8 Best Sublimation Papers In 2023 [+ Buyers Guide]
So, you’re diving into the world of sublimation, right? Great!
Getting the perfect sublimation result really depends on the paper you choose. It’s that important link between your awesome design and its final look on the product.
To help you out we’ve scoured and tested all the best sublimation papers. And here are our top picks:
The best sublimation papers include papers from makers such as:
- A-SUB
- Texprint Dye
- Sawgrass Truepix
- DyeMaster
- Hiipoo
- Koala
- Printers Jack
- HTVRont
Product: | Best For: |
---|---|
A-SUB | Premium printing and diverse applications. |
Texprint Dye | Precision printing on fabrics. |
Sawgrass Truepix | Sawgrass printers and high-quality transfers. |
DyeMaster | Versatility across various objects. |
Hiipoo | Budget-friendly, consistent performance. |
Koala | Beginners needing thicker, forgiving paper. |
Printers Jack | Cost-effective, general-purpose sublimation. |
HTVRont | Competitive pricing with efficient transfers. |
This detailed post reviews the best sublimation papers available in the market. Our assessments specifically focus on performance, cost, and overall value.
We also outline the key characteristics of high-quality sublimation paper and provide insights into what you should consider when making a purchase.
Ready? Let’s get into it!
Best Sublimation Papers
Brand | Sizes | Weight | Prices Per Sheet | |
A-Sub | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size) 11 X 17 inches (Tabloid) 13 X 19 inches (Super B) | 105, 125GSM | $0.19 | Check Prices |
Texprint R | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size) 11 X 17 inches (Tabloid) 13 X 19 inches (Super B) 4 X 9.5 inches3.5 X 9 inches | 120GSM | $0.27 | Check Prices |
Sawgrass Truepix | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size) 4 X 9.5 inches | 120GSM | $0.25 | Check Prices |
DyeMaster | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 13 X 19 inches (Super B) | 105GSM | $0.13 | Check Prices |
Hiipoo | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size) 11 X 17 inches (Tabloid) 13 X 19 inches (Super B) | 105, 125GSM | $0.15 | Check Prices |
Koala | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size) 11 X 17 inches (Tabloid) 13 X 19 inches (Super B) 4 X 9.5 inches3.5 X 9 inches | 105, 120, 123GSM | $0.23 | Check Prices |
Printers Jack | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size) 11 X 17 inches (Tabloid) 13 X 19 inches (Super B) | 105, 125GSM | $0.09 | Check Prices |
HTVRont | 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size) 11 X 17 inches (Tabloid) | 120GSM | $0.11 | Check Prices |
#1. A-Sub

