WHAT IS SUBLIMATION PRINTING? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

If you've ever wondered how sports jerseys get those vibrant, all-over prints that never fade — the answer is sublimation printing. It's the technology behind virtually every professional sports jersey in the world.

THE PROCESS EXPLAINED SIMPLY

Step 1: A design is printed onto special transfer paper using sublimation inks. Step 2: The paper is placed on polyester fabric. Step 3: Heat (about 200°C) and pressure are applied using a heat press. Step 4: The solid ink converts directly to gas (sublimation) and bonds with the polyester fibers at a molecular level. Step 5: When cooled, the ink is permanently part of the fabric.

ADVANTAGES

Unlimited colors at no extra cost. Full edge-to-edge printing. The print is part of the fabric — it can never crack, peel, or fade. The fabric remains breathable and lightweight with no ink layer on top. Individual customization is possible (different names and numbers per jersey).

LIMITATIONS

Only works on polyester or polyester-blend fabrics. Doesn't work well on cotton. Works best on white or light-colored base fabrics (though manufacturers like Athenax use techniques to achieve vibrant results on dark bases too). Requires specialized equipment.

SUBLIMATION VS OTHER METHODS

Screen printing sits on top of fabric and eventually cracks. Vinyl heat transfer peels over time. Direct-to-garment (DTG) fades with washing. Sublimation is the only method where the print is permanent because it literally becomes part of the fabric.

Experience sublimation quality — browse our 2200+ designs.