Do you want to begin the sublimation business, but you are stuck on which sublimation papers to use? If yes, then worry no more. Having the best sublimation printers and sublimation ink is not enough to succeed in the sublimation business. There is a need to have the best sublimation papers that will help to hold your top-quality sublimation ink.
You will make a great benefit if you have the best sublimation paper. The best sublimation papers guarantee success in your sublimation business. However, it is good to understand that choosing the best sublimation paper is not easy because many sublimation papers are on the market. To make your work easy, we have highlighted the top 10 rated sublimation papers available in the market.
- No fracturing, Fast dry
- Transfer rate≥98%
- Paper Finish: Coated
- Only work with sublimation ink
Our Favorite Sublimation Papers
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Top 10 Best Sublimation Papers- Buying Guide
- Best Overall: A-SUB Sublimation Paper 8.5×11 Inch 110 Sheets
- Best Quality Sublimation Paper: S-RACE Sublimation Paper 8.5 x 11 inch, 100 Sheets
- Best Paper for Mugs: Hemudu Tale Sublimation Paper 8.5X11’’
- Best Paper for Sawgrass Printer: Printers Jack Sublimation Paper
- Best Paper for Inkjet Printer: Koala Sublimation Paper 150 sheets
- Best Paper to Use: A-SUB Sublimation Paper 3.5×9 Inch
- Best Paper for T-shirts: Tonha Sublimation Paper 8.5 x 11 Inches
- Best Fast Dry Paper: Fole Sublimation Paper Size 13×19 Inches
- Best Heat Transfer Paper: MECOLOUR Sublimation Paper 110 Sheets
- Best Material for Sublimation: HAYES PAPER Co. Sublimation Heat Transfer Paper
1. A-SUB Sublimation Paper
| Paper Finish | Coated |
| Sheet Size | 8.5 X 11 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 110 |
| Brightness Rating | 80 Lumen |
| Product Dimensions | 11 x 8.5 x 0.59 inches |
A-Sub paper is one of the top-quality sublimation papers that have been in the market for the last 18 years. This paper is designed for inkjet printers which are known for producing outstanding prints that are attractive. It comes with 110 sheets measuring 8.5 x 11 inches, making the paper the best for any image or text.
Features
Fast-Drying Time
Fast drying time with the sublimation ink is the major feature known in this paper. If you are tired of those sublimation papers that take a lot of time to dry, you need to try this one.
High-Quality Polyester
A-Sub paper is designed for top-quality material and polyester with a cotton percentage of 30. If the cotton content is higher than that, you need to use iron-on heat transfer.
Wide Application
A-sub paper uses high technology to transfer over 90% of the ink to the fabric you need to use. This makes it used on premium ceramic, metal plates, phone cases, and others.
Ideal Size
The pack has 110 sheets, each measuring 11X17 inches. This size makes it ideal with Epson desktop printers of A3 and A4. The best thing about the paper is that it has a coated finish which makes it weigh 2 pounds.
What We Like
- It has a fast-drying rate
- It works with any sublimation ink
- Has an outstanding result
- Works clean with no problem
- It does not tear up easily
What We Don’t Like
- It’s only applicable to materials with less than 30 percent cotton.
2. S-RACE Sublimation Paper
| Paper Finish | Specially Coated |
| Sheet Size | 8.5 X 11 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 100 |
| Paper Weight | 120 |
| Product Dimensions | 11.7 x 9.1 x 0.87 inches |
Do you need an all-around sublimation paper? If yes, this is the best option for a sublimation paper. The paper is built with various things that make it the best option in production. This package has 100 sheet letters with a measurement of 8.5 x 11 inches in a solid white box with directions on how to use it.
Features
High-Quality Material- This paper is ideal for polyester-coated areas like wood, metal, ceramics, and glass. The paper has a specially coated surface, making it suitable for skateboards, mouse pads, mobile phone covers, key rings, and polyester.
Fast-Drying- One of the best features of this paper is that it has a fast dry in all substrates. Once you have printed using the best sublimation ink and this paper, you are guaranteed a fast and immediate dry read for processing.
Exceptional HD Photo Quality- Using the sublimation paper on all the inkjet sublimation printers, you get an excellent HD quality with more vibrant colors. There is also a higher transfer rate, precision, and also it saves your ink when printing.
