Are you dreaming of creating stunning sublimated shirts? And so you ask: “What shirts are best for sublimation?” To avoid issues such faded colors or damage during the wash, it is crucial that you select the right materials. This guide cuts through the noise to highlight top shirt choices for vivid and durable sublimation prints. Expect to find specifics on fabrics and styles that promise not just quality, but also comfort.
Sneak Peek into the Top-Performing Shirts for Sublimation
As adventurers in the land of sublimation printing, we’re always on the hunt for the crème de la crème of the best shirts. To answer what material is used for sublimation shirts, the best shirts for sublimation are those which have high polyester content (preferably 100%), although a blend of polyester and cotton shirts can also work.
In my opinion, the best shirt for sublimation is the Cricut T-Shirt, which you can find here. I began with a summary of my top recommendations in the table above. Following is a detailed review of each of these products.
Gildan Performance T-Shirt – The Summer Bestie
So here is my first pick from the list – Gildan Men’s 100% Polyester Performance T-shirt. You can view the t-shirt here.
The t-shirt is manufactured from 100% polyester material, is safe for machine wash and is offered in a large variety of colors. Let’s start by diving into the pros and cons of the t-shirt.
Pros:
- This t-shirt boasts a number of success stories in regards to its comfort and quality
- Its moisture wicking capabilities will keep you cool and dry – this t-shirt is a great option for hot summer days
- Paper indent during sublimation process is unlikely
- Affordable t-shirt that provides a great value for your money
Cons:
- Potential slight fading of colors in the wash or dry
In the sea of sublimation shirts, the Gildan Performance t-shirt stands as your best friend on a hot summer’s day. Its 100% polyester material makes it a great choice for sublimation, in addition to keeping you cool and comfortable, especially in warmer weather.
While there is a risk of some slight fading in the wash, I would certainly recommend this shirt as one of my top picks given the level of quality, comfort and affordability if offers. This is certainly one of the best sublimation shirts that feel like cotton.
Now its time for my quantitative assessment against key factors:
- Print Quality: 4.5/5
- Ability to withstand the wash: 3.8/5
- Comfort: 4.7/5
- Affordability: 4.7/5
Cricut T-shirt – The Ultimate Choice
No discussion on shirts for sublimation can be complete without this one – the Cricut T-Shirt Blank, Crew Neck, which you can find here.
These crew-neck t-shirts are suitable to be used with with infusible ink transfer sheets, pens and markers. You can purchase them in a number of styles and sizes. You can read my article on the use of infusible ink pens on paper for sublimation. Its time for us to move to the pros and cons!
Pros:
- Most affordable choice on my list of recommendations
- Great number of sublimation success stories, with vibrant results
- Unlikely to shrink or lose colors during the wash
- Offer a high level of comfort and softness to the skin
Cons:
- There might be issues with size and fit
So now let us take a step back and take a look at Cricut shirts from a bird’s eye view. Are these shirts best for sublimation? My conclusion: absolutely. Not only are they offered at a great price, they boast a high level of quality and comfort and feel great to the skin. Moreover, they produce great results when sublimated, and are not likely to face issues in the wash. To avoid issues with size and fit, I would recommend you pay attention when selecting the size and fit at time of purchase.
None of my reviews are complete before a quantitative analysis, based on decision making factors:
- Print Quality: 5/5
- Fabric Comfort: 4.8/5
- Ability to withstand the wash: 4.8/5
- Size and fit: 3.5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
Bella Canvas Tri-Blend T-Shirt
Here’s to the next item I will discuss from my list – the Bella Canvas Perfect Tri-Blend Fashionable T-Shirt. You can view this item here.
The Bella Canvas Tri-Blend T-Shirt is made from 50% polyester, and is available in an astonishing number of colors. I begin my highlighting some of the positives and negatives of this t-shirt.
Pros:
- Renowned for quality and soft feel on the skin
- High level of comfort to the wearer
- Available at a relatively affordable price
Cons:
- Low polyester content
- Risk of shrinkage in the wash
Overall, it is imperative to highlight that your shirts for sublimation should have at least 65% polyester. I decided to include a discussion on these t-shirts as they do come up under the discussion of sublimation shirts, however, I would not recommend these tri blend shirts to be used for sublimation due to their low polyester content. While these shirts excel in the realm of comfort given the cotton material, and offer a good combination of quality and price, they are not really suited to your sublimation projects.
Lets take a look at my quantitative ratings for this t-shirt:
- Print Quality: 3/5
- Comfort and quality: 5/5
- Affordability: 4.7/5
- Ability to withstand was: 4.8/5
Hanes CoolDRI Performance T-Shirt- The Comfort Master
The next pick on my list is the Hanes CoolDRI Performance T-Shirt, which you can view here.
The t-shirt boasts 100% polyester fibers materials, and is found in a wide array of colors, including a white shirt. Let us examine some of the upsides and downsides of the t-shirt.
Pros:
- Ideal for sublimation with vibrant, long-lasting prints
- Offers a high level of comfort to the wearer
- Great for running on a hot summer’s day
Cons:
- Risk of indent during the sublimation process
- Less affordable compared to other options
Now let us take a bird’s eye view of these t-shirts. These t-shirts are specially crafted to form a chemical bond with sublimation dyes, ensuring that the prints you create not only capture the eye but also withstand the rigors of the wash. With sublimation ink and shirts for sublimation printing like these, I believe your designs will truly glow.