What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Highly versatile for various surfaces. | Slightly pricey ($0.19 per A4 sheet). |
Compatible with materials up to 30% cotton. | |
Thicker weights (120-130 GSM) available. | |
Crease-resistant. | |
High ink retention for quality transfers. | |
Available in multiple sizes. | |
Delivers consistent high-quality results. |
The A-Sub sublimation paper is famous among printers who demand versatility.
A-Sub sheets can be used on almost every polymeric surface, including ceramic, tile, phone covers, and metal plates. It can also be sublimated onto polyesters and materials containing less than 30% cotton.
A-Sub sells sublimation paper in a variety of weights, most of which are on the thicker side. A-Sub sheets are available in weights ranging from 120 to 130 GSM.
Thicker sublimation papers typically produce superior transfers since they are less likely to crease during heat transfers and can withstand far more stress than thinner paper.
Thicker sheets also have more holding film, which means they will hold any sublimation ink well and enable high-quality transfers.
The A-Sub Sublimation Paper also comes in a variety of sizes. Whether you are working with smaller designs for hats and beanies or larger graphics for t-shirts and sweatshirts, A-Sub will most likely have the size you require.
If you order 110 sheets of A-Sub Sublimation Paper in A4 size at 125GSM, it will cost you around $20. That works out to about $0.19 per sheet. Although that is a tad pricey, you are paying for quality and peace of mind when sublimating.
#2. Texprint R
![Texprint R Sublimation Paper 8.5x11 inch for Ricoh Printers, Dye Sublimation Transfer Dt Heavy Paper Includes Innosub Tape for Durable and Vibrant Printing Results, Pack of 1 [110 Sheets ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41ie+Bfjq3L.jpg)
What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Special coating prevents breaking. | Costly ($0.27 per A4 sheet). |
Compatible with various sublimation ink brands. | |
Available in multiple sizes. | |
Includes free thermal heat tape roll. | |
High transfer rate and quick drying time. | |
Adds rich color and texture to designs. |
In the realm of sublimation papers, The TexPrint R is most likely the F-150. A little costly, but dependable and efficient.
It comes with a special coating that protects it from breaking, and the papers are known to be compatible with a wide range of sublimation ink manufacturers.
The TexPrint R sublimation paper is available in a variety of sizes. You can get their papers in 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size), 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size), 11 X 17 inches (Tabloid), 13 X 19 inches (Super B), 4 X 9.5 inches (10.16X24.13CM), and 3.5 X 9 inches (8.89X24.13CM).
TexPrint R also includes a free thermal heat tape roll, making the paper even more convenient. Furthermore, Texprint R sublimation papers have a high transfer rate efficiency and a quick drying time.
It also adds rich color and texture to your design, making it an excellent choice.
A 110-piece pack of Texprint R sublimation paper in A4 size and 120GSM weight costs roughly $30. This equates to approximately $0.27 per sheet. That’ more than some other papers but the extra cost gives you top quality and peace of mind when sublimating.
#3. Sawgrass Truepix

What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Dedicated manufacturer for sublimation solutions. | Best results with only Sawgrass products. |
Works best with own printers and inks. | |
Compatible with all sublimation inks. | |
Suitable for various surfaces with polymeric materials. | |
Multiple sizes and thicknesses available. | |
Resistant to folding and creasing during heat transfer. | |
Good handling of heat and pressure. |
Sawgrass is a manufacturer dedicated to sublimation printing solutions, offering printers like the Virtuoso SG500 and the SG1000.
The same company also manufactures its own sublimation ink, and the official Sawgrass Truepix sublimation paper from Sawgrass.
You can consider the company equivalent to Apple in the world of sublimation printing. – Their products work best when used together, so if you use only their products, you get good results.
On the other hand, if you mix and match their products with other brands, you might not get the best out of Sawgrass’s products.
The Sawgrass Truepix is claimed to work with all sublimation inks and can sublimate on most surfaces with polymeric materials – polyester, acrylic, glass, wood, concrete, etc.
The papers are also in multiple sizes and thicknesses. The most common sizes are 8.5X11inches (A4 Size) or 8.5X14 inches (A3 Size). You can also get them in 4X9.5 inches (10.16X24.13CM), which are perfect for mugs.
Sawgrass Truepix papers are also thick enough to not fold or crease during the heat transfer. This paper handles heat and pressure from the heat press well.
It costs around $28 to get 110 sheets of Sawgrass Truepix in A4 size and 120GSM thickness. That makes it around $0.25 per sheet, which is not too bad.
#4. DyeMaster

What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Versatile for various objects. | Difficulty determining front from back. |
Available in multiple sizes and thicknesses. | |
High-quality results with brilliant, long-lasting colors. | |
Quick drying time, allowing faster sublimation process. | |
One of the more affordable sublimation papers. |
Suppose you are looking for a versatile sublimation paper that can be used on various objects. In that case, DyeMaster should do very well for you. It is a highly regarded brand of sublimation papers on the market.
The DyeMaster sublimation paper comes in different sizes and thicknesses to suit your printing needs. You can get them in 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) or 13 X 19 inches (Super B).
With DyeMaster, you get great, high-quality results with brilliant, long-lasting colors on your substrate. It dries fast, as fast as a few seconds, which means that once the paper is printed, you do not have to wait long before starting sublimation.
One drawback to the DyeMaster sublimation paper is how difficult it is to determine which side of the paper is the front and which is the back. It can be tricky since they can look pretty similar.
To prevent waste, check user instructions to properly determine which side is which before printing.
The DyeMaster sublimation paper is also one of the more affordable papers on this list. You can get them for as low as $0.13 per sheet.
#5. Hiipoo