What We Like
- It has an exceptional photo quality with all kinds of inkjet printers
- Made from high-quality material that is applicable in various work
- It has a hard surface that doesn’t fade once printed
- High-quality paper
- Great vibrant color
What We Don’t Like
- No cons are associated with the paper yet
3. Hemudu Tale Sublimation Paper 110 Sheets
| Paper Finish | Coated |
| Sheet Size | 8.5 X 11 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 110 |
| Brightness Rating | 80 Lumen |
| Product Dimensions | 8.5 x 11 x 0.78 inches |
Hemudu Tale paper is another top-quality advanced sublimation paper available on the market. The performance of this paper is out of this world surely. You always get outstanding results within a short period. If you get anything from it, you are assured of high-quality products that can stand among many.
Features
Good Compatibility- Hemudu Tale paper is compatible with many inkjet printers that match its sublimation ink. It measures 8.5 x 11 inches, making it ideal for use in various inkjets with top-quality performance.
Excellent Performance- If there is one thing that is ideal with this paper, it is its amazing work; it has an instant dry and faster transfer rate of about 98%. It also uses less sublimation ink; this helps avoid misuse of the ink and saves your money.
Broad Application- Most people like to know where to use their sublimation paper. With Hemudu Tale, you have a wide application where you should use it. It can be used in a color material with less than 30 percent cotton content. You can use it on the pillow, ceramic plates, mouse pad, etc.
What We Like
- Easy to use
- It has a wide application
- It is compatible with various inkjet
- Suitable with polyester
- It is durable and doesn’t fade with time
What We Don’t Like
- The papers get jammed easily when you transfer it
4. Heat Transfer Paper 100 Sheets
| Paper Finish | Coated |
| Sheet Size | A4 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 100 |
| Brightness Rating | 80 Lumen |
| Product Dimensions | 8.3 x 11.7 x 0.5 inches |
Finding a sublimation paper ideal for your mugs is a daunting job. Some of the papers make them look rushed, unfinished, and waste your time. But today, I can assure you that this paper is the best option for mugs.
Features
Compatible– This sublimation paper is compatible with Ricoh, Sawgrass, and Epson printers. It has a measurement of 8.3 x 11.7 inches, and it comes with 100 sheets. This does the paperwork with light-colored 100% polyester fabrics and coated items.
High-Quality Paper- The quality of this sublimation paper is unquestionable. The paper has a faster dry rate, doesn’t fade, and has no fracturing experience. The finished product from the paper looks beautifully decorated with a bright and vivid color. The quality material consumes less ink compared to others.
Usage- These inkjet papers are totally easy to use, even if you are a beginner. All you need is to apply your design from your computer to the printer.
Wide Application- One of the great things about this paper is that you can use it in T-shirts, pillowcases, ceramic mugs, phone cases, mousepads, etc.; all you need is to create a specialized and personalized design that you prefer.
What We Like
- It is compatible with various inkjet printers
- Quick and easy to use
- It has a high color reproduction
- Quick dry and faster transfer rate
- High-quality paper
- Waterproof
What We Don’t Like
- It gets jammed with the printers regularly
5. Koala 150 Sheets
| Paper Finish | Coated |
| Sheet Size | 8.3 X 11.7 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 150 |
| Brightness Rating | 80 Lumen |
| Product Dimensions | 8.27 x 11.7 x 0.6 inches |
Koala 150 sheets sublimation paper is one of the top-rated sublimation papers that is out there in the market. This is all because it gives one enough options to ensure that they have completed their work. It has an 8.3 x 11.7 inches measurement, ideal for A4 work and efficient for various works.
Features
Ideal Package- Koala comes with 150 sheets per pack, and they are of the excellent size of 8.3 x 11.7 inches; therefore, they can help you meet your extensive quantity of work. The size is also ideal for printing large and quality images that you may have.
Compatibility- The sublimation is only limited to an inkjet printer that uses sublimation ink; the regular ink does not work with the paper. However, it has a higher transfer rate, high ink compatibility, and instant dryness, and it does not experience any ink bleeding, making your work neat and saving your ink.
Wide Application- You can use it with a light color material with a cotton content of less than 30%; you can also use it in socks, phone cases, ceramic plates, mugs, and mousepads. The good thing is that you can have a unique handmade gift.
