In a world where self-expression meets smart e-commerce, custom t-shirts have taken center stage — and Gildan is quietly leading the charge. Known for their soft fabric, reliable fit, and eco-conscious options, Gildan blanks have become the go-to canvas for creatives, entrepreneurs, and brands looking to make a statement without breaking the bank. But it’s not just about the quality of the tee — it’s about when and how it’s made. Enter Print on Demand (POD), the game-changing model that’s reshaping how we design, sell, and wear custom apparel. With POD, there’s no inventory, no upfront costs, and no waste — just your bold design, printed fresh on a Gildan classic the moment an order comes in. As the lines between fashion, tech, and personal branding blur, Gildan custom t-shirts are proving that comfort, sustainability, and creativity can all come in one perfectly fitted package. Let’s dive into why this combo is dominating the custom apparel scene in 2024.
Top 10 Best Gildan Custom T Shirts Services (2026 Review)
Reviewed for Print Quality, Pricing & Turnaround Time
Expert Guide: Ordering gildan custom t shirts
Comparison of Printing Methods for Gildan Custom T-Shirts
| Method | Best For | Durability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Printing | Large orders, simple designs, bold graphics | High – lasts many washes | Low per unit (bulk orders) |
| DTG (Direct-to-Garment) | Complex designs, full-color images, small batches | Moderate – may fade after ~50 washes | Medium – higher per unit |
| Heat Transfer | Quick turnaround, detailed designs, one-offs | Low to Moderate – may crack or peel | High per unit (not scalable) |
Guide to Choosing Fabrics for Gildan Custom T-Shirts: 100% Cotton vs. 50/50 Blend vs. Tri-Blends
When customizing Gildan t-shirts, selecting the right fabric is key to comfort, durability, and overall look. The three most popular fabric options—100% cotton, 50/50 cotton-polyester blend, and tri-blends—each offer unique benefits. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best fabric for your custom apparel needs.
100% Cotton
Gildan’s 100% cotton t-shirts are a classic choice, known for their softness and natural feel. Made entirely from cotton fibers, these shirts are breathable and ideal for warm weather or everyday wear.
- Pros:
- Soft, natural hand feel
- Excellent breathability
- Great for screen printing and vibrant ink absorption
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Biodegradable and eco-friendly
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Cons:
- Prone to shrinking (especially if not pre-shrunk)
- Less durable over time; may wear or pill with frequent washing
- Can wrinkle easily
- Heavier feel compared to blends
Best for: Casual wear, promotional giveaways, events where comfort and a traditional look are priorities.
50/50 Cotton-Polyester Blend
The 50/50 blend combines equal parts cotton and polyester, offering a balanced mix of comfort and performance. This fabric is a popular mid-range option for custom t-shirts.
- Pros:
- Resists shrinking and wrinkling better than 100% cotton
- More durable and long-lasting
- Lightweight with improved moisture-wicking
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Affordable and widely available
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Cons:
- Slightly less breathable than 100% cotton
- Can feel less soft initially (though modern versions are quite comfortable)
- May retain odors more than cotton
Best for: Active environments, employee uniforms, school events, or any setting where durability and easy care are important.
Tri-Blends (Typically Cotton/Polyester/Rayon)
Tri-blend fabrics usually consist of cotton, polyester, and rayon (often in a 50/25/25 ratio). These shirts are prized for their ultra-soft, vintage-like texture and drape.
- Pros:
- Exceptionally soft with a smooth, silky feel
- Lightweight and breathable
- Great drape and flexibility
- Resists shrinking and fading well
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Offers a modern, fashion-forward look
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Cons:
- More expensive than cotton or 50/50 blends
- Slightly less durable—may be prone to pilling over time
- Not ideal for high-heat printing methods; requires delicate handling
Best for: Fashion-focused designs, boutique brands, gift apparel, or when a premium, soft hand feel is desired.
Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Needs
- For comfort and breathability: Choose 100% cotton
- For durability and value: Opt for the 50/50 blend
- For softness and style: Go with a tri-blend
Consider your audience, use case, budget, and printing method when making your decision. Each fabric brings something unique to your custom Gildan t-shirts—choose the one that best aligns with your goals.
How to Get the Best Price on Gildan Custom T-Shirts (Bulk Discounts & Artwork Tips)
Ordering custom Gildan t-shirts in bulk can be a cost-effective way to outfit your team, promote your brand, or sell merchandise. To maximize savings and ensure a professional result, follow these key strategies focused on bulk pricing and artwork optimization.
Leverage Bulk Quantity Breaks
Gildan and most print providers offer tiered pricing based on order volume—larger orders mean a lower cost per shirt. Use these tips to capitalize on bulk discounts:
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Order at Tier Thresholds: Pricing typically drops at standard quantity breaks (e.g., 12, 24, 48, 72, 144, 288, 500+ units). Try to meet or slightly exceed these thresholds to unlock the next discount level. For example, ordering 144 shirts often costs significantly less per unit than 100.
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Consolidate Sizes and Colors: Stick to fewer color and size variations. Each unique combination (e.g., black XL, white M) may count as a separate “setup” in some pricing models. Ordering 144 shirts in two colors is usually cheaper than 72 shirts in six colors.
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Choose Standard Gildan Styles: Opt for budget-friendly, high-volume Gildan options like the Gildan 5000 (Heavy Cotton) or Gildan 64000 (Softstyle). These are priced lower than premium styles and often have better bulk discounts.
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Compare Print Providers: Not all screen printers or online retailers offer the same pricing. Use multiple quote tools from suppliers like CustomInk, Printful, RushOrderTees, or local screen printers to find the best deal for your volume.
Optimize Your Artwork for Lower Printing Costs
The design complexity directly affects printing expenses. Simplify your artwork to reduce setup and print fees:
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Limit Print Colors: Each additional ink color increases screen setup fees and printing time. Stick to 1–3 colors whenever possible. For example, a one-color logo on a colored shirt is far cheaper than a full-color design.
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Use Vector Artwork (AI, EPS, PDF): Provide high-resolution vector files to avoid extra fees for design cleanup or recreation. Raster images (JPG, PNG) below 300 DPI may require redrawing, adding cost.
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Avoid Gradients and Photographic Details: These require advanced printing methods like simulated process or direct-to-garment (DTG), which are more expensive than standard screen printing. Opt for flat colors and solid shapes.
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Simplify Design Placement: Printing on one location (e.g., center chest) is cheaper than multiple locations (front + back + sleeve). If possible, limit prints to a single location per shirt.
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Confirm Size and Position: Provide clear mockups