What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Competitively priced with high performance. | Moderate output color saturation levels compared to other brands |
Comes in multiple sizes and thickness options. | |
Compatible with various sublimation printers and inks. | |
High transfer rate (over 95%) ensures vibrant results. | |
Very affordable per sheet cost. |
Hiipoo Sublimation Paper made it to the list for several reasons; First, it gives one of the best results for sublimation paper. The second reason is that it performs well for its very competitive price.
The paper comes in multiple sizes and thicknesses to suit your printing needs. You can get them in 8.5X11 inches (A4 Size), 8.5X14 inches (A3-Size), 11X17 inches (Tabloid, B-Size), and 13X19 inches (Super B).
You can also get it in two different thicknesses, 125GSM or 105GSM. Thicker papers are sturdier and withstand heat and pressure from heat presses better, so always go for the heavier one if you can.
Hiipoo sublimation papers work with many sublimation printers and inks, including those from Epson, Ricoh, and Sawgrass. It also delivers great print results with a high transfer rate of over 95%. Almost all your inks will transfer to your substrate, resulting in beautiful and vibrant sublimation results.
You may not get the color saturation levels as great other competitors like Text Print, but still, it’s quite on the mark!
A 110-sheet Hiipoo sublimation paper pack in A4 costs $17.09 if you opt for the 125GM thickness. That translates to $0.15 per sheet, which is very affordable.
#6. Koala

What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Outstanding performance despite its price. | Priced higher compared to some competitors. |
Ideal for beginners due to its forgiving nature. | |
Thick (120-130 GSM) prevents creases and can withstand errors. | |
Comes in multiple sizes to cater to different needs. | |
Provides both quality and assurance with each sheet. |
Despite the price, the Koala sublimation paper gives you outstanding performance. It is also suitable for beginners due to some of its features and its forgiving nature.
Koala sublimation papers are more “forgiving” because its thick enough to stand up to errors beginners might make in timing and heat.
It stands up to excess heat and pressure because it’s thicker than average. It usually ranges between 120 and 130 GSM. Thick papers prevent creases and folds in your transfers, which may happen with many beginners when they sublimate.
Koala paper comes in multiple sizes. You can get this brand of sublimation papers at these sizes: 3.5 X 9 inches (8.89 X 22.86CM), 4 X 9.5 inches (10.16 X 24.13 CM), 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size) , 11 x 17 inches (Tabloid, B-Size,) etc.
Whatever size you need, chances are Koala sublimation papers have something to suit you.
An A4, 110-sheet pack of Koala sublimation papers (120GSM) is priced at $25. That is around $0.23 per sheet. Not the cheapest here, but you get quality and assurance from it.
#7. Printers Jack

What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Dramatic improvements compared to earlier versions. | Paper could be thin and maybe a bit challenging to handle while printing in some cases |
Extremely cost-effective at $0.09 per A4 sheet. | |
120GSM thickness provides adequate performance. | |
Compatible with inks from Sawgrass, Epson, and Ricoh. | |
Versatile: works on a range of surfaces with polymeric materials. | |
Available in multiple sizes and GSM options. |
Printers Jack’s sublimation papers used to have a bad reputation with printers and reviewers. This was probably due to poor packaging and thinner than usual sublimation papers.
However, the brand has dramatically improved, now offering sublimation papers that are at least on par with many leading brands on the market.
One thing that helps the brand stand out is the pricing. It is the cheapest on this list at only $0.09 per A4 sheet. in spite of the low cost, you don’t miss out on important product factors.
The paper is still thick enough at 120GSM, and the performance is excellent. The Printers Jack sublimation paper works with many sublimation inks, including those from Sawgrass, Epson, and Ricoh. It can also sublimate on most surfaces with polymeric materials – polyester, acrylic, glass, wood, concrete, etc.
The papers also come in multiple sizes: 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size), 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size), 11X17 inches (Tabloid, B-Size), and 13X19 inches (Super B). You can also choose between 105, 120, or 125 GSM in paper thickness.
One thing to keep in mind is that the paper could be more thin than you’d expect. And in some cases, it may also fold up a bit causing difficulties while printing. But for the most part, there shouldn’t be any problem.
You can easily use it to print for simple design and printing projects. The best part is, it comes witth different coloring on both sides, so you can identify what side is front or back.
#8. HTVRont

