If the Canon printer is converted to the heat-sublimation process, you cannot use it. Sublimation inks can become softer thanks to thermal printing technology. While typical Canon printers are effective when printing on paper, sublimation printing is not considered by the manufacturer. Canon’s normal office printers cannot be used as sublimation printers because sublimation uses a completely different mechanism. So, to find out which sublimation printer to use, keep reading our guide. We will describe sublimation printing and how it differs from other forms of printing.
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What Is Sublimation Printing?
With sublimation printing, you can print images on more materials than just paper. It allows for crisp and clean image transfer, and since the image is printed into the fabric rather than over it, the results can be permanent.
The sublimation process is also generally cost-effective enough to be used in small batches, which is why so many small businesses seek sublimation. With sublimation printers, they can easily get the job done on smaller custom batches.
How Does Sublimation Printing Work?
Sublimation is a chemical process that instantly converts a substance into a gas by heating it, skipping the liquid entirely. The benefit of gaseous pigments is that they can get inside the material. For example, dyes can form a uniform coating in the fibers of a fabric.
This change is exactly the change in pigments in sublimation printers. Sublimation printers do not print directly on the fabric, but instead print the pattern on transfer paper, where the ink remains solid. The transfer paper is then aligned with the fabric material of your choice, and both materials go through a heating process. The roller uses a combination of heat and pressure to convert solid ink into gas.
The ink will now penetrate into the fabric and transfer the pattern to the fabric material. The machine turns off the heat to keep the ink solid. The fabric is now dyed and the pattern is less likely to fade, a problem with traditional printing.
Can You Use Canon Printers for Sublimation?
Typical Canon printers use inkjet technology, not sublimation. Since inkjet technology does not involve paper transport and heating in the same way, it cannot be converted into a sublimation printer. Alternatively, Canon does have some sublimation printers. However, when it comes to printing on fabric with a Canon printer, there are fewer options.
What Canon Printers Are Sublimation?
- Photo Printer, White, Canon RP-108 Color Inkjet Washi Kit, Multicolor – Canon. Canon Selfie CP1300 Wireless Compact Photo Printer with Selfie Press Kit, Wireless Compact Photo Printer with White, and Canon RP-108 Color Inkjet Washi Kit – Multicolor.
- White Canon SELPHY CP1300 Wireless Compact Photo Printer.
Can You Do Sublimation With Any Printer?
Does any printer have sublimation paper? These are risky and generally unappealing. Printers connecting sublimation inks in this way must ensure that the ink-to-paper match is acceptable. It won’t work unless the printer is compatible.
Conclusion
Converting a typical office or home printer to a sublimation printer is usually not an achievable goal. This problem is especially acute in Canon printers, which use a completely different mechanism to print items. While Canon has some options to enter the sublimation world, it still has a long way to go.
While you may be looking for a sublimation printer, there are other options to consider as well. Sublimation printers are often large, heavy machines that require a lot of space, so they may not be the most cost-effective for smaller business owners.
Also Read: How to Make a Copy on a Canon Printer?
