1. The Best Printers for Plastisol Transfer Printing in 2021
2. Top Printers That Produce High-Quality Plastisol Transfers
3. Choosing the Right Printer for Your Plastisol Transfer Needs
4. Discover the Best Printers for Smooth and Vibrant Plastisol Transfers
5. How to Select the Best Printer for Consistent Plastisol Transfers
Greetings, print enthusiasts! If you’re looking for the best printer for your plastisol transfers, this article is for you. Printing on plastisol transfer sheets can be quite challenging, especially if you don’t have the right equipment. Fortunately, some printers are specifically designed for this task. In this article, we will cover some of the best printers for plastisol transfers, what to look for when buying one, and tips to help you achieve excellent print quality.
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But first, what are plastisol transfers, you might ask? Simply put, they’re heat transfers made using plastisol ink and transfer paper. They are widely popular in the t-shirt industry because of their excellent durability, vivid colors, and fine details. However, printing on them requires a printer that can handle the thickness of the transfer paper and the viscosity of the ink. Furthermore, a good printer should be able to produce sharp and bright images without smudging, bleeding, or feathering. So, let’s dive in and explore the top printers for plastisol transfers.
Understanding Plastisol Transfers
Plastisol transfers are a widely used printing method for decorating garments, hats, and bags. It’s important to understand the process and materials involved in creating these transfers to ensure a successful print job.
Plastisol ink is a PVC-based ink that must be cured or “cooked” at high temperatures to bond to fabrics. Plastisol transfers are made by screen printing the design onto a special release paper. The release paper is then heat pressed onto the garment, transferring the design and curing the ink.
The key to creating a successful plastisol transfer is using the right ink, paper, and equipment. A high-quality transfer paper is essential for a clean, crisp print. The paper should have a smooth surface and release the ink evenly during heat pressing.
Ink selection is also critical. Plastisol inks come in a range of colors and viscosities. Thicker inks are better for bold designs with solid colors, while thinner inks work well for designs with fine details or halftones. It’s important to choose a color that will produce the desired effect on the garment’s color, considering that plastisol inks are opaque and may alter the final color of the design.
The equipment used in the plastisol transfer process must be accurate and reliable. A good screen printing machine will ensure that the design is printed onto the transfer paper with the correct registration and color placement. An accurate heat press is necessary for even application of heat and pressure during transfer application and curing.
When it comes to choosing a printer for creating plastisol transfers, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, the printer should have high-quality resolution capabilities to ensure sharp and detailed designs. Additionally, the printer should have the ability to print onto transfer paper with high saturation levels to produce rich and vibrant colors.
To achieve the best results, it’s recommended to use a printer with a dedicated inkjet system for printing plastisol transfers. The Epson SureColor P800 is a popular choice among screen printers for printing onto transfer paper. The P800 features UltraChrome HD ink and can produce images with a color depth of up to 10 bits per pixel. This printer can print onto transfer papers with high levels of ink saturation, producing prints with deep, rich colors.
The Roland VersaStudio BN-20 is another popular printer used for creating plastisol transfers. The BN-20 is a compact, desktop printer that uses eco-solvent inks for printing onto transfer paper. This printer can produce high-quality prints with vibrant colors and is an affordable option for small to medium-sized printing businesses.
Ultimately, the right printer for creating plastisol transfers will depend on the needs of your business and the printing capabilities you require. By understanding the process and materials involved in creating these transfers, you can make an informed decision when choosing the best printer for your screen printing needs.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Printer for Plastisol Transfers
Plastisol transfers allow you to create screen printed designs on t-shirts, bags, and other materials. To achieve high-quality prints, you need a reliable printer that can handle the demands of the process. Here are some of the factors that you should consider when choosing a printer for plastisol transfers:
1. Print quality
Of course, the most important factor to consider is print quality. Plastisol transfers require a high level of accuracy and detail, so you need a printer that can produce crisp, clean lines. Look for printers with a high resolution, preferably at least 1200 x 1200 dpi. This will ensure that your designs come out sharp and vibrant, with no blurring or bleeding.
2. Ink type
The type of ink that you use is crucial when it comes to plastisol transfers. You need an ink that can withstand the heat and pressure of the transfer process, without cracking or fading. Plastisol ink is the most common type used for transfers, as it is specially formulated to bond with the fabric. However, not all printers are compatible with plastisol ink. Some printers use water-based inks, which are not suitable for this type of printing. Make sure that you choose a printer that can handle plastisol ink if you want to achieve the best results.
