Sublimation printing turns ink into a gas under heat so it bonds with polyester fibres. Instead of sitting on top of the fabric, the colour becomes part of it. That means no cracking, no peeling and no heavy feel, even on large designs, and the print breathes with the garment. It's the standard method for modern sportswear and all-over printed apparel.
We use sublimation for polyester sportswear such as jerseys, running vests and netball dresses, as well as bandanas and other polyester items. Every sublimation job is quoted. Request a quote with your quantity and artwork using the form on this page, or upload your list with names, numbers and sizes.
What sublimation is good for
Because the whole garment can be printed, sublimation opens up design options that other methods can't match:
- Full sports kits with stripes, gradients and patterns
- Running vests and cycling tops for clubs and events
- All-over printed shirts for festivals and merchandise
- Bandanas with edge-to-edge designs
- Names, numbers and sponsor logos built into the design
Fabric matters
Sublimation only works on polyester or high-polyester fabrics, and it gives the brightest colours on white or light garments. It isn't suitable for cotton. For cotton tees, use DTF printing instead, which you can price online on T-shirt printing. If you're not sure which fabric suits your project, describe how the garments will be used on your quote request.
Designing for sublimation
Send your design laid out on the garment template, or send your colours, badge and sponsor logos and ask us to create the layout through design services. Keep important text away from seams. You'll receive a digital proof of the front and back before production, and garments are printed exactly as approved.
Ordering for a club or event
Send one list with every garment type, size, name and number through upload your list. We quote the full order together and send a proof of each design. Keeping your design on file makes it easy to add matching garments for new members later in the season.
Turnaround and delivery
Sublimated garments are made to order, so turnaround is confirmed on your quote. Plan ahead of tournaments, races and season openers. Collect free from our Rivonia store, get free delivery within 15 km of the store (the checkout checks your address), or choose courier delivery anywhere in South Africa through The Courier Guy, Pudo lockers, PostNet, Aramex or Paxi, priced by parcel weight.
Common questions
Can I sublimate onto cotton?
No. Sublimation ink bonds with polyester fibres, so it doesn't hold on cotton. For cotton shirts, DTF printing gives a full-colour result and suits orders from 10 to 999 shirts.
Will sublimated colours fade?
Because the colour is dyed into the fabric, sublimated prints hold up very well to washing and sweat. Wash in cool water and avoid harsh bleach to keep the colours at their brightest.
Can each jersey have its own name and number?
Yes. Names and numbers can be built into each garment's design. Send one list with each player's details and size, and check it carefully before approving the proof. You'll see everything on the digital proof before production starts.
How do I get a sublimation quote?
Request a quote using the form on this page with your garments, quantity and design, or upload your list. We email a quote you can accept online, which creates your invoice.