We are passionate about creating the best teamwear possible here at Catfish Custom, and that means being at the forefront of innovation and technology in the sportswear and apparel space. For over 10 years we have been working with sublimation printing to bring our customers designs and ideas to life, while maintaining the durability, quality and pricing that our customers love.
Sublimation has come a long way in the last decade, as have fabric technologies. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the reasons that we are working almost exclusively with sublimation technology.
Unlimited high quality design options:
Sublimation printing allows for the creation of designs that are vibrant, highly detailed and limited only by your imagination. Sublimation directly dyes the fabric rather than adding a design on top of the fabric. This results in more intricate patterns, and colours that are vivid and long-lasting. Sublimation also enables the printing of more complex designs such as gradients, offering clubs more flexibility in creating unique and personalized designs. It is also able to be printed on a wide range of fabrics, allowing for a whole uniform to be matched across garments.
Increased durability in harsh conditions:
As rashies and swimwear is subjected to harsh conditions such as chlorine, saltwater, and prolonged exposure to the sun, it was important to us that we test extensively before bringing this technology to market. Sublimation printing addresses these challenges by providing exceptional durability and longevity. The dye used in the sublimation process becomes part of the fabric itself, making it resistant to fading, cracking, and peeling. IN our tests, we have found this to result in longer lasting colours when exposed to the harsh conditions as compared to traditional dip dye.
Comfort is king:
Sublimation printing has changed the landscape for adding logos and customisation for sports apparel. As the dye used in sublimation printing permeates the fibers of the fabric, it allows the fabric it to retain its breathability and flexibility. This means that sublimated garments will be comfortable against the skin, be quick drying, and allows for freedom of movement in the water.
Good for the environment:
It is vital that we are conscious of the decisions we are making and the impact on the environment. Sublimation printing is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional printing methods as unlike screen printing or heat transfer, sublimation printing does not produce any excess waste or require the use of harmful chemicals. The dye used in the process is water-based and non-toxic, minimizing its impact on the environment. Furthermore, there are a huge range of eco fabrics now available that can be sublimated. By choosing sublimated garments, consumers can make a conscious choice to support sustainable fashion and reduce their ecological footprint.
Low minimums and fast turn around:
Sublimation printing allows for efficient made-to-order and on-demand production, as garments can be either placement printed, using the best yield out of fabric with no wastage. Sublimation allows us to produce garments in response to specific customer orders, reducing waste and overstock of dip dyed fabric. While also allowing for greater flexibility in terms of customisation, as designs are printed on-demand without the need for large production runs. Sublimation printing empowers both designers and consumers, creating a more sustainable and customer-centric swimwear industry.
Sublimation printing has transformed sportswear and swimwear production by offering a range of benefits to designers, manufacturers, and consumers. With high quality design, durability, comfort, and sustainability, sublimated swimwear is a testament to the power of innovation in the garment and fashion industry. As this technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more exciting developments and advancements in the world of teamwear and swimwear design.
Ready to get going? Get in touch with us to see how we can help your team with custom sportswear, rashies, and uniforms.
