
When it comes to ordering t-shirts, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Firstly, the fabric is key – while 100% cotton is a popular choice, it is thicker and can be too warm for outdoor activities or summer months. Polyester or blended fabrics are often more comfortable and breathable, especially for athletes. The fit of the t-shirt is also important, with standard, slim/fashion, and semi-fitted options available, as well as gender-specific sizes. When ordering in bulk, it is recommended to include a range of sizes, with medium, large, and extra-large being the most commonly worn. It is also worth considering the purpose of the t-shirts, as this will influence the style and fabric choice – for example, a standard fit, cotton t-shirt may be suitable for a broad range of needs. Finally, when designing custom t-shirts, ensure your design has a high enough resolution to avoid pixelation, and consider the printing process to achieve the desired result.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Fabric | Cotton, cotton blends, tri-blends, polyester, bamboo, viscose, hemp |
Print Style | SuperSoft, Bold, plastisol |
Fit | Slim, fashion, semi-fitted, standard |
Sleeve Length | Short, long |
Gender | Men's, women's, unisex |
Size | XS, S, M, L, XL, 3XL |
Colour | White, black, navy, grey, royal blue, red, charcoal, etc. |
Minimum Order Quantity | 1, 6, 10, 20, 50 |
Price | $6.88+, $7.19+, $7.28+, $7.36+, $8.90+, $9.58+, $10.30+, $10.82+, $10.89+, $11.50+, $11.95+, $12.99+, $14.50+, $14.90+, $15.84+, $19.99+, $20.39+ |
Delivery Time | 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 days |
What You'll Learn
- Fabric types: 100% cotton, cotton/polyester blends, tri-blends, or hemp and bamboo alternatives
- Print styles: plastisol, water-based, or discharge inks
- Sizing: how to measure yourself and choose the right size
- Customisation: how to design your own t-shirt
- Cost: how much custom t-shirts cost, and how to save money
Fabric types: 100% cotton, cotton/polyester blends, tri-blends, or hemp and bamboo alternatives
When ordering a T-shirt, it's important to consider the type of fabric you want. Here's a detailed guide on the most common fabric types for T-shirts: 100% cotton, cotton/polyester blends, tri-blends, and hemp and bamboo alternatives.
100% Cotton
Cotton is a natural, soft, and breathable fabric that is gentle on the skin. It is hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin. Cotton T-shirts are usually cost-effective and showcase ink colours well. However, they may not be the softest option and are prone to shrinking, wrinkling, and staining. Cotton is a versatile fabric that can be used for clothing, bedding, upholstery, and more. It is also biodegradable and compostable, making it environmentally friendly.
Cotton/Polyester Blends
Cotton/polyester blends, also known as poly-cotton blends, combine the softness of cotton with the durability and moisture-wicking properties of polyester. These blends are less likely to shrink, wrinkle, or stain compared to 100% cotton. Polyester gives the fabric more stretch, making it comfortable and versatile. Cotton/polyester blends are ideal for activewear and can be used for various clothing types, including T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies, and dresses.
Tri-Blends
Tri-blends are a combination of cotton, polyester, and rayon. Rayon, a semi-synthetic material derived from cellulose fibres, gives tri-blends exceptional softness and silkiness. Tri-blends are known for their breathability, durability, flexibility, and lightweight feel. They are popular for casual and athletic wear and are less prone to shrinking, wrinkling, or fading compared to 100% cotton. Tri-blends are typically more fitted and may be more expensive than other fabric options.
Hemp and Bamboo Alternatives
Hemp and bamboo are alternative fabric options that are gaining popularity for T-shirts. Hemp is highly comfortable, durable, and eco-friendly as it absorbs carbon dioxide. Bamboo is known for its anti-bacterial and moisture-wicking qualities, making it ideal for workout clothing. Both hemp and bamboo are sustainable and comfortable fabric choices.
Transforming T-shirts into Flapper Dresses: A Creative Guide
You may want to see also
Print styles: plastisol, water-based, or discharge inks
When ordering a T-shirt, one of the most important things to consider is the type of print style you want. The three main types of print styles are plastisol, water-based, and discharge inks. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages that are important to understand before making your decision.
Plastisol ink is the most common type of ink used in the screen printing industry. It is made with plastic, more specifically, polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This type of ink sits on top of the fabric, creating a thick and heavy print that can be felt when touching the shirt. Plastisol ink is user-friendly as it does not dry in the open air, allowing printers more time to work. It also offers the best colour reproduction, with vibrant and bright prints that can be achieved on both light and dark garments. Additionally, plastisol ink is versatile and can be used on a variety of fabric types. However, one of the main downsides of plastisol ink is its hard and non-breathable print feel due to its plastic composition. It can also crack, peel, or flake off over time, especially if not cured properly.
