DTF on Sublimated Football Kits: A Game-Changer for Local Clubs

At YES Group, we’re always pushing the boundaries of what can be done with our cutting-edge printing technology. Today, we’re showcasing how Direct to Film (DTF) printing can be used on sublimated football kits, a method that offers new flexibility for clubs and their sponsors.

In this demonstration, we’re printing a range of items for a local football club, the Woodhouse Colts, and showing you just how seamless the process can be using the ColDesi 24H2 DTF printer.

The Perfect Combination: Sublimation Meets DTF

In the past, sublimated kits were often paired with embroidery for logos and numbers, but DTF offers an exciting alternative.

In this case, we’ve decided to print the sponsor logo, club badge, and player numbers directly onto the sublimated garments using DTF transfers for a local football club – the PJMasks Power Heroes!

Why You Can’t Use Sublimation Transfers on Sublimated Garments

The setup involves using a combination of white and coloured inks, ensuring that logos and details stand out vibrantly against the background, whether it’s green, black, or orange.

Thanks to the precision of the ColDesi DTF-24/H2, we’re able to produce high-quality prints that are durable, wash-fast, and perfect for the rough and tumble world of football. Watch the video above to see us go through the printing process quickly and efficiently.. and at a VERY low cost per print.

One of the common questions we get asked is, “Why not just use sublimation transfers on top of sublimated garments?” The answer lies in the unique way that sublimation works.

Sublimation transfers don’t use white ink, which presents a significant challenge when working with colored or sublimated garments, especially those with dark or vibrant colors.

In a sublimation process, the inks become part of the fabric, embedding into the fibers when heat is applied.

However, since there’s no white ink in sublimation, the result of placing a sublimation transfer on a dark or colored area is that the colors will look muted, or worse, disappear into the background.

This is because sublimation relies on the fabric’s base color to achieve the desired look—typically white or very light-colored fabric is needed to ensure the colors appear as intended.

For example, trying to apply a sublimation transfer on a green or black football kit without a white base would result in dark, unclear logos and designs that lack the vibrancy and clarity needed for club badges or sponsor logos.

DTF shines here by using white ink along with colored inks, it ensures that even the smallest details pop on any background, regardless of the garment’s color.

DTF vs. Embroidery: Why Choose DTF Transfers?

While embroidery has long been the standard for adding logos, numbers, and custom designs to football kits, DTF offers several advantages that make it a compelling alternative, particularly when time and cost are important factors.

Faster Production Times:

Embroidery can be a time-consuming process, especially for large orders.

Each logo or number must be individually stitched, which can take significantly longer than applying a DTF transfer.

For businesses or clubs that need quick turnarounds for events, sponsorships, or player names, DTF allows for faster production without compromising on quality.

Greater Design Flexibility:

Embroidery is often limited by the complexity and size of the design.

Detailed or intricate logos with multiple colors can be difficult to achieve with embroidery, and the stitching can sometimes distort smaller elements.

DTF, on the other hand, allows for full-color prints with fine details, no matter how complex the design. Whether it’s a multi-colored sponsor logo or a detailed club badge,

DTF ensures every detail is sharp and vibrant. Cost-Effectiveness: For smaller clubs or organizations operating on a tight budget, the cost of embroidery can add up, especially for larger quantities.

And DTF transfers are often more cost-effective, particularly for bulk orders, as the process is faster and requires fewer materials. This makes it easier for clubs to manage costs while still getting high-quality, professional-looking kits.

Cost-Effectiveness:

For smaller clubs or organizations operating on a tight budget, the cost of embroidery can add up, especially for larger quantities.

DTF transfers are often more cost-effective, particularly for bulk orders, as the process is faster and requires fewer materials.

All of this makes it easier for clubs to manage costs while still getting high-quality, professional-looking kits.

DTF on Sublimation - PJ Masks Football Kit Red — Red & Blue Sub Top

Lightweight and Comfortable:

Embroidery can sometimes create a thicker, heavier feel on garments, particularly with large logos or designs.

This may not be ideal for active sportswear like football kits, where flexibility and comfort are key.

DTF transfers, by contrast, are lightweight and smooth, making them almost unnoticeable to the wearer, which is a big plus for sports teams.

Fast, Reliable, and Consistent

The ColDesi DTF-24/H2 isn’t just a high-speed machine—it’s a workhorse. With its twin print heads and the ability to produce up to 20 linear meters per hour, it’s ideal for businesses handling large orders. The printer’s 62cm wide roll capacity and reliable Ice Series heads make it a go-to choice for those looking for consistency in their prints, whether for short runs or bulk orders.

During the demo, you can see how effortlessly the prints move through the machine’s vacuum system and oven, ensuring that each one is cured and ready to withstand the wear and tear of the football field.

Step-by-Step Process: From Print to Kit

n the video, we walk you through the process of transferring the designs onto the sublimated kits. Here’s how it’s done:

Preparation: We begin by prepping the sublimated kit and lining up the DTF transfer, ensuring that it’s centered and aligned. Using a straight edge helps to keep everything in place, particularly for tricky items like sponsor logos and player numbers.
First Press: With the design in place, we cover it with parchment paper and apply heat using the Fusion IQ Hotronix press. This quick press ensures the design adheres to the fabric.
Peeling and Repressing: After the initial press, we peel away the backing to reveal the vibrant logo underneath. To ensure the design is wash-fast and can endure repeated use, we press it again for extra durability—something that’s critical for kits that will see plenty of action on the field.
Final Touches: Finally, we add the player number to the back of the shirt. With the same precision and care, we position the number using the neckline as a guide to ensure it’s perfectly centered. A quick press, and the kit is complete!

Why Choose DTF for Sublimated Kits?

While embroidery has been the go-to method for adding logos and numbers to football kits, DTF offers several key advantages:

Vibrant Colors: With DTF, you can achieve a full spectrum of vibrant colors that stand out on even the darkest of kits.
Durability: Our DTF transfers are highly durable, capable of withstanding repeated washes and the rough play that comes with football matches.
Cost-Effective: DTF is a more affordable option for clubs looking to add logos and numbers without the cost associated with embroidery.
Speed: With the ColDesi 24H2, you can produce large quantities in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional methods.

Conclusion:

DTF on sublimated football kits is a game-changer for clubs and businesses alike. Whether you’re looking to add sponsor logos, player numbers, or custom designs, DTF offers a versatile, durable, and cost-effective solution. And with machines like the ColDesi DTF-24/H2, the process has never been faster or more reliable.

At YES Group, we’re here to help you take your printing business to the next level. Contact us today to learn more about our range of DTF printers and how they can transform your production process.

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