The best T-shirts for printing are the ones that combine comfort, durability, and excellent print results. Choosing the right T-shirt can make a big difference in how your design stands out. From lightweight fabrics to sturdy options, there’s a perfect T-shirt for every printing need.
In this article, we’ll explore some top options that work well for various printing methods. Whether you’re printing for a project, event, or business, you’ll find the ideal choice here. Let’s dive in!
What are the Best T-Shirts for Printing | Top Pick?
Factors to Consider When Selecting T Shirts for Printing
Printing on T-shirts for screen printing is an art that requires the right canvas to achieve perfection. The following points highlight what to look for when choosing T-shirts for printing:
- Fabric Selection Matters: Cotton and cotton-polyester blends are top choices because they hold prints well. Cotton gives a soft, vibrant finish, while blends add durability for long-term wear.
- Weight of the Fabric: Heavier T-shirts are ideal for bold and lasting prints, while lighter options work well for softer, more casual designs. The weight impacts both durability and comfort.
- Style and Fit Influence Appeal: The style must suit your audience: Classic or fitted, V-neck or crew neck. A well-fitting T-shirt ensures your prints are worn and admired often.
- Color is Key: The base color of a T-shirt determines how your print will pop. Light shades enhance darker inks, while dark shades need lighter prints for contrast.
- Durability for Repeated Use: Shirts that maintain their shape and design after multiple washes are a must. Look for pre-shrunk fabrics to avoid unwanted surprises after washing.
- Quality Leads to Better Prints: Smooth-textured T-shirts deliver crisp and clear designs, while rough fabrics may distort details. Testing samples beforehand ensures top-notch results.
Best T-Shirts for Printing: Expert Recommendations
Choosing the right T shirts for screen printing can make all the difference in achieving stunning print results. Below is a curated list of the best T-shirts for printing, perfect for various techniques:
- Bella+Canvas 3001 Unisex Jersey Tee
- Gildan Ultra Cotton T-Shirt
- Gildan Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
- Fruit of the Loom Valueweight T-Shirt (SS030)
- Uneek Classic T-Shirt (UC301)
- Hanes Beefy T-Shirt
- American Apparel Unisex Jersey T-Shirt
- Next Level Apparel T-Shirts
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1. Bella+Canvas 3001 Unisex Jersey Tee
The Bella+Canvas 3001 stands out for its premium fabric quality and modern fit, making it a top choice for custom printing. Its smooth surface ensures vibrant and detailed prints, ideal for direct-to-garment (DTG) methods. The eco-friendly production and tear-away labels further enhance its appeal.
Benefits:
- Soft and comfortable fabric.
- Stylish fit that appeals to a broad audience.
Limitations:
- Slightly limited color range.
- Higher cost compared to other options.
2. Gildan Ultra Cotton T-Shirt
A heavyweight option, the Gildan Ultra Cotton T-Shirt offers durability and excellent print quality. Its classic fit and broad color selection make it versatile for various printing projects, from promotional wear to personal designs.
Benefits:
- Long-lasting fabric that holds up well to repeated use.
- Wide range of color options to suit different designs.
Limitations:
- Heavier material might not be ideal for warm climates.
- Less breathable compared to lightweight fabrics.
3. Gildan Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
The Gildan Heavy Cotton T-Shirt is a slightly lighter alternative to the Ultra Cotton variant while maintaining its durability and versatility. It’s perfect for casual wear and bulk printing projects due to its affordability and wide availability.
Benefits:
- Reliable fabric for consistent printing results.
- Offers a variety of colors and sizes.
Limitations:
- Less soft compared to premium T-shirt options.
- Surface may not be as smooth for intricate designs.
4. Fruit of the Loom Valueweight T-Shirt (SS030)
Lightweight and comfortable, the Fruit of the Loom Valueweight T-Shirt is ideal for events, giveaways, or casual wear. Its classic fit works well for both men and women, and its fabric is suitable for most printing techniques.
Benefits:
- Comfortable for warm weather due to its lightweight fabric.
