Ti2SnC powders (Ti: Sn: C =2: 1.2: 1, mol.%) were synthesized by pressureless sintering in argon in the temperature range of 600 to 1050°C using Ti, Sn and graphite powders as the initial materials. The phase relationships during reaction in the ternary system Ti-Sn-C have been investigated. The products for identification and analysis were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The reaction path for the formation of Ti2SnC can be described in the following steps. Sn melted at 230°C, which provided a favorable liquid circumstance for the reactions between Ti and Sn to form Ti-Sn intermetallic compounds. Results showed that Ti6Sn5 and Ti5Sn3 intermediate phases were formed in turn with increase of temperature. Up to 1050°C, with consumption of Ti5Sn3 phases completely, the amount of Ti2SnC increased significantly. Single phase Ti2SnC with small amount of TiC was produced. Combined with the results of differential thermal analysis (DTA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), it is revealed that Ti2SnC phase is formed by the reaction of Ti–Sn intermetallic compounds, Ti and graphite. In addition, the reaction equations of the process from 230 to 1050°C were given.