Comparison of Custom T-Shirt Printing Methods: Screen Printing, DTG, and Heat Transfer

Guide to Choosing Fabrics for Custom Printed T-Shirts Near Me: 100% Cotton vs. 50/50 Blend vs. Tri-blends

When ordering custom printed T-shirts locally, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right fabric. The material affects comfort, durability, print quality, and overall look. Here’s a breakdown of the three most common fabric options: 100% Cotton, 50/50 Blend, and Tri-blends, to help you make the best choice.

1. 100% Cotton

• Feel & Comfort: Soft, breathable, and ideal for warm weather. Offers a classic, natural feel against the skin.
• Durability: High-quality cotton holds up well over time, especially with proper care. However, it may shrink slightly after washing if not pre-shrunk.
• Print Quality: Excellent for screen printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing due to its absorbent nature. Ink adheres well and colors appear vibrant.
• Best For: Casual wear, promotional events, eco-conscious buyers (as it’s biodegradable), and those who prefer a traditional cotton feel.

2. 50/50 Blend (50% Cotton, 50% Polyester)

• Feel & Comfort: Slightly lighter and more durable than 100% cotton, with improved resistance to shrinking and wrinkling. Less breathable but more resilient.
• Durability: The polyester adds strength and helps the shirt maintain its shape after multiple washes.
• Print Quality: Good for screen printing. Colors may not be as rich as on 100% cotton, but prints last longer due to reduced fabric wear.
• Best For: Workwear, sports teams, or any situation where durability and longevity are priorities. Great for cost-effective bulk orders.

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

• Feel & Comfort: Ultra-soft, lightweight, and drapes beautifully—often compared to a vintage or worn-in T-shirt. Ideal for fashion-forward designs.
• Durability: Less durable than cotton or 50/50 blends; may pill over time. However, the fabric resists shrinking and holds dye well.
• Print Quality: Excellent for DTG printing. The blend gives a slightly heathered or retro look, enhancing vintage-style designs.
• Best For: Fashion apparel, boutique orders, gift items, or when a premium, soft hand feel is desired.

How to Choose the Right Fabric Near You

When searching for “custom printing T-shirts near me,” consider:

• Intended Use: Is it for daily wear, events, or branding? Cotton is classic, 50/50 is practical, tri-blend is stylish.
• Climate: Cotton breathes best in heat; blends offer moisture-wicking benefits.
• Print Design: Detailed or colorful artwork? Tri-blends and cotton offer better print fidelity.
• Budget: Cotton and 50/50 blends are typically more affordable than tri-blends.
• Local Print Shops: Visit nearby screen printers or online local services to request fabric swatches and samples before deciding.

By understanding the differences between 100% cotton, 50/50 blends, and tri-blends, you can confidently select the best fabric for your custom T-shirt project—whether it’s for a team, event, or personal brand.

How to Get the Best Price for Custom Printing T-Shirts (Bulk Quantity Breaks & Artwork Tips)

Getting custom-printed t-shirts in bulk can be a cost-effective way to promote your brand, event, or team. To secure the best price while maintaining quality, follow these expert tips on bulk discounts and artwork preparation.

Leverage Bulk Quantity Breaks

Most printing companies offer tiered pricing—larger orders mean lower per-unit costs. Here’s how to maximize savings:

• Order in Larger Quantities: Prices typically drop at thresholds like 50, 100, 250, and 500 units. Even if you don’t need 500 shirts now, buying in bulk can save money in the long run.
• Compare Multiple Vendors: Use online tools or request quotes from local and national printers to compare per-unit pricing at different volume levels.
• Consider Consistent Styles and Sizes: Ordering the same shirt style across all sizes simplifies production and reduces costs. Mixing too many styles or colors can increase setup fees.
• Ask About Rush Fees: Standard turnaround times are cheaper. If you plan ahead, you can avoid costly rush processing.

Prepare Print-Ready Artwork

High-quality artwork reduces errors and extra charges. Follow these best practices:

• Use Vector Files (AI, EPS, SVG): Vector graphics scale without losing quality—ideal for logos and crisp text. Avoid low-resolution JPEGs or PNGs.
• Stick to Simple Designs: Fewer colors and simpler graphics reduce screen setup fees (especially for screen printing). Each additional color increases cost.
• Provide Correct File Specifications: Ensure your design includes proper bleed (0.125–0.25 inches), is at 300 DPI for raster images, and defines spot colors if needed.
• Confirm Placement and Sizing: Clearly specify where the logo or design should appear (e.g., left chest, center back). Miscommunication can lead to reprints.
• Get a Virtual or Physical Proof: Always request a proof before full production to avoid costly mistakes.

Additional Money-Saving Tips

• Choose Affordable Shirt Brands: Basic cotton tees (like Gildan or Hanes) are cheaper than premium or fashion-fit options.
• Limit Print Locations: Printing on one side (front only) is less expensive than front and back.
• Bundle Orders with Other Items: Some suppliers offer discounts when you order shirts, hats, and tote bags together.
• Look for Local Promotions: Check if local print shops offer seasonal discounts, first-time customer deals, or referral bonuses.

By combining smart bulk ordering with professional artwork, you can achieve high-quality custom t-shirts at the best possible price. Always get multiple quotes and communicate clearly with your printer to ensure a smooth, cost-effective process.