A Cricut machine is designed for cutting vinyl decals and creating papercrafts, whereas a sublimation printer is a printer that uses special dye sublimation ink to produce images that can be permanently transferred.
You can use a Cricut machine to cut infusible ink transfer sheets or draw with Infusible Ink pens and markers on laser copy paper. These designs can be transferred to a suitable surface, turning the Cricut into a sublimation machine.
Now, a sublimation printer is specifically designed for printing designs onto sublimation transfer paper. The printed design is then transferred to a substrate using a heat press
Can I Use A Cricut Heat Press For Sublimation?
Yes, you can use a Cricut Easy Press for sublimation. As most Cricut heat presses come with a higher temperature range, you can use them to adhere heat transfer vinyl onto different sublimation applications.
However, there are also some limitations such as the Cricut EasyPress is mainly crafted for only heat transfer vinyl (HTV) applications. So, you might not get decent results for fabric sublimation due to ghosting and inconsistency issues.
The Difference Between Sublimation & Cricut
During sublimation heat and pressure are used to transfer dye into material such as metal, fabric, wood, or ceramic. On the other hand, Cricut is a cutting machine designed for creating vinyl decals and papercrafts.
To describe this point extensively we’ll show you the differences between Cricut infusible ink and sublimation ink.
Sublimation Ink vs. Cricut Infusible Ink
There are mainly 7 differences between sublimation ink and Cricut infusible ink. The differences are:
- Designing Limitation
- Cutting and Weeding
- Time and Effort
- Multiple Patterns and Layering
- Photo Printing
- Startup Costs
- Supplies
Below we’ll have an in-depth discussion on the differences. So, keep on reading.
Designing Limitation
When you’re using the Cricut infusible ink sheets, there are limited patterns and colors. So you won’t be able to create any unique design/graphics outside Cricut’s product line.
However, in the case of a sublimation printer, there is no such limitation. Here the boundary is your imagination. As long as you can dream up anything you can print it and press it. So, having a sublimation you can get more freedom to design.
Cutting and Weeding
In the case of using the Cricut Creative Studio, after choosing the design you’ll have to weed the design to transfer the design to the blank rather than the whole sheet. This process is tedious and there is always a hassle of cutting and wedding.
Now with sublimation, you need to only print the design with sublimation ink rather than using an entire sheet of ink. There is no extra hassle of cutting and weeding. Just press your design directly onto your blank once the paper has dried.
Time and Effort
From the previous difference, you can already get some idea about this difference. Well, as there is extra hassle of weeding and cutting, Cricut EasyPress consumes more time and requires more effort compared to sublimation printing.
Multiple Patterns and Layering
Suppose you want a zebra-striped star with green names and a date in purple. Now, using infusible ink sheets, you’ll have to cut, weed, and then layer each part of the design separately.
When transferring this onto your blank, Cricut doesn’t suggest putting the blank through the heat press repeatedly, as it may lead to fading. Instead, Cricut suggests using their slice and set technique.
A different option for you is to use Infusible Markers as it allows you to create your own sublimation designs on laser printing paper by drawing. However, according to many users, the result isn’t satisfying; not very sharp or vibrant.
Now, with sublimation printing, you can print the whole design all at once and the design will be as detailed and vibrant as you want!
Photo Printing
Using Cricut infusible ink sheets you can’t cross the boundary of sublimation designs and patterns. So, if your main purpose is photo printing then you’ll have to opt for a sublimation printer rather than a Cricut HeatPress.
For example, if you’d like to create unique mugs with images of your pets, a sublimation printer would come in handy. This is one of the main reasons people choose sublimation printers.
Startup Costs
If you’re looking for a less expensive option the Cricut would be the choice for you. However, there are limitations on the variety of colors of Infusible Inks Sheets, vinyl, and paper available in the store for purchase.
Now in the case of sublimation, the initial start-up costs are higher. But with submission, you can design anything you want.
Supplies
If you want to start with sublimation then you’ll require 3 essentials; a sublimation printer, a heat press, and blanks. In the case of a sublimation printer and a heat press, there are a variety of options. However, whatever product you choose, make sure to get an ideal one, don’t fall for wicked cheap products
If you’re looking for sublimation printer suggestions then we would suggest the Epson EcoTank ET-2720.
Now for Cricut, you’ll need different types of supplies. First, you’ll need a Cricut machine such as Cricut EasyPress, EasyPress Mini, or Cricut AutoPress. You will find it between $100-$400 depending on the size and capabilities.
Next, you’ll be needing Cricut Infusible Ink sheets, markers range, and a few other tools. If you’re willing to know the tools then check the below list.
- Cricut Machine
- Compatible High-Quality Blanks
- Cricut Infusible Ink Transfer Sheets or Markers, cardstock or vinyl
- Cricut EasyPress pressing mats
- LightGrip mat or StandardGrip mat
- Scissors
- Butcher paper
- Lint roller
Similarities Between Sublimation & Cricut Infusible Inks
Till now you’ve just learned about the differences, but there are also some similarities between sublimation and Cricut infusible inks. The similarities are:
- High-Quality Blanks
- Long-lasting Results
- Heat Press
- Color Vibrance
This is just a brief. For learning more about the similarities explore the next section.
