Sublimated vs Screen Printed Football Jerseys: Which Is Better?

Choosing the right decoration method is an important part of ordering a custom football team jersey. The printing method affects the appearance, design flexibility, feel, durability, and sometimes the overall cost of the uniform.

Two of the most common options are sublimation and screen printing.

But what is the difference between screen print and sublimation? Is sublimation better than screen printing? And which option should Canadian football teams choose?

The answer depends on what your team needs.

This guide explains sublimation vs screen printing in simple terms so coaches, players, schools, clubs, and team managers can make an informed decision before ordering custom jerseys.

What Is Jersey Sublimation?

Sublimation is a printing process commonly used for custom sportswear, particularly polyester-based garments.

Instead of applying a separate layer of ink on top of the jersey, dye sublimation transfers colour into suitable synthetic fabric using heat.

This allows the design to become integrated with the fabric rather than sitting as a conventional surface print.

How Does Sublimation Work?

The process generally involves creating the digital artwork and transferring the design onto suitable fabric using heat and pressure.

The dye changes into a gas under heat and penetrates the fabric.

Once the process is complete, the design becomes part of the fabric surface.

What Can Be Sublimated?

Sublimation can support detailed football jersey designs, including:

• Team logos
• Player names
• Player numbers
• Multiple colours
• Gradients
• Patterns
• Stripes
• Custom graphics
• Sponsor designs

Why Is Sublimation Popular for Teamwear?

The ability to create highly detailed designs without applying thick layers of material makes sublimation useful for teams that want highly customized uniforms.

Sublimation and Polyester

Sublimation is generally associated with suitable polyester-based fabrics. Teams should confirm fabric compatibility with their manufacturer before selecting this printing method.

What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is another established method for printing on jerseys.

In screen printing, ink is pushed through a prepared screen onto the garment. Different screens may be used for different colours in a design.

Unlike sublimation, the ink sits on the surface of the fabric.

How Does Screen Printing Work?

A screen is prepared with the artwork, and ink is applied through the open areas of the screen onto the jersey.

The printed design is then cured according to the printing process and garment requirements.

What Is Screen Printing Commonly Used For?

Screen printing can be useful for:

• Team logos
• Simple graphics
• Numbers
• Names
• Sponsor branding
• Limited-colour designs
• Team merchandise

When Is Screen Printing Practical?

Screen printing can be particularly practical when the design is relatively simple and the team does not require a full-coverage custom pattern.

Screen Printing Is a Surface Print

The main distinction is that screen printing creates a printed layer on the garment, whereas sublimation transfers dye into suitable fabric.

Sublimation vs Screen Printing: What Is the Difference?

The main difference between sublimation and screen print is how the design is applied.

With sublimation, dye is transferred into suitable synthetic fabric. With screen printing, ink is applied onto the surface of the garment.

Is Screen Print the Same as Sublimation?

No. They use different processes and produce different results.

Screen printing applies ink to the surface of the garment, while sublimation uses heat to transfer dye into suitable synthetic fabric.

What Is the Difference Between Screen Print Transfers and Sublimation?

Screen print transfers are also different from direct sublimation.

A screen print transfer involves producing a design separately and then applying it to the garment using heat.

Sublimation, on the other hand, transfers dye into suitable fabric.

Screen Print Transfer vs Sublimation

Sublimation vs Screen Printing Quality

When comparing sublimation vs screen printing quality, teams should consider the type of design they want rather than assuming one process is automatically higher quality.

Sublimation Print Quality

Sublimation is well suited to detailed digital artwork.

It can reproduce:

• Fine design elements
• Multiple colours
• Gradients
• Photographic-style graphics
• Complex patterns
• Full-coverage artwork

For a team looking for an entirely customized football jersey, these capabilities can be valuable.

Screen Print Quality

Screen printing can produce strong, bold graphics, especially when the artwork uses fewer colours and clearly defined shapes.

It can be particularly suitable for:

• Simple logos
• Basic lettering
• Bold numbers
• Team merchandise
• Limited-colour designs

Quality Depends on Production

The printing method is only one part of the final result.

Quality can also depend on:

• Artwork preparation
• Fabric quality
• Ink or dye
• Printing equipment
• Application process
• Curing
• Garment construction
• Manufacturer experience

Sublimated Jerseys vs Screen Printing for Football

Football jerseys experience regular movement, washing, and physical activity.

This makes the choice of decoration method particularly relevant.

Sublimated Jerseys for Football

Sublimation can be useful when a team wants a complete custom design across the jersey.

Because the dye is integrated into suitable polyester fabric, there is not the same type of raised printed layer associated with conventional surface printing.

Screen Printed Jerseys for Football

Screen printed jerseys can work well when a team needs a simpler graphic or logo.

For example, a team may want a basic logo or lettering without creating an entirely custom patterned jersey.

