What heat transfer printing is best for
- Player names and numbers on jerseys
- Performance polyester, moisture-wicking and nylon
- Personalized pieces where each shirt is different
- Metallic, glitter and reflective finishes
- Small runs of 1–50 that need quick turnaround
How our heat transfer printing process works
- Cut or print. Text and numbers are cut from vinyl and weeded by hand; full-color art is printed on transfer film.
- Position. Each transfer is placed by hand using alignment guides so numbers sit straight and names are centered.
- Press. 305°F for about 15 seconds bonds the film to the fabric.
- Peel and finish. Carrier film is removed, every piece is inspected, and personalized orders ship in 5–7 business days.
Pricing and minimums
Heat transfer is priced per piece plus per personalization. A one-color name and number set on a jersey adds about $6 per piece; full-color printed transfers are priced like direct-to-garment. There is no screen setup, so small orders stay affordable, and the online designer shows your price per piece live.
Heat Transfer Printing vs. the other methods
| Heat Transfer Printing | Screen printing | Embroidery | DTG printing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best quantity | 1 – 50 | 12 – 1,000+ | 12+ | 1 – 24 |
| Personalization | Every piece can differ | Same art per run | Names as add-on | Same art per run |
| Fabrics | Polyester, nylon, cotton | Most | Knits, caps | 100% cotton |
| Finish options | Matte, glitter, metallic, reflective | Standard inks | Thread | Soft print |
Not sure which to pick? Tell us the quantity, the fabric and the art in a quote request and we will recommend the method that looks best and costs least.
Heat Transfer Printing FAQ
What is the difference between heat transfer and screen printing?
Screen printing pushes ink through a screen and is the cheapest at volume. Heat transfer presses a film onto the garment, so it works on fabrics ink struggles with and lets every piece be personalized. For a team, we often screen print the logo and heat-press the names and numbers.
Does heat transfer vinyl crack or peel?
Quality HTV pressed at the right temperature and time lasts 50+ washes. Wash inside out, cold, and avoid high-heat drying or ironing directly on the print.
Can you do names and numbers for my whole roster?
Yes. Send a spreadsheet with size, name and number for each player and we handle the rest. Numbers are available in standard athletic fonts in 2 to 10 inch sizes.
Can you press onto nylon or waterproof jackets?
Yes, with low-temperature transfers designed for nylon and coated fabrics. Mention the fabric when you order so we pick the right film.
What finishes are available?
Standard matte, glossy, glitter, metallic gold and silver, holographic and reflective safety vinyl.