Sublimation vs Screen Printing vs Embroidery for Teamwear
Three decoration methods, three very different results. Here is how to choose between sublimation, screen printing and embroidery for your team order.
The question of sublimation vs screen printing (and where embroidery fits in) comes up in almost every team order. Each method has clear strengths, and the right choice depends on your fabric, your design and the garment. Here is a plain-English comparison.
Sublimation: unlimited colours inside the fabric
With sublimation printing, your design is printed onto transfer paper and bonded into polyester fibres with heat (around 200 °C). The design becomes part of the fabric instead of sitting on top of it.
- Unlimited colours, gradients and photographic detail — the same price for two colours or twenty.
- No cracking, peeling or fading with normal washing.
- Soft, breathable and lightweight — ideal for game jerseys and shorts.
- Names and numbers printed in the same step.
The limitation: sublimation needs white or light polyester or poly-blend fabric. It does not work on 100% cotton.
Screen printing: bold and durable on any fabric
Screen printing pushes ink through a separate screen for each colour, then cures it with heat. It is vivid and opaque — even on black garments.
- Works on cotton, poly-cotton, polyester and fleece.
- Priced per colour, up to 8 spot colours per design.
- Very cost-effective as quantities grow.
It is the classic choice for warm-up tees, hoodies, fan shirts and promotional apparel.
Embroidery: the premium stitched look
Embroidery stitches your logo with thread after it has been digitized into a stitch file. It adds a premium, long-lasting finish.
- Best for crests, chest logos, caps (including 3D puff), polos and jackets.
- Up to 12 thread colours per logo.
- Very small text (under about 0.2 in) may need adjusting.
For large graphics on jerseys, sublimation is lighter and more comfortable than embroidery.
Side-by-side comparison
| Sublimation | Screen printing | Embroidery | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fabrics | Light polyester / blends | Cotton, blends, polyester, fleece | Most fabrics, caps, jackets |
| Colours | Unlimited | Up to 8, priced per colour | Up to 12 threads |
| Feel | No extra layer | Ink layer on top | Raised stitching |
| Best for | Game jerseys, all-over designs | Tees, hoodies, fanwear | Crests, caps, polos, jackets |
Our recommendation
Many teams combine methods: sublimated game jerseys, screen-printed warm-up tees and embroidered caps. Tell us what you need and we'll suggest the best mix for your budget. All methods start from 10 pieces.
Explore all our manufacturing processes or request a free mockup.
Frequently asked questions
01Is sublimation more expensive than screen printing?+
Usually not for team orders. Sublimation has no per-colour cost, so complex designs are often cheaper.
02Can you sublimate on cotton?+
No. Sublimation needs polyester fibres. For cotton we use screen printing or DTF.
03Is embroidery good for jerseys?+
Yes for crests and small logos; for large graphics sublimation is lighter and more comfortable.
Planning custom teamwear?
Send your idea, quantity and deadline. We reply with pricing, a free digital mockup and a production plan. MOQ from 10 pieces, delivery included.