Polyester Hoodie for Sublimation: Best Blanks, Fabric Choices, and Printing Tips
Struggling to find the right polyester hoodie for sublimation? Not sure if 100% polyester or a blend works best? Whether you need blank hoodies, wholesale options, or tips on sublimation printing, we’ve got you covered.
Learn what fabrics give the best results, where to buy quality hoodies, and how to get vibrant, lasting prints. No more guesswork—just clear answers to help you get the perfect sublimation hoodie.
Best Polyester Hoodies for Sublimation
The right fabric can make it difficult to sublimate hoodies. Some hoodies are capable of retaining color beautifully, while others result in dull, faded prints. If a design washes out too quickly or fails to transfer properly, it’s likely that the material was not the ideal one.
So, what’s the best choice: 100% polyester or a blend? Do you know where to get high-quality sublimation hoodies without breaking the bank? Let’s break it down.
100% Polyester vs. Polyester Blends: What Works Best?
Not all polyester hoodies are created equal when it comes to sublimation. The key is in how the fabric reacts to heat and ink absorption.
| Fabric Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Polyester | – Vibrant, long-lasting prints – Ink fully bonds with fabric – Won’t fade or crack | – Less breathable – Can feel synthetic | Professional-quality prints Full-color designs |
| 65% Polyester / 35% Cotton Blend | – Softer feel – More breathable – Slight vintage fade effect | – Colors won’t be as bold – Ink may not fully absorb | Distressed/vintage prints Casual wear |
| 50% Polyester / 50% Cotton Blend | – Softest fabric – Comfortable for everyday wear | – Weak ink absorption – Faded, muted designs | DIY projects Subtle, washed-out look |
If you want sharp, bright designs, 100% polyester is the way to go. But if you prefer a softer, worn-in look, a blend with at least 65% polyester will still work. Anything lower, and you risk losing too much color.
Top-Rated Blank Hoodies for Sublimation
When choosing a sublimation-friendly hoodie, go for white or light-colored options since sublimation ink doesn’t print white. Here are some of the best blank polyester hoodies that give excellent results:
- Gildan 18500 – 100% polyester fleece with a soft feel, great for full-color prints
- Jerzees 995M – 100% polyester, smooth surface for detailed designs
- A4 N3405 – Lightweight, moisture-wicking hoodie perfect for activewear
- Hanes Ecosmart – 50/50 poly-cotton blend, good for vintage-style sublimation
If you’re after bold, vibrant colors, stick with Gildan or Jerzees. For a more breathable, everyday hoodie, A4 is a solid pick.
Best Wholesale Sublimation Hoodies for Bulk Orders
Buying hoodies in bulk can save a ton, especially if you run a printing business or plan to customize multiple pieces. Here are some top wholesale suppliers that carry polyester hoodies in large quantities:
- S&S Activewear – Offers bulk discounts on top sublimation brands
- JiffyShirts – No minimum order, but better prices in larger quantities
- Bella+Canvas – Known for soft, high-quality polyester hoodies
- Alphabroder – Wide selection of blank hoodies with fast shipping
Many of these suppliers offer price breaks on dozens or even hundreds of hoodies, so if you’re printing for resale, it’s worth ordering in bulk. Check out Subli Genius Print Wholesale
Where to Buy Polyester Hoodies for Sublimation (Online & Local Options)
If you need just a few hoodies or want to compare quality before committing, you have plenty of options:
🛒 Online Stores (Best for variety and convenience):
- Amazon – Fast shipping, but quality varies by seller
- Etsy – Custom blanks from small businesses
- Heat Press Nation – Specializes in sublimation-friendly apparel
🏬 Local Stores (Best for immediate pickup):
- Walmart & Target – Some budget-friendly polyester hoodies
- Michaels & Hobby Lobby – Occasionally stock sublimation blanks
- Wholesale Warehouses – Some local suppliers offer bulk discounts
Need a hoodie right now? Check local craft stores first. Looking for bulk orders or premium brands? Online wholesalers are your best bet.
Choosing the Right Hoodie Material for Sublimation
The fabric you choose directly affects the quality of your sublimation prints. 100% polyester hoodies will always give you the best color vibrancy, but if you love a more textured, faded look, polyester blends and bleached hoodies can work too. Pick the right material, and your sublimation prints will look sharp, bold, and built to last.
Why Polyester is Best for Sublimation Printing
Sublimation ink doesn’t sit on top of the fabric like vinyl or screen printing—it actually bonds into the fibers. That’s why polyester is the best choice.
✅ Bright, Long-Lasting Prints – Polyester absorbs ink at a molecular level, meaning the design won’t fade, crack, or peel.
