Picture this: your brand’s logo proudly displayed on soft, stylish tees—worn by customers, shared on social media, and spreading your message one stitch at a time. Custom t-shirts in bulk aren’t just a savvy marketing move; they’ve evolved into a dynamic tool for building community, boosting visibility, and turning fans into walking ambassadors.
Thanks to the rise of Print on Demand (POD) technology, producing high-quality custom apparel has never been easier—or more accessible. No more bulky inventory or upfront costs. Today’s brands, creators, and entrepreneurs are tapping into seamless POD platforms that merge on-the-fly printing with bulk efficiency, letting them scale fast while staying lean. From limited-run artist collabs to corporate merch drops, POD is reshaping how we think about bulk apparel.
Curious how custom t-shirts in bulk can work for your brand—without the guesswork or waste? Let’s dive into the trends, tips, and tech making it possible.
Top 9 Best Custom T Shirts In Bulk Services (2026 Review)
Reviewed for Print Quality, Pricing & Turnaround Time
Expert Guide: Ordering custom t shirts in bulk
Comparison Table: Screen Printing, DTG, and Heat Transfer for Bulk Custom T-Shirts
| Method | Best For | Durability | Cost (Bulk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Printing | Large, simple designs; high-volume orders (50+) | Excellent – lasts many washes | Low per unit (cost-effective at scale) |
| DTG (Direct-to-Garment) | Detailed, full-color designs; small to medium runs | Good – may fade over time | High per unit; less economical in bulk |
| Heat Transfer | Small orders, quick turnaround; complex designs | Fair to Good – may crack or peel | Medium – higher per unit than screen printing in bulk |
100% Cotton vs. 50/50 Blend vs. Tri-Blends: Your Guide to Choosing Fabrics for Bulk Custom T-Shirts
Selecting the right fabric is crucial when ordering custom t-shirts in bulk. The material affects comfort, durability, appearance, and how well your design prints. Here’s a breakdown of the three most popular fabric types to help you make the best choice for your project.
100% Cotton
Pros:
– Soft and Breathable: Offers a classic, natural feel that’s ideal for warm weather and everyday wear.
– Great for Printing: Holds vibrant screen prints and direct-to-garment (DTG) designs exceptionally well, especially on lighter colors.
– Eco-Friendly Option: Biodegradable and widely recycled, appealing to sustainability-conscious customers.
– Comfortable: Loved for its soft hand feel after a few washes.
Cons:
– Prone to Shrinking: Can shrink significantly (up to 5–7%) if not pre-shrunk, especially when washed in hot water.
– Less Durable Over Time: May wear out faster than blended fabrics, particularly with frequent washing.
– Wrinkles Easily: Requires ironing for a crisp look.
– May Lose Shape: Can stretch or sag after repeated use and washing.
Best For: Eco-conscious brands, retail apparel, promotional events, and customers who prefer a traditional cotton feel.
50/50 Cotton-Polyester Blend
Pros:
– Balanced Performance: Combines the softness of cotton with the durability and resilience of polyester.
– Reduced Shrinkage: More stable than 100% cotton, typically shrinking only 3% or less.
– Wrinkle-Resistant: Holds its shape well and requires less ironing.
– Affordable: Often priced competitively, making it ideal for large bulk orders.
– Good Printability: Works well with most printing methods, though very bright colors may appear slightly less vibrant than on 100% cotton.
Cons:
– Less Breathable: Polyester content can make the fabric feel warmer and less airy.
– Slight Sheen: May have a subtle synthetic look compared to natural cotton.
– Pilling Over Time: Can develop small fabric balls (pills) with frequent wear and washing.
Best For: Corporate giveaways, employee uniforms, school events, and budget-friendly bulk orders where durability and cost are key.
Tri-Blends (Typically Cotton, Polyester, and Rayon)
Pros:
– Luxuriously Soft: Known for a buttery-soft, vintage feel that’s highly desirable.
– Excellent Drape: Flatters the body with a slightly relaxed, lived-in look.
– Reduced Shrinkage: More stable than 100% cotton, especially when pre-shrunk.
– Vintage Aesthetic: Ideal for retro or fashion-forward designs due to its heathered texture and muted appearance.
– Lightweight and Comfortable: Great for layering or warm climates.
Cons:
– Higher Cost: Typically more expensive than 100% cotton or 50/50 blends.
– Less Durable: May wear faster under heavy use or frequent washing.
– Printing Challenges: The heathered background can affect print opacity; DTG often works better than traditional screen printing.
– Limited Color Range: Often available in heathered or muted tones, not solid brights.
Best For: Fashion brands, boutique retailers, premium giveaways, and customers seeking a soft, high-end feel with a vintage vibe.
How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Bulk Order
- Prioritize Comfort? → Go for 100% cotton or tri-blends.
- Need Durability on a Budget? → Choose 50/50 blends.
- Want a Premium, Soft Hand Feel? → Tri-blends are ideal.
- Focusing on Sustainability? → 100% cotton (especially organic) is best.
- Planning Vibrant, Detailed Prints? → 100% cotton offers the sharpest results.
