Tired of dull or fading sublimation prints on your shirts? You would be looking to get the best prints when your vibrant masterpiece ends up faded or cracked. Sublimation does the job. Not just about the press or the ink. It's about the fabric. The wrong shirt can ruin your hours of creative efforts. That's why choosing the right sublimation blanks shirts is indispensable.
After testing over a dozen popular blanks and 100 polyester shirts for sublimation in conditions, we have narrowed down the best shirts for sublimation in 2025. It's all based on print vibrancy, wash durability, comfort, and value. This guide will help you pick the perfect men and women best shirts for sublimation. You will learn why fabric (polyester or cotton blends) matters. Also, the preview of top brands with the best fits and pro tips.
Sublimation printing is a digital printing technique in which dye is transferred onto fabric using heat. This process involves printing a design onto special 125g sublimation paper using sublimation inks through a heat press. The heat turns the ink into a gaseous state and then embeds itself into the material's surface. This results in vibrant, durable, and permanent prints that won't crack or peel over time.
The fabric for a full sublimation shirt matters for so many reasons.
Light-colored shirts and preferably white shirts work best with sublimation as they allow the colors to pop.
Determine the weight of the shirt fabric. A lightweight shirt may be good for warmer weather. A heavier shirt might be a good option for cooler weather.
The shirt needs to be fit and comfortable. Some designs look better on a classic t-shirt. Some designs might suit a hoodie.
Let’s explore the top branded sublimation printing shirts.
Works best for sublimation when it is blended with cotton and polyester. Offers premium quality and vibrant sublimation results. Better suited for screen printing or DTG.
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Gildan shirts made from 100% cotton and polyester blend versions are a reasonable option for those who are just starting with sublimation. Gives excellent value for money and holds sublimation prints well. Perfect for sublimation t-shirts bulk orders and events or giveaways.
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Next Level 3600 is made from 60% cotton and 40% polyester. This blend of cotton and polyester offers a good balance and ensures comfort throughout the day. An excellent choice for a modern and casual fit.
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JERZEES offers a good combination of durability and comfort for sublimation printing. 50% polyester and 50% cotton material is used to make sublimation blanks shirts. This Jerzees 29M T-shirt, made from 100% polyester delivers the most vibrant prints. Best for exercising and working out.
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Known for its affordable and quality polyester shirts. Made from 100% polyester material. Great polyester shirts for sublimation. Especially when working on larger batches.
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Here is the simple process to transfer your design onto the shirt.
The following tools are required for sublimation.
Use a lint roller to clean the shirt. Place butcher paper inside the shirt to prevent ink bleed.
Use design software like Canva or Adobe Photoshop to set the size of your chosen image. Ensure 2” space from the shirt front collar.. Mirror the image before printing. Use sublimation paper and ink for printing. Trim the sublimation paper using scissors to smooth out the transition.
Put the printed design face down on the shirt. Secure it with heat-resistant tape.
Cover the shirt with butcher paper inside to prevent ink bleed. Heat press at 385–400°F (195–205°C) for 45–60 seconds.
Remove the paper sheet and tape when your shirt is successfully sublimated. Let the shirt cool. Your vibrant shirt design is ready.
No. Sublimation ink doesn’t bond with cotton. The print will wash out.
Possible. But colors will be faded and dull. Not recommended.
Yes. Offers a good balance of comfort and print quality.
Best choice for vibrant and everlasting results.
Some effective tips to ensure your prints turn out vibrant and professional every time are here.
Choosing the right shirt for sublimation printing in 2025 is crucial for achieving vibrant and lasting results. Women's and men's best shirts for sublimation are ideal when made from 100% polyester.
The top brands like Jerzees, Hanes, and Gildan offer great options depending on your budget and style needs. The right fabric makes a big difference. Go ahead and pick the right blank shirt wisely that lets your designs shine. Want to learn about sublimation t-shirts wholesale? Contact VEL Clothing by shooting us an email at sales@velclothing.com.
