Sublimation Printer Test Page
Test color accuracy, alignment, and print quality before pressing
Works with Epson EcoTank, Sawgrass, and converted inkjet printers
Before You Print
- - Load sublimation paper (print on the bright/coated side)
- - Select "Photo Paper" or "Matte Paper" in print settings
- - Set quality to "High" or "Best"
- - Make sure sublimation ink is installed
CMYK Color Accuracy Test
All colors should be solid with no white lines or gaps
Gradient & Banding Test
Gradients should be smooth with no visible bands or steps
Nozzle Check Pattern
Lines should be unbroken - missing lines indicate clogged nozzles
Alignment & Registration
Lines should be straight and intersect at center
Skin Tone Test (Photo Quality)
Skin tones should look natural - no pink or green cast
Text Clarity Test
6pt: The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. 0123456789
8pt: The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. 0123456789
10pt: The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
12pt: The quick brown fox jumps.
How to Use This Test
1. Check CMYK Colors
All four color blocks should print solid without white lines or gaps. Any missing color indicates clogged nozzles - run cleaning cycles.
2. Check Gradients
Gradients should transition smoothly. Visible bands or steps indicate head alignment issues or low-quality print settings.
3. Check Nozzle Pattern
All lines should be complete. Missing lines in any color means those nozzles are clogged and need cleaning.
4. Test Press (Optional)
Press onto scrap polyester at 385°F for 60 seconds. Colors should become vibrant. Dull post-press colors mean temperature or time issues.
Sublimation FAQs
Why do sublimation colors look dull before pressing?
This is normal! Sublimation ink looks muted on paper but becomes vibrant after heat pressing at 380-400°F. The ink converts to gas and bonds with polyester fibers, which brightens colors significantly.
What's the best paper orientation for sublimation?
Print on the bright white or coated side (smoother/slightly tacky). When pressing, printed side faces DOWN onto your substrate.
How do I fix banding or lines in sublimation prints?
Run 2-3 head cleaning cycles. Print weekly to prevent ink drying. Check ink levels aren't low. If banding persists, do a power/deep cleaning.