The short comparison
| Sublimation | Screen printing | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Dye bonds into polyester fibres | Ink pushed through a mesh screen onto the fabric surface |
| Fabrics | Polyester only, light base | Cotton, poly-cotton, polyester |
| Colours | Unlimited, same cost | Each colour needs its own screen |
| Coverage | Edge to edge, across seams | Limited print areas |
| Feel | No feel; fabric stays breathable | A layer you can feel; heavy prints reduce breathability |
| Durability | Will not crack or peel | Can crack or fade over time |
| Names & numbers | Built into the print | Added separately, often by heat transfer |
| Best for | Team kits, jerseys, training wear | Simple logos on cotton tees and hoodies |
When sublimation wins
Choose sublimation when:
- your kit has more than two or three colours, gradients or patterns;
- every player needs a name and number;
- you have several sponsors;
- the garment is polyester sportswear that has to breathe.
Almost every modern club and league kit is sublimated for these reasons.
When screen printing wins
Screen printing is the better fit when:
- the garment is cotton, such as a club T-shirt or hoodie;
- the design is one or two flat colours;
- you are printing the same design on many pieces, such as event T-shirts.
A practical example
A cricket club wants match shirts with a two-tone gradient, a club badge, three sponsors and player names and numbers, plus cotton supporter T-shirts with the badge.
- Match shirts: sublimated. The gradient, badge, sponsors, names and numbers are all printed in one pass, and players get breathable polyester shirts.
- Supporter T-shirts: screen printed. A one-colour badge on cotton is quick and economical with screen printing.
That combination is very common, and we can produce both in the same order.
Questions to ask any supplier
- Are the kits fully sublimated (panels printed before stitching) or pressed after stitching?
- Are names and numbers sublimated or applied as heat-transfer vinyl?
- What fabric and weight is used?
- Can I see a sample before bulk production?
We answer all four in every quote. Request one here.
Frequently asked questions
Which lasts longer?
Sublimation, in most cases. The dye is inside the fibres, while screen-printed ink sits on top and can crack after many washes.
Which is cheaper?
For simple designs in large quantities, screen printing can be cheaper. For multi-colour designs, personalisation or smaller team orders, sublimation is usually more economical.
Can we combine them?
Yes. A sublimated kit can carry an embroidered badge, or a cotton hoodie can be screen printed to match.