What is Sublimation?

Many people ask “What is sublimation printing and why choose to sublimate vs. screen print” or “What’s sublimation? Sublimation is the process of transferring dye to a fabric using heat. The images and graphics are printed on special paper placed on the garment and heat is applied, allowing the ink to become part of the fabric. This will leave you with a more breathable, soft-hand feel to the fabric. The best part is that the numbers, letters, and graphics do not peel, wear off, or come out in the wash like vinyl transfers!

Sublimation is a great process that allows for vibrant, full color, all-over prints that are exceptionally durable. Naturally the magic of the process lies in the printing technology. With designs infused directly onto the fabric, they become a part of the fabric itself. All of the design elements including the club logo, colors, and artwork become a part of the fabric in sublimation as opposed to other processes like vinyl transfers, where they’re pressed onto the surface. So, there’s no scope for the colors or logos to peel off or fade in sublimated jerseys!

The high temperature and pressures used in sublimation convert the prints into gas. This bonds the print firmly with the molecules of the fabric, fully integrating with them. Totally inseparable!

Why do I need a light colored shirt?

Sublimation ink is transparent, so the fabric's color shows through the design. The white color in our club logo will show as the color of the garment. Because of this, sublimation works best on light-colored 100% polyester fabrics, and designs won't be visible on dark shirts.

Color Impact

The color of the shirt will affect the print's colors. For example, a light blue or light pink shirt will impact the design's colors. 

White is the best color

White is generally considered the best color for sublimation because it allows the design to appear most vibrant and the colors of the design will appear as intended.