If you’ve ever ordered team shirts or corporate tees, you’ve probably wondered: What’s the best printing method? With options like sublimation and screen printing on the table, the choice can feel like picking between two strong players.
The good news? You don’t need to be a printing expert to make the right call. Let’s break down the difference between custom sublimated t-shirts and traditional printing, so you can pick the MVP for your next order.
What Is Custom Sublimated Printing
Think of sublimation in printing as the high-performance player in your lineup. Instead of layering ink on top of the shirt, sublimation uses heat to bond the dye directly into the fabric, meaning your design becomes part of the shirt itself.
At Cheeta Teamwear, we use custom sublimated t-shirts for clients who need long-lasting colour and comfort — sports teams, school programs, and event organisers who want gear that can take a hit and still look fresh.
What Is Traditional Printing
Traditional printing — like screen printing or heat transfers — is the OG of shirt decoration. It involves pushing ink through a stencil or applying vinyl directly onto the fabric’s surface. Simple, effective, and great for bold, minimal logos.
We often recommend custom screen-printed t-shirts for corporate uniforms or bulk event tees where consistency and speed matter more than intricate detail.
What Are the Benefits of Custom Sublimated Printing?
Both methods bring value, but sublimation plays in a league of its own when it comes to creativity and performance.
No Cracking or Fading Over Time
Sublimation dye doesn’t sit on top; it’s in the fabric. That means your design won’t crack, peel, or fade, no matter how many washes or match days it goes through.
Full-Colour Designs
Go wild with gradients, team patterns, or photo-style graphics. Sublimation can print any colour combo you throw at it, making it ideal for vibrant teamwear or promotional designs that turn heads.
Ideal for All-Over Prints and Complex Patterns
Forget staying “inside the lines.” With sublimation, your design can run across seams, sleeves, or collars — perfect for statement-making uniforms and creative brand merch.
Fabric Softness
No thick ink patches, no plasticky feel. Just a soft, breathable tee that looks good and feels even better, especially under game-day pressure.
What Are the Benefits of Traditional Printing?
Traditional methods have stood the test of time, and for good reason. They’re cost-effective, versatile, and great for certain materials.
Bulk Orders
When you’re printing hundreds of tees for an event or giveaway, screen printing wins on cost per shirt. It’s reliable and budget-friendly for large runs.
Thicker Fabrics
Got cotton or heavyweight hoodies? Traditional printing handles them like a pro, laying down rich, consistent colour on thicker textures.
Simpler Designs
Single logos. Bold slogans. Clean branding. This is where traditional printing shines — sharp and straightforward.
Cost-Efficiency
Fewer colours and simple graphics mean quicker setup and lower costs. For large uniform orders or promotional events, that’s a big win.
Which Printing Method Is Right for Your Custom T-Shirts?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your perfect method depends on your goals, design, and deadline.
Choosing the Right Method Based on Order Quantity
Small team? Go with custom sublimated t-shirts for maximum flair. Running a large event? Screen printing keeps things efficient. Get a quote to compare.
Design Complexity: Sublimation vs. Traditional Printing
If your artwork is bold and full of colour, sublimation is the creative standout. For simpler, logo-based designs, traditional printing gets the job done quickly and cleanly.
Fabric Considerations: Which Method Suits Which Materials?
Sublimation loves polyester, that’s its comfort zone. Traditional printing, meanwhile, plays nicely with cotton and dark-coloured garments.
Budget Considerations
On a tighter budget? Screen printing can be cheaper for big orders. Want detailed, high-quality graphics that pop? Sublimation offers more bang for your buck in smaller batches.
Print Durability
Both do last, but sublimation has the edge: no peeling, no fading, no worries. Traditional prints may show wear over time, especially after heavy use.
Time-Efficiency
Need it fast? Sublimation can turn small orders around quickly. Traditional printing takes longer to set up, but handles bulk runs more efficiently once in production.
Best Printing Method for Different Industries
- Sports teams: Sublimation all day — it’s made for performance fabrics and all-over colour.
- Corporate uniforms: Traditional printing keeps logos crisp and professional.
- Event merch: Either works — pick based on your timeline and creative vision.
Special Scenarios: When to Choose One Over the Other
If you’re creating fashion-forward pieces or premium teamwear, sublimation’s your star player. For charity events, giveaways, or cotton-heavy gear, traditional printing is the dependable veteran.
Why Choose Cheeta Teamwear for All of Your Printing Needs
At Cheeta, we don’t just print shirts — we build identity. From sublimation tee shirts that wow on the field to shirt logo printing for polished corporate wear, we make printing clothing easy, creative, and quality-driven.
Our team knows the types of printing on shirts inside and out — and we’ll help you pick the right one for your goals. With local production, fast turnaround, and hands-on support, Cheeta Teamwear keeps your brand looking sharp every step of the way.
Ready to bring your design to life? Request a quote today and create apparel your team will actually be proud to wear.
FAQs
Does sublimation last as long as screen printing?
Yes. Because sublimation dye bonds directly into the fabric, it outlasts traditional prints, staying vibrant long after others start to fade.
What is the price difference between sublimated and traditional printing?
Sublimation can be more affordable for smaller or detailed runs. Screen printing tends to win on price when you’re ordering big batches of simple designs.
Can you print sublimation on cotton?
No. Sublimation works best on polyester or poly blends. For cotton, traditional printing like screen printing or heat transfer is the way to go.
What fabrics aren’t good for sublimated printing?
Natural fibres (like cotton or wool) and dark colours don’t absorb the dye properly. Light-coloured polyester fabrics are the best match for vibrant results.
