Trendy and Cost-Effective Event T-Shirt Printing in Malaysia (2025 Guide)

When it comes to event t-shirts, organizers consistently seek trendy designs, cost-effectiveness, and durability. Whether it’s a marathon, company event, school function, or charity run, the t-shirt is more than just apparel—it’s a memorable symbol of the event.

In Malaysia, the most common t-shirt printing methods are DTF printing (Direct-to-Film) and silk screen printing. However, a new star in the textile industry—sublimation printing—is quickly gaining popularity for its flexibility, full print coverage, and vibrant design possibilities.

DTF and Silk Screen Printing: The Classic Choices

Both DTF printing and silk screen printing are widely used in the t-shirt printing industry due to their cost-effectiveness and quick turnaround times.

• Silk Screen Printing

  • Uses a stencil (screen) to apply layers of ink onto fabric.

  • Best for bulk orders with the same design.

  • Produces durable, bold prints that last through many washes.

  • Common for corporate t-shirts, school uniforms, and promotional events.

• DTF Printing (Direct-to-Film)

  • Prints the design on a special film and transfers it onto fabric using heat.

  • Offers vivid colors and detailed graphics.

  • Works well on both cotton and microfiber fabrics.

  • Slightly raised texture, like a sticker layer on the fabric.

Both methods, however, are limited in print placement and size. Designs are usually restricted to A4-sized areas such as the chest, back, or sleeves.

Sublimation Printing: The Rising Star

Sublimation printing is quickly becoming one of the most popular t-shirt printing methods in Malaysia. Unlike DTF and silk screen, sublimation does not simply layer ink on top of the shirt. Instead, the design is heat-transferred directly into the fabric fibers, ensuring a smooth, long-lasting finish.

Key Benefits of Sublimation Printing:

1. Full Coverage Printing – Designs can cover the entire t-shirt (front, back, sleeves, collar), giving unlimited creative freedom.

2. Soft and Breathable Finish – The ink becomes part of the fabric, leaving no rough or sticky texture.

3. Durable & Long-Lasting – The design won’t crack, peel, or fade after washing.

4. Customizable Designs – Perfect for colorful themes, gradients, and all-over prints.

This makes sublimation ideal for sports jerseys, marathon t-shirts, esports teams, and themed event apparel.

Cost-Effectiveness: Sublimation vs. DTF vs. Silk Screen

One of the biggest concerns for event organizers is budget. The good news is, sublimation printing costs are now very competitive with DTF and silk screen printing, especially for bulk orders.

• DTF & Silk Screen → Faster production for simple, single-color designs. Works on cotton and microfiber fabrics.

• Sublimation → Similar pricing for bulk runs, but allows full-color and all-over designs, making it a better value for creative projects.

For events with frequently changing themes, sublimation offers flexibility without adding much extra cost.

When to Choose Which Printing Method?

Each printing method has its advantages:

• Choose Silk Screen Printing for bulk orders with simple logos or text designs (e.g., company shirts, uniforms).

• Choose DTF Printing for detailed, colorful designs on cotton or microfiber (e.g., promotional t-shirts, small batch printing).

• Choose Sublimation Printing for all-over, vibrant designs that stand out (e.g., marathon shirts, esports jerseys, themed events).

Event T-Shirts: Building Excitement and Memories

For event organizers, a well-designed t-shirt can boost participation, create unity, and leave lasting memories. By choosing the right printing method, you can ensure your event t-shirt looks trendy, feels comfortable, and remains cost-effective.

Participants love collecting unique shirts from every event. Offering different themes and designs for each occasion not only excites them but also strengthens your event branding.

At PrintJC, we specialize in custom t-shirt printing in Malaysia—whether you need sublimation, DTF, or silk screen printing, we help you create the perfect event shirt that’s stylish, affordable, and memorable.

Contact us today to get a quotation for your next event t-shirt printing project!