What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Rapidly gaining popularity due to outstanding performance. | Only available in 120GSM (though this thickness suits most needs). |
Highly competitive pricing. | |
Compatible with major sublimation inks and printers (Epson, Sawgrass, Ricoh, Canon). | |
Suitable for a wide range of polymeric surfaces: ceramic, metal, wood. | |
Can be used with blended fabrics containing at least 30% polyester. | |
High transfer rate efficiency. | |
Quick drying time. | |
Enhances design with rich color and texture. | |
Multiple sizes available: A4, A3, Tabloid. | |
Benefits from bulk pricing with 150-sheet packs. | |
Very affordable at about $0.11 per sheet. |
The HTVRont sublimation paper is an up-and-coming brand of sublimation paper. Its popularity increases daily, with many printers and reviewers reporting on its outstanding performance and very competitive pricing.
The paper is compatible with many major sublimation inks and printers such as those from Epson, Sawgrass, Ricoh, and Canon.
It is also used on almost every polymeric surface, including ceramic, metal, and wood. It can also be used with blended fabrics with at least 30% polyester.
HTVRont sublimation papers also feature a high transfer rate efficiency and a fast drying time. It also enhances your design with rich color and texture, making it a fantastic choice.
The papers are also available in a variety of formats, including 8.5 x 11 inches (A4 Size), 8.5 x 14 inches (A3 Size), and 11X17 inches (Tabloid, B-Size). It is only available in 120GSM. However, this is not an issue since 120GSM is thick and sturdy enough for most sublimation requirements.
You can also buy them in 150-sheet packs, meaning you may benefit from bulk pricing. In A4 size and 120GSM, it costs around $17, which means you pay around $0.11 per sheet. This makes HTVRont one of the cheapest papers on this list.
What Makes A Good Sublimation Paper?
In general, a good sublimation paper holds on to the ink without absorbing it. It should also have a high transfer rate when heated. It should be thick and sturdy enough to handle high heat and avoid creasing. There should also be no back-gassing.

