Sawgrass SG400 & SG800 Sublimation Ink Guide (SubliJet HD): Best Colors, What to Buy, and How to Get Pro Results
Sawgrass SG400 and SG800 printers use genuine SubliJet HD sublimation ink cartridges for the most consistent color, reliable ink flow, and predictable transfers on polyester and polymer-coated blanks. If you print regularly, the best value is usually the complete CMYK set; if you’re replacing a single color, choose the matching SG400/SG800 cartridge.
If you’re using a Sawgrass SG400 or Sawgrass SG800, ink choice directly affects color accuracy, transfer quality, and day-to-day reliability. This guide is written to help you buy the right SubliJet HD ink, avoid common mistakes, and get better results—faster.
What Is SubliJet HD Ink (and Why It Matters)?
SubliJet HD is Sawgrass’ high-definition sublimation ink designed for the Virtuoso SG400 and SG800 printer platform. Compared with off-brand inks, genuine SubliJet HD is built for predictable color output and consistent performance in the SG400/SG800 ink delivery system.
- Color fidelity: cleaner reds, smoother skin tones, sharper details
- Consistency: fewer surprises across repeat jobs
- Reliability: ink formulated to run smoothly in SG400/SG800 workflows
- Transfer quality: strong saturation on compatible substrates
Compatibility
- Compatible printers: Sawgrass SG400, Sawgrass SG800
- Ink type: SubliJet HD sublimation ink cartridges (CMYK)
- Best materials: polyester fabrics and polymer-coated hard goods (mugs, metal panels, phone cases, etc.)
- Not ideal for: untreated cotton and uncoated surfaces (requires specialty solutions)
Buy Guide: What Should You Purchase?
Best Choice by Shopper Intent
| If you want… | Best pick | Link |
|---|---|---|
| The simplest “buy once” option | Complete CMYK set | Shop the complete set |
| To replace a single cartridge | Choose the specific color (C/M/Y/K) | Browse SG400/SG800 ink colors |
| To prevent overflow / ink maintenance issues | Waste tank / collection unit | Get the waste collection unit |
Recommended: Complete Set (Best Value for Most Users)
If you print often or run a small business, the complete CMYK set is usually the smartest purchase because it keeps your workflow consistent and avoids last-minute downtime.
Sawgrass SG400 & SG800 SubliJet HD Sublimation Ink – Complete Set (Standard Capacity)
Replace One Color (C/M/Y/K)
If you only need a refill, replace the specific color cartridge. Here are direct internal links:
- Cyan SubliJet HD cartridge (SG400/SG800)
- Magenta SubliJet HD cartridge (SG400/SG800)
- Yellow SubliJet HD cartridge (SG400/SG800)
- Black SubliJet HD cartridge (SG400/SG800)
SG400 vs SG800: Which Printer Is This Ink For?
SubliJet HD ink cartridges in this collection are designed for both SG400 and SG800. The difference between printers is output size—not ink type.
- Sawgrass SG400: ideal for smaller formats and desktop production
- Sawgrass SG800: ideal when you need larger prints and more flexibility
How Sublimation Ink Works (Simple Explanation)
Sublimation ink becomes a gas under heat and pressure, then permanently bonds into polyester fibers or polymer coatings. That’s why the final result looks vibrant and won’t peel like vinyl.
- Key takeaway: For best results, use polyester or polymer-coated blanks.
- Pro tip: Match your heat press settings to each substrate and always test before full production.
Pro Tips to Get Better Color and Fewer Reprints
- Use quality sublimation paper: paper impacts color transfer and sharpness.
- Run a quick nozzle/maintenance check: consistency prevents banding and wasted blanks.
- Press settings matter: time/temperature/pressure vary by substrate—follow your blank supplier’s guidelines.
- Keep inventory ready: having the CMYK set reduces downtime.
FAQ
Do SG400 and SG800 use the same ink?
Yes. SG400 and SG800 printers use SubliJet HD cartridges (CMYK) designed for the SG400/SG800 platform.
Should I buy a full set or individual cartridges?
If you print regularly, the complete set is usually the best value and reduces downtime. If only one color is low, replace that single cartridge.
Will SubliJet HD work on cotton?
Standard sublimation is best on polyester or polymer-coated items. Cotton typically requires specialty solutions (treated fabrics or transfer materials).
What maintenance item should I consider?
If your workflow calls for it, a waste collection unit can help keep maintenance predictable.
Shop Links
- All SG400 & SG800 SubliJet HD ink products
- Complete CMYK ink set (standard capacity)
- Cyan cartridge
- Magenta cartridge
- Yellow cartridge
- Black cartridge
- Waste collection unit
Tip: For best results, use compatible blanks (polyester or polymer-coated) and follow your substrate’s recommended press settings.