- Versatile design that suits various printing needs.
Limitations:
- Thinner material may not last as long as heavier shirts.
- Limited size range in some colors.
5. Uneek Classic T-Shirt (UC301)
The Uneek Classic T-Shirt offers a practical solution for bulk printing, thanks to its affordability and solid construction. Designed with comfort in mind, it is suitable for everyday use and supports a variety of printing methods.
Benefits:
- Cost-effective option for large-scale projects.
- Retains shape well after washing.
Limitations:
- Limited style options compared to trendier brands.
- May feel too loose for some wearers.
6. Hanes Beefy T-Shirt
With its thicker and durable fabric, the Hanes Beefy T-Shirt is built to last. This heavyweight T-shirt is perfect for designs that require longevity, making it a great option for promotional items or custom prints that see frequent use.
Benefits:
- Thick, robust fabric ensures long-term durability.
- Comfortable texture for extended wear.
Limitations:
- May feel heavy and less breathable in warm weather.
- Fewer color options compared to competitors.
7. American Apparel Unisex Jersey T-Shirt
Known for its premium feel and flattering slim fit, the American Apparel Unisex Jersey T-Shirt offers high-quality construction. Its smooth fabric makes it an excellent choice for detailed printing projects, appealing to a fashion-forward audience.
Benefits:
- Premium quality fabric with a soft texture.
- Perfect for high-end printing with detailed designs.
Limitations:
- Availability may vary by region.
- Higher cost compared to budget-friendly brands.
8. Next Level Apparel T-Shirts
Next Level Apparel combines style and comfort, offering a variety of fashionable fits and soft fabrics. These T-shirts are perfect for custom prints targeted at trend-conscious consumers, offering options in cotton blends for added versatility.
Benefits:
- Trendy styles with a focus on comfort.
- High-quality materials ideal for casual and custom wear.
Limitations:
- Pricing may be higher than budget options.
- Availability can be inconsistent based on location.
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Pricing of the Best T-Shirts for Printing
Pricing plays a crucial role in selecting the right t shirts for screen printing projects, especially when considering bulk orders or premium designs. Here’s a detailed comparison of the prices for the top eight T-shirts.
T-Shirt Name | Approximate Price (per shirt) |
Bella+Canvas 3001 Unisex Jersey Tee | $8.00 |
Gildan Ultra Cotton T-Shirt | $6.69 |
Gildan Heavy Cotton T-Shirt | $6.06 |
Fruit of the Loom Valueweight T-Shirt (SS030) | $5.00 |
Uneek Classic T-Shirt (UC301) | $5.50 |
Hanes Beefy T-Shirt | $8.00 |
American Apparel Unisex Jersey T-Shirt | $15.00 |
Next Level Apparel T-Shirts | $9.00 |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best T-shirts for printing makes all the difference when it comes to creating standout designs. A good T-shirt helps your prints look sharp and professional, whether it’s for business, events, or personal projects.
With EMdigitizing, you can take your designs to the next level! We provide high-quality vector art services at affordable rates, fast delivery, and a preview option so you can see the results before finalizing. Plus, if you’re a first-time customer, you’ll get an exclusive 50% discount on your first order.
Don’t wait—EMdigitizing is here to make your printing projects smooth and successful. Get in touch today and let us help bring your ideas to life!
FAQs
The best fabric for printing T-shirts is 100% cotton, especially ring-spun cotton, as it absorbs ink well and delivers vibrant prints. Blended fabrics like cotton-polyester are also great for added durability.
Make sure your design is in a high-quality format like vector art or a high-resolution image (300 DPI). Use graphic design software to finalize the details and save the file in PNG, PDF, or other printer-friendly formats.
Standard T-shirt sizes typically range from XS to 5XL, with S, M, L, and XL being the most common. Always check a size chart to match your audience’s needs.
Printing usually takes 3 to 7 days, depending on the order size and design complexity. For urgent orders, some printers offer express options for faster delivery.
