The Best Tumbler Heat Press Machines
If you've ever wondered how crafters and manufacturers adorn tumblers and mugs with their own prints, the answer is the heat press machine. While commercial operations use large devices to produce designs on an industrial scale, these days you can get creative at home with your very own heat press machine. They're simple and safe to use, so all you'll have to do next is get creative with your own artwork and you could be designing your very own tumblers in no time.
What to Look For
If you’ve never used a tumbler heat press machine before, it can be difficult to know where to start. While you search for the perfect model, we suggest comparing the maximum temperature, maximum capacity, and temperature and timer control options. Those criteria helped lead us to our favorite tumbler heat press machines. With two versatile attachments allowing you to work with a range of sizes and materials, Vevor’s heat press machine is our favorite overall. But if you want to apply your own designs to larger 30-ounce tumblers, don’t miss the PYD Life Tumbler Heat Press V3. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Vevor Tumbler Heat Press Machine
Transfer time
This versatile machine from Vevor is the perfect way for both beginners and seasoned arts-and-crafters to transfer bespoke designs onto a variety of tumblers and other cylindrical surfaces. Two detachable sublimation attachments mean you can use this press both with a range of tumbler sizes, including standard 11-ounce mugs. And thanks to the intuitive LED four-button interface, you’ll have precise control and monitoring of temperature and timing as well as access to a selection of preset modes for easy operation.
Pros:
- Adjustable tension screw
- Non-slip handle and foot pad for safe and secure operation
- An onboard speaker notifies you when transfers are completed
Cons:
- The paper manual isn’t as detailed as we’d like, though online tutorials are also available
PYD Life 110V Tumbler Heat Press
One for all
As one of the best tumbler heat presses on the market, the PYD Life is equipped with a range of features that will serve amateur and small professional operations alike. With a temperature range of 0 to 464 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s capable of working with a range of materials from ceramic to stainless steel. And thanks to its large, adjustable sublimation compartment, you can work with tumblers as large as 30 ounces as well as smaller receptacles, like standard mugs.
Pros:
- 0-999 Second timer range
- Compact design won’t take up much space on worktops
- Four-button control panel is simple to operate
Cons:
- No manual included
BetterSub Mug Heat Press
Size isn't everything
If your heat press setup is modest in size, you’ll appreciate the economical form of this downsized 11-ounce mug heat press. Despite its compact form, this lean and mean machine wields silicone pads that can retain a stable heat of up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit when working with the toughest materials. The 11-ounce attachment is ideal for mugs and small tumblers, and there is a range of additional attachments that can be purchased separately if you want to work with different sizes.
Pros:
- Stainless steel pressure knob is more durable than plastic alternatives
- Ergonomic pressure handle leaves little chance of a slip during use
- The included attachment will also fit most slim 20-ounce tumblers
Cons:
- Basic LCD doesn’t offer as detailed readouts as some models
Vevor Dual Station Sublimation Machine
Kill two birds with one stone with this dual sublimation multitasking station from Vevor. Operated from a single five-button LCD interface, this efficient machine could double your heat transfer workflow thanks to the two heating pads onboard. Each side is equipped with heatproof handles for individual operation, so you can load one up the next tumbler as you retrieve a finished design from the other.
Pros:
- Solid base with non-slip rubber feet
- Powerful suction cup will secure the in place on smooth worktops
- Plastic components are made from thermostable nylon
Cons:
- Tumblers larger than 15 ounces won’t fit inside these heating pads
Realkant Mini Transfer Machine
A good start
You won’t need a mammoth work surface to start heat pressing when you get your hands on this mini mug press from Realkant. Thanks to its compact and affordable design, it’s a great way to get started with adding your own artwork to mugs and tumblers. The adjustable design means you can work with capacities ranging from 11 to 15 ounces, giving you a range of options to get started as you try your first designs.
Pros:
- Simple two-button interface
- Durable crude iron construction
- Heat-resistant tape and protective gloves included
Cons:
- Limited timer and temperature options
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot should I set my heat press before working?
Different materials require different heat settings in order to get your designs to stick, which is why most heat presses come with precise controls to heat between a range of temperatures. Metal tumblers can demand temperatures as high as 400 degrees Fahrenheit to stick. Ceramics can be less than this, but it depends on the thickness and texture of the material.
How can I stay safe while I use a heat press machine?
Take extra care when working with high temperatures to avoid any risk of injury. Once it’s turned on, only touch the machine by the handles or on the interface, and keep your hands away from the heated press surface at all times. We suggest wearing a pair of heat-resistant gloves and safety goggles at all times during operation.
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