Consider the Type of Jersey

The choice between methods should depend on whether you are producing:

• Game jerseys
• Practice jerseys
• Training shirts
• Team merchandise
• Fan apparel
• Promotional clothing

Game Jerseys vs Team Merchandise

A fully customized game jersey may benefit from a different printing approach than a simple team T-shirt.

Match the Printing Method to the Purpose

The best method is the one that matches the design, fabric, quantity, intended use, and budget.

Sublimation vs Screen Printing Cost

When considering sublimation vs screen printing cost, there is no single price that applies to every project.

Pricing can change based on:

• Quantity
• Number of colours
• Design complexity
• Garment type
• Fabric
• Individual names
• Individual numbers
• Artwork requirements
• Production method
• Order specifications

When Can Screen Printing Be Cost-Effective?

Screen printing can be practical for straightforward designs, particularly when the artwork uses a limited number of colours.

When Can Sublimation Be Cost-Effective?

Sublimation can become attractive for fully customized teamwear because complex artwork can be incorporated into the garment design without treating every graphic as a separate surface print.

Don’t Compare Price Without Comparing the Product

A lower printing price does not necessarily mean lower total uniform cost.

Teams should compare the complete package, including:

• Garment
• Printing
• Names
• Numbers
• Logos
• Custom artwork
• Quantity
• Shipping
• Production requirements

Which Is Better for Complex Football Jersey Designs?

For teams that want highly detailed designs, sublimation offers considerable flexibility.

Full-Colour Football Jersey Printing

A custom sublimated jersey can incorporate multiple colours throughout the garment.

This makes it useful for designs involving:

• Team patterns
• Colour transitions
• Detailed graphics
• Custom side panels
• Full-body artwork
• Sponsor elements

Simple Football Jersey Printing

Screen printing can be a practical option when the design is straightforward.

For example, a team might need:

• One-colour logo
• Two-colour logo
• Basic player number
• Simple lettering

Design Complexity Should Guide the Decision

Ask yourself:

Does the team need a fully customized garment, or simply a printed graphic on an existing jersey?

That question can make the choice much easier.

Sublimation vs Screen Printing for Player Names and Numbers

Printing numbers on jerseys is an important requirement for football teams.

Both methods can be used for names and numbers, depending on the garment, production process, and supplier.

Sublimation for Names and Numbers

Sublimation allows names and numbers to be incorporated into the overall jersey artwork.

This can create a consistent appearance throughout the uniform.

Screen Printing for Names and Numbers

Screen printing can also be used for numbers, lettering, and other team identifiers.

It may be more appropriate for simpler designs or certain merchandise applications.

What Should Team Managers Consider?

When ordering an entire roster, consider whether every player needs:

• Individual name
• Individual number
• Different number colours
• Different graphics
• Matching placement

The production method should support the team’s roster requirements efficiently.

Which Printing Method Is More Durable?

One common search question is: what lasts longer, sublimation or screen printing?

The answer depends on the fabric, printing quality, garment care, and how the jersey is used.

Sublimation Durability

Because suitable sublimated dye becomes integrated into the fabric, there is no conventional printed layer that can peel away from the surface in the same way as some applied graphics.

However, colour performance can still depend on fabric quality, dye quality, production, washing, and exposure.

Screen Printing Durability

High-quality screen printing can also be durable when correctly produced and cared for.

The printed surface can experience wear over time from washing, abrasion, and repeated use.

Care Still Matters

Regardless of the printing method, teams should follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Common Care Practices

These may include:

• Following recommended wash temperatures
• Avoiding unsuitable chemicals
• Using appropriate drying methods
• Following garment-specific instructions
• Avoiding unnecessary high-heat treatment

Always Follow the Supplier’s Care Label

Care instructions can vary by garment and production method, so the product’s specific instructions should take priority.

Sublimation and Screen Printing: Fabric Compatibility

The fabric is one of the most important factors when selecting a printing method.

Sublimation Fabric Requirements

Sublimation is generally best suited to polyester and other compatible synthetic materials.

This connects directly with the choice of football jersey material.

Teams that want sublimation should confirm that their selected fabric is suitable for the process.

Screen Printing Fabric Options

Screen printing can be used on a wider range of garments, depending on the ink and application process.

This can make it useful beyond football jerseys.

Choose the Fabric Before Finalizing the Print Method

Teams should not select the printing process separately from the garment.

The following should be considered together:

• Fabric
• Jersey construction
• Design
• Printing method
• Fit
• Intended use

For more information about choosing the right material, teams can also refer to Best Fabric for American Football Jerseys: Materials Explained.

Screen Printing vs Sublimation for Canadian Football Teams

Canadian teams have a wide range of requirements depending on their location and level of play.

A school team in Ontario may have different uniform needs from a club in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Montreal, or Ottawa.

