Choosing the Right T-Shirt

We know that selecting the perfect t-shirt is important. We also know it can be an overwhelming process. We're here to guide you through some of the different t-shirt styles we offer, and provide some guidance on what to consider when choosing a t-shirt style.

Understanding Your Options

When it comes to t-shirts, not all are created equal. The fabric, weight, and fit can significantly impact the final look and feel of your printed design. Let's break down our most popular options:

1. The Classic and Reliable: Basic Tees

• 100% Cotton (Gildan Heavy Cotton or Port & Company Core Cotton):

  • These are your go-to, everyday tees. Known for their durability and affordability, they're perfect for large orders and budget-friendly projects.

  • Pros: Budget-friendly, durable, wide range of colors.

  • Cons: Can shrink slightly after washing, heavier fabric, boxy fit

  • Ideal for: Large events and promotional giveaways.

• 50/50 Blends (Gildan DryBlend or Jerzees Dri-Power):

  • A blend of cotton and polyester, offering a balance of comfort and performance. They're less prone to shrinking and wick away moisture.

  • Pros: Less shrinkage, moisture-wicking, softer than 100% heavy cotton.

  • Cons: Not as soft as ring-spun or higher-end blends.

  • Ideal for: Activewear, outdoor events, work environments.

2. The Comfort Upgrade: Ring Spun Cotton Tees

• Gildan Softstyle or Port & Company Fan Favorite Tees:

  • Made with ring-spun cotton, these tees are noticeably softer and smoother than basic cotton tees. They offer a more refined feel and a slightly slimmer fit.

  • Pros: Softer feel, smoother surface for printing, more modern fit.

  • Cons: Slightly more expensive than basic tees

  • Ideal for: Retail merchandise, casual wear, events where comfort is key.

    
    

3. The Premium Choice: Higher-End Tees

• Next Level CVC or Bella + Canvas CVC

  • These tees are crafted with combed and ring-spun cotton blended with polyester (CVC stands for Chief Value Cotton). They offer exceptional softness, a lightweight feel, and a modern, fitted silhouette.

  • Pros: Ultra-soft, lightweight, minimal shrinkage, fashionable fit, great print quality.

  • Cons: Higher price point.

  • Ideal for: High-quality retail merchandise, fashion-forward designs, premium promotional items.

    
    

4. The Relaxed and Vintage: Garment-Dyed Tees

• Comfort Colors 1717 or Hanes Comfort Wash

  • Known for their unique, garment-dyed look and incredibly soft, pre-shrunk fabric. These tees offer a relaxed, vintage vibe and are a customer favorite for their comfort and color selection

  • Pros: Exceptionally soft, pre-shrunk, vintage look, durable, unique colors

  • Cons: Can be more expensive, distint color palette, thicker material.

  • Ideal for: Retail merchandise, trendy designs, relaxed and stylish apparel.

Making the Right Choice for Your Project

• Budget: If you're on a tight budget, basic tees are a solid choice.

• Comfort: For ultimate comfort, garment-dyed, ring-spun, or higher-end blends are the way to go.

• Durability: 100% cotton and 50/50 blends are known for their durability. Garment-dyed are also very durable.

• Fit: Consider the fit you desire. Basic tees tend to be looser, ring-spun and higher-end tees offer a more modern, fitted look, and garment-dyed offer a relaxed, oversized fit.

• Style: If you are looking for a vintage look, comfort colors and higher-end tees in heathered colors are the perfect selection.

• Print Quality: All of these shirts print well, but the smoother surface of ring-spun and higher-end tees can result in even sharper prints. Garment-dyed, due to the dying process, can cause some variance in print outcomes.

  
  

Still Not Sure?

Don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We're happy to provide samples and expert advice to help you select the perfect t-shirt for your project. We're dedicated to ensuring your custom prints look and feel fantastic!