- Flocking means applying a name and number to a jersey using heat.
- Two options: do it yourself with an iron, or go to a professional.
- For the DIY version, count on about 150°C, 15 seconds, no steam.
- Professional flocking guarantees the correct font and official badges.
- Key care: wash inside out, at 30°C maximum, never tumble dry.
Adding your name or that of your favorite player to a jersey is called flocking. You can do it yourself or entrust it to a professional. We'll explain both, step by step. Let's start with the definition.
What is flocking?
Flocking a jersey involves attaching letters and numbers to the fabric using heat. This is done using heat-transfer vinyl, a thin material that is hot-pressed onto the jersey. The result is clean and durable.
Heat-transfer vinyl is a film that is cut to the desired design, then hot-pressed. Concretely, it allows you to display a name and number like the pros.
Flocking it yourself, step by step
No need for professional equipment: a simple iron is enough. Here's the method.
- Wash and iron the jersey so it's clean and flat.
- Position the flocking carefully, well-centered, using a ruler.
- Slide a piece of cardboard inside the jersey to protect the other side.
- Press with a hot iron (about 150°C) for 15 seconds, without moving and without steam.
- Let cool, then carefully remove the protective film.
This DIY method is economical and even allows you to use old flocking that is unavailable in stores. Allow between 30 minutes and 1 hour for a neat result.
Or entrust it to a professional
If you prefer peace of mind, many shops offer flocking with a professional heat press. The advantage: the official font for the season and, on some jerseys, competition badges.
Economical, free, and customizable, even with old fonts. Requires a little care.
Official font and badges, impeccable result. More expensive, but effortless.
To understand the differences between jersey types before flocking, read our article on player version or fan jersey. And to choose the right fit, see our guide for choosing your jersey size.
How to care for a flocked jersey
A beautiful flocking lasts. To prevent it from cracking or peeling, always wash your jersey inside out, at a maximum of 30°C. Avoid the tumble dryer and never iron directly on the flocking.
Sawa Football designs exclusive limited editions in France, perfect for flocking with your name or that of your favorite player. Creations unavailable elsewhere.
See jerseys →Frequently Asked Questions
Can you flock a jersey yourself at home?
Yes. With an iron and heat-transfer vinyl, you can flock a jersey at home. Press at about 150°C for 15 seconds, without steam, after carefully positioning the name and number.
At what temperature should you flock a jersey?
Count on about 150°C for 15 seconds with an iron or press, without steam. Slide a piece of cardboard into the jersey to protect the other side, then let it cool before removing the film.
Is it better to flock yourself or go to a professional?
DIY flocking is economical and flexible, ideal for personalizing on a budget. Professional flocking guarantees the official font for the season and sometimes the badges, for an impeccable result without effort.
How to wash a flocked jersey without damaging it?
Always wash it inside out, at a maximum of 30°C, and avoid the tumble dryer and direct ironing on the flocking. Wash it quickly after use, as sweat weakens the marking.
With an iron or at a professional, flocking a jersey is within everyone's reach: a little method is all it takes. Just remember to take good care of it so it stays impeccable. And before customizing, always check the origin of your jersey.
