If you're starting or scaling a custom print business in Canada, your sublimation printer will be the heart of your operation. Whether you're pressing tumblers, mugs, shirts, or coasters, choosing the right printer impacts your image quality, turnaround time, and profit margins.
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In this guide, we break down the best sublimation printers for Canadian entrepreneurs in 2026 — and pair each with the right blanks to help you start strong.
🎯 What to Look for in a Sublimation Printer
Before we dive into specific models, here’s what Canadian crafters should consider:
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🖨️ Print size – 8.5x11" is enough for mugs and tumblers; go larger for shirts and signs.
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💧 Ink quality – Dye-sublimation ink must be vibrant and heat-reactive.
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💡 Ease of setup – Some models require converting, others come sublimation-ready.
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🇨🇦 Availability in Canada – Make sure you can buy ink refills, parts, and support locally.
🥇 1. Sawgrass SG500 – Best All-In-One for Beginners
The Sawgrass SG500 is a popular plug-and-play sublimation printer designed specifically for small businesses.
✅ Built-in support for CreativeStudio
✅ Easy setup, great color output
✅ Ideal for mugs, tumblers, onesies & coasters
Pair it with:
👉 11 oz Two-Tone Sublimation Mugs
👉 20 oz Skinny Tumblers
🖨️ 2. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 / ET-2850 – Best for Budget-Conscious Crafters
These affordable EcoTank printers are convertible to sublimation with refillable dye-sub ink.
✅ Low entry cost
✅ Easily found at Canadian retailers
✅ Great for mugs, tumblers & beginner apparel projects
Pair it with:
👉 Sublimation Baby Onesies
👉 Sublimation White Shirts
🖨️ 3. Epson F170 – Best Professional Compact Option
The F170 is Epson’s official dye-sublimation printer made for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
✅ High-resolution output
✅ Optimized for Epson sublimation inks
✅ Trusted performance for daily production
Perfect for:
👉 Acrylic Photo Frames
👉 Ornaments, Keychains & Small Giftables
🧠 Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Maintenance
Converted printers (like the EcoTank series) need regular cleaning and ink flow checks. Invest in:
🛒 Shop Blanks That Match Your Printer
Choosing the right printer is just one half of the puzzle — the other half is using high-quality sublimation blanks that are tested and press-ready.
At WestCoastCraft.ca, we offer:
👉 Browse All Sublimation Blanks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best sublimation printer for beginners in Canada?
For beginners in Canada, the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 is widely considered the best entry-level sublimation printer. It offers affordable refillable ink tanks that keep ongoing costs low, reliable print quality for mugs, tumblers, and apparel, and it is readily available from Canadian retailers. Its ease of setup makes it ideal for crafters just starting out.
How much does a sublimation printer cost in Canada?
Sublimation printers in Canada range from approximately $350 to $800 CAD for consumer-grade models like the Epson EcoTank series. Professional-grade options such as the Sawgrass SG500 start around $700 to $1,000 CAD. Keep in mind you will also need sublimation ink, sublimation paper, and a heat press, which can add $200 to $500 to your initial setup costs.
Can I use a regular inkjet printer for sublimation?
No, you cannot use just any inkjet printer for sublimation. You need a printer that uses piezoelectric print head technology (like Epson models) and you must replace the standard ink with sublimation ink. Thermal print head printers (like most Canon and HP models) are not compatible with sublimation printing. Converting an eligible Epson printer is a popular and cost-effective option for Canadian crafters.
What sublimation paper works best with Epson EcoTank?
For Epson EcoTank printers, A-SUB sublimation paper is one of the most popular choices among Canadian crafters due to its excellent ink absorption and colour vibrancy. Other reliable options include Printers Jack and Hiipoo sublimation paper. Use 120gsm paper for most projects and always print on the bright white coated side for the best transfer results.