Water-based ink, on the other hand, is made with water and dyes or pigments. This type of ink absorbs into the fabric, becoming a part of the garment itself. It leaves an incredibly soft and breathable print that is barely noticeable to the touch. Water-based ink is also more environmentally friendly than plastisol ink. However, one of the main disadvantages of water-based ink is its limited colour accuracy, especially on dark fabrics. The colours tend to appear more muted and may not be as vibrant as plastisol prints. Additionally, water-based ink can be more difficult to work with as it dries quickly in the open air, requiring printers to work efficiently.
Discharge ink is a type of water-based ink that uses a chemical called Perolite to remove the dye from the garment, exposing the raw fabric. It then replaces the dye with the colour pigment of choice. Discharge ink is especially useful for dark or coloured garments but can only be used on 100% cotton. One of the downsides of discharge ink is the pungent smell it produces during the drying process due to the release of formaldehyde and other chemicals. Additionally, colour matching can be difficult with discharge ink, and exact colour matches cannot be guaranteed.
In summary, when deciding between plastisol, water-based, or discharge inks for your T-shirt order, consider the desired print feel, colour accuracy, fabric type, and environmental impact. Each type of ink has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.
Effective Strategies for Successful T-Shirt Pre-Order Campaigns
You may want to see also
Sizing: how to measure yourself and choose the right size
When it comes to ordering a T-shirt, one of the most important factors to consider is sizing. Ill-fitting clothing can be uncomfortable and unflattering, so it's worth taking the time to ensure you get the right size. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you measure yourself and choose the perfect T-shirt size.
How to Measure Yourself:
- Shoulder Width: Use a flexible fabric measuring tape to measure the distance between the two seams where the sleeves begin. Alternatively, if there are no seams, estimate where the lines would be, usually at the bend near your underarm.
- Chest Width: Relax your shoulders and measure around the broadest part of your chest, just under your armpits, and over your shoulder blades. Ensure the tape is loose enough to move around easily. Women should wear a bra while taking this measurement for accurate results.
- Waist: Measure the circumference of your waist at the narrowest point, usually a few inches above your hips and right below your rib cage. Stand in a relaxed, natural posture, and ensure the tape is not too tight.
- Torso Length: Measure from the base of the back of your neck to the point where you want the T-shirt to end.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the shoulder seam to the end of the sleeve.
Choosing the Right T-Shirt Size:
When choosing a T-shirt size, it's essential to refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart, as sizes can vary significantly between brands and styles. Here are some tips to help you select the right size:
- Compare Measurements: Use the measurements you've taken to compare against the sizing charts provided by the manufacturer. Look for measurements such as shoulder width, chest width, waist, and sleeve length.
- Consider Fit Preferences: Decide how fitted or loose you want the T-shirt to be. If you prefer a more relaxed fit, consider sizing up. Conversely, if you prefer a more fitted look, choose a size that matches your exact measurements.
- Fabric Type: Different fabrics will affect the fit and feel of the T-shirt. 100% cotton T-shirts tend to shrink, so consider sizing up if you want a looser fit. Cotton blends and tri-blends are less likely to shrink and are more lightweight.
- Try Measuring a Well-Fitting T-Shirt: If measuring your body seems complicated, you can also measure a T-shirt you already own that fits you well. Lay the T-shirt flat on a surface and take measurements such as chest width (armpit to armpit), waist width, sleeve length, and overall length.
- Gender-Specific Sizing: Consider gender-specific sizing, especially when ordering for women. Women's cuts typically have narrower shoulders, contoured torsos, shorter sleeves, tapered waists, and flared hips. Unisex sizing differs from women's sizing, so be sure to check the manufacturer's size guide.
By taking accurate measurements and considering the manufacturer's sizing chart and fabric type, you can choose the perfect T-shirt size for your body and fit preferences.
Authenticating Lyle and Scott T-Shirts: Spotting Fakes
You may want to see also
Customisation: how to design your own t-shirt
Designing your own t-shirt can be a fun and rewarding experience, and there are many ways to go about it. Whether you're screen printing, stencilling, or using an online service, the customisation options are endless. Here are some steps to help you get started on designing your own t-shirt:
Planning Your Design:
- Think about what your design will represent. This could be a logo, an illustration, or a photo.
- Consider the colour scheme. Think about how certain ink colours will appear on different shirt colours. Lighter shirts tend to pair well with darker ink colours, while darker shirts complement pastel colours.
- Add dimension to your design by using shades of the same colour to create depth.
- Balance your design by combining all the elements to form a cohesive whole.
- Determine the placement of the design on the t-shirt. Will it be centred, on the top left, or a wraparound image?
- Don't forget the back of the t-shirt! You can include a slogan or an additional design element.
Making a Digital Image of the Design:
- Use software like Adobe Photoshop to touch up and enhance your paper sketches.
- Alternatively, use computer software to create the design from scratch.
- Add text to your design, choosing a font that complements the overall style.
- Create a prototype by printing the design and ironing it onto a plain shirt.