Large Format Dye Sublimation Printer
The ideal sublimation paper should have the following qualities:
The Paper Holds the Ink, Rather than Absorbing It. The primary purpose of a sublimation paper is to hold on to the ink and then transfer it over to the substrate. If the ink is absorbed, that means less ink to transfer over, resulting in less vibrant sublimation on the substrate.
The Paper Releases Ink Gas When Heater. When in contact with heat, the sublimation paper should allow the ink to turn into gas and release itself from the paper. High-quality sublimation paper usually has a transfer rate as high as over 98%.
The Paper Can Handle High Heat and Pressure. A good sublimation paper should be able to handle the heat and pressure from the heat press at temperatures as high as 400°F (204°C). This is usually achieved by having a thicker paper, with 120GSM and above being ideal.
The Paper Does Not Crease Easily. Creasing tends to happen during the sublimation process, especially during the opening and closing of the heat press. Creases may affect sublimation results, as folds or creases prevent some places on the paper from transferring. Higher quality sublimation papers are thicker with higher GSM. As such, they are sturdier and less likely to move, reducing the chance for creases.
The Paper Does Not Back-Gas. High-quality sublimation paper should release the ink gas away from the paper and straight into the substrate when heated and placed under the correct pressure. The gas should not escape anywhere else, a situation commonly known as back-gassing.
What To Look For When Shopping For Sublimation Paper?
Criteria: | Details: |
Paper Weight (GSM) | Indicates thickness and sturdiness. Heavier paper is preferable for less movement, crease-resistance, and better heat endurance. |
Paper Size | Match paper size with printer and printing needs. Ensure the printer can handle the chosen paper size; larger designs require bigger paper. |
Transfer Rate | Percentage of ink released upon heating. Prefer higher rates (e.g., over 98%) for vibrant results. |
Suitability With Your Printer | Ensure the paper is compatible with your specific printer. Some papers are optimized for certain printer brands. |
Other Considerations | Factor in cost, availability, overall performance, quality, and user reviews. |
Generally, some aspects you should consider include the paper weight, size, transfer rate, and suitability for your printer and ink. You might also want to factor in cost and availability in your decision.
Sublimation papers come in various sizes, thicknesses, performance, prices, and quality. Therefore it pays to be clear on your needs first before deciding which brand of sublimation papers suits you.
#1. Paper Weight
A paper’s weight can be used interchangeably with the paper’s thickness, as heavier papers tend to be thicker as well. Paper weights are usually expressed in GSM, which means grams per square meter. The higher the GSM number, the heavier the paper and the thicker it usually is.
When it comes to sublimation paper, the heavier the paper, the better it is for you. The reason is that heavier papers tend to be more sturdy and less likely to move around. This reduces the likelihood of it developing a crease or getting folded up when you open and close your heat press.
If your papers got creased or folded, some of your prints might not transfer to your substrate, resulting in a botched sublimation.
Heavier papers can also withstand high heat and pressure from the heat press, giving you a better print result. This also makes the paper more ‘”forgiving'” in case you set the wrong temperature during sublimation.
#2. Paper Size
Sublimation papers come in various sizes, ranging from as small as a smartphone size to A1 size. The key to paper sizing is to choose the size suitable for your printer and printing needs.

Paper Size Chart and Tape Measure
Make sure that the sublimation paper you choose meets the size requirements for your patterns and transfers. To start with, you should also double-check that your printer and heat press can handle the paper.
For example, if your printer is an Epson SureColor F170, do not select papers more than 17 inches wide, as the printer cannot print with it.
Speaking of printers, while inkjet printers are commonly associated with sublimation, many wonder if laser printers can also serve the purpose. To answer this, here’s our take on whether you can use a laser printer for sublimation.
Another point to consider is your printing needs. The general rule to remember here is the bigger the design, the bigger the paper. For example, suppose you want to transfer huge designs onto t-shirts or sweatshirts. In that case, you won’t be able to use ordinary A4 (8.5 x 11) paper. However, when it comes to smaller size transfers for mugs, a large size paper like Super B (13 x 19) may be excessive.
#3. Transfer Rate
Transfer rate refers to the percentage of ink that a sublimation paper releases upon coming into contact with heat. The rates are usually expressed in percentages. The rule with transfer rate is that the higher it is, the better for you. Good sublimation papers usually claim to have a transfer rate of over 98%.
A higher transfer rate means the sublimation paper only holds on to the ink temporarily rather than absorbing it. On top of that, the paper releases a high percentage of sublimation ink in gas when heated. This allows the ink gas to bind with the substrate of your choice.
More ink being released results in better sublimation results on your substrate, with more vibrant, vivid colors.
For those new to the process, sublimation is a unique printing technique. To get a comprehensive overview, you can check out our detailed article on what is sublimation printing.
#4. Suitability With Your Printer
Some sublimation papers are made to work best with some printers. One example that comes to mind is Sawgrass Truepix sublimation printers work best with the same brand paper. However, many sublimation paper makers state how well they work with certain sublimation printers on their packaging. You may see some papers claiming to work with Epson, Sawgrass, Ricoh, or Canon printers.
The key here is to ensure that when choosing from our list of the 8 best sublimation papers, you intend to purchase is at least compatible with your printer to ensure a high-quality print result.
While considering the paper’s compatibility, it’s also essential to be aware of the cost implications of owning a sublimation printer. If budgeting is on your mind, here’s a resource on how much a sublimation printer costs.
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