When it comes to custom garments the right printing technique can easily elevate the credibility and visual impact of your brand, team, or event. At Crazy Dayz Print, we’re often asked which method works best: DTF or sublimation?
Both create striking results but they serve different purposes. Whether you’re considering uniforms for your business, printed sportswear for your club or simply want to print a custom shirt for an event, understanding the strengths of each process will help you make the best choice.
The Rise of DTF Printing
DTF (Direct to Film) is a relatively new but increasingly popular printing option. Our DTF printing in Bracknell offers incredible versatility because it works across cotton, polyester and blended fabrics. Unlike some techniques that are restricted by garment colour, DTF allows us to produce bold, vibrant designs on both light and dark clothing.
This makes DTF a brilliant choice for small business uniforms, charity events or schools that need long-lasting prints that can handle repeated washing. The durability and vibrancy of DTF also means that when you come to us to print a custom shirt, you’ll receive something that not only looks professional but also stands the test of time.
Understanding Sublimation Printing
Sublimation works differently. Rather than transferring a design onto a garment’s surface, it infuses dye directly into polyester fibres using heat. The end result is a smooth, breathable finish where the print becomes part of the fabric itself. It’s lightweight, comfortable and perfect for all-over designs.
The drawback? Sublimation only works on polyester and light-coloured garments. That’s why we tend to recommend it for specialist uses such as full-coverage sports kits rather than general workwear.
Which Method Works Best?
The choice between DTF and sublimation depends on your goals and the garments themselves.
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Workwear - For branded uniforms, DTF is the clear winner. It provides the durability businesses need with sharp logos that won’t fade easily. The Pro RTX garments we offer are among the most reliable for custom workwear; designed for strength and comfort while keeping your team looking professional.
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Sportswear - If you’re looking for breathable polyester team kits with striking designs in light colours sublimation can be a great choice. But for many clubs and schools who want logos, names and numbers added to polyester kits with smarter, darker or coloured fabrics DTF is more flexible. We work with leading sportswear brands such as Spiro and Finden & Hales to ensure your printed sportswear is both practical and stylish.
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Casual and eventwear - When you want to print a custom shirt for a stag do, charity event, or local fundraiser, DTF is ideal. Our Gildan clothing options are affordable, durable and available in both adults’ and children’s sizes: making them perfect for groups, clubs and schools.
Why Attention to Detail Matters
In our printing work we prioritise one thing above everything else: an acute attention to detail with precise, professional results.
At Crazy Dayz Print, we ask for vector artwork (PDF, AI, or EPS) where possible because it guarantees the print has crisp lines and no loss of quality when resizing. If you are unable to provide this format, other options such as a high resolution PNG file set to 300 DPI at the start of your project can work too. If you are unsure of the guidelines for your artwork, please contact our team for further information.
This attention to detail is one of the reasons so many customers choose us for DTF printing in Bracknell. From the quality of the file to the finish on the garment, we’re committed to ensuring every project looks sharp, professional and ready to represent your brand or team.
Our Sustainable Approach
We also care about how printing impacts the environment. Wherever possible, we use eco-friendly methods and materials so you can enjoy your customised garments knowing they’ve been produced responsibly. It’s part of our mission to make high-quality branding accessible without compromising on our values.
From Bedroom Start-Up to Trusted Print Partner
Crazy Dayz Print began as a passion project in a small bedroom, fuelled by creativity and a desire to help other small businesses thrive. Today, we’ve grown into a trusted provider of customised workwear, promotional items and printed sportswear but our mission hasn’t changed. We’re still here to help people stand out, grow and succeed.
So, should you choose DTF or sublimation? For most businesses, clubs and events, DTF is the more versatile option: working across multiple fabrics, producing bright designs on dark garments and lasting through frequent wear. Sublimation remains excellent for specialist polyester kits, but if you’re looking for everyday durability and flexibility, DTF is hard to beat.
Whether you need hard-wearing uniforms, breathable printed sportswear, or want to print a custom shirt for a one-off event, we’ll help you print the garment with our reliable DTF printing Bracknell locals love. With trusted brands like Pro RTX, Spiro, Finden Hales, and Gildan, plus our commitment to detail and sustainability, Crazy Dayz Print is here to make your brand unforgettable.
