Craft printing has transformed custom design creation for jewelry, clothing, and home decor. This comprehensive guide examines the top craft printers, comparing their print quality, usability, and value to help you select the ideal machine for your creative projects.
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Reviews
This clever printer lets you customize all sorts of projects, from planner stickers to gift tags. It works magic on regular paper and even porous surfaces, thanks to its versatile ink that dries instantly. The built-in light guide makes lining up your prints a breeze, while the free app offers tons of designs and templates to choose from.
Crafters and hobbyists alike will love the straightforward design of the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500, which handles everything from mugs to metal with its versatile 8.5 x 14-inch print size – expandable to 8.5 x 51 inches with the right accessories. The printer's smart maintenance system takes the stress out of cartridge management, while the included EasySubli inks and supplies help new users get started without headaches. Whether you're decorating fabric or creating durable coated panels, this printer delivers professional results that impress both novices and experienced sublimators.
Bring your designs to vibrant life with this A4 dye sublimation printer that fuses regular paper with polyester materials for durable, high-quality transfers. Print everything from apparel to promotional items six times faster than traditional ink systems, all without the maintenance hassles of clogged heads and expiring ink. The versatile 250-sheet paper capacity handles everything from thick cardstock to lightweight paper, making it perfect for both home studios and small businesses looking to produce professional-grade sublimation pieces.
The Roland BN-20A has become a popular choice for small businesses and crafters who need professional-quality printing and cutting without the hefty price tag of enterprise-level machines. This desktop printer/cutter handles everything from custom apparel graphics to precision cuts for decals and labels, all while delivering the sharp detail you'd expect from Roland's renowned build quality. Users particularly appreciate its ease of use and quick setup, though some have noted it's a bit slower than larger professional models. Those who've made the investment praise its versatility and print quality, finding it exceeds expectations for its price point.
The Luna Pearl Sprocket 200 from HP turns your phone photos into physical memories with its compact design and convenient ZINK printing technology. Weighing just 6.1 ounces, this Bluetooth-connected printer fits easily in a pocket or bag, so you can grab it anytime to print 2x3-inch photos directly from your smartphone. Thanks to its lithium polymer battery, it's ready to print without wires, making it perfect for quick snapshots during your travels or events.
The Sawgrass SG500 delivers premium sublimation prints with its reliable self-maintenance system and compatible ink that works with polyester and polymer-coated materials. Users appreciate its straightforward operation and compatibility with popular design software, though some note the high cost of replacement inks and limited media options beyond polyester. Its space-saving design and robust performance make it a practical choice for hobbyists and small businesses entering the sublimation market.
The HP Sprocket Studio Plus reinvents instant photography with its compact 6.65 by 10.75-inch profile, delivering professional-quality 4 by 6-inch prints directly from your phone or social media. This stylish white printer transforms your digital moments into physical memories, complete with creative editing options through the HP Sprocket app.
The Roland BN2-20BN2-20A series printer/cutter represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, combining professional-grade performance with remarkable versatility. Thanks to its compact design, this printer/cutter fits perfectly in small spaces while delivering the precision cutting and high-quality printing needed for serious crafting projects. Whether you're a hobbyist just getting started or a professional looking to streamline your workflow, this versatile machine excels at handling everything from detailed stickers to large-format graphics with ease.
Print your photos without a computer using this compact HP printer that fits just about anywhere. The 2.4-inch display lets you preview and select your best shots before printing, while features like red-eye removal and smart focus help you get the perfect photo every time.
This direct-to-garment printer combines reliable performance with intuitive workflow for professional apparel printing. With its large imaging area and high resolution, it produces professional-quality prints on fabric efficiently. The printer's dual function capabilities and comprehensive software support make it a versatile addition to any garment printing setup.
Print your craft projects, office documents, and digital photos with this versatile printer that handles everything from quick copies to 100-year-lasting photos. Its simple touch screen makes it a snap to use, whether you're printing from memory cards, your computer, or even your phone. The quiet, reliable machine fits neatly in any workspace while keeping your paper and envelopes sorted with its smart paper handling.
