What sweatshirts are Best for Sublimation?

Sublimation printing is a type of printing that involves transferring dye onto a material. It's a popular choice for customizing clothing items like sweatshirts, as it produces vibrant, long-lasting designs. However, not all sweatshirts are created equal when it comes to sublimation printing. In this article, we'll discuss what sweatshirts are best for sublimation and why.

Sublimation 101

Before diving into sweatshirts, let's briefly go over the sublimation printing process. Sublimation printing involves printing a design onto a special sublimation paper. The paper is then placed onto the material (in this case, a sweatshirt) and heat is applied, causing the dye to turn into gas and bond with the fibers of the material. This results in a permanent, high-quality print.

Cotton vs. Polyester

When it comes to sublimation printing, polyester is the preferred material. This is because polyester is a synthetic material that's highly receptive to sublimation dye. Cotton, on the other hand, doesn't react well to sublimation dye and can result in a faded or blurry print.

Sublimation-Friendly Sweatshirts

Now that we know polyester is the optimal material for sublimation printing, let's look at what specific sweatshirts are best for this process.

1. Gildan Performance 42000

The Gildan Performance 42000 is a popular choice among sublimation printers. It's made from 100% polyester and has a moisture-wicking technology that helps keep the wearer dry. The fabric is also anti-microbial, making it a great choice for athletic wear.

2. Jerzees 21M

The Jerzees 21M is another great option for sublimation printing. This sweatshirt is also made from 100% polyester and has a fleece interior for added warmth. The Jerzees 21M is available in a variety of colors, making it a versatile option.

3. Vapor Apparel Performance Hoodie

The Vapor Apparel Performance Hoodie is specifically designed for sublimation printing. It's made from a blend of polyester and spandex, which gives it a comfortable, stretchy fit. The fabric is also moisture-wicking and anti-microbial, making it a great choice for active wear.

4. Sport-Tek ST350

The Sport-Tek ST350 is a lightweight, 100% polyester sweatshirt that's perfect for sublimation printing. It has a tag-free label for added comfort and comes in a variety of colors. The Sport-Tek ST350 is also budget-friendly, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

5. Hanes P170

The Hanes P170 is made from a blend of cotton and polyester, which might make you think it's not a good choice for sublimation printing. However, the P170 has been specially treated to make it sublimation-friendly. This sweatshirt is available in a wide variety of colors and is a great option for those who prefer the feel of cotton.

Conclusion

When it comes to sublimation printing, choosing the right sweatshirt is key to achieving a high-quality, long-lasting print. Polyester sweatshirts are the best option for this printing method, as they're highly receptive to sublimation dye. When selecting a sublimation-friendly sweatshirt, consider factors like moisture-wicking and anti-microbial properties, as well as budget and style. By choosing the right sweatshirt, you'll be able to create custom, high-quality designs that will withstand the test of time.