If you’ve ever searched for “all over printing” on apparel, you’ve likely come across two terms: All Over Screen Print and Sublimation Printing. While both cover the entire garment with eye-catching designs, they are very different processes with distinct results. Understanding the difference is crucial when choosing the right print method for your brand, merch line, or custom apparel project.

What is All Over Screen Printing?

All Over Screen Printing is a form of large-format screen printing that covers a wider print area than traditional screen printing — up to 40” x 40”. This allows you to print from sleeve to sleeve, and even across seams, collars, and hems.

Key Features:

• Print Method: Traditional screen printing on oversized platens

• Garment Type: Pre-constructed garments (shirts, hoodies, etc.)

• Coverage: Large but not always edge-to-edge

• Design Limitations: Slight gaps or imperfections where seams fold

• Look & Feel: Soft-hand print with high opacity and vibrant colors

Pros:

• Ideal for bold, oversized graphics

• Great for cotton and cotton-blend garments

• Classic screen print texture and durability

Cons:

• May have print inconsistencies over seams

• Not true “edge-to-edge” printing

What is Sublimation Printing?

Sublimation Printing is a heat-transfer print method where the design is first printed onto special paper, then dyed directly into the fabric using heat and pressure. This process only works on 100% polyester fabric (or very high polyester content), and is typically done on cut panels that are sewn together after printing.

Key Features:

• Print Method: Heat-dye transfer

• Garment Type: Cut & sew (printed before sewing the garment)

• Coverage: True edge-to-edge, seam-to-seam print

• Design Limitations: Works best on polyester

• Look & Feel: No ink texture — the print becomes part of the fabric

Pros:

• Full edge-to-edge printing

• No cracking or peeling — the print never fades

• Lightweight, breathable finish

Cons:

• Only works on light-colored polyester fabrics

• Higher minimums and longer production time due to cut & sew process

So, Which One Is Right for You?

Why the Confusion Around “All Over Printing”?

“All Over Print” is often used as a catch-all term, but it can mean either All Over Screen Printing or Sublimation depending on the provider. If you’re ordering custom merch or launching a clothing brand, make sure to clarify the method — especially if you care about fabric type, print coverage, and garment construction.

The Quick Take

• All Over Screen Print = large-format screen printing on cotton garments, printed post-production.

• Sublimation = full-coverage dye print on polyester fabric, printed pre-sewing.

Looking for All Over Printing That Pops?

We offer both All Over Screen Printing and Custom Sublimation — and we’ll help you choose the right fit for your vision.
📩 Contact us today to get started with your next all over print project. sales@culturestudio.net