Introduction
Sublimation shirts have become incredibly popular for businesses, crafters, and apparel brands. Known for their vibrant colors, smooth feel, and long-lasting prints, sublimation shirts are a top choice for custom apparel. But to get professional results, you must understand the right materials, equipment, and techniques.
This guide walks you through how to make sublimation shirts—from choosing the right polyester fabric to pressing settings and design preparation.
Sublimation shirts are polyester or high-polyester-blend shirts that have been printed using sublimation ink. The ink bonds with the polyester fibers and becomes part of the fabric.
Why they’re popular:
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No peeling or cracking
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Feels like the design is “in” the shirt
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Perfect for bright colors
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Long-lasting even after many washes
🥇 100% Polyester Shirts
Brightest and most vibrant prints.
🥈 65% Polyester / 35% Cotton Blends
Softer feel with slightly muted colors.
🥉 Sublimation-Coated Shirts
Poly-coating added for sublimation.
1. Sublimation Printer
Epson EcoTank, Sawgrass, Epson F-Series.
2. Sublimation Ink & Paper
High-quality ink ensures vibrant colors.
3. Heat Press
Clamshell or swing-away (not an iron).
4. Protective Paper
Butcher paper prevents ink bleed.
Step 1: Create or Import Design
Use Canva, Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate.
Step 2: Print with Sublimation Ink
Mirror the design.
Use correct paper settings.
Step 3: Prepare the Shirt
Lint-roll the shirt.
Pre-press 5 seconds to remove moisture.
Step 4: Tape the Design
Use heat-resistant tape.
Step 5: Press
Press at 385–400°F for 45–60 seconds.
Step 6: Remove Paper Carefully
Do a smooth, steady peel.
Step 7: Cool the Shirt
Let the colors set properly.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
❌ Ghosting
Cause: Paper shifts
Fix: Tape securely
❌ Faded Colors
Cause: Low polyester
Fix: 65%+ polyester minimum
❌ Burned Fabric
Cause: Too much heat
Fix: Keep time/temperature consistent
❌ Blurry Prints
Cause: Wrong print settings
Fix: High-quality image + correct ICC profiles
Design Tips for Sublimation Shirts
🎨 Use High-Resolution Images
300 DPI recommended.
🧵 Avoid dark or cotton shirts
Sublimation does not work properly on black or 100% cotton.
🌈 Use bright colors
Sublimation shines with light, bold colors.
How to Maintain Sublimation Shirts
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Wash in cold water
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Avoid bleach
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Tumble dry low
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Do not iron directly on design
Conclusion
Sublimation shirts are an excellent choice for vibrant, long-lasting designs that feel soft and natural. With the right materials, printer, and pressing techniques, you can create stunning shirts suitable for personal projects, small businesses, or mass production. Sublimation is easy to learn and incredibly rewarding for both beginners and professionals.
Shop the best designs at creative inkers: https://creativeinkers.com/shop/
