Comparison Table: Screen Printing, DTG, and Heat Transfer for Custom T-Shirt Wholesale

Guide to Choosing Fabrics for Custom Design T-Shirts Wholesale: 100% Cotton vs. 50/50 Blend vs. Tri-Blends

When ordering custom design T-shirts in bulk, selecting the right fabric is crucial to ensuring customer satisfaction, durability, and print quality. The three most common fabric options in wholesale apparel are 100% cotton, 50/50 cotton-polyester blends, and tri-blends. Each has unique characteristics that make it suitable for different uses and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best option for your custom T-shirt order.

1. 100% Cotton

Pros:
– Soft and Comfortable: Naturally breathable and soft to the touch, especially in combed or ring-spun varieties.
– Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable and made from a renewable resource.
– Great for Printing: Holds vibrant screen prints and DTG (Direct-to-Garment) inks well due to high absorbency.
– Classic Feel: Preferred by customers who love the traditional, natural T-shirt feel.

Cons:
– Prone to Shrinking: May shrink after washing, especially if not pre-shrunk.
– Less Durable: Can wear out faster than blended fabrics, especially after repeated washings.
– Wrinkles Easily: Tends to crease more than synthetic blends.

Best For: Casual wear, eco-conscious brands, vintage-style graphics, and customers who prioritize comfort and natural fibers.

2. 50/50 Cotton-Polyester Blend

Pros:
– Durable and Long-Lasting: Polyester adds strength and resistance to wear and tear.
– Less Shrinking: More stable in the wash than 100% cotton.
– Affordable: Typically less expensive than premium cotton or tri-blends.
– Lightweight and Breathable: Offers a balance between comfort and performance.

Cons:
– Less Soft Initially: Can feel slightly rougher than 100% cotton, though this improves with washing.
– Reduced Absorbency: Polyester doesn’t absorb ink as well as cotton, which may affect print vibrancy in some cases.
– Less Eco-Friendly: Contains synthetic fibers derived from petroleum.

Best For: Promotional events, workwear, budget-conscious orders, and high-volume use where durability matters.

3. Tri-Blend (Typically 50% Polyester, 25% Cotton, 25% Rayon)

Pros:
– Ultra-Soft Feel: Known for a smooth, buttery texture that drapes well.
– Excellent Drape: Ideal for fashion-forward fits and slim silhouettes.
– Moisture-Wicking: Polyester helps pull moisture away, keeping the wearer comfortable.
– Resists Wrinkles and Shrinkage: Holds its shape and appearance over time.
– Vintage Aesthetic: Slightly heathered look enhances retro or lifestyle designs.

Cons:
– Higher Cost: More expensive due to the blend of materials and manufacturing process.
– Delicate Printing: Requires careful handling during printing to avoid scorching (especially with heat presses).
– Less Breathable Than Cotton: Rayon and polyester aren’t as breathable as pure cotton.

Best For: Premium apparel brands, fashion retailers, boutique orders, and designs that benefit from a soft, vintage look.

Conclusion: Which Fabric Should You Choose?

• Choose 100% Cotton if you want a natural, soft, and eco-friendly option ideal for classic tees and vibrant prints.
• Opt for 50/50 Blend when durability, affordability, and consistent sizing are priorities—perfect for bulk promotional use.
• Go with Tri-Blend for a premium, soft, fashion-forward garment that appeals to customers looking for a modern, comfortable fit.

Understanding your target audience, use case, and budget will help you select the ideal fabric for your custom T-shirt wholesale order—ensuring both quality and customer satisfaction.

How to Get the Best Price for Custom Design T-Shirts Wholesale

Purchasing custom design T-shirts in bulk can be a cost-effective way to promote your brand, event, or business. To secure the best wholesale price while maintaining quality, follow these key strategies—from leveraging quantity breaks to optimizing your artwork.

1. Understand Bulk Quantity Breaks

Most wholesale suppliers offer tiered pricing based on order volume. The more you order, the lower the per-unit cost.

• Know the thresholds: Common break points include 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1,000+ units. Ordering just above a threshold (e.g., 101 instead of 100) may not significantly increase cost but can unlock a better rate.
• Plan ahead: Forecast your needs to maximize volume discounts without overstocking.
• Split styles wisely: Some suppliers allow mixed sizes or colors within the same design to count toward bulk pricing—confirm this with your vendor.

2. Choose the Right Material and Style

Basic, mid-weight cotton T-shirts (e.g., 5.3 oz) are typically cheaper than premium or specialty fabrics (e.g., tri-blend, organic cotton). Stick to cost-effective styles unless quality is a brand requirement.

• Compare blank shirt costs across vendors—small differences add up in bulk.
• Consider unisex styles, which are often more affordable and easier to size.

3. Simplify Your Design to Reduce Printing Costs

Printing complexity directly affects pricing. Minimize costs with smart design choices:

• Limit print colors: Each additional color increases setup and printing time. Stick to 1–3 colors for best pricing.
• Use one print location: Front-only or back-only prints are cheaper than multi-location designs.
• Avoid large prints: Full-front or all-over prints cost more than standard chest or center-back placements.

4. Optimize Your Artwork for Production

Suppliers may charge extra for artwork preparation if files aren’t print-ready.

• Submit high-resolution vector files (AI, EPS, or PDF) for crisp, scalable prints.
• Use Pantone (PMS) colors if color accuracy is crucial—this avoids guesswork and reprints.
• Outline all fonts to prevent typeface issues during printing.
• Keep designs clean and scalable—avoid tiny details that may not reproduce well on fabric.

5. Get Multiple Quotes and Negotiate

Don’t settle for the first quote. Use sample quotes to negotiate better rates.

• Request quotes from at least 3–5 reputable wholesale screen printers or online platforms (e.g., Printful, Custom Ink, RushOrderTees).
• Ask about hidden fees like setup, color separation, or screen charges—some vendors waive these for large orders.
• Inquire about return customers or loyalty discounts.

6. Consider Printing Method for Cost Efficiency

Different printing techniques suit different designs and budgets:

• Screen Printing: Best for large bulk orders with simple designs. Low per-unit cost after setup.
• DTG (Direct-to-Garment): Cost-effective for small to medium runs or complex, full-color designs—but higher per-shirt cost.
• Heat Transfer or Dye Sublimation: Great for all-over prints but may not be cost-efficient for basic tees in bulk.

Choose the method that aligns with your design and volume.

7. Order Samples Before Going Bulk

Always order a sample shirt to check print quality, fabric feel, and sizing accuracy. This avoids costly mistakes and ensures you’re satisfied before committing to a large order.

8. Time Your Order Strategically

• Avoid peak seasons (e.g., back-to-school, holidays) when demand—and prices—rise.
• Some suppliers offer seasonal promotions or clearance sales on blanks.

9. Build a Relationship with Your Supplier

Repeat business often leads to better pricing, faster turnaround, and flexible terms. Share your long-term plans to encourage partnership discounts.

10. Bundle Services for Savings

Some vendors offer package deals that include free design help, free shipping on large orders, or discounted reorders—ask what’s available.

By combining strategic ordering, smart design, and savvy supplier selection, you can achieve high-quality custom T-shirts at the most competitive wholesale price.