Printing methods
Sublimation printing
Bold, detailed prints that are heat-pressed into the garment. Sublimation is our choice for polyester sportswear, football shirts, bags and metallic finishes.
What is sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing uses heat and pressure to press your design into the garment, a little like vinyl heat pressing.
The difference is detail. Sublimation can print intricate, multi-coloured designs in one quick process. The result is a bold decoration that lasts as long as the garment and does not peel off after a few washes like some vinyl prints.
It works best on polyester, which is why we use it for performance and activewear.
Best uses
What sublimation printing is best for
Names and numbers on football shirts
We print names, numbers, badges and sponsor logos on football shirts and other sports kit, from a full squad to a single shirt.
A sponsor’s logo can help cover the cost of the kit, and printed names and numbers make a team look the part. A personalised shirt also makes a great gift for a young football fan.
Good to know
When another method is better
Sublimation is less suited to large, solid colour blocks. These can feel synthetic, almost like plastic. It performs much better with gaps in the design, so the garment can breathe.
Where a design does need a large area of print, we can add tiny holes to let air and moisture through. This keeps a more natural feel and helps preserve the print.
For cotton t-shirts, DTF printing is usually the better choice.
Sublimation printing questions
Which fabrics can you sublimation print?
Sublimation works on polyester fabrics, which makes it ideal for activewear, football shirts and bags.
Will a sublimation print peel or fade?
No. The print is pressed into the fabric, so it lasts as long as the garment and does not peel like some vinyl prints.
Do I need to order in bulk?
No. Sublimation is quick and good value, so you do not have to order in bulk to benefit.
How do I order sublimation printing?
Contact us with your design and garments, or design online and we will choose the best process for your order.
Print your sportswear
Tell us about your kit, or start a design online now.