Choosing the right printing method is one of the most important decisions when ordering custom lanyards. The two most popular techniques in Malaysia are silkscreen printing and dye sublimation printing — and each has distinct advantages depending on your design, budget, and intended use.
In this guide, we break down the key differences so you can make an informed choice for your next lanyard order.
What Is Silkscreen Lanyard Printing?
Silkscreen printing (also called screen printing) applies ink directly onto the lanyard surface through a mesh stencil, one colour at a time. It’s the most traditional and widely used method for lanyard printing in Malaysia.
How it works: A separate screen is created for each colour in your design. Ink is pushed through the screen onto the lanyard fabric, then heat-cured for durability. Each colour requires its own pass, so a 3-colour logo needs 3 screens.
Advantages of Silkscreen Printing
- Lower cost per unit — Silkscreen is typically 15–20% cheaper than sublimation, especially for simple 1–2 colour designs
- Bold, vibrant colours — Pantone colour matching ensures your brand colours are exact
- Works on multiple materials — Compatible with polyester, nylon, and other lanyard materials
- Durable finish — Properly cured silkscreen prints resist fading through daily wear
Limitations of Silkscreen Printing
- Limited to 1–4 solid colours per design (no gradients or photographs)
- Each additional colour increases cost due to extra screens
- Fine details and small text may not reproduce as sharply
What Is Dye Sublimation Lanyard Printing?
Dye sublimation uses heat to transfer full-colour designs directly into the fibres of polyester lanyards. The dye becomes part of the fabric itself rather than sitting on top, creating a permanent, vibrant print that will never crack, peel, or fade.
How it works: Your design is first printed onto transfer paper using special sublimation inks. The paper is then pressed against the polyester lanyard under high heat (around 200°C), causing the ink to convert into gas and bond permanently with the polyester fibres.
Advantages of Sublimation Printing
- Unlimited colours — Full-colour, edge-to-edge printing including gradients, photographs, and complex artwork
- Double-sided printing — Print different designs on each side of the lanyard
- Permanent print — Dye is embedded in the fabric, so it never cracks, peels, or washes off
- Soft hand-feel — No raised ink layer means the lanyard stays smooth and comfortable
Limitations of Sublimation Printing
- Only works on white or light-coloured polyester lanyards (not nylon or woven)
- Slightly higher cost per unit compared to silkscreen for simple designs
- Colours may appear slightly less vivid on textured polyester
Silkscreen vs Sublimation: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Silkscreen | Sublimation |
|---|---|---|
| Colours | 1–4 solid colours | Unlimited / full-colour |
| Materials | Polyester, nylon, satin | Polyester only |
| Double-sided | No | Yes |
| Print feel | Slightly raised | Smooth (dye in fabric) |
| Durability | Very good | Excellent (permanent) |
| Best for | Simple logos, tight budgets | Complex designs, photos, events |
| Cost (300+ pcs) | From RM3.20/pc | From RM3.80/pc |
| MOQ | 300 pcs | 300 pcs |
Which Method Should You Choose?
Choose silkscreen if:
- Your logo uses 1–3 solid colours with no gradients
- You want to use nylon lanyards for a premium feel
- Budget is a primary concern and you’re ordering large quantities
- You need Pantone-matched brand colours
Choose sublimation if:
- Your design includes gradients, photographs, or more than 4 colours
- You want double-sided printing with different designs on each side
- You’re producing lanyards for a corporate event or conference with detailed branding
- Long-term durability is critical (the print will never crack or peel)
Can I Combine Both Methods?
In some cases, yes. For example, you might use sublimation for a full-colour lanyard body and add a silkscreen-printed safety message or URL on the reverse. Our team at Aquaholic Gifts Malaysia can advise on the best approach for your specific design. We also help you choose the right lanyard accessories and attachments to complement your printed design.
Get a Free Lanyard Printing Quote
Not sure which printing method is right for your project? Send us your logo and we’ll provide a free mock-up showing how it looks in both silkscreen and sublimation — so you can compare before committing.
View our full range of custom lanyards in Malaysia or WhatsApp us for an instant quote. Minimum order starts from 300 pieces with free artwork assistance.