Convert an Epson Ecotank printer to sublimation
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Why convert?
Converting a photo printer to a sublimation printer is a lot cheaper than buying one that is made for sublimation. The setup can be a bit trickier, but it’s definitely a good option if you are new to sublimation or just want to keep the costs down.
Which printer can I use?
The most common printers to covert are Epson photo printers, you can get them pretty cheap and the Ecotank system make it easy to convert. I have an Epson Et-2800, which is a resonably priced printer and you can also scan with it if needed.
First of all, you need a brand new printer, it can not have had regular ink in it first. And you need to know that you will void the warranty on the printer. So if that is something you worry about, I would suggest getting a printer that’s meant for sublimation.
Sublimation Ink
There are several third-party brands that sell sublimation ink for Epson Ecotank printers. I went with Hiipoo, since its easily available and I have seen others use it with good results.
Hiipoo Ink
The Hiipoo sublimation ink for Epson Eco tank is compatible for ET2400 ET2720 ET2760 ET2750 ET4800 ET-2800 ET-2803 ET-2850. They also have sublimation ink for other printers as well.
The ink bottles have the same shape as the original ink which make it very easy to fill, and refill as needed. This system makes the process so much easier than with a printer with cartridges.
Each bottle has a unique design for the colors and you just unscrew the cap and turn the bottle upside down on the refillable tank.
Start printing
You can normally use the instruction manual that came with the printer to install it, just use the sublimation ink instead of the regular ink. I also highly recommend using the USB connection to your computer and not WiFi or Bluetooth because the image files can be large and you want a stable connection.
ICC profiles
Another reason I chose Hiipoo ink is that they offer ICC-profiles for Epson tanks. ICC-profiles ensure that the color printed (and pressed!) is a good match to what you see on the screen. Off course this is not an excact science and it also depends on calibration of the screen, but you can get prett good results using their ICC-profiles. You can download the file for ET-2800 here, this can also be used on the ET-2400 since that printer use the same ink. I will make a seperate post about how to use ICC profiles, but in short: put the file in the Colorsync folder (if you’re using a Mac) and choose it under colormanagement when you print.
Get all my recommended sublimation supplies in my Amazon storefront!
