Which is better, sublimation or screen printing?
For team jerseys, sublimation is usually better: unlimited colors, no cracking, and a lighter jersey. Screen printing is cheaper for simple, one-color designs on large runs of stock shirts.
Side by side
| Sublimation | Screen printing | Tackle twill | |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it works | Dye bonds into polyester | Ink layered on top | Fabric letters sewn on |
| Colors | Unlimited | Priced per color | Limited to twill colors |
| Feel | Can't feel it | Slight layer | Raised and stitched |
| Durability | Doesn't crack or peel | Can crack over time | Very durable, can fray |
| Weight | Lightest | Light | Heaviest |
| Names and numbers | Included in the print | Extra screens | Each one sewn |
| Best for | Full-color team uniforms | Simple event tees | Baseball, hockey look |
Sublimation
The design is dyed into the fabric with heat. Best for soccer, basketball, volleyball, cricket and esports jerseys with patterns, gradients and sponsor logos. Polyester only. Read how sublimation works.
Screen printing
Ink is pushed through a mesh screen, one screen per color. It is cost effective for large runs of simple designs, but each color adds cost and the ink layer can crack after many washes.
Tackle twill
Letters and numbers are cut from twill fabric and stitched on. It gives the classic raised look of baseball, hockey and pro-style football jerseys, at a higher cost and weight. We don't make tackle twill uniforms.
What we make
Every Xipid jersey is fully sublimated. An embroidered or printed logo is available on request only, quoted as an add-on. See custom sublimated jerseys.
Want to see sublimation on your design?
Send your logo on WhatsApp and get a free mockup within 24 hours.
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