By Spenix Sportswear · Published October 21, 2026
SPENIX FIELD GUIDE · SOCCER PRINTING
The short answer: Sublimation puts dye into suitable fabric. Applied transfers place a decoration on the garment surface. The better choice depends on the material, artwork, quantity and whether names or sponsors may change later.
“Heat transfer” can be a confusing phrase because heat is involved in more than one printing process. When comparing quotes, ask what method is actually being used. Do not assume two suppliers mean the same thing just because both mention heat.
How are the two approaches different?
In its dye-sublimation explanation, Epson describes transferring dye with heat onto suitable polyester or polymer-coated surfaces. For a soccer jersey, confirm the actual fabric and ink process rather than treating every printed sports shirt as sublimated.
| Question | Dye-sublimated design | Applied transfer decoration |
|---|---|---|
| Where is the image? | Dye enters suitable fabric during the process | A decoration is applied to the garment surface |
| Useful design scenario | Full patterns and coordinated panels | Adding a logo, name or number to a suitable shirt |
| Fabric question | Is the chosen fabric suitable for sublimation? | Are the garment, transfer and application compatible? |
| Late changes | May require reprinting or a separate add-on method | Can suit some late additions, subject to compatibility |
| Sample check | Colour, print alignment and fabric feel | Edges, hand feel, stretch and wash-care requirements |
| Reorders | Keep approved artwork and colour references | Keep garment style and decoration specifications |
Choose around the club’s real design
A full geometric pattern, gradient or detailed panel layout may suit a sublimated construction. A simple stock jersey with a small crest may not need a complex all-over production process. Ask for the complete cost and minimum quantity in both scenarios. Decoration count, fabric, individualisation and shipping can all affect the quote.
For applied transfers, ask which transfer type is proposed. Different materials and application systems can feel and behave differently. Avoid a blanket promise that all transfers peel or that every sublimated jersey lasts indefinitely. The quality of the entire garment still matters.
Think about sponsor changes before the first order
If a club changes sponsors mid-season, the best answer depends on how the existing design was made. A sponsor embedded in an all-over print is not a removable sticker. A separately applied logo may also be difficult to remove cleanly. Tell the supplier whether the sponsor is confirmed, temporary or likely to change before you approve artwork.
Match the process to the order
- 01 →SpecifyConfirm fabric, design coverage and personalisation.
- 02 →SampleInspect feel, colour and finished construction.
- 03 ✓DocumentSave the print method and approved artwork.
Use the sample to ask better questions
- Can I feel the decoration, and is that acceptable for our design?
- Does the artwork stay clear when the sample is gently stretched as intended?
- Are small sponsor details legible?
- Are seams and panel transitions consistent with the approved proof?
- What care instructions apply to the finished garment?
Our sublimation versus embroidery guide compares another decoration option. For artwork preparation, use the tech-pack guide and ask the printer to review your original files.
Budget the whole order
For a 20-player example with two jerseys each, the base quantity is 40. Adding two spare jerseys makes 42. Enter the written price for the actual specified product in the calculator. A price for a blank shirt cannot be compared directly with a fully personalised jersey package.
Team-order calculator
Change the numbers to plan your order. Prices are your own inputs, not a Spenix quote. This tool does not send or store your entries.
Formula: players × sets per player + extra sets. Budget = total sets × entered set price + other costs. Taxes, freight, duties and fees must be included in your own inputs. If your browser disables the tool, use these formulas directly.
What should be saved for the next season?
Keep the design file, colour references, fabric specification, approved sample information, size chart and final roster revision. Record which decoration method was used for each element. That information makes a replacement order clearer, even if a supplier needs to re-quote a small quantity later.
The complete soccer jersey guide connects this printing decision with sizing, pricing and the ordering sequence.
Quick answers
Is sublimation always cheaper?
No. Compare the same finished specification and quantity. Artwork coverage, construction, setup, personalisation and delivery all influence the total.
Can you add a name to a sublimated jersey later?
It may be possible with an additional compatible method, but the supplier or decorator must confirm it. Do not assume it will match an original integrated print exactly.
Which method lasts longer?
There is no reliable universal answer without the exact materials, process and use conditions. Inspect samples and ask about the finished product’s care and remedy terms.
Build a kit your team will want to wear.
Send Spenix your roster size, design idea and required arrival date. Ask for a written breakdown of materials, decoration, sizes, shipping and any extra costs before you approve production.
Request a custom team quote →Want to see the range first? Explore the collection.