- Distributing in Hot Climates? → Opt for 100% cotton or tri-blends for breathability.
By understanding the strengths and trade-offs of each fabric type, you can confidently select the perfect material that aligns with your brand, budget, and audience expectations for your bulk custom t-shirt order.
How to Get the Best Price for Custom T-Shirts in Bulk
Ordering custom t-shirts in bulk is a cost-effective way to promote your brand, team, or event. However, to get the best value, you need to understand bulk pricing strategies, take advantage of quantity breaks, and optimize your artwork. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you save money without sacrificing quality.
Understand Bulk Quantity Breaks
Most screen printing and apparel companies offer tiered pricing based on order size—known as quantity breaks. These are key to reducing your per-unit cost.
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Know the Thresholds: Common quantity break points are 25, 50, 100, 250, and 500 units. For example, ordering 99 shirts might cost $10 each, while 100 shirts could drop to $7 each. Always aim to meet or slightly exceed these thresholds.
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Compare Quotes Across Tiers: Request pricing for multiple quantities (e.g., 50, 100, 250) to see where the best value lies. Sometimes doubling your order cuts the cost per shirt by over 30%.
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Plan for Future Needs: If you anticipate needing more shirts later, ordering a larger batch now can save money and ensure color and fit consistency.
Choose the Right Printing Method
The printing technique impacts both price and quality.
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Screen Printing: Best for bulk orders (50+ units) with simple designs. Cost per shirt drops significantly with volume because setup is a one-time fee.
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DTG (Direct-to-Garment): Great for complex, full-color designs, but more expensive per unit for large orders. Usually cost-effective only for smaller runs.
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Heat Transfer or Sublimation: Suitable for all-over prints, but may not be cost-efficient in bulk. Evaluate durability and long-term wear.
For the lowest per-unit cost in bulk, screen printing is typically the best option.
Optimize Your Artwork to Reduce Costs
Artwork complexity directly affects printing costs. Simplify where possible.
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Limit the Number of Colors: Each ink color requires a separate screen and setup. Stick to 1–3 colors to minimize costs. A 1-color print is significantly cheaper than a 6-color design.
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Use Vector Files: Provide artwork in vector format (AI, EPS, SVG) for crisp, scalable prints. This prevents extra fees for file reconstruction.
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Avoid Gradients and Fine Details: These require special techniques like simulated process printing, which increases cost. Opt for solid colors and bold lines.
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One-Sided Prints: Printing on only one side (typically front or back) reduces labor and materials. Add a second-side print only if necessary.
Choose Affordable, High-Quality Apparel
The shirt itself is a major part of the cost.
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Select Mid-Range Blends: 100% cotton is classic, but 50/50 cotton-polyester blends are often cheaper and more durable, especially for active wear.
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Stick to One Style and Color: Mixing shirt types, colors, or brands increases setup and inventory complexity. Uniformity reduces errors and cost.
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Buy Popular, In-Stock Styles: Avoid specialty or out-of-stock items. Basic colors like black, white, and navy are usually cheaper and faster to fulfill.
Get Multiple Quotes and Negotiate
Don’t settle for the first quote.
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Compare at Least 3–5 Suppliers: Use online printing platforms (like Printful, Custom Ink, or local screen printers) to compare pricing, turnaround times, and quality.
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Ask About Hidden Fees: Confirm whether setup, screen cleaning, or shipping costs are included. Some vendors offer “free setup” for bulk orders.
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Negotiate for Larger Orders: If ordering 500+ shirts, ask for a custom quote. Suppliers often offer additional discounts for high-volume commitments.
Place Your Order Strategically
Timing and order management matter.
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Order Off-Peak: Avoid holidays and back-to-school season when demand (and prices) peak. Summer and early fall are often better for pricing.
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Use a Pre-Order System: Collect payments upfront from team members or customers to fund the bulk order, reducing your financial risk.
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Request a Physical Sample: Before mass production, order a sample print to check color accuracy and quality—avoid costly reprints.
Summary: Key Tips for the Best Bulk Price
- Hit or exceed quantity break thresholds.
- Use simple, vector-based artwork with limited colors.
- Choose screen printing for large runs.
- Select affordable, in-stock apparel.
- Compare quotes and negotiate for volume discounts.
- Order strategically to avoid rush fees and ensure quality.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your per-shirt cost while maintaining a professional, high-quality result.
Choosing the right custom t-shirt provider ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and priorities. To make the best decision, start by clearly defining your purpose—whether it’s for a business promotion, event, or personal project. Consider key factors such as fabric quality, printing techniques (like screen printing, DTG, or sublimation), customization options, turnaround time, and pricing.
Evaluate potential providers by reviewing samples, reading customer feedback, and comparing quotes. Look for transparency in pricing, minimum order requirements, and customer service responsiveness. Sustainable practices and ethical production may also be important if eco-friendliness is a priority.
Ultimately, the best provider strikes a balance between quality, affordability, and reliability. Taking the time to research and test a few options—perhaps with a small trial order—can save money and ensure satisfaction in the long run. By aligning your goals with a provider’s strengths, you’ll secure custom t-shirts that meet both your practical and creative expectations.
