What is Sublimation Printing?

The sublimation printing process is unique when compared to other types of printing. It’s a relatively new form of digital printing, and one that Red Oak loves to use for high performance materials – making it perfect for custom sportswear and apparel!

By definition, sublimation occurs when something turns from a solid state directly to gas – in this case, we’re talking about ink.

Thanks to a combination of extreme high heat and pressure, the ink is “sublimated” directly into the fibres of the material leading to high quality print that is vibrant, durable and fade resistant.

Benefits of Sublimation Printing

Here at Red Oak we love sublimation printing. Here’s five (5) reasons you will too!

Design and Colour Consistency

When set-up correctly sublimation provides the ability to replicate and design consistency across many products. At Red Oak we have over 300 standard sublimation colours to choose from. This enables us to guarantee colour consistency and accuracy.

Sublimation Printing is Ideal for Low Quantities

Once the first product template with your design is created, it’s very easy to create repeat orders down the track for as little as 1-unit. This differs to traditional screen printing or embroidery where set up time is required for each order.

Our minimum order quantity on the first order for sublimation printing is 10 units.

Exceptional Quality and Breathable Custom Designs with Sublimation Printing

With the print and images embedded into the fabric they will not crack or fade – even after multiples washes. The embedded print maintains the performance functions of fabrics used.

Traditional screen printing also blocks the porous breathable fabrics. When running or exercising, screen print designs tend to stick to the skin and are uncomfortable.

Sublimation printed is completely different. Because the ink is sublimated into the fibres, it remains 100% breathable and enables you to perform at your best when working up a sweat.

Numbers and Logos do not fall off

Traditional heat transfers numbers and logos are not embedded into the fabric – they sit on top. During play and training they are commonly known to fall off.

In contrast, sublimated numbers, customer logos and sponsor logos are embedded into the fabric and are there for life.

More colour options

Traditional panelled garment options tend to be limited to 15 to 20 stock colours. Red Oak has 300+ standard colours to choose from for sublimation printing.

How much does Sublimation Printing Cost?

While traditional screen printing and embroidery may be more cost effective on large volume orders, sublimation printing does not incur the same set up costs and is suitable for small to large orders.

In the past, screen printed garments tended to be about half the cost of sublimated printed garments, however, with leaps and bounds in printing technology over the past few years the price difference is now minimal.

We recommend sublimation printing as we can attest for the higher quality garment and longevity benefits.

Tips for Sublimation Printing

Here’s our top tips for getting the best result with sublimation printing

Colour is key. Request a colour chart before the design process starts. This is something we provide every client to ensure accurate colour matching.
Find a design you like. We have a huge design range to start the creativity juices flowing.
Find a supplier you can trust and has good credentials. Day in, day out Red Oak Teamwear creates the best possible custom teamwear for people all over Australia – from grassroots clubs and teams, through to corporate teams and big-name sportswear manufacturers. Our job is to make this process as easy as possible.

Custom Apparel and Merchandise

Sublimation Printing is ideal for a whole host of custom sports apparel and merchandise including:

Best Sublimation Printing Australia

Red Oak Teamwear is proud of the impressive, high quality custom apparel we produce for clients. Speak to us for the best sublimation printing Australia.

If you’re looking to design our own sublimated products, speak to Red Oak Teamwear today. We’ll help you every step of the way, call us on 1300 734 708 or submit an online enquiry.

Red Oak Teamwear is Australia’s leading supplier of custom sportswear and accessories. We offer a personalised service and take the time to listen to and understand your needs. We use premium materials and only partner with the world’s best suppliers.

If you’re got a brief in mind, we’re ready for the challenge! Don’t know where to start? We’re here to help! Call us on 1300 734 708 or enquire online here.