Screen Printing, Stencilling, or Online Services:
- If you're feeling adventurous, you can try screen printing your design at home. Gather the necessary supplies, including a printing screen, degreaser, sensitizer, ink, and a squeegee.
- Stencilling is another option that involves cutting out your design from contact paper and painting it onto the t-shirt.
- For a simpler approach, you can use online services like Canva or VistaPrint, which offer custom t-shirt printing with various sleeve and neck styles.
Final Steps:
- If you've created your own printed t-shirt, cure the ink using a hairdryer to ensure it's washing machine safe.
- Wash your custom t-shirt inside out in warm water with similar colours. Avoid tumble drying and ironing the decoration area to maintain the quality of the print.
With these steps in mind, you're well on your way to designing your own unique t-shirt!
Designing Couple T-Shirts: A Creative Guide for Partners
You may want to see also
Cost: how much custom t-shirts cost, and how to save money
Cost: How Much Do Custom T-Shirts Cost, and How Can I Save Money?
The cost of a custom t-shirt can vary depending on several factors, and understanding these factors will help you get the best value for your money. Here are the key considerations:
Quantity of Order
The number of t-shirts you order will significantly impact the price per item. Generally, the larger the order, the lower the cost per shirt. Most printing companies offer volume discounts, but these discounts may be applied differently. Some companies use a tiered pricing model, with set price breaks at certain quantities (e.g., 12, 36, 72, 144), while others offer rolling volume pricing, where the cost-per-piece decreases incrementally with each additional item ordered.
Quality of Shirts
The type and quality of the t-shirts you choose will also affect the price. T-shirts can range from budget to standard to premium options, with premium tees offering superior durability, fit, and features. The brand and material of the shirt also play a role in the cost. Well-known brands like Nike or Adidas tend to be more expensive, and certain materials, such as tri-blend fabrics, are pricier than 100% cotton shirts.
Number of Print Locations
Customising the front, back, and sleeves of a t-shirt will increase the cost compared to a single print location. The number of print locations can significantly impact the price, especially when combined with multiple colours.
Customisation Method
The method of customisation, such as digital printing, screen printing, or embroidery, will also affect the cost. Digital printing is more cost-effective for smaller orders and designs with multiple colours, while screen printing is ideal for larger quantities as it offers a lower cost per shirt for higher volumes. Embroidery is usually the most expensive option and is calculated based on the stitch count.
Number of Ink Colours
For screen-printed t-shirts, the number of colours in the design will increase the cost per piece. Each colour requires a separate screen, which adds to the labour and setup costs. Simplifying your design by using fewer colours can help reduce the overall price.
Additional Personalisation
Any extra customisations beyond the basic print will add to the cost. This could include adding names, numbers, or other individualisations to the shirts.
Turnaround Time
Most printing companies offer standard turnaround times, but if you need your order expedited, you may incur rush charges, which can increase the overall cost.
Shirt Size
Larger shirt sizes, such as 2XL and above, typically cost more than standard sizes due to the additional material and production costs. This is an important consideration, especially when ordering for a group with varied sizes.
Fees and Setup Charges
Some printing companies may include various fees and setup charges in their invoices, such as screen setups, inks, special handling, delivery, and packaging. Be sure to ask for a detailed quote to understand all the potential costs involved.
Saving Money on Custom T-Shirts
Now that you know the factors that influence the cost of custom t-shirts, here are some tips to help you save money:
- Compare prices from different printing companies. Some companies, like Bolt Printing, offer lower prices than big-name competitors.
- Take advantage of price breaks by ordering in bulk. Ordering a few extra shirts to reach the next price break can make each shirt cheaper overall.
- Keep the colour count and print locations low. Reducing the number of colours and print locations will lower the cost, especially with screen printing.
- Choose a value t-shirt. Opt for affordable yet high-quality t-shirt brands like Bella+Canvas or Next Level.
- Plan ahead to avoid rush charges. Staying ahead of your deadlines can help you avoid paying a premium for expedited services.
- Compare customisation methods. For smaller orders, digital printing or direct-to-garment (DTG) printing may be more cost-effective, while screen printing is usually more affordable for larger quantities.
Shrinking Collars: A Step-by-Step Guide to T-Shirt Customization
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
This is an important question to ask yourself as it will help determine the design, colour, and fabric of the t-shirts. For example, if the t-shirts are for promotional giveaways, you may want to opt for bright colours and a bold design. On the other hand, if they are for staff uniforms, you'll want something comfortable with a simple logo design.
This will depend on the number of people you're buying for. It's worth noting that the unit price per t-shirt decreases when you buy in bulk, so it may be more cost-effective to order a larger quantity.
This will depend on the people who will be wearing the t-shirts. Most people wear medium, large, or extra-large sizes. However, it's a good idea to include a range of sizes to ensure a good fit for everyone. It's also generally better to order larger sizes than smaller ones, as people are more likely to wear a t-shirt that's too big rather than one that's too small.