High-Quality Blanks
Whether you’re using sublimation or Cricut infusible inks, you’ll require high-quality, light-colored sublimation blanks. Blanks coated with a specially formulated coating, such as Unisub hard-surface blanks will be perfect for sublimation.
For transferring the design both options will require a quality heat press. Now, whether it requires a larger heat press or an EasyPress depends on the scale of your projects and the size of your blanks.
Long-lasting Results
Sometimes we think using Cricut infusible ink for sublimation won’t offer long-lasting performance. But it’s a wrong idea. If you are aware of the Cricut heat press guide and properly sublimate using the right materials, both sublimation and infusible ink will offer long-lasting results.
Color Vibrance
When your main priority is getting vibrant results, you can count on both of them. Both sublimation printing and infusible ink infuse the ink into the material, so there is no risk of fading, peeling, or cracking.
Cricut vs. Traditional Heat Presses
If you want a comparison between Cricut and traditional heat press, paying attention to their pros and cons will answer the query. Let’s check it out.
Advantages and Limitations of Cricut EasyPress
| Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
| 1. They are portable, lightweight, and suitable for on-the-go use. | 1. Not recommended for professional use |
| 2. The newer models come with the Temperature Memory feature. | 2. Might not offer consistent pressure and temperature |
| 3. More cost-effective and best for personal use. |
Advantages and Limitations of Traditional Heat Presses
| Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|
| 1. They generally offer consistent pressure and temperature. | 1. Requires manual application of pressure. |
| 2. Available in different sizes and appropriate for professional use. | 2. More expensive. |
Which is Better?
Now if you compare which one is better, the choice between a heat press and a Cricut EasyPress depends on the specific use case. If you’re looking for a machine for professional and high-volume use, then a traditional heat press is better. And for personal or small-scale use opt for the Cricut EasyPress. No matter whether you do sublimation with Easy Press Mini, Easy Press 2, or Easy Press 3, you should get almost the same result.
Now if the comparison is among the Cricut EasyPress, traditional heat press, and sublimation printer then undoubtedly, the sublimation printer is the best choice considering durability, time consumption, and quality outcome.
How to Sublimate With Cricut Easy Press 2?
If you think of sublimating using Cricut Easy Press 2 then it’s not a bad choice. This is a versatile heat press that provides fast and effortless results which last for a long time. The heat press is also compatible with features like an adjustable heating function, a digital control panel, an insulated safety base, and others.
Below we’re discussing the process of sublimation with Cricut Easy Press 2.
- First, use sublimation ink and create your design, and then print it onto sublimation paper.
- Next, preheat the EasyPress (Heat it as recommended depending on the application)
- Now, put your substrate on the EasyPress mat and preheat it for a few seconds to get rid of any moisture or wrinkles.
- After that, position the sublimation paper with the design facing downward onto the substrate.
- Now take a sheet of protective paper and cover the substrate and sublimation paper with it.
- It’s time to apply the EasyPress 2 to the substrate and sublimation paper. Apply proper pressure for the recommended time
- Finally, remove the EasyPress 2 and allow the substrate to cool before taking off the sublimation paper
How to Sublimate With Cricut Easy Press 3?
A better version of Easy Press 2 is Cricut Easy Press 3. This heat press is smarter having features like smart fabric, smart fusible, adjustable time & temperature, smart set technology, and others.
The process of sublimation using Easy Press 3 is almost the same as Easy Press 2, but here you’ll get some extra advantages while using it. Let’s check how to sublimate using Easy Press 3.
- First, you’ll have to prepare the design using sublimation ink and then print the design onto the sublimation mat.
- Now preheat the EasyPress 3 following the recommended temperature for your substrate.
- Next, remove wrinkles and moisture by placing the substrate onto the EasyPress mat.
- Position the sublimation paper with the design face down onto the substrate, and then cover both with a protective layer of paper.
- Finally, apply the EasyPress 3 to the substrate and sublimation paper using light pressure and recommended heat.
- The task is done. Now just cool down the substrate before removing the sublimation paper
FAQs
Can I Use Any Material With A Cricut Heat Press For Sublimation?
Yes, you can use different types of materials on Cricut EasyPress, EasyPress Mini, and especially on Cricut AutoPress. The AutoPress is designed to work with different heat-transfer materials, including iron-on (HTV), Infusible Ink, and sublimation materials.
What Are The Ideal Settings For Sublimation On A Cricut Heat Press?
The ideal Cricut heat press sublimation settings can vary depending on the application, device, and project. However, the common Cricut Easy Press sublimation settings involve setting between 375°F to 400°F, applying 40 to 75 seconds of heat, and using light to medium pressure (35 to 50 psi).
How Do I Clean My Cricut Heat Press After Sublimation?
To lean your Cricut Heat Press after sublimation, first allow it to cool down completely. Next, get a lint-free, soft cloth and gently wipe away the debris and residue from the surface. Now, if you find the residue stubborn you can use mild detergent and warm water for cleaning. Finally, take a clean, dry cloth and dry it thoroughly.
What Is The Recommended Time and Temperature for Cricut Shirt Sublimation?
The Cricut shirt sublimation time and temp can vary depending on the type of cloth. But in general, it requires a temperature between 385°F (196°C) to 400°F (204°C) and a time between 40 to 75 seconds.