Print like a pro with this desktop sublimation system that handles everything from mugs toLarge prints with its 8.5" x 14" capacity, this printer makes quick work of sublimation projects with its smart aluminum encoder strip that prevents paper jams.
The Sawgrass SG500 has earned a solid reputation among sublimation enthusiasts, featuring reliable automatic maintenance and compatible with both polyester and cotton media. Users appreciate its straightforward operation and the consistent color quality that comes from genuine Sublijet inks. While some note the high cost of replacement ink cartridges, the printer's durability and professional-grade results make it a worthwhile investment for serious crafters and small businesses.
Crafters and small business owners will find the Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer a reliable addition to their setup, with users praising its consistent performance and quality prints. The printer's automated maintenance system and large media capacity of up to 8.5" x 14" make it practical for both hobbyists and professionals, while the included 150-sheet transfer paper and high-quality blank samples help get started. Built in the USA, the SG500 has earned a solid reputation in the sublimation community for delivering on its promises.
The RICOH Ri 2000 is a serious upgrade for anyone looking to step their printing game up. This workhorse printer combines incredible speed with stellar print quality, delivering professional results that you'd expect from much more expensive equipment. The included bundled package takes the hassle out of getting started, providing everything you need from reliable ink supplies to intuitive RIP software and detailed training materials.
This desktop sublimation printer brings professional results to your home or small business, handling media up to 8.5" by 51" with its versatile bypass tray. The included 20ml ink set gets you started with sublimation printing, while the printer's automated maintenance system keeps your setup running smoothly. Whether you're a hobbyist making custom mugs or a business owner expanding your decoration options, the SG500 delivers the quality you need for sublimation printing.
The Sawgrass SG500 turns your designs into permanent, crack-free prints on everything from mugs to polyester shirts in just 15 seconds for everyday prints and 6 minutes for ultra-fine photos. With its smooth paper handling and built-in color correction, it makes professional-quality printing as easy as following a recipe – perfect for both newbies and veteran crafters. The printer comes with free design software and ink, though monthly subscriptions unlock even more creative possibilities.
This Royal Press heat transfer machine makes it easy to add custom graphics to shirts, bags, and other items. The durable build and simple controls let you set perfect temperatures and times every time, while the lightweight design makes it a breeze to move around your crafting space. Whether you're making gifts or advertising materials, the 12x9 inch press handles everything from small jigsaw puzzles to large ceramic tiles with ease.
With its sleek design and compact footprint, the Envy Pro 6455e fits perfectly in any workspace while handling everything from everyday documents to professional-grade photos. The self-healing Wi-Fi and intuitive HP Smart app make it incredibly easy to print from your smartphone or tablet, while the 35-sheet auto-feeder keeps your hands free during busy scan and copy jobs. The borderless photo printing and crisp text quality make it a practical choice for both home and office use.
The Primera LX610 packs impressive label printing capabilities into a practical package, handling everything from high-quality photos to precise die-cut shapes with its 1200 x 4800 dpi resolution. Its built-in cutter makes short work of finished labels, while the ability to print custom shapes and sizes sets it apart from basic label-makers. While some users have noted limitations with print vibrancy and software capabilities, the printer's speed and reliability make it a solid choice for anyone needing professional-looking labels without the hefty price tag of enterprise solutions.
The HP Sprocket Select packs big photo fun into a surprisingly small package. Using the free HP Sprocket app, you can turn your smartphone photos into cute 2.3x3.4-inch stickers or prints, complete with fun borders and effects. Whether you're capturing quick memories at parties or printing out social media hits, this portable printer makes it super simple to get your photos off your phone and into the real world.
This printer packs professional photo quality into a space-saving design, measuring just 0.04 square meters and weighing a manageable 6 kilograms. Whether you're setting up a photo booth or integrating it into an existing kiosk, its compact size and low power consumption make it incredibly flexible. The paper smoothing function ensures every print comes out flat and crisp, even when the printer's small frame might suggest otherwise.
This versatile heat press machine speeds up your crafting with its quick heat-up and precise temperature control, while the ergonomic handle makes applying consistent pressure a breeze. Whether you're pressing shirts or creating cup graphics, the included accessories transform it from a basic tool into a full craft station. Users love how easy it is to get started while still having professional-grade results.
