How To Sublimate On Dark Shirts?

Updated by TeckWrap Craft on November 27, 2025

Yes, you can sublimate on dark shirts, but only with the right base layer. The most reliable method is to apply a special heat transfer vinyl (HTV) to create a light surface, then press your sublimation print on top for a vibrant, sharp finish. You can also sublimate on dark fabric by bleaching the design area, lightening that spot so the colors appear clearly. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how both methods work and how to get bright, eye-catching sublimation results on any dark-colored shirt.

What is Sublimation Printing?

Sublimation printing is a method used to transfer bright, detailed designs onto light-colored polyester fabrics. The design is first printed on special sublimation paper using sublimation ink. When the paper is placed on the garment and heat and pressure are applied, the ink turns into gas and bonds with the polyester fibers. Once it cools, the ink becomes solid again, creating a vibrant, long-lasting print that won’t crack or peel over time.

Why Sublimate on Dark T-Shirts?

Sublimating on dark T-shirts allows you to get bright, detailed prints that you can’t achieve with regular HTV alone. Since sublimation ink only shows on light surfaces, a white HTV base is used to make the colors pop. This method lets you create vibrant, high-resolution designs without bleaching the shirt, and it’s both faster and more cost-efficient than other alternatives.

Step-By-Step Guide to Sublimating on Dark T-Shirts

Below, we have presented a detailed guide on how to sublimate dark t-shirts. You can follow this method even if you want to sublimate on light-colored cotton and poly-blend shirts and add some additional flair to them by using white glitter or sublimation HTV as base vinyl.

Supplies Needed

• Sublimation HTV or White Glitter HTV.
• Cutting machine (Silhouette Cameo or Cricut)
  
• Scissors
• Weeding tool or pen
• Heat press machine
• Sublimation heat transfer paper from TeckWrap Craft
  
• A garment you want to print on
  
• Inkjet printer (sublimation printer) with dye sublimation ink
  
• Heat-resistant tape
  
• Parchment paper of Teflon sheet
  

Step 1: Finalize The Design

• Work on the design using the software that is compatible with your cutting machine.
  
• Duplicate the design, adjust the size according to the space on your dark T-shirt, and mirror both images. One will be used for printing on the sublimation paper and the other for cutting the vinyl.
  

Step 2: Cut The Vinyl

• Depending on the final look of the project you envision, you can cut the vinyl in a square, round, or the actual shape of the design.
• For more complicated designs with bigger spaces in between them, it is easier to cut the vinyl with the outline of the design as a whole rather than with cavities in between.
• After cutting the vinyl, weed out the excess parts of the design.

Note: Make sure to only use White Glitter Heat Transfer Vinyl or Sublimation HTV for this project.

Step 3: Print the Design on Sublimation Sheet

• Print the design on the sublimation paper using the highest quality printer settings. Remember that the vinyl and sublimation paper must be the same size. So make sure to make appropriate adjustments.
  
• After printing, set the sublimation sheet aside and let it dry for a few minutes. It is important to let the design dry completely to prevent smears and smudges. Avoid touching the sheet during this period.
  

Step 4: Heat Press the Vinyl First

• In the meantime, pre-press the fabric for 5 to 10 seconds to remove any moisture and creases then apply your cut vinyl to it.
  
• Place it on the shirt and cover it with parchment paper or Teflon sheet. Follow the recommended time, temperature, and pressure settings for the type of vinyl you’re using.
  

If you're using Glitter Colorful White HTV and Sublimation Paper bundle, press at 266°F to 284℉ for 8-12 seconds. Make sure to check our Heat Press Temperature Guide for Vinyl.

Step 5: Press the Sublimation Design

• After pressing the HTV, let it cool for a while. Then place the sublimation paper over the HTV with the design facing down, and align it correctly.
  
• Cut the extra blank space around the borders of the design on sublimation paper to make alignment easy. Make sure to use thermal tape to keep the sublimation paper in place.
  

Note: It is better to use a proper heat press machine for sublimation, such as Cricut EasyPress or any other clamshell or swing-away press that you have.

• Now it's time to apply heat. Set your heat press to 190℃ for 50 seconds. Place parchment paper on top and apply heat.
  

There you have it! Isn’t sublimation on dark garments really easy? You can also use this process to design 100% light and dark cotton shirts through sublimation.

Best Heat Transfer Vinyl for Sublimation Printing

Not all HTV works for sublimation, so choosing the right one is important. From the TeckWrap Craft collection, the best options are the Glitter Colorful White HTV and the White Matte Sublimation HTV, both designed to hold sublimation ink well and produce bright results.

How to Sublimate on Dark Polyester Shirt with Bleach?

Another method of sublimating on dark-colored polyester shirts is by using bleach. Here’s what you can do:

• Print your finalized design on sublimation paper and let it dry completely.
• Place cardboard inside the shirt to protect the backside.
• Measure the design area and spray bleach only on the section where the print will go.
• Once the area lightens, wash the shirt, let it dry, and pre-press to remove moisture.
• Place the sublimation print face-down on the bleached spot and secure it with thermal tape.
• Press at 400°F for 60 seconds.
• Your dark polyester shirt is now ready with a bright sublimation design.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can you sublimate on a dark shirt?

Yes, you can sublimate on a dark shirt by using a special heat transfer vinyl (HTV) or a similar product as a base layer to create a white canvas for the ink.

Q. Can you sublimate on cotton shirts?

Yes, you can sublimate on cotton shirts using HTV or a special coating spray as the base. For a detailed process read our blog on ‘Can You Sublimate on Cotton? Sublimation Secrets Revealed.’

Q. Can I use a regular printer for sublimation heat transfer paper?

No. You need to use printers that can work with dye sublimation inks. You can transform a regular inkjet printer for the process or invest in a good-quality sublimation printer.

Q. Which is the best HTV for sublimation?

The best HTV for sublimation is Glitter Colorful White or the special matte Sublimation HTV from TeckWrap Craft. It is better to invest in their sublimation bundle offer to get an excellent package deal.

Q. How long does sublimation printing last?

Sublimation print lasts for a long time when printed and cared for the right way. Sublimation print may last for up to 10 years. Just avoid washing a sublimated garment for the first 24 hours. Also, use a high-quality sublimation sheet like TeckWrap Craft to ensure a higher transfer rate.

Summing It All Up!

Sublimating on dark shirts may seem tricky at first, but with the right method, it’s completely achievable. Whether you choose to use white HTV as a base or bleach the design area, both techniques let you create bright, detailed prints that stand out on any dark fabric. With proper preparation, the right materials, and careful heat application, your designs will come out vibrant, durable, and professional. Now that you know the process, you can confidently create eye-catching custom shirts that look great and last long.