Two uniforms can look identical in a photo but perform very differently after a season of matches and washes. The difference is often how the design was applied. This guide compares the main decoration methods used on team uniforms – sublimation, screen printing, tackle twill, heat transfer and embroidery – so you can choose the right one for your sport, design and budget.
Sublimation
How it works: the design is printed onto transfer paper with special dye inks, then pressed onto the fabric with heat. The dye turns into a gas and bonds into the polyester fibres, so the design becomes part of the fabric rather than a layer on top.
Best for: soccer kits, basketball uniforms, volleyball, cricket, 7v7, track singlets and any design with lots of colours, gradients or all-over patterns.
- Pros: unlimited colours at no extra cost, won’t crack, peel or fade easily, lightweight and breathable, names and numbers can be printed in the same step.
- Cons: works on polyester fabrics (not cotton), and very dark base colours are usually part of the printed design rather than the fabric itself.
Screen printing
How it works: ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto the garment. Each colour needs its own screen.
Best for: simple one- or two-colour designs on training tees, hoodies and fan wear, especially in larger quantities.
- Pros: bold, solid colours; cost-effective for simple designs in bulk; works on cotton and blends.
- Cons: every extra colour adds setup cost, the ink sits on the surface and can crack over time, and it is less suited to detailed, multi-colour artwork.
Tackle twill
How it works: letters and numbers are cut from twill fabric and stitched onto the jersey, often in layers with a contrasting border.
Best for: the classic look of baseball jerseys and American football uniforms.
- Pros: premium, traditional, raised appearance; extremely durable.
- Cons: heavier and less breathable than printed options, and more labour-intensive, so it usually costs more.
Heat transfer (vinyl)
How it works: names, numbers or logos are cut from heat-transfer vinyl and pressed onto the garment.
Best for: adding individual player names and numbers, small runs and quick additions to existing kits.
- Pros: sharp edges, bright colours, practical for personalising each shirt.
- Cons: sits on top of the fabric, so it is less breathable in large areas and can lift if washed too hot.
Embroidery
How it works: the design is stitched directly into the fabric with thread.
Best for: crests and logos on polos, coach jackets, windbreakers, caps and coaches wear.
- Pros: high-end, textured finish that lasts for years.
- Cons: not ideal for very small text or large areas on lightweight playing kits; cost depends on stitch count.
Quick comparison
| Method | Colours | Durability | Feel on the body | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sublimation | Unlimited | Excellent | Lightest – no added layer | Full playing kits |
| Screen printing | Limited per screen | Good | Light layer of ink | Training and fan wear |
| Tackle twill | Limited by layers | Excellent | Heavier, raised | Baseball, American football |
| Heat transfer | Limited | Good | Light to medium layer | Names and numbers |
| Embroidery | Several threads | Excellent | Raised, textured | Crests on jackets and polos |
Which method should your team choose?
- Soccer, basketball, volleyball, cricket, 7v7 and track: sublimation for the full design, with names and numbers printed in the same process.
- Baseball: sublimated jerseys for bold modern designs, or tackle twill lettering for a classic look.
- Coaches and staff: embroidered crests on polos and jackets.
- Training tees and supporter merchandise: screen printing for simple designs in bulk.
Many uniforms combine methods – for example, a sublimated jersey with an embroidered crest. If you’re not sure, tell us your sport, design and budget and we’ll recommend the best option.
Get a recommendation for your kit
Shazbro manufactures custom teamwear for 11 sports and every design can be adapted to your colours. Request a quote with your artwork, or browse our full range of styles.