This versatile wireless printer handles everything from everyday documents to photo printing with its 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution. The built-in 2-sided printing and document feeder make it a practical choice for home or office use, while the compact design keeps it unobtrusive on your workspace. Whether you're printing, scanning, or sending faxes, the PIXMA TR4720 covers it all with simple, efficient operation.
This wireless HP printer brings office-quality printing to your home with its 1200 x 1200 dpi black text and 4800 x 1200 dpi color resolution. The compact Wisp gray design fits easily in any workspace while handling everything from custom calendars to photo prints up to 5.12" x 7.1". You can monitor ink levels and manage print jobs right from your smartphone using the free HP Smart app.
Print tiny photos and apply them anywhere with this portable pink printer that doesn't use ink. It connects to your phone wirelessly and makes cute wallet-sized pics in under a minute. The included sticker paper lets you custom-design your photos before sticking them on mirrors, laptops, or anywhere else you can think of.
This wireless all-in-one printer brings convenience to your home office or workspace with its compact design and straightforward setup. Thanks to its compatibility with both iOS and Android devices via Wi-Fi and USB, you can jump right into printing photos and documents without much hassle. While the initial cost of ink might be steep, the machine's ability to handle everything from receipts to glossy photos makes it a practical choice for occasional users who don't need high-volume printing. The 4-ink system delivers decent color quality for everyday use, though some users have noted issues with paper feeding and noise levels during operation.
Building your own 3D printer is rewarding, and the Ender 3 makes it manageable with its straightforward construction. Once together, it handles printing tasks with impressive precision, though you'll want to measure and adjust carefully for optimal performance. The results are surprisingly detailed, and while you'll need to purchase more filament than what's included, the quality of the prints makes it worth it.
This space-saving Brother laser printer speeds up your office routine with 26-page-per-minute printing and automatic double-sided copying. The 250-sheet paper tray keeps your desk tidy while handling both letter and legal-sized paper. With wireless connectivity and effortless setup, it's a practical addition that'll last with its 12,000-page drum and 700-page toner capacity.
Print photos and designs with vibrant color using this wireless printer's eight-color ink system. The built-in paper sensor ensures your prints come out straight every time, while the large preview screen lets you adjust your settings before printing. Whether you're making personal photos or professional designs, this printer produces high-quality prints quickly and efficiently.
This wide-format printer provides stunning borderless prints up to 13 x 19 inches, with professional-grade HD photo quality that's perfect for photographers and designers. The compact A3+ size makes it surprisingly room-friendly, while features like automatic double-sided printing and a 200-sheet capacity tray demonstrate its practicality for everyday use. Users appreciate its reliability and the quality of its prints, though some note minor issues with paper feeding and ink consumption.
The HP Envy printer combines impressive photo capabilities with practical office features, including a convenient automatic document feeder and dynamic security system. Its HP+ smart printing feature keeps the device updated and ensures reliable performance with Original HP Ink cartridges. With quick print speeds and high-quality output across multiple media types, this versatile printer handles everything from professional photoshoots to everyday office tasks.
This compact printer packs impressive capabilities into a space-efficient design, offering professional-grade prints and scans without the hassle of traditional ink cartridges. The built-in scanner and copier make it a breeze to handle everyday office tasks, while the stress-free ink system eliminates those frustrating empty-toner alerts. Whether you're cranking out black-and-white reports orColor photos, this printer delivers consistent quality at a fraction of the typical printer's environmental impact.
The Canon PIXMA TS202 proves itself as a reliable workhorse, delivering crisp prints quickly and efficiently. Its simple design and affordable pricing make it a practical choice for everyday printing needs, while the included rear paper tray streamlines paper management. The FINE ink system ensures vibrant colors in both documents and photos, though users appreciate the printer's basic functionality over unnecessary bells and whistles.
Printers that charge $80 for replacements that cost $30? Not on this Epson ET-2400. This tank system drops those ridiculous costs - it's genuinely smart. The 100-sheet input tray and 30-sheet output bin handle everyday printing with ease, while the 9600-dpi resolution makes your documents and photos look sharp as can be. Setup was a breeze, and refilling those tanks? A single squeeze of a bottle.
