Screen Printing vs Sublimation: Which Is Best for Bulk Orders?

04 October, 2026 | jhon smith

Screen Printing vs Sublimation_ Bulk Order Guide

Quick answer: Choose sublimation for polyester sports jerseys and any design with many colours, gradients or names and numbers. Choose screen printing for large runs of cotton T-shirts with a simple 1–3 colour logo. Use DTF for full-colour logos on cotton in small to medium quantities, and embroidery for premium logos on polos and caps.

Table of Contents

Side-by-Side Comparison

Factor	Sublimation	Screen printing
Fabric	Polyester only	Cotton, poly and blends
Colours	Unlimited, no extra cost	Each colour adds a screen and cost
Feel	No layer – fully breathable	Ink layer sits on top
Durability	Does not crack or fade	Very durable, can crack over time
Best order size	Any – from 4 pieces	Large runs of one design
Names and numbers	Included easily	Extra step

When to Choose Sublimation

Sports team jerseys, track suits and shorts.
All-over designs, gradients, patterns and photos.
Each piece with a different name and number.
Breathable kits for hot weather.

When to Choose Screen Printing

Hundreds of identical cotton T-shirts.
Simple logos with one to three solid colours.
Events, campaigns and promotional giveaways.

Other Options: DTF and Embroidery

DTF (direct-to-film) prints full-colour artwork onto cotton without screens, ideal for smaller cotton orders. Embroidery stitches the logo for a premium, long-lasting finish on polos, caps and uniforms. Learn more on our printing services page.

Cost Example

At Rigid Sportswear, sublimation jerseys start from ₹380 per piece (₹280 for 30+) with names and numbers included, while cotton T-shirts with DTF print start from ₹450 (₹350 for 30+). See all prices on our price list, or order sublimation kits from our sublimation jersey manufacturing page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sublimation better than screen printing?

For sports jerseys, yes – sublimation is breathable, has unlimited colours and never cracks. For cotton T-shirts with simple logos in large quantities, screen printing is often cheaper.

Can sublimation be done on cotton?

No. Sublimation needs polyester fabric. Cotton garments use screen printing, DTF or embroidery.

Which is cheaper for 500 T-shirts?

For a simple 1–2 colour logo on cotton, screen printing is usually the cheapest. For full-colour or all-over designs on polyester, sublimation is better value.

Does sublimation fade?

No. The ink becomes part of the fibre, so it does not peel, crack or fade with normal washing.

What does Rigid Sportswear recommend for team jerseys?

Full sublimation on polyester. Jerseys start from ₹380 per piece with names and numbers included, or ₹280 for 30+.

Find your perfect jersey