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Sublimation shirts have actually been around in the print-on-demand world for a while now, even if you didn’t realize it. Those eye-catching Hawaiian shirts with vibrant tropical patterns? Sublimated. The bold and colorful jerseys with daring designs? Also sublimation printing. If you’ve noticed t-shirts with rich hues that really grab attention, there’s a good chance sublimation is the printing technique behind them.
For POD sellers, the potential profits from sub t-shirts are immense. This growing product line allows you to offer quality, full-color customization that stands out on sites like Etsy, Amazon Handmade, and more. But there’s a right way and a wrong way to break into this market.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know – from how sublimation works to the best material to use. We’ll also tackle some of the frequently asked questions, so you can start your sublimation journey with swagger and confidence.
Sound good? Keep reading to get the inside scoop!
What are sublimation shirts and what makes them so special?
Sublimation shirts are created using a unique printing process called sublimation printing, or sometimes all-over print (AOP) for short. Here’s how it works: first, your design is printed onto a special paper using sublimation ink. Then, using a combination of high heat and pressure, the design is transferred directly onto the shirt material.
The sublimation printing process at Merchize’s factory in Vietnam
The great thing about this process is that the design becomes a part of the fabric, instead of just sitting on top of it like with regular printing methods. This means that your design will last longer and the colors will stay vibrant and bold, even after multiple washes.
Another cool thing about this printing technique is that it allows for all-over printing, meaning your design can cover the entire shirt from seam to seam. This gives you a lot of creative freedom to make truly unique and eye-catching designs. So, if you want a shirt that really stands out and will last a long time, sublimation shirts are definitely the way to go!
However, like any printing method, sublimation has its limitations. The biggest one is that it works best on light-colored, polyester fabrics. If you’re looking to print on dark shirts or natural materials like 100% cotton, you might run into some challenges.
But don’t let that hold you back! There are some nifty tricks to overcome these limitations. For dark shirts, you can use a special white or light-colored polyester base layer that your design can be printed on. This way, your colors will still pop and look amazing. And if you’re set on using a natural fabric, look for blends that have a high polyester content – they’ll work great with sublimation while still giving you that soft, natural feel.
At the end of the day, with a little creativity and know-how, you can make sublimation printing work for just about any project you have in mind. So go ahead, let your imagination run wild, and create some truly incredible shirts that you’ll be proud to wear continuously!
Best materials for sublimation shirt success
Let’s talk about the secret sauce behind those mind-blowing sublimation shirts – the materials! Choosing the right fabric is like finding the perfect sidekick for your superhero design. Merchize suggests some of the best materials to take your shirt business to the next level:
Polyester
If polyester was a person, it would be that friend who’s always in for any adventure. This fabric is the go-to choice for sublimation because it can handle the heat (literally) and lets the ink become one with the fabric, creating a bond stronger than your love for your favorite band. Plus, polyester comes in more varieties than a superhero’s wardrobe, so you can find the perfect fit for your project.
Polyester blends
Sometimes, you need a little extra something to make your shirts stand out. That’s where polyester blends come in! Fabrics like poly-spandex or poly-cotton are like the shape-shifters of the material world – they offer flexibility and different textures while still being sublimation-friendly. Just make sure the polyester content is high enough (aim for 50% or more) to get the best results.
Nylon and spandex
If you’re targeting athletes or fitness enthusiasts, nylon and spandex are your trusty best friend. They’ll give your shirts that extra flexibility and stretch, perfect for when you’re saving the world (or just hitting the gym).
Light-colored fabrics
While not a specific material, light-colored fabrics are like the bat signal for your sublimation designs. White, light grey, and pastel shades are the ideal canvases for your artwork, allowing your colors to pop and your designs to shine brighter than a superhero’s smile.
Specialty sublimation blanks
If you’re new to the world of AOP clothing or just want to save some time, specialty sublimation blanks are here to save the day! These pre-made shirts are like the sidekicks that have been training for this moment their entire lives – they’re specifically designed for sublimation printing, so you know you’ll get amazing results every single time.
Remember, the key to success is experimenting with different materials to find what works best for you and your unique designs. Don’t be afraid to try new things and go beyond the boundaries – after all, that’s what makes a successful T-shirt venture! So go forth, choose your trusty materials, and create some wonderful all-over print shirts that will save the fashion world, one design at a time!
What are the best shirts for sublimation printing?
When it comes to creating jaw-dropping, head-turning all-over print shirts, choosing the right type of shirt is absolutely essential. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know which ones will make your designs look like they belong on a runway. But don’t sweat it, because we’ve got your back! We’re about to dive into the best shirts for sublimation printing, so you can create wearable works of art that will leave everyone speechless.
Jerseys
Calling all sports fanatics and team players! If you want to create shirts that scream “I’m a champion!", then jerseys are your ultimate teammate. These sporty superstars are crafted with moisture-wicking polyester fabric that’s practically begging for sublimation ink.
Not only do they come in a wide range of styles, from classic baseball jerseys to sleek soccer tops, but they also offer a comfortable and breathable fit that’s perfect for any athletic endeavor. So whether you’re designing jerseys for your intramural team or a big sporting event, you can trust that your sublimation designs will look like a grand slam.
Polo
For those moments when you need a shirt that can be all-over printed with a little more buttoned-up, polo shirts are here to save the day. These preppy powerhouses are typically made with a magical blend of polyester and cotton, making them an ideal canvas for your masterpieces.
Polos are perfect for corporate events, golf outings, or any occasion where you want to add a touch of sophistication. Plus, with their collared necklines and button plackets, your designs will look as sharp as a freshly pressed suit.
