The names and numbers on a football shirt were not always printed the same way. Knowing the main methods helps you date a shirt, spot a later addition and judge condition.
Flock
Flock has a soft, slightly velvety surface made from short fibres bonded to a backing. It was common for names and numbers in earlier decades. Over time it can crack, shed and curl at the edges, and heat can leave marks around it. Cracking is normal ageing, but very fresh flock on a very old shirt deserves a closer look.
Flex and vinyl
Flex is a smooth, slightly shiny plastic film cut into letters and numbers and pressed onto the fabric. It became widespread later. Look at the edges: they should be clean and consistent, and the film should sit flat. Peeling, bubbling and yellowing are signs of age; a very sharp, perfectly flat print on a shirt that is otherwise worn may mean it was applied later.
Heat transfer and sublimation
Modern shirts often use heat transfer or sublimation for badges, sponsors and numbers. These can be very thin and lightweight, and on some shirts the print is built into the fabric rather than sitting on top.
Competition and league printing
Leagues and competitions use their own official fonts and sets, and these can change from one season to the next. A name and number set in the wrong font for the competition and season is a warning sign. Collectors keep reference photos of each competition's sets for this reason.
What to check
- Does the print method fit the era of the shirt?
- Is the font and set correct for the competition and season?
- Does the ageing of the print match the ageing of the fabric?
- Are there signs of a print that has been lifted and replaced?
Related reading
Printing is one point among several. Our guide to spotting fakes and our photo-matching guide show how the details fit together. To see printed names and numbers up close, browse the match worn and issued shirts.