In addition, be aware that different inks have different drying times. Plastisol ink usually takes longer to dry than water-based ink, so you may need to account for this when planning your production schedule. If you need to produce a large quantity of prints in a short amount of time, you may want to consider a printer that can operate at high speeds, or that has a built-in drying system.
3. Size and format
The size and format of your prints also play a role in determining the right printer for your needs. If you plan on printing large designs, you will need a printer with a bigger print area. Look for printers that can handle sheets of paper up to 13 x 19 inches or larger. You should also consider the thickness of the materials that you will be printing on, as some printers may not be able to handle thicker substrates.
Another consideration is the type of file format that your printer can accept. Most printers can handle standard image files like JPEG and PNG, but if you are working with vector graphics or other specialized formats, make sure that your printer supports them.
4. Connectivity and software
When choosing a printer for plastisol transfers, it is important to consider the connectivity options and software that are available. If you are working with a team, you may want a printer that can connect to a network, or that has wireless capabilities. This will allow multiple users to access the printer without the need for cables.
In addition, make sure that the printer comes with software that is easy to use and that allows you to customize your prints. Look for features like color profiling and print preview, which can help you fine-tune your designs before printing. Some printers also come with specialty software that is specifically designed for plastisol transfers, which can make the printing process even easier.
Conclusion
Choosing the right printer for plastisol transfers requires careful consideration of many factors. Print quality, ink type, size and format, connectivity, and software are all important aspects to keep in mind. By taking the time to choose the right printer, you can ensure that you achieve the best possible results in your screen printing projects.
Top Printers for Plastisol Transfers on the Market
Plastisol transfers are a popular method for creating custom t-shirts and other textiles. They are high-quality and durable, and they work well on a variety of materials. To create plastisol transfers, you need a good quality printer that can handle the job. Here are the top printers for plastisol transfers on the market:
Epson SureColor P800
The Epson SureColor P800 is a top-of-the-line printer that is perfect for creating professional-quality plastisol transfers. It has 9 UltraChrome HD ink cartridges that produce stunningly vivid colors and deep blacks. The P800 supports a variety of paper types and sizes, including roll paper, and has a maximum print resolution of 2880 x 1440 dpi. With this printer, you can create large-scale transfers that look as good as screen prints.
The P800 also has a large color gamut that will allow you to accurately reproduce colors. It comes with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to adjust settings and preview prints before committing to them. The printer is also relatively fast and can print a 13 x 19 inch graphic in just under 4 minutes. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those who want to create high-quality plastisol transfers.
Roland BN-20
The Roland BN-20 is another great printer that is ideal for creating plastisol transfers. It’s a compact and versatile machine that can handle various print media and sizes up to 20 inches wide. The printer uses eco-solvent ink that is fade-resistant and waterproof, making it an excellent choice for producing high-quality transfers that will last.
The BN-20 also comes with a built-in contour cut feature that will allow you to create custom shapes and designs. It has a maximum print resolution of 1440 x 720 dpi, which is more than adequate for most plastisol transfer designs. The printer has excellent color accuracy and can produce vibrant colors that will make your designs pop.
Ricoh SG7100DN
The Ricoh SG7100DN is an affordable and easy-to-use printer that is perfect for creating high-quality plastisol transfers. It uses GelSprinter technology to produce prints that are bright and crisp, with excellent color saturation. The SG7100DN can handle paper sizes up to 11 x 17 inches and has a maximum print resolution of 3600 x 1200 dpi.
This printer is ideal for those who are just starting with plastisol transfers and don’t want to invest a lot of money. It’s also a good choice for those who need a printer for occasional use, as it is cost-effective and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. The SG7100DN is relatively fast and can produce a 10 x 12 inch graphic in just under a minute.
When it comes to creating high-quality plastisol transfers, choosing the right printer is essential. Each of the printers on this list is a great choice for producing prints that are bright, vibrant, and long-lasting. Whether you’re a professional printer or just getting started, these machines will help you create top-quality transfers that will impress customers and clients alike.
Comparison of Best Printers for Plastisol Transfers
When it comes to printing plastisol transfers, having the right printer is key. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your current setup, there are a few key factors to consider when selecting a printer that will best suit your needs and budget. Here, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best printers for plastisol transfers currently on the market, comparing them across a range of features and specifications.
