If you’re looking for the best software to use for sublimation printing, look no further! We will introduce you to 10 different software programs that are perfect for this type of printing.
Each program offers a unique set of features, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. Keep reading to learn about each option and decide which one is right for you!
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1. Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is a popular tool for creating layouts, graphics, logos, and photos. It includes features for high-resolution imaging and editing, making it ideal for sublimation printing.
I find Adobe Photoshop to be a top choice for control over sublimation prints. With its wide range of features, you can create custom prints that match your vision exactly.
Adobe Photoshop works on both Windows and Mac. It offers a free trial, but you need to pay a monthly subscription to keep using it.
2. GIMP
Good free print editing software options are rare. GIMP is an exception, offering layers, filters, and drawing tools. It also supports many third-party plugins to boost its features.
GIMP is a great choice for beginners in sublimation printing. It’s easy to use and free. Though it lacks some advanced features found in paid software, it works on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
3. CorelDraw
CorelDraw is a vector graphic design software perfect for sublimation printing. It offers tools and features to create high-quality designs, including illustrations, logos, icons, photos, and labels.
One advantage of CorelDraw is its live feedback feature, letting you see results as you work. This helps you create better designs faster and more easily.
CorelDraw is a versatile software with a vector graphics system, making it an excellent choice for sublimation printing. It offers a limited 15-day trial and premium yearly or lifetime packages.
4. Inkscape
Inkscape is a user-friendly vector graphic design tool ideal for creating excellent sublimation prints. With a powerful object creation feature, it’s perfect for high-quality sublimation designs.
It’s free to download and works on Windows, Mac, or Linux. Despite being free, it offers a high level of quality and functionality. You can use it for professional design projects.
5. Adobe Illustrator
If you want a sublimation printing software packed with features, Adobe Illustrator is perfect. It offers many options for creating and editing designs, along with numerous filters and effects for your images.
Illustrator lets you create shapes, textures, and patterns, and add color, gradients, and shadows. It’s one of the most comprehensive design programs you can find today.
It supports various file formats, making it easy to export designs for print or use in other software. Adobe Illustrator works on Windows and Mac. Photoshop offers a free trial, but a monthly subscription is needed for continued use.
6. Affinity Designer
Affinity Designer is another excellent software for sublimation printing. This vector-based tool excels at detailed designs and illustrations. It offers a variety of instruments to craft high-quality designs for sublimation printing.
Affinity Designer is perfect for large and complex designs, handling thousands of objects without slowdown. It offers live effects, non-destructive adjustments, and precise control over your work.
Affinity Designer works on Mac, PC, and iPad. It’s a one-time purchase, saving you from ongoing subscription fees.
7. Sketch
Sketch might not offer as many features as Illustrator, but it’s excellent for vector illustrations and sublimation printing. The best part? Sketch costs a fraction of what you’d pay for Illustrator or other top design software.
One impressive feature of Sketch is its collaborative capabilities, letting team members work on the same document at the same time. This is especially helpful for creating complex designs.
Sketch is available for Mac devices, with a web version for Windows PCs. It offers two packages: standard and business. The standard package is affordable for most tasks.
8. Gravit Designer
Gravit Designer is a new player in design software but quickly a favorite for vector graphics. It provides many features and tools for vector design, perfect for creating print, web, and app interface designs.
Gravit is popular due to its ease of use. The software features a clean, intuitive interface, making it very straightforward. There’s a free basic version and a pro version with better features.
Gravit is a web app that lets you design anywhere, anytime. Download the desktop app for Mac, Windows, Linux, and ChromeOS to use it offline.
9. Adobe Indesign
Though not as popular as Photoshop or Illustrator, Adobe InDesign is a powerful tool for sublimation printing. Its easy-to-use features and extensive functionality make it ideal for creating professional designs.
InDesign is perfect for creating complex documents like magazines or books. If you want to elevate your sublimation printing experience, this tool is essential.
InDesign works on both Windows and Mac. While there’s a free trial, you need to buy the full version for unlimited use.
10. Pixlr
Pixlr is a free, cloud-based photo editor with a wide range of features. You can use layers, masks, and adjustments, as well as add text and filters. There are also tools for cloning and healing.
I use it for sublimation printing to quickly improve and boost your images before printing them.
Pixlr offers an online app and a desktop app. The free version includes most features, but you can access some premium features with a monthly subscription.