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How to Apply a Nameset to a Football Shirt

Want to transform your plain football shirt into a personalized masterpiece? Slap on a nameset and you’ve got a shirt worthy of game day or your next five-a-side match. Applying a nameset is easier than you think. All you need is a little time, the right tools, and a sprinkle of patience. Let’s make your jersey shine!

What’s a Nameset?

A nameset is the name and number printed on the back of a football shirt. It can be your own name, your favorite player’s, or even something funny. Some namesets also include special fonts used by clubs or national teams during specific seasons.

Before we dive in, here’s what you’ll need:

  • A clean football shirt (preferably unworn or freshly washed)
  • The correct nameset (bought from a trusted seller)
  • An iron or a heat press
  • Baking paper or Teflon sheet
  • A hard, flat surface (like a table or ironing board)

Step 1 – Prep Your Shirt

Lay your shirt flat on the table or ironing board. Make sure it’s completely smooth. No wrinkles allowed! Use the iron to lightly press the back of the jersey if needed.

black and tan short coat medium sized dog on seashore during daytime football shirt iron smooth jersey

Double-check the shirt is facing the right way. The back side needs to be up and ready for its new identity.

Step 2 – Position the Nameset

Peel the backing off the nameset gently, being careful not to tear anything. Line it up on the back of the shirt, just under the collar if it’s a name, and number just below the name.

For accuracy:

  • The name should be centered between the shoulders.
  • The number is usually placed a few centimeters below the name.

Feel free to grab a ruler or measuring tape for perfection. Or eyeball it and live life on the edge — we won’t judge!

Step 3 – Get That Heat Ready

Time to bring the heat!

If you’re using an iron, set it to the cotton setting, without steam. If you’ve got a heat press, even better.

Place the baking paper or Teflon sheet over the nameset. This protects both the shirt and the print. You don’t want a melted mess, do you?

Apply firm, even pressure:

  • For iron: press down for 10-15 seconds on each section. Don’t move it around too much.
  • For heat press: usually 140–160°C for 10–15 seconds. Check your nameset’s instructions, as they vary slightly.
woman steaming clothes heat press iron football shirt nameset

Step 4 – Cool & Peel

Let everything cool for about 1-2 minutes. Don’t rush this step! Pulling off the protective film too soon might lift the nameset with it, and that’s just heartbreak.

Once cool, slowly peel back the top film. If anything starts to come off, place the film back down and reapply heat for a few more seconds.

Step 5 – Final Touch

Give it one last press with your baking paper in place for a few more seconds. This helps lock the nameset in place and ensures a longer life.

grayscale photos of five camisoles custom football shirt finished jersey number name

Extra Tips and Tricks

  • Wash your shirt inside out and in cold water to keep the nameset fresh.
  • Never tumble dry—air dry only!
  • Practice on an old shirt if you’re really nervous.

And there you go! You’re now the proud owner of a customized football shirt ready to turn heads at the stadium or local park. Whether repping your idol or showing off your own name with pride, you’ve made it yours.

Enjoy the new look, and wear it with pride! Game on!