1. Epson SureColor P600
Known for its exceptional color accuracy and ability to handle a variety of different materials, the Epson SureColor P600 is a popular choice among screen printers and photographers alike. With advanced black-and-white photo mode and a 10-color pigment ink system, this printer is capable of producing high-quality transfer prints with vibrant colors and fine details. It also has a convenient roll paper adapter for printing longer transfers and is compatible with a variety of software programs, making it a versatile and reliable option for any printing setup.
2. Canon PIXMA Pro-100
If you’re looking for a more affordable option that still delivers excellent results, the Canon PIXMA Pro-100 is definitely worth considering. This printer features an eight-color dye ink system and a maximum resolution of 4800×2400 dpi, making it capable of producing incredibly detailed and vivid prints. It also has built-in wireless connectivity and compatibility with a range of paper types and sizes, making it a great choice for anyone looking to experiment with different transfer materials or styles.
3. Brother MFC-J6935DW
For those in need of a high-volume option that can handle large transfer orders quickly and efficiently, the Brother MFC-J6935DW is an excellent choice. This all-in-one printer features duplex printing, an automatic document feeder, and a large paper tray that can hold up to 500 sheets at a time. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity and is compatible with a range of mobile devices, making it easy to print from anywhere at any time. While it may not produce the same level of detail and color accuracy as some of the other printers on this list, the Brother MFC-J6935DW is a reliable workhorse that can get the job done quickly and efficiently.
4. HP LaserJet Pro M452dw
If you’re looking for a printer that can handle both paper and transfer materials with ease, the HP LaserJet Pro M452dw is definitely worth considering. This printer features automatic two-sided printing, wireless connectivity, and a large paper tray that can hold up to 300 sheets at a time. It’s also compatible with a range of transfer materials, including cardstock, envelopes, labels, and glossy paper. While it may not produce the same level of color accuracy as some of the other printers on this list, its fast print speeds and versatile capabilities make it a great option for anyone who needs a reliable all-in-one printer for general use.
When it comes to selecting the best printer for plastisol transfers, there are many factors to consider, including color accuracy, print resolution, connectivity, and compatibility with different transfer materials. By comparing the key features of each of the printers listed here, you can make an informed decision and select the option that best fits your specific needs and budget.
Tips for Maintaining a Printer for Plastisol Transfers
Plastisol transfers require a specialized type of printer in order to achieve the desired results. Choosing the right printer is crucial for producing high-quality transfers that are durable and long-lasting.
However, choosing the right printer is just the first step. In order to ensure that your printer is always working at its best, it is important to follow some key maintenance tips. Here are some tips for maintaining a printer for plastisol transfers:
1. Keep Your Printer Clean
One of the most important things you can do to keep your printer working properly is to keep it clean. Regularly cleaning your printer can help prevent ink buildup, which can clog nozzles and cause printing issues.
To clean your printer, start by wiping down the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean the interior, being careful not to damage any delicate parts.
You should also clean your printer’s print head regularly. Many printers have built-in cleaning functions, so check your printer’s manual for instructions.
2. Use Quality Ink and Paper
The quality of the ink and paper you use can have a big impact on the quality of your plastisol transfers. Using high-quality ink and paper can help prevent issues like ink smudging, bleeding, and fading.
When choosing ink and paper, look for products that are specifically designed for use with plastisol transfers. These products are typically more durable and resistant to heat, which is important when printing transfers that will be applied to fabric using a heat press.
3. Store Your Ink Properly
To keep your ink in good condition, it is important to store it properly. Plastisol ink should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
You should also make sure to properly seal the ink containers after each use, in order to prevent air from getting inside. This will help prevent the ink from drying out and becoming unusable.
4. Keep Your Printer in a Controlled Environment
The environment in which you use your printer can also impact its performance. Plastisol transfers require a specific temperature and humidity range in order to properly adhere to fabric.
Make sure your printer is kept in a controlled environment that is free from extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations. This can help prevent issues like ink bleeding and smudging, which can be problematic when printing plastisol transfers.
5. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
In addition to regular cleaning, it is also important to perform other maintenance checks on your printer. This includes checking for wear and tear on the printer’s rollers and belts, as well as checking the ink levels and print quality.
You should also keep an eye out for any error messages or warning signs that may indicate a problem with the printer. When in doubt, consult your printer’s manual or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your printer is always working at its best, and that you are producing high-quality, long-lasting plastisol transfers.