✅ Lightweight & Durable – Polyester holds up well to washing and everyday wear, making it ideal for hoodies.
✅ Smooth Surface – Unlike cotton, which soaks up moisture and weakens color vibrancy, polyester keeps prints sharp and detailed.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want the best results, go for 100% polyester. Anything lower than 65% polyester will cause prints to look faded or patchy.
Can You Sublimate on a Fleece Hoodie?
Yes, but with some limitations. Fleece hoodies are often made with a mix of polyester and cotton, which affects how well they absorb sublimation ink.
| Fleece Hoodie Type | Sublimation Results |
|---|---|
| 100% Polyester Fleece | ✔ Bright and long-lasting prints |
| 65% Polyester / 35% Cotton | ✖ Slightly faded, vintage look |
| 50% Polyester or Less | ✖ Very faded, weak ink absorption |
If your hoodie is high-pile fleece (fluffy or fuzzy texture), the ink may not bond evenly, leading to a blurry or washed-out design. Low-pile or smooth fleece gives the best results.
🛠 Workaround: If you must sublimate on a cotton-heavy fleece hoodie, consider using HTV (heat transfer vinyl) or a sublimation spray to improve ink bonding.
Bleached Hoodies for Sublimation: Are They Worth It?
Bleached hoodies are a trendy option for sublimation, especially for those who love a distressed, vintage look. But are they worth the extra effort?
🔹 Pros:
- Gives a unique, faded effect perfect for retro designs.
- Allows sublimation on darker colors by creating a lightened print area.
- Works well with poly-cotton blends that wouldn’t otherwise sublimate properly.
🔸 Cons:
- Inconsistent results – Bleaching can be unpredictable, leading to uneven lightened areas.
- Takes extra prep time – You’ll need to bleach, neutralize, and wash before sublimating.
- Fabric wear – Over-bleaching can weaken the fibers, making the hoodie less durable.
💡 Verdict: If you love the faded, grunge aesthetic, bleached hoodies are a great option. But if you want sharp, high-contrast designs, stick with 100% white polyester.
Best White Polyester Hoodies for Vibrant Prints
A white hoodie is the best canvas for sublimation since the ink fuses directly into the fabric without any color interference. Here are some of the top choices for getting the most vivid results:
- Gildan 18500 (100% Polyester Fleece) – Soft, warm, and holds ink beautifully.
- Jerzees 995M (100% Polyester) – Smooth surface for detailed, high-quality prints.
- A4 N3405 (Performance Hoodie) – Lightweight and moisture-wicking, perfect for activewear.
- Sport-Tek ST250 (Premium Blend) – A little stretchier, great for comfort and durability.
🛒 Where to Buy: These hoodies are available at S&S Activewear, JiffyShirts, and Alphabroder in both individual and wholesale quantities.
How to Sublimate on Hoodies: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting perfect sublimation prints on hoodies requires more than simply pressing and hoping for the best. The right heat settings, a well-prepared hoodie, and avoiding common mistakes can make all the difference. Your designs will be vibrant, durable, and professional-grade if you follow these steps.
Prepping Your Hoodie for Sublimation
Before you press your design, preparation is everything. A poorly prepped hoodie can lead to ghosting, fading, or a distorted print. Follow these steps to get the best results:
✅ Choose the Right Hoodie – Go for 100% polyester for the boldest prints. If using a blend, make sure it’s at least 65% polyester for decent color absorption.
✅ Pre-Press the Fabric – Heat press your hoodie for 5–10 seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles.
✅ Lint Roll the Surface – Invisible fibers can cause blue specks or uneven prints. A quick lint roll helps prevent this.
✅ Use Butcher Paper – Place butcher paper inside the hoodie and on top of the design to prevent ink transfer to unwanted areas.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re working with a fleece hoodie, make sure it has a smooth, low-pile surface to avoid blurry prints.
Best Temperature, Pressure, and Time Settings
Sublimation requires high heat and firm pressure to bond ink to fabric. But too much heat can cause scorching, and too little pressure leads to faded prints. Here’s the sweet spot:
| Fabric Type | Temperature | Time | Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% Polyester Hoodie | 385–400°F | 45–60 sec | Medium to Firm |
| 65% Polyester Blend | 375–385°F | 45 sec | Medium |
| Fleece Hoodie (Low-Pile) | 380°F | 50 sec | Medium to Firm |
⚠️ Avoid overheating! Too much heat can cause press marks or a burnt smell on certain polyester fabrics.
Common Sublimation Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Even with the right settings, things can go wrong. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:
🔴 Faded or Washed-Out Prints
Problem: Low heat or too short pressing time.
