also a waste of time. There are certain important factors you need to know before you choose your sublimation paper. Purchasing after checking these factors will in the end help you in choosing the best suits your needs.

Color Quality:

The quality of the colors that appear on the paper is very important. For the vividness and sharpness of colors to properly appear, the paper needs to be of high quality. The better the color quality is on paper, the better they will appear on your final product. A high-quality final product is equal to the satisfaction of your clients.

Drying Time:

The time an ink takes to dry on paper is very important. The final image quality can be impacted drastically if the drying time is not quick enough. A quick drying time lowers the chances of the colors spreading on the paper and lowers the chances of any mess. The cleaner the print is on the paper, the better the final sublimated image would be.

A quicker drying time also speeds up your printing speed which eventually is beneficial to the growth of your business.

Transfer Rate:

A good transfer rate is an important factor for quite a few reasons. First of all, a high transfer rate results in less consumption of ink. Secondly, a good transfer rate ultimately leads to high quality and resolution prints and reduces the chances of any blurriness in the colors.

A lot of modern sublimation papers have a high transfer rate with some even having a transfer rate up to 98%.

Compatibility:

Compatibility of the paper with your equipment is necessary. A paper that is not compatible with the accessories is a waste of money and time. You need to check if the sublimation paper is compatible with your printer. Almost all of the sublimation papers are compatible with inkjet printers.

The compatibility of the paper size with your printer is also very important. Your ink also needs to have good chemistry with your paper.  The higher the compatibility is between the paper and your accessories the better the final results will be.

Durability & Coating:

Sublimation papers need to have a certain level of durability for the prints to be accurately sublimated on the surface. Non-fading and non-fracturing features prevent the paper from wrinkling and prevent distortion and fading of colors.

The coating is also a very important feature for sublimation papers. The proper coating of the paper restricts the ink from reaching the backside of the paper. The coating makes the paper less porous and keeps the colors on the upper side of the paper.

Surfaces:

The number of surfaces on which the paper can sublimate is a factor that also needs checking. For you to run a successful business, it is important that you choose a sublimation paper that can sublimate on multiple surfaces. This is because the customers come up with a number of demands when it comes to the item on which they want a sublimated image. So do check the versatility of the paper in terms of surfaces.


YouTube video
Credits: Angie Holden

How To Use Sublimation Paper:

Printing your image on the sublimation paper and then using it for sublimation on the surface is seemingly an easy process but there are few things that you should vary of. This step-by-step way of using the paper is recommended to get the best results.

First and foremost, the compatibility of the paper with the printer is very important. If the sublimation paper is not usable with your printer or the ink, then you cannot use it for sublimation.

Once you have the correct set of paper, you need to know the printable side of the paper. Most sublimation papers have lightly colored sides or writings on sides that are not printable. This makes it easy to know which side the printing needs to be done on.

Don’t forget to:

Now you can move on to printing the image on paper. Choose the resolution and other settings according to your need and print it on paper. Once the printing is done on paper, it is ready to be used for sublimation.

For sublimation, it is best to use a heat press machine. Take your fabric or whatever surface you have and place it on the heat press. Then set the temperature and pressure according to the material. Most of these boxes come with an instruction sheet that guides you about the recommended heat machine settings for different materials.

It is best that you use a protective sheet or a very thin cloth in between the paper and the surface. This way you can prevent the spread of ink on the surface and get a clean and clear image.


FAQ’s:

Unfortunately no. Sublimation papers are mostly compatible with all inkjet printers which are using sublimation ink. Some inkjet printers also need piezoelectric print heads to be compatible with sublimation paper.

Sublimation paper of any brand is not reusable. Once used for sublimation, they cannot be used again.

Absolutely. If you purchase a size that is not compatible with the printer, then you cannot perform sublimation on it.

It depends on the surface. For sublimation to take place on hard surfaces such as wood or glass, they must be properly coated with material on which sublimation is possible.

It is important to know the printable side of the sublimation paper. Most of the papers are marked or colored to show the printable side. For the image to properly be printed, it needs to be on the printable side of the paper.

It is definitely recommended that you either use a protective sheet or a towel when heat pressing. Putting them between the paper and the fabric can prevent any ink from spreading on the backside of the fabric.

Using an iron to heat press on sublimation is not recommended at all. To get the best out of your paper, it is highly recommended that you use a heat press machine.       


Final Thoughts

Through personal experience, I can assure you that choosing the right sublimation paper that perfectly suits your needs is very important. Your print and final image quality are dependent on your paper quality as much as on your ink or printer.

All of these sublimation papers have their distinct qualities. So you should make the choice which is fulfilling your requirements and can help you best in accomplishing your goals.

Top Picks:

  1. A-Sub Sublimation Paper
  2. Printers Jack Sublimation Paper

I would personally recommend these two sublimation papers the most. Their quality and advantages impressed me the most. In terms of features, they are almost the same. The only major difference is the price. Money is not a priority factor for me, so I usually use A-Sub but Printers Jack is also a good bet.

Hopefully, this review will help you in making the right choice. Don’t forget! Choose the option which suits your needs and accessories the best.



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