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Sublimation printing

What is sublimation printing for custom sportswear? It is a dye-sublimation process that infuses the design directly into polyester fabric, producing vivid, full-garment prints that will not crack, peel or fade. As a custom sportswear manufacturer, Cindra runs over 85 specialty printers and 20 transfer presses to deliver durable sublimated kits at flexible MOQs.

Cindra stands out for its clothing production technology in the European textile printing sector, boasting over two decades of experience in sublimation printing. A fleet of machinery with over 85 specialty printers and 20 transfer presses highlights our deep expertise and significant position in the European market.

Sublimation printing image

At the heart of Cindra's expertise lies sublimation printing, a cutting-edge technique that involves sublimating dye directly into the fabric.

This method is divided into two key steps:

1) Printing the desired design onto specialized transfer paper

2) Transferring or sublimating this design from the paper to the fabric

For perfect results, we use custom-formulated dyes and inks specifically designed for synthetic fabrics, working closely with industry leaders in both dyes and transfer papers.

Advantages of Sublimation Printing

  • Creative Flexibility: Endless design possibilities
  • High Precision: Accurate replication of logos in true-to-life colors
  • Functionality: The fabric maintains its breathability, as additional prints do not obstruct it
  • Durability: The prints are not only vibrant but also stretchable and resistant
  • Easy Maintenance: Products are washable without the risk of color fading
  • Eco-Friendly: All prints are PVC-free
  • Economic Benefits: Allows reduction in inventory since production is based on pre-sold goods

Frequently asked questions

What is sublimation printing and how does it work?

Sublimation printing turns solid dye into a gas that bonds directly with polyester fibres under heat and pressure. The design is first printed onto transfer paper, then pressed onto the garment, so the colour becomes part of the fabric rather than a layer sitting on top.

What fabrics can be sublimation printed?

Sublimation works on synthetic, light-coloured fabrics, primarily polyester and polyester blends used in performance sportswear. It is not suitable for cotton or dark garments, where we recommend heat transfer or DTG printing instead.

Do sublimated prints fade or crack over time?

No. Because the dye is embedded in the fibre, sublimated prints stay vivid and stretchable and do not crack, peel or wash out, which makes the technique ideal for cycling, triathlon and team kits.

Is sublimation printing suitable for full-custom designs?

Yes. Sublimation allows edge-to-edge, all-over designs with unlimited colours, gradients and photo-quality logos at no extra cost per colour, which is why it is the standard for custom sportswear.

What is the minimum order quantity for sublimated sportswear?

We work with flexible MOQs rather than one fixed threshold, producing for clubs and teams as well as larger brand orders. Send us your design and quantity and we will confirm what is possible.

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