Jersey Printing Methods: Sublimation vs Screen Printing, which one is more suitable for your jersey design?

When ordering customized jerseys, apart from the design style and fabric selection, the printing method is the key to determine the quality, visual effect and durability of the jerseys. There are two most common printing methods for jerseys on the market, namely sublimation printing and screen printing, but many consumers do not understand the difference between the two and their applicability.

In this article, UNISTAR will bring you an in-depth analysis of these two common printing techniques to help you make the most suitable choice in terms of printing effect, cost, durability, and suitable materials. If you are interested, please read on!

What is sublimation printing?

Thermal sublimation printing is a technique that uses high temperature to vaporize a special ink, allowing the pattern to penetrate into the fabric fibers. The pattern is integrated with the fabric, so there is no problem of heaviness or peeling off of the pattern, and it is often applied to functional sports fabrics such as polyester fiber.

Advantages of sublimation printing:

• Bright, saturated colors for gradient or subtle designs
• Not easy to lose color, turtle crack, washable and wear-resistant
• No adhesive film residue, fabric maintains original softness and breathability.
• Fully printed design for the entire jersey

Hot sublimation printing shortcomings:

• Not suitable for printing on cotton or dark fabrics.
• Complicated production process, slightly higher unit cost

What is Screen Printing

Screen printing is a traditional method of printing in which pigments are applied to the surface of a fabric by means of a screen. One screen is made for each color, making it ideal for printing the same design in large quantities over and over again.

Advantages of Screen Printing:

• Relatively low cost, suitable for mass production
• Can be applied to a wide range of fabric materials and colors.
• Saturated color, strong sense of three-dimensionality

Disadvantages of Screen Printing:

• The more layers of color, the higher the production cost.
• Printed on fabric surface, easy to crack and lose color by washing or rubbing.
• Not conducive to gradient or complex pattern presentation

Comparison of Sublimation Printing and Screen Printing Table

How to choose the right printing method?

Selection of printing method should be based on the following conditions:

• Pattern complexity: If the design has a gradient or subtle pattern, it is recommended to choose thermal sublimation printing.
• Frequency of use and durability requirements: For jerseys that are used frequently and need to be resistant to washing, it is recommended to choose thermal sublimation printing.
• Budget and Quantity: Screen printing is a lower cost option for larger quantities and simpler designs.
• Fabric Type: For non-polyester fabrics, screen printing is required.

Different printing methods have their own characteristics, but it's all about meeting the needs of the team, the budget and the situation. If you want your jerseys to be both beautiful and durable, sublimation printing is the most mainstream and high-quality choice.

Customized jerseys｜Choose UNISTAR for professional quality!

As the only cross-border customized sublimation jersey manufacturer in Hong Kong and Taiwan, UNISTAR has more than 1 million pieces of jerseys and is trusted by corporations, schools, professional teams and grassroots sports teams.

Why UNISTAR?

• Unlimited quantity, one piece order: flexible ordering to meet individual and team needs.
• Perpetual add-on service: subsequent additions of the same style of jersey are not limited in quantity.
• High-quality fabric and printing technology: breathable and comfortable, vivid colors, no color loss.
• PROFESSIONAL SPORTS VISUAL DESIGN: Design is provided free of charge to ensure optimal aesthetics and functionality.

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