Custom Sublimation Jerseys vs. Screen Printing: Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to creating custom sportswear, one of the biggest questions teams and organizations face is which printing method to choose. Two of the most common approaches are screen printing and sublimation printing. While both have their place in the world of apparel, they produce very different results—especially when it comes to sports uniforms where durability, performance, and design freedom matter most.

Screen printing has been around for decades and works by pressing ink through a stencil onto the surface of a fabric. It’s great for bold, simple designs and is often used for event t-shirts or casual wear. However, screen printing has limitations: it can only handle a limited number of colors, it doesn’t allow for full coverage, and over time the design is prone to cracking or peeling, especially when washed frequently.

Sublimation printing, on the other hand, is a game-changer for sports teams. Instead of applying ink on top of the fabric, sublimation infuses the ink directly into the fibers through heat and pressure. This means the design becomes part of the material itself, resulting in lightweight, breathable, and long-lasting uniforms. Teams can choose unlimited colors, intricate gradients, and even full-garment patterns that wrap seamlessly around the jersey.

For athletes, sublimation uniforms are not only more comfortable but also more professional-looking. A soccer team can wear vibrant, full-color kits that won’t fade no matter how many games they play, while a basketball squad can enjoy sharp geometric designs that never peel under the stress of competition. For schools and leagues that need uniforms to last for multiple seasons, sublimation is the clear winner.

So, if you’re deciding between the two, the rule of thumb is simple: screen printing is fine for casual wear or simple logos, but sublimation is the best choice for custom jerseys, training gear, and team apparel that needs to perform and last. At Jeyla Fashions, we make it easy for teams to upgrade to sublimation and enjoy all the benefits it offers.