This compact plotter printer handles both sheet and roll media with its automatic horizontal cutter, letting you switch between different paper sizes without hassle. With Wi-Fi and USB connections, it's a breeze to set up and share prints around the office. The 500MB memory lets you keep multiple files ready to print, and the 45-second A1 print speed means you're not waiting long for your work to come out.
From engineering teams to small offices, this multi-purpose printer handles everything from professional photo prints to 11x17 banners with industrial-grade reliability. With a duty cycle of 50,000 pages and precision-engineered Heat-Free technology, it delivers crisp, color-accurate prints at breakneck speed – perfect for environments where uptime matters most. The included 500-sheet capacity and wireless connectivity make it a breeze to manage high-volume printing while keeping your workspace tidy.
The Epson ET-2803 EcoTank printer changes the game with its stress-free ink system – each color tank holds enough to last for years, with replacement bottles available for under $20 online. Its compact design fits perfectly in any home or office corner, while the built-in scanner and color display make it a breeze to use for everyday printing needs. This versatile printer handles everything from photos to office documents, all while helping reduce waste with its cartridge-free design.
The Canon MG3620 prints photos and documents quickly with its 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution, while its auto duplex feature saves paper. The hybrid ink system helps produce lasting prints, and the wireless connection makes it easy to share with other devices at home or in the office. The compact design fits easily in a small space, and the Canon PRINT mobile app lets you print from your phone or tablet.
Printers that genuinely excel at dye-sublimation, like the SureColor F170, transform everyday materials into vibrant keepsakes with their precise 1200 x 600 dpi printing. Thanks to its compact design and included 150-sheet auto-feed tray, this printer streamlines your workflow while maintaining professional-grade color accuracy right out of the box. Whether you're personalizing mugs, creating custom t-shirts, or printing on specialty media, this Epson model consistently delivers the quality you'd expect from a dedicated sublimation printer.
This all-in-one printer combines simple setup with reliable performance, getting you up and running quickly through its user-friendlyHP Smart app. With dual-band Wi-Fi and self-reset capabilities, you'll enjoy stable connections and fast printing speeds - black documents in just 15 seconds and color prints in 19 seconds. The compact white design fits comfortably in any workspace while delivering professional-quality prints with its 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution.
The Brother Sublimation Printer combines elegant design with powerful performance, featuring 30 unique font styles for embroidery, cutting, and printing. With smooth paper handling and quiet operation, it installs and prints like a champ, consistently delivering vibrant colors from its easy-to-replace cartridge system. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this little printer packs a design punch that will have you creating custom sublimation pieces in no time.
This space-saving printer handles everything from everyday documents to photo printing with crisp 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution. Its self-healing Wi-Fi and simple setup make it a breeze to connect and use, while features like automatic duplexing and borderless photo printing help you get more done. The 100-sheet input tray keeps the paper flowing smoothly through busy print jobs.
This wireless HP All-in-One printer makes basic color printing simple, letting you whip up recipes, print photos, and scan documents with just a few taps on your phone. The included 6-month Instant Ink subscription takes the stress out of refilling, so your printer is always ready to go – perfect for busy days when you need those receipts or reports fast. Its sleek size won't clutter your desk, while the dual-band Wi-Fi keeps your connection strong and steady, no matter how much you're printing.
This versatile white all-in-one printer combines 4-ink Thermal Inkjet technology with a 35-sheet auto document feeder for handling both simple and complex printing tasks. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, you can print, scan, and copy directly from your phone without hassle. The included HP+ system keeps your printer connected and ready to go, with the convenience of three months of Instant Ink included to get you started.
This space-saving HP printer fits anywhere with its ultra-compact design while handling everything from photos to receipts with its versatile capabilities. The built-in Wi-Fi lets you print from any device without a network, and the HP Smart app makes scanning simple on the go. While some users have noted paper feed issues, the printer delivers fast first-page output and reliable color printing right out of the box.
Print up to 17 inches of vibrant color on adhesive labels and photos without traditional ink. The ZINK paper technology creates durable prints that resist water, tears, and smudges. The free Color Label Editor app turns your mobile device into a design studio with thousands of customizable elements for professional-looking prints.
