Fall sports season is here — and for decorators, it’s one of the busiest times of the year. Soccer kits, football jerseys, cheer uniforms, and fan gear all need to be customized fast, and teams expect bold graphics that last. Whether you’re a shop just starting out or an enterprise-level decorator handling thousands of orders, getting jersey decoration right comes down to heat transfer application, sizing, and formula choice.
At 613 Originals, we print what matters. What lasts. What becomes legacy. This guide brings together the best practices for heat transfer jersey application — including placement tips, number sizing, transfer compatibility, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
Every fabric performs differently, and using the wrong transfer can lead to poor adhesion, dye migration, or short-lived prints. Here’s how to match the right transfer type to the right uniform:
Screen Print Transfers – Your all-around MVP. Best for bulk team tees and spirit wear. Fast, efficient, and soft-hand feel.
DTF Transfers – The on-demand game changer. Perfect for personalized jerseys and short runs where speed is critical.
Digital Hybrid Transfers – Pro-level performance and texture. Vibrant, layered looks that stand out on premium custom sports jerseys.
Silicone Transfers – The dye-sub defense. Low-temp, bleed-blocking transfers for sublimated performance fabrics.
UV DTF Transfers – Hard goods’ secret weapon. No press needed — apply to helmets, bottles, tumblers, and decals.
👉 Need a deeper breakdown? Check our heat transfer formulas for fabric compatibility and press settings.
Proper placement and scaling ensures names and numbers look balanced, visible, and professional. Use these quick guidelines when decorating:
Soccer Jerseys
Football Jerseys
Cross Country (XC)
Ice Hockey Jerseys
Spirit Wear
Pro Tip: Always scale numbers down for youth jerseys to keep proportions correct.
Before you press, double-check your settings. Time, temperature, pressure, and peel method make all the difference between a transfer that sticks and one that fails.
Even experienced decorators lose jerseys to these common issues:
❌ Misaligned names/numbers → ✔ Use guides, T-squares, or laser alignment.
❌ Wrong transfer for fabric → ✔ Match formula to fabric type.
❌ Over-pressing polyester → ✔ Use lower-temp transfers (like Silicone).
❌ Skipping youth scaling → ✔ Adjust number sizes for smaller jerseys.
❌ No test press → ✔ Always test one garment before running the full order.
Soccer: Use a cover sheet on mesh; press in stages (numbers first, then crests/sleeves).
Football: Apply shoulder numbers first; use heat press pads over thick seams.
Cross Country: Use smaller designs keep jerseys breathable.
Ice Hockey: Increase press pressure for thick poly; bold numbers improve ice visibility.
Spirit Wear: Personalization sells; bundle hoodies and caps for playoff packages.
Fall sports are only the beginning. Every season brings new teams, new uniforms, and new chances to grow your business. That’s why decorators trust 613 Originals:
1–2 day turnaround
Customer service that gives a damn
Commercial-grade consistency
Full product lineup from grassroots to pro
Trusted by global brands
We’re more than printers. We’re the partner you need.
✔ Start your next sports order today at 613originals.com.