IronRoot Threads — Printing Methods
SUBLIMATIONPRINTING
All-over color fused directly into the fabric — the method behind every custom sublimated jersey worn by athletes at every level. No cracking, no peeling, built for performance.
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All-Over Printing
What Is It?
Color That Lives In The Fabric
Sublimation printing uses heat to convert dye into a gas that bonds permanently with polyester fibers. The result is color that becomes part of the fabric itself — not sitting on top of it.
Unlike screen printing or heat transfers, sublimated graphics cover the entire garment with zero weight, zero hand feel, and zero risk of cracking or peeling — even after hundreds of washes.
This is the method used to make professional-grade athletic jerseys. It's why the pros look the way they do.
The Process
How Sublimation Works
Design
Your custom design is created digitally — full-color, edge-to-edge. Player names, numbers, and logos are all set at this stage.
Print on Paper
The design is printed in reverse onto special sublimation transfer paper using sublimation dye inks.
Heat Press
The paper is placed on the garment and pressed at high heat. The dye converts to gas and permanently bonds with the polyester fibers.
Finished Product
Paper is removed. The color is now part of the fabric — vibrant, soft, and permanent. Ready to wear and built to last.
The Advantages
Why Teams Choose Sublimation
- ✓ Infinite colors, zero upcharge — Full-color printing at the same price as single-color. Gradients, photographic details, complex logos included.
- ✓ Never cracks or peels — Because the dye fuses into the fiber itself, it lasts the life of the garment.
- ✓ Lightweight and breathable — No added layers, no stiff transfers. The garment performs exactly as designed.
- ✓ True all-over printing — Color and design can cover the entire garment — sides, sleeves, collar, and back.
- ✓ Individual customization — Each piece can have a unique name and number at no extra cost. Perfect for team orders.
Best For
What Works With Sublimation
Football
Jerseys & uniforms
Soccer
Kits & warmups
Basketball
Uniforms & shorts
Volleyball
Jerseys & spandex
Track & Field
Singlets & shorts
Performance Tees
100% polyester only
Note: Sublimation requires 100% polyester or polyester-blend fabric
Common Questions
Custom Sublimated Jerseys — FAQ
What is a custom sublimated jersey?
A custom sublimated jersey is a fully personalized athletic jersey where the design — including colors, patterns, player names, numbers, and logos — is permanently fused into the polyester fabric using heat and special dye inks. The result is vibrant, edge-to-edge color that never cracks, peels, or fades, even after hundreds of washes.
Do you make custom sublimated jerseys for softball teams?
Yes — custom sublimated softball jerseys are one of our most popular items. We build fully custom jerseys for rec league, youth, and adult softball teams with individual player names, numbers, and your team logo. Minimum 8 jerseys, 2–3 week turnaround from design approval.
Can I get any design on my custom sublimated jersey?
Yes — sublimation printing allows for unlimited color and design complexity at no extra cost. Gradients, geometric patterns, photographic elements, complex logos — all printed edge-to-edge at the same price as a simple design. Use our Jersey Customizer to build your look, or send us your design concept.
What's the minimum order for custom sublimated jerseys?
The minimum order for custom sublimated jerseys is 8 pieces. This covers most small team rosters. Need fewer pieces? Our DTF printing option works with no minimum quantity on cotton and other fabric types.
How long does sublimation printing take?
Production takes 2–3 weeks from the time you approve your design mockups. We send digital proofs before anything goes to print, so you can review every name, number, and design element first.
Does sublimation printing work on all fabric types?
Sublimation requires 100% polyester or a high-polyester blend to achieve full-color vibrancy. It does not work well on cotton or dark-colored fabrics. For cotton, blends, or dark garments, we offer DTF printing — which works on any fabric type and any color.
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IronRoot Threads brings professional sublimation printing to youth and community sports right here in Santa Clarita.
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