Hawaiian shirt
Bold, vibrant Hawaiian shirts are made for hot summer days full of exciting adventures and endless vacation. These island-inspired icons are usually crafted with lightweight, breezy polyester fabric that’s absolutely perfect for sublimation printing.
From colorful floral patterns to cheeky tiki designs, your artwork will transport everyone to a beachy paradise faster than you can say “aloha". So go ahead, let your imagination run wild and create some amazing Hawaiian shirts that will make everyday feel like a day at the beach.
T-shirts
Ah, the humble t-shirt – a staple that never goes out of style. These versatile wardrobe workhorses come in endless styles and materials, but for the best sublimation results, you’ll want to stick with 100% polyester or high-polyester blends.
T-shirts are like a blank slate for your creativity, whether you’re designing for a band, a business, or just for the sheer joy of it. With sublimation printing, your designs will become one with the fabric, creating a long-lasting, vibrant masterpiece that will make everyone do a double-take.
Tank tops
When the weather heats up and you want to keep your customers cool yet stylish, tank tops are the way to go. These sleeveless sensations are often made with lightweight polyester or polyester blends, ensuring that your artwork looks fresh and fabulous all summer long.
From beachy, bohemian vibes to sporty, athleisure styles, all-over print tank tops are the perfect way to show off your designs while staying comfortable and cool. So go ahead, let those arms breathe and create some mind-blowing tank tops that will make the sun jealous.
Hoodie
Hoodie is the timeless and classic sidekick for when you want to keep your designs comfy and cool at the same time. Hoodies are typically made of polyester or polyester blends, making them a dream come true for sublimation printing.
Whether you prefer a classic pullover or a trendy zip-up, your designs will look fresh and fly on these comfy layers. From streetwear-inspired graphics to collegiate classics, all-over print hoodies are the perfect way to make a statement while staying warm and stylish.
Sweater and sweatshirt
When the leaves start to fall and the air gets crisp, it’s time for those comfy sweaters and sweatshirts. These knitted knockouts are often crafted with polyester or acrylic blends, creating a canvas that’s just for your unlimited creativity.
Whether you’re whipping up ugly Christmas sweaters that would make Santa proud or trendy crewnecks that will be the envy of every hipster, your designs will look cozy and chic on these cold-weather favorites.
There you have it – the ultimate rundown of the best shirts for your sublimation printing adventures. Just remember, polyester and high-polyester blends are your BFFs when it comes to creating designs that will stand the test of time (and washing machine). Now, armed with this knowledge, go forth and create some statement pieces that will get all the wows!
FAQs
How does sublimation printing actually work?
Basically, the sublimation printing process includes the following steps:
- Step 1: Your design gets printed onto special transfer paper using sublimation ink. This ink is the magic ingredient that makes the whole process possible!
- Step 2: Next, it’s time to break out the heat press. This is where the real transformation happens! The transfer paper with your design is placed on the shirt, and the heat press applies a combination of heat and pressure.
- Step 3: Under the heat and pressure, the ink turns into a gas. This is where the term “sublimation" comes from – it’s the process of a substance (in this case, the ink) changing from a solid to a gas without going through a liquid stage.
- Step 4: As the ink turns into gas, it infuses directly into the fibers of the shirt. This is what makes sublimation printing so special – your design becomes a permanent part of the fabric!
- Step 5: When the heat press lifts up, your design is now permanently bonded to the shirt. No fading, no peeling, no cracking – just a vibrant, long-lasting print that will look great wash after wash.
And there you have it – the science behind the magic of those eye-catching all-over print shirts. Cool, right?
How to care for sublimation shirts to keep them looking great?
To help your customers keep their favorite shirts safe for years to come, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty, you can include these care tips in your product description:
- Always wash the shirts in cold water to protect the design from fading or damage, and keep the shirts looking vibrant and new.
- Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these harsh chemicals can be detrimental to the print quality and longevity.
- Hand-dry or tumble dry on low heat. High temperatures can cause the design to deteriorate prematurely.
- Iron the shirts on a low setting to avoid any potential damage to the print.
What’s the difference between sublimation printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing?
DTG printing is like using a giant inkjet printer directly on the shirt, while sublimation printing uses heat to transfer the design into the fabric.
DTG works best on cotton shirts and can handle more complex designs with lots of colors. Sublimation, on the other hand, works best on polyester and creates a more durable, long-lasting print. So, it really comes down to the type of shirt you’re using and the look you’re going for!
You can check out our detailed guide on differences between sublimation printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing.
How does sublimation printing compare to screen printing?
Screen printing and sublimation printing are like two sides of the same coin – they both create awesome custom shirts, but in different ways.
Screen printing involves pushing ink through a mesh screen onto the shirt, one color at a time. This makes it great for simple designs with few colors, and it works well on cotton shirts.
Meanwhile, sublimation printing uses heat to infuse the design directly into the fabric, which means it works best on polyester and creates a print that won’t fade or crack over time.
Check this article for detailed comparison between these two printing powerhouses side by side: Sublimation vs Screen Printing: 8 Key Differences.
Which are the most popular companies for sublimation printing?
When it comes to sublimation printing, there are plenty of great companies that can help you create the custom shirts of your dreams, such as Printify, Printful, Gelato, RedBubble, etc.
Apart from those names, Merchize stands out for an extensive range of sublimation products that go beyond just shirts – from apparel to home goods, we’ve got you covered. Our product catalog includes everything from cozy blankets and stylish mugs to practical doormats, eye-catching tire covers, and trendy tote bags, just to name a few!
What sets us apart is our global presence and commitment to quality. With five factories in Vietnam, the United States, Australia, Europe, and China, we’re able to provide sellers with super competitive base costs and stable shipping times. This means you can offer your customers top-notch products at attractive prices without compromising on delivery speed.
Team up with Merchize to take your business to new heights!