Furthermore, these polyester shirts boast a high level of comfort and quality, and are a great choice to keep you cool on a hot summer’s day. One point you do want to keep in mind is the possibility of indent during sublimation. Although the price is towards the higher end of the range, these shirts are overall a great option for your sublimation needs.
I will now move on to my quantitative assessment:
- Print Quality: 4.2/5
- Fabric Feel: 4.5/5
- Ability to withstand wash: 4.8/5
- Affordability: 3.9/5
SPORT-TEK PosiCharge Competitor Polo – The Polo Trendsetter
So now we move on to the next shirt on my list – the SPORT-TEK PosiCharge Competitor Polo, which you can view here.
This shirt is manufactured from 100% polyester content, and unlike the others, this is a polo shirt.
Pros:
- Great option for those looking for a polo shirt
- Affordable price – towards the lower end of the range
- 100% polyester, which makes it suitable for sublimation projects
- Soft and comfortable
Cons:
- Shirt style may not be preferable by all demographics
Overall, the SPORT-TEK PosiCharge Polo is another great option for sublimation. Comfortable and soft, it comes at an affordable price, and boasts a great number of success stories. As always, 100% polyester material is most recommended for sublimation. I would highly recommend this product for anyone in the search of a polo shirt!
Quantitative ratings:
- Print Quality: 4.8/5
- Comfort: 4.8/5
- Affordability: 4.7/5
The Ultimate T-Shirt Pick for Sublimation
So now that we’ve gone through the detailed reviews, its time for a decision – what, after all, is the best choice? As always, I highlight the importance of taking into account your needs and preferences. I would definitely recommend going with 100% polyester, especially if you are starting out. While all the shirts on my list, except for the Bella Canvas shirt, I believe the best shirt for sublimation is the Cricut T-Shirt, which you can find here. This is due to the great number of success stories, affordable price, level of comfort and ability to withstand the wash.
Navigating the World of Sublimation Shirts – A Comprehensive Guide
Embarking on the journey of sublimation printing is akin to exploring a new frontier in the realm of custom apparel. But the path to perfect prints is not just about choosing a design; it’s also about selecting the right shirt as your canvas, using a reliable sublimation printer, and understanding sublimation transfers. The world of sublimation shirts is vast and varied, and navigating it requires a keen eye for detail and an understanding of the subtle nuances that affect the end result.
Wearability is a cornerstone of the ideal sublimation shirt. It’s not just about how the print looks but also how the shirt feels when worn. Comfort is paramount, and factors like moisture resistance and fabric quality significantly influence the wearer’s experience and the longevity of the print. Moreover, as we become more conscious consumers, eco-friendliness has emerged as an essential consideration. Sublimation printing, with its minimal production waste and adaptable process, offers a greener alternative to traditional printing methods.
Maintaining the quality of a sublimation shirt also comes down to care. Proper laundering and handling can drastically extend the life of both the fabric and the print, ensuring that your favorite shirt remains a favorite for years to come. Whether you’re a business owner looking for promotional wear or an artist expressing yourself through fashion, understanding these factors will guide you to the perfect shirt for your sublimation needs.
Summary
We’ve journeyed through a world where fabric meets fantasy, exploring the best shirts for sublimation printing that 2024 has to offer. Each shirt has its stage to shine, catering to a spectrum of styles, needs, and preferences. The key to unlocking the full potential of sublimation lies not only in the design but in choosing the right shirt that embodies durability, comfort, and quality.
As you stand at the crossroads of creativity and innovation, remember that the shirt you choose is more than just a garment; it’s a canvas for your imagination. Embrace the colors, the textures, the possibilities—and let your designs take flight on the wings of sublimation printing. May your prints be vibrant, your shirts be comfortable, and your style be timeless. Don’t miss our guide on choosing suitable sweatshirts and hoodies for sublimation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What shirt material is best for sublimation?
The best shirt material for sublimation is polyester, as it has the ability to hold and retain vibrant colors, making it ideal for the sublimation process. A blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton can also be used for sublimation.
Can you sublimate on 50 cotton 50 polyester?
Yes, you can sublimate on a 50% cotton/50% polyester blend, but keep in mind that the colors may not be as vibrant as they would be on 100% polyester. After washing, the fabric may have a faded look.
Can you use Gildan shirts for sublimation?
Yes, Gildan shirts can be used for sublimation, especially the 100% polyester ones with wicking and antimicrobial properties. It’s important to check the polyester/cotton ratio for specific colors to ensure successful sublimation.
What is the best brand of shirt to sublimate on?
Among best brands of shirts to sublimate on are Gildan and Hanes. Their shirts are perfect for sublimation printing due to their polyester content.
How do I ensure my sublimation prints last longer?
To ensure your sublimation prints last longer, use 100% polyester fabric, pre-wash the shirts, and follow specific washing instructions such as using cold water and air drying. This will help maintain the quality of your prints for a longer time.
