What is sublimation printing? A plain guide for team managers

If you've ordered team kits before, you've probably heard the word sublimation. It's how most modern jerseys, rash guards and cycling kits are printed, and it's the process we use for our sublimated teamwear. Here's what it actually means, in plain terms, so you can order with confidence.

How sublimation printing works

Your design is printed onto special transfer paper using sublimation inks. The paper is laid on the fabric and pressed with heat and pressure. At that temperature the ink turns into a gas, the polyester fibres open up, and the ink bonds inside them. When the fabric cools, the design is locked into the fibre itself.

Because the print is inside the fabric rather than sitting on top, you can't feel it. The shirt stays as light and breathable as the blank fabric.

Why teams choose sublimated kits

• It won't crack, peel or fade. There is no ink layer to break down, even after a full season of washing.
• Unlimited colours. Gradients, photos, patterns and sponsor logos cost the same as a single colour.
• Edge-to-edge designs. The print can run across seams, sleeves and collars.
• Names and numbers for every player are printed in the same pass, so every shirt in the roster can be different.
• Lightweight and breathable, which matters in summer sports and combat sports.

What sublimation needs: polyester

Sublimation only works properly on polyester or high-polyester blends, usually in white or light base fabric. That's why nearly all performance sportswear is polyester anyway. If you need a cotton feel, for example on casual team tees, screen printing or embroidery is the better choice. We can advise on which suits each piece of your kit.

What can be sublimated?

Almost any polyester garment. The most common items we make are team jerseys for football, basketball, cricket and netball, running singlets, rash guards and compression tops, fight shorts, cycling kits, warm-up jackets and long sleeve fishing shirts.

Is sublimation right for your team?

If you want bold designs, individual names and numbers, and a kit that still looks new at the end of the season, sublimation is almost always the right call. If you only need a small logo on a cotton tee, a simpler print method may suit better.