Easy to Use- using this sublimation ink is easy as you are only required to begin your printing process on the blank side. You are assured of a high transfer rate and quick dry rate with it. The paper has an extraordinary performance to help you achieve your color quality.
What We Like
- Faster quick drying
- It has an excellent transfer rate
- The color doesn’t fade from it easily
- Provides high-quality paper
- You can easily decorate various items with it
What We Don’t Like
- Not compatible with many printers
6. A-SUB Sublimation Paper 3.5×9 Inch
| Paper Finish | Coated |
| Sheet Size | 3.5×9 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 100 |
| Paper Weight | 125 gsm |
| Product Dimensions | 9.17 x 3.74 x 0.67 inches |
Do you need a sublimation paper that can dry within seconds? If yes, then an A-Sub paper 4×9.5 inches is the ideal paper for you. With the top quality outcomes, you are also assured that you can use this paper on premium ceramic, metal plates, phone cases, among others.
Features
High-Quality- Like the other A-Sub papers, this paper is also made of quality material that is 15 oz making it an economic sublimation paper that is cost-effective and user-friendly. It has extra silicone paper, which helps to prevent the heat press machine panel from becoming dirty.
Compatible– The paper is compatible with all the inkjet printers that match the sublimation ink used. You will have an excellent printing process and a high transfer rate if it is well used. There is a consistent performance in the printing process.
Wide application- This 4×9.5 inches paper comes with 100 sheets that apply to various materials like premium ceramic, phone cases, and metal plates. It has one of the best performances in ink transfer in various materials.
What We Like
- High-quality paper that lasts longer
- Fast and quick to dry
- Absorbs the ink well
- Wide application
- Has the perfect transfer rate
What We Don’t Like
- It is a bit costly
7. Tonha Sublimation Paper 8.5 x 11 Inches
| Paper Finish | Smooth |
| Sheet Size | 8.5 x 11 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 100 |
| Paper Weight | 125 gsm |
| Product Dimensions | 14 x 8.5 x 0.05 inches |
The sublimation paper is a top-quality versatile paper that can be used in different items. It is said to be one of the unique sublimation papers available. Incredible performance is one thing that makes people fall in love with paper. It has a well-coated finish making it reliable to customers.
Features
High-Quality- Tonha paper is well known for its high-quality performance. It has an excellent transfer rate that helps reduce the production cost as it uses minimal ink. The sublimation heat transfer paper dries quickly with the colors, and no crack or fade will be experienced.
Compatible- Tonha sublimation is compatible with ink and printers. This 8.3 x 11.7 inches has 100 sheets easily compatible with any inkjet printer with dye-sublimation ink. All you need is to print on the side of the dye sublimation paper. It is also compatible with Epson, HP, Sawgrass, Ricoh, Canon, etc.
Broad Application- Using this paper is easy as you need to use the white side for print. It can be used on high-quality polyester material with a cotton content of 30%, plates, key chain, light fabric, and mugs. You can create your imagination to transfer your images to various surfaces and make them look unique.
What We Like
- It has an excellent transfer rate
- Dries faster and quickly
- Easy to use
- It applies to many surfaces
- It has an amazing quality
What We Don’t Like
- The quality isn’t that great compared to others
8. Sublimation Paper Size 13×19 Inches
| Sheet Size | 13″x19” |
| Sheet Count | 100 |
| Paper Weight | 120 GSM |
| Item Weight | 3.94 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 19 x 12.8 x 0.6 inches |
Do you want a sublimation paper that is large enough for your work? If that is your case, consider this sublimation your perfect choice. The sublimation paper is easy to use and has a stunning result that will dry within a short period without any effort. The paper is designed to do incredible work and get fast-drying times without wasting time.
Features
High-Quality Size- This paper comes in 13×19, A3 11X17, and A4 8.5X11 inches. The package also contains 100 sheets with 120 GSM. This unique size makes the paper unique and the most preferred paper in most works.
Compatible- Unlike other sublimation papers that work with specific machines, this paper is compatible with any inkjet printer that uses sublimation ink. In addition to that, it has a faster transfer rate of 98% hence making it an excellent lay-flat performer.
Wide Application- It has wider application ability as it can be used on polyester material with a cotton content of about 30 percent plus, tile, metal plate, premium ceramic, and phone cases.