This all-in-one printer combines simple setup with robust functionality, making it a practical addition to both home and office environments. With its 35-page auto feeder and reliable wireless connectivity, it handles scanning and copying tasks efficiently. The compact design and attention to environmental aspects, like recycled materials in its construction, demonstrate HP's commitment to creating user-friendly solutions that don't sacrifice sustainability.
The HP Envy 6065e is a versatile all-in-one printer that handles everything from photo printing to document copying with ease. Its simple setup and reliable Wi-Fi connection make it a practical choice for home or office use, while the built-in HP Instant Ink system ensures you never run out of ink. Whether you're printing from your computer, scanning documents, or sending photos to paper from your smartphone, this printer delivers the performance you need for everyday tasks.
Buyer's Guide
Craft printers combine advanced technology with creative flexibility, allowing users to print everything from photographs to intricate designs on various materials. Understanding their capabilities and limitations will help you choose the right machine for your project needs.
Print Technology and Resolution
Craft printers use various technologies, including inkjet, dye-sublimation, and thermal printing. Inkjet systems are ideal for photos and detailed designs, offering resolutions up to 4,800 x 1,200 dpi. Dye-sublimation printers excel at producing vibrant color on heat-sensitive materials like fabrics and mugs. Thermal printers work with special media and are best for labels and tags.
Material Compatibility
These printers can handle everything from standard paper to specialized materials like cloth, wood, and metal. Consider whether you need photo printing, fabric dyeing, or specialty media capabilities. The printer's maximum media size and thickness specifications will determine what materials are suitable.
Software Integration and Connectivity
compatibility with design software, printer drivers, and mobile apps is crucial. Look for printers that support popular design programs like Adobe Photoshop and CorelDRAW. Wireless connectivity, USB, and SD card slots enable flexible printing options.
Print Speed and Operating Requirements
While photo printers typically print faster than dye-sublimation models, operating requirements vary widely. Some printers need specific environmental conditions, while others are more forgiving. Consider whether you need continuous operation or if occasional printing will suffice.
FAQ
What is a craft printer?
A craft printer is a specialized printer designed for crafting and creative projects. Unlike traditional office printers, craft printers use various types of media beyond standard paper, including fabric, wood, vinyl, and cardstock.
These printers are prized for their ability to handle different materials and often feature higher print resolutions specifically for crafting projects that require detailed imagery or text.
What materials can a craft printer use?
Most craft printers can handle standard paper, but they're particularly designed for materials like fabric, wood, magnetic sheets, and thick cardstock. Some models can also print on vinyl, making them useful for decal-making.
The specific materials supported vary by printer model, so it's important to check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure compatibility with your intended projects.
How does a craft printer handle different material sizes?
Craft printers typically offer a wider paper path than standard printers, allowing for the easy handling of A4 or Letter-sized paper plus thicker materials. Some models can even accommodate roll-fed materials like vinyl or magnetic sheets.
When printing on materials larger than the standard paper size, you may need to use specific media adapters or align the material carefully in the printer to ensure proper alignment and print quality.
What are the key considerations when choosing a craft printer?
Consider the types of materials you'll be printing on most frequently, as different printers support various media. You should also evaluate print speed, resolution requirements for your projects, and whether you need built-in cutting capabilities.
Additionally, consider the printer's maintenance requirements and compatibility with your existing computers and operating systems to ensure smooth workflow integration.
How do craft printers compare to standard printers?
Craft printers are engineered to handle thicker materials and varied media types, with build quality and durability often superior to standard desktop printers. They typically offer higher print resolutions suitable for crafting projects requiring sharp details.
Standard printers are optimized for standard paper and may struggle with materials like fabric or wood, while craft printers are specialized for these applications, providing better print quality and material support.
What maintenance does a craft printer require?
Regular maintenance for a craft printer includes cleaning the printhead, checking the media feed rollers for wear, and ensuring the print bed remains level. Many printers come with media guides that need periodic cleaning.
Since these printers use compatible media, it's also important to use the recommended materials to prevent clogs and ensure optimal print quality. Refer to the printer's manual for specific maintenance procedures.
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