Fix: Increase temperature by 5–10°F and extend the press time by 5–10 seconds.
🔴 Blurry or Ghosted Images
Problem: The design shifted during pressing.
Fix: Use heat-resistant tape to hold the transfer paper in place. Avoid lifting the press too quickly.
🔴 Scorch Marks on Fabric
Problem: Too much heat or pressure.
Fix: Lower temperature by 5–10°F and reduce pressure slightly. Use parchment paper as a protective barrier.
🔴 Blue or Yellow Specks on Print
Problem: Loose fibers trapped ink during sublimation.
Fix: Always lint roll the hoodie before pressing. If specks appear, try a higher-quality polyester fabric.
Tips for Getting Bold and Long-Lasting Prints
For rich, vibrant prints that stand the test of time, follow these expert tips:
✔ Use High-Quality Ink & Paper – Cheap sublimation paper can cause dull colors. Stick with brands like A-SUB or TexPrint.
✔ Let the Print Cool Before Touching – Ink takes a few minutes to fully set. Handling it too soon can smudge or distort the design.
✔ Wash Hoodies Properly – Turn inside out, wash in cold water, and avoid fabric softener. This helps maintain the color for longer.
✔ Press on a Firm, Even Surface – Uneven pressure leads to uneven prints. Use a heat press with even pressure distribution.
Design Ideas for Sublimation Hoodies
The right design approach can turn sublimation hoodies into statement pieces. Bold colors, high-resolution images, and strategic layouts will enhance the appeal of your hoodies, whether you’re following trends, adding personal touches, or creating something totally unique. Experiment with your ideas, and transform blank hoodies into wearable works of art!
Trending Sublimation Hoodie Designs
Want to keep up with what’s selling? These trending hoodie designs are dominating the sublimation market right now:
🔥 Gradient & Ombre Effects – Smooth color transitions add a modern and stylish touch.
🔥 All-Over Prints – Seamless patterns covering the entire hoodie create a premium, high-fashion look.
🔥 Retro & Vintage Graphics – Old-school logos, 90s-inspired prints, and faded effects are in high demand.
🔥 Abstract & Geometric Patterns – Eye-catching shapes and bold colors work great on polyester fabric.
🔥 Streetwear & Graffiti Art – Urban-inspired designs with handwritten fonts, spray paint effects, and bold color splashes.
🔥 Nature & Animal Prints – Galaxy prints, mountains, and wildlife themes appeal to outdoor and adventure lovers.
🔥 Personalized Name & Number Hoodies – A favorite for sports teams, family gifts, and custom brand merchandise.
💡 Pro Tip: High-contrast designs work best on sublimation hoodies. Avoid light or pastel colors on anything darker than white, as sublimation ink is transparent and won’t show well.
Custom Sublimation Hoodies
Customization is what makes sublimation so popular. Here’s how to make your hoodies unique and personal:
✔ Add Custom Names & Numbers – Perfect for team hoodies, family gifts, or business branding.
✔ Use Hand-Drawn Artwork – Create a one-of-a-kind hoodie by incorporating original sketches or illustrations.
✔ Photo Collage Prints – Sublimate multiple images onto a hoodie for a creative, personal touch.
✔ QR Code Hoodies – A growing trend! Add a QR code linking to a website, Instagram page, or personal message.
✔ Glow-in-the-Dark Ink Overlays – While sublimation itself won’t glow, layering with glow-in-the-dark HTV can create a cool effect.
Best Hoodies for Personalization:
- Gildan 18500 (100% Polyester) – Great for bold, long-lasting prints.
- Sport-Tek ST250 – A little stretchier, perfect for comfort and durability.
- Jerzees 995M – Smooth surface for detailed, high-quality prints.
Best Practices for Creating Unique and Eye-Catching Designs
To get the most out of your sublimation hoodie designs, keep these tips in mind:
🎨 Use High-Resolution Images – At least 300 DPI for crisp and clear prints.
🎨 Work in CMYK Color Mode – Sublimation printers use CMYK ink, so designing in RGB can cause color shifts.
🎨 Account for Seams & Folds – If you’re doing all-over sublimation, be mindful of how designs align at seams.
🎨 Test Small Before Printing Large – Always do a small test print before committing to a full hoodie press.
🎨 Keep Negative Space in Mind – Avoid overcrowding your design. Let elements breathe for a more balanced look.
🔍 Avoid These Common Design Mistakes:
- ❌ Low-quality images – Pixelation ruins the final print.
- ❌ Ignoring hoodie color – Sublimation ink is transparent, so dark fabrics won’t show bright colors.
- ❌ Overloading with details – Simplicity often leads to stronger, more striking designs.