What We Like
- High-quality performance
- Dries faster and quicker
- It comes in a variety of sizes that you can buy
- It is cheap compared to other papers
- Applicable to a variety of items
What We Don’t Like
- It doesn’t tell on which side to print with
9. MECOLOR Sublimation Paper
| Paper Finish | Coated |
| Sheet Size | 8.5 x 11-inch |
| Sheet Count | 110 |
| Item Weight | 1.54 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 11.14 x 8.74 x 0.75 inches |
COLOR paper is another top-quality sublimation paper available on the market. The paper works well with the heat press machine but not with a household iron. For over ten years, this paper has been on the market. It has been on top of all in terms of high performance.
Features
Premium Quality- MECOLOUR sublimation is made of top-quality material that has coated paper finish. These high qualities make it faster in drying up, saving your ink greatly and having the best transfer rate. The image transferred does not fade or crack, and they are durable. The paper has the standard size of 8.5 x 11 inches.
Wide Application- Like other quality papers, this paper can transfer photos onto a wider variety of surfaces like a pillow, ceramic mug, metal plate, canvas bag, key chain, etc. This makes the paper the perfect option for everyday celebrations and seasonal crafts.
Compatible- The paper is suitable for any inkjet printers like Ricoh, Sawgrass, Epson inkjet printers that use sublimation ink. If you have canon or HP, or any other printer, ensure that it has a piezoelectric printhead. This feature also makes the paper easy to use without experiencing any problems.
What We Like
- Prints excellent vibrant colors are great
- It has a faster dry
- It has the great transfer rate
- Suitable for various inkjet printers and surfaces
What We Don’t Like
- The purple color is not great
10. HAYES PAPER CO.
| Paper Finish | Coated, Smooth |
| Sheet Size | 8.5 x 11 Inches |
| Sheet Count | 110 |
| Paper Weight | 120 GSM |
| Product Dimensions | 11.3 x 8.7 x 0.9 inches |
HAYES PAPER CO. sublimation paper is another well-reputed paper that produces high-quality work. The paper has products that are of high quality and reality. I am sure that you won’t be disappointed with the sublimation rate of the paper.
Features
Top-quality- HAYES comes with a value pack that contains 110 sheets which are of top quality and strength with the paper finish coated well. It also has a 120GSM and measures 8.5 x 11 inches. This quality size and several sheets allow you to do hundreds of projects you design today.
Faster drying- The HAYES PAPER incorporates patented technology that allows the sublimation ink to dry immediately uniformly. The features help stop smudging, smearing, and create a crisp image. You can save your ink as there is no wastage of it.
Top-quality transfer rate- The transfer rate of this paper is on another level. The microporous technology enables the paper to provide a 99% transfer rate. This helps reduce messing up with your picture and enables you to work on many projects.
True color- This sublimation paper is well known for its quality products. The paper will give you a vivid and top-quality transfer rate by using a heat press.
What We Like
- It has an instant drying rate
- Top-quality and enough sheets
- Higher transfer rate
- Easy to use
- Have vibrant colors
- Has a maximum creativity
What We Don’t Like
- It leaves some scratches on the print
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best Sublimation Paper
Choosing the best sublimation paper is hard for most people. Honestly, there are so many papers available in the market that may confuse you. Some are cheap, and others are costly; others have many sheets, and others have a recommendable sheet number. All these are the features they come with to attract customers. To avoid getting the worst paper, we have gathered the factors you need to check to get the best paper.
a. Color Quality
The color quality of a sublimation paper is super important if you are aspiring to succeed in your business. Most people prefer cheerful and colorful things they see. Some papers won’t work well when handling colors, while others do. You won’t be happy if you walk around with dull items that can fade.
b. Drying Period
The drying time is another factor you need to look at in a good sublimation paper. Some sublimation ink takes a lot of time to dry on sublimation paper. It is good to choose the paper that dries fast to enable you to finish many printing projects.
c. Durability
How will you feel when you realize that your prints fade within a short period? I am sure it won’t be a good experience for you. Due to this, there is a need to research which sublimation paper can last longer without fading. If you realize that your sublimation papers make your design dark and unpleasant, then avoid it.