Schools and Youth Teams

Schools may need:

• Consistent team designs
• Multiple sizes
• Youth sizing
• Player names
• Player numbers
• Repeat orders

Clubs and Competitive Teams

Clubs may place greater emphasis on:

• Full customization
• Team identity
• Detailed graphics
• Consistent designs
• Repeatability

Team Managers Need More Than a Printing Method

When purchasing uniforms, managers should consider the complete order rather than focusing only on whether the artwork is sublimated or screen printed.

How to Choose Between Sublimation and Screen Printing

There is no universal answer to which is better, sublimation or screen printing.

Instead, use the following decision process.

Choose Sublimation When You Need

Sublimation may be appropriate when your team wants:

• Full custom artwork
• Multiple colours
• Detailed graphics
• Gradients
• Full-coverage designs
• Integrated names and numbers
• Polyester-based performance jerseys

Choose Screen Printing When You Need

Screen printing may be appropriate when your team wants:

• Simple graphics
• Limited-colour designs
• Logos
• Basic lettering
• Team merchandise
• Straightforward printing

Consider the Order Quantity

Quantity can influence production economics.

Large team orders should be evaluated differently from a single custom jersey.

Consider Reorders

If players join a team throughout the season, ask how easily the same design can be reproduced later.

Consistency Matters

For schools and clubs, maintaining consistent colours, logos, names, numbers, and placement can be just as important as selecting the original printing method.

Sublimation vs Screen Printing Decision Table

How Athletic Goods Can Help With Custom Football Jerseys

Athletic Goods provides custom American football apparel for Canadian teams, including schools, clubs, coaches, and team managers.

When planning football jersey printing, teams can first determine the type of design they need and then select a suitable production method.

For teams looking for fully customized game apparel, you can explore custom American football jerseys from Athletic Goods.

A complete football uniform also requires coordinated pants. Teams can review custom American football pants when planning the complete game-day kit.

For a broader approach to building a complete uniform package, see Custom American Football Uniforms in Canada: Complete Team Guide.

Football Jersey Printing Checklist

Before placing a custom jersey order, review the following:

• Decide whether you need full customization or simple graphics
• Confirm the jersey fabric
• Check whether the fabric supports your preferred printing method
• Review the artwork
• Confirm team colours
• Confirm logo placement
• Confirm player numbers
• Confirm player names
• Review sample artwork
• Check sizing
• Ask about care instructions
• Confirm the complete order details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between sublimation and screen printing?

Sublimation transfers dye into suitable synthetic fabric, while screen printing applies ink onto the surface of the garment.

Is screen printing the same as sublimation?

No. They are two different printing processes with different application methods and characteristics.

Which is better, screen printing or sublimation?

Neither method is universally better. Sublimation is highly suitable for detailed custom designs, while screen printing can be practical for simpler graphics and limited-colour artwork.

Is sublimation better than screen printing for football jerseys?

Sublimation can be particularly useful for fully customized football jerseys made from suitable polyester fabric. The right choice still depends on the team’s requirements.

What lasts longer, sublimation or screen printing?

Both can produce durable results when properly manufactured and cared for. Sublimation does not create the same type of surface print layer as screen printing, but overall durability depends on fabric, production quality, care, and use.

Can you print football jersey numbers with sublimation?

Yes. Names and numbers can be incorporated into a sublimated football jersey design when the garment and production method are suitable.

Can screen printing be used for football jerseys?

Yes. Screen printing can be used for suitable football jerseys and team apparel, particularly where the design is relatively simple.

What is screen print transfer vs sublimation?

A screen print transfer is produced separately and then heat-applied to a garment. Sublimation transfers dye into suitable synthetic fabric.

Is sublimation more expensive than screen printing?

The cost depends on quantity, design complexity, garment type, customization, and production requirements. A direct price comparison should consider the complete finished product.

Which printing method is best for a full custom football team jersey?

Sublimation can be a strong option for full custom designs with multiple colours, patterns, gradients, names, and numbers, especially on suitable polyester fabric. Teams should compare their specific requirements before deciding.

Can sublimation and screen printing be used on the same football jersey?

In some production situations, different decoration techniques can be combined, but compatibility depends on the fabric, design, and manufacturing process. The supplier should confirm whether a combined approach is appropriate.

Final Thoughts

The choice between sublimated vs screen printed football jerseys depends on your team’s design, fabric, intended use, customization requirements, and budget.

Sublimation is particularly useful for teams that want highly detailed, full-coverage designs on suitable polyester-based jerseys. It offers considerable flexibility for colours, patterns, gradients, player names, and numbers.

Screen printing remains a practical option for simpler graphics, logos, lettering, and certain team merchandise applications.

So, is sublimation better than screen printing? Not in every situation. The better option depends on what your team is trying to achieve.

For Canadian football teams, the best approach is to define the design first, confirm the jersey fabric, compare the available printing processes, review a sample when possible, and consider the complete uniform rather than the printing method alone.