Sublimation printing is a popular method for creating custom designs on fabric, and the quality of the final product largely depends on the type of material used. When it comes to sublimation printing, not all shirt materials are created equal. From polyester to cotton there are various options to choose from and each has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. In this blog, we will explore the best shirt materials for sublimation printing and help you make an informed decision for your next custom design project. Whether you're creating a sublimation shirt for personal use or are interested in starting a t-shirt business, understanding the different types of materials and their properties is crucial for achieving the best possible results.
Cotton: The Enemy of Sublimation
100% cotton shirts should be avoided when sublimation printing. One of the main reasons why cotton is not a good material for sublimation printing is because it is not a synthetic fiber. Sublimation printing requires the use of a synthetic fiber that is specifically designed to absorb and retain the ink during the transfer process. Cotton, on the other hand, is a natural fiber that does not have the same capability to absorb and retain the ink, leading to a poor quality print. The end result is often a faded and blurry image that does not meet the desired standards for a high-quality sublimation print.
Another reason why cotton is not ideal for sublimation printing is due to its shrinkage and color-fading properties. Cotton has a tendency to shrink after the first wash, which can cause the image to become distorted and ruined. In addition, cotton is prone to color-fading over time, which can result in a dull and faded print that does not look vibrant or eye-catching. This is particularly problematic when creating custom designs that require vibrant and long-lasting colors. In order to achieve the best results with sublimation printing, it is important to choose a material that is specifically designed for this process and will not shrink or fade over time.
Polyester: The Perfect Match
Polyester is widely considered to be the best material for sublimation printing on shirts due to its ability to absorb and retain the ink during the transfer process. Unlike cotton, polyester is a synthetic fiber that has been specifically designed to work with sublimation printing, which results in high-quality, vibrant, and long-lasting prints. The ink penetrates deep into the fibers of the material, creating a durable and long-lasting image that will not fade or peel over time. This makes polyester an ideal choice for businesses and individuals who want to create high-quality, custom designs that will last for a long time.
Another benefit of using polyester for sublimation printing is its versatility and durability. Polyester is a strong and durable material that can withstand frequent washing and wearing, which makes it ideal for use in clothing and other items that will be worn frequently. In addition, polyester is available in a variety of weights and finishes, which means that it can be used for a wide range of applications, from lightweight t-shirts to heavy jackets and everything in between. Whether you are creating a shirt for personal use or for a business, polyester is a versatile and reliable choice for sublimation printing.
Cotton/Polyester Blends… A happy medium?
Cotton/polyester blend shirts are a popular choice for sublimation printing, but they are not considered to be the best material for this process. Although the polyester in the blend provides some of the benefits of a pure polyester shirt, the addition of cotton can cause issues with ink absorption and retention. The ink may not penetrate as deeply into the fibers as it would with a pure polyester shirt, which can result in a less vibrant and durable print. Additionally, the shrinkage and color-fading properties of cotton can still be an issue with a blend, even though they may be reduced compared to a pure cotton shirt.
However, despite these drawbacks, cotton/polyester blend shirts can still be an acceptable material for sublimation printing. They offer a compromise between the high-quality, vibrant prints possible with pure polyester shirts and the soft, comfortable feel of cotton. Cotton polyester blend shirts are a popular choice for those who want a shirt that is both comfortable to wear and has a vibrant and durable print. It is important to keep in mind that the blend ratio of cotton to polyester can affect the final print quality, so it's important to choose a blend with a higher percentage of polyester if you want to achieve the best possible results. The more polyester is in the blend, the better the sublimation print will turn out, but the tradeoff is limiting the soft feel cotton adds to the blend.
The A4 Sublimation Performance T-Shirt is 100% polyester, which is the best material to produce a bright and vibrant sublimation design that will resist fading with washing. In addition to being the perfect material for sublimation, it is also the perfect price. This is one of the most affordable options for 100% polyester shirts. This shirt also comes in a children's version and a long sleeve version. The children's version is the Port & Company PC380Y, and the long sleeve version is the Sport-Tek ST350LS.
Bella + Canvas 3001CVC Unisex Heather T-Shirt
The Bella + Canvas 3001CVC Heather T-Shirt is a 52% airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, 49% polyester blend. This blend gives the shirt a very soft feel and makes it acceptable for sublimation. Check out Mama Dukes’ review of this shirt and its companion shirt, the 100% cotton Bella + Canvas 3001C below:
Gildan G800 50/50 Adult T-Shirt
The Gildan G800 is 50% cotton, 50% polyester which makes it suitable for sublimation while maintaining the benefit of being soft due to the cotton component. The Gildan G800 can be bought individually, but also as a discounted Gildan G800 10 Pack. This classic style from the popular Gildan brand is a staple in the blank t-shirts marketplace.
Conclusion
While looking for t-shirts that are suitable for sublimation, there is a give and take and it may take testing different shirts to find what suits your needs the best. 100% polyester will provide the best color and longevity of the design, but cotton/polyester blends will be softer and more comfortable to wear.
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