d. Transfer Rate
The transfer rate of the sublimation paper is also reasonable. A good sublimation paper needs to have a transfer rate of about 95% to ensure successful printing work. A good transfer rate leads to high-quality and high-resolution prints.
e. Compatibility
Will you wish to spend on a sublimation paper that doesn’t work with your printer? Yes, you can have the best and high-quality sublimation paper, but it will be useless if it is not compatible with your printer. To avoid this frustration, you need to check on your sublimation paper choice’s applicable and compatible printers.
f. Wrap Degree
Sublimation paper is a coated paper that needs regular coating to reduce the warp. If there are inconsistencies in the coating, the paper will experience different drying rates. This affects the overall process of sublimation. Ensure that your sublimation paper has the best warping degree and uniform coating.
g. Thickness
The thickness of the sublimation paper is vital. Thinner papers distort and curl, quickly affecting your process. On the other hand, a thicker sublimation paper can withstand stress exerted on them, and they do not fold or fade easily.
How to Print On Sublimation Paper
The sublimation paper is coated with a unique chemical that helps to transfer any image or text printed on it to a given surface or material. Several steps are involved in making this process successful. They include
Step 1
Design your image or text on your computer that you wish to place on your cloth or surface. You can use a word processing program to write your text or place a plain picture or use complex software if you have one.
Step 2
Connect your inkjet to the computer and ensure you have replaced your standard printer paper with sublimation paper. Print your text or image and wait for it to dry for some seconds.
Step 3
Prepare the area you wish to place your text or image. Clean the surface if it is rough or rugged using a sponge and let it dry. If you want to transfer to your cloth, place the cloth on a flat surface.
Step 4
Put the printed sublimation paper on the surface you wish your text or image to be with the printed side facing down.
Step 5
Put on the pressure press or clothing iron. Allow heating and gently pass it on the sublimation paper in slow movements. This will help loosen the printed text or image and transfer it to the surface.
Step 6
Remove the iron or pressure press from the sublimation paper. Gently remove the sublimation paper from the surface. Allow it to dry in a cool place, and now it will be ready.
What is Sublimation Paper Used For?
Most people confuse sublimation paper with heat transfer paper. Although the two perform the same function, they have a difference. The sublimation paper is a bit complicated as it works when heated to a given degree before being used.
It transfers the text or image perfectly to a given surface. To achieve this, it is heated to a gaseous state to make it clean and professional. It is good to understand that sublimation only works on polyester clothes.
Even though sublimation is used for polyester, it does not limit creativity. You can also use it to make jewelry, coasters, mugs, and phone cases. If you use the application and recommend sublimation ink with the sublimation paper, you will get an image with vivid colors that won’t fade.
Related Topic:
FAQ: Best Sublimation Paper
What is The Best Sublimation Paper?
A sublimation paper is a printing paper that can suck up sublimation ink and hold it before transferring it to the required items. The best sublimation depends on the various parameters, and a sublimation paper is best based on one’s needs. The best sublimation paper is one that can meet your needs, but if I were to choose, I would go with my first choice.
Is Sublimation Paper The Same As Heat Transfer Paper?
These two processes seem to be the same because they do the same thing. However, there is something that makes them different. The heat transfer adds layers on top, whereas sublimation paper doesn’t. This is the only difference between them, but they do the same thing.
What Kind of Paper Do You Use For Sublimation?
There are several sublimation papers used. However, we recommend using paper with vivid colors and a transfer rate of at least 98% in most cases. This is because they do well when it comes to sublimation performance. This will be ideal if you want to sublimate T-shirts, Phone cases, and mugs.
How Do I Take Care of My Sublimation Paper?
Sublimation papers need to be handled with great care because they might affect your printing products if not well handled. Store them well and avoid contaminating the papers with other products.
Can You Sublimate With Regular Paper?
Sublimation is a unique process and requires sublimation paper and sublimation ink. The normal papers can be used because they cannot hold the sublimation ink as required, so they can’t be used. The normal inkjet should also not be used because it is incompatible with the sublimation paper.
Conclusion
I am sure by now you have learned a lot, and you can know what makes a sublimation paper best. From the list of the papers we have discussed, I am sure you have identified that there is one sublimation paper that is better than the others. It is good to know that the best sublimation paper comes with what you want to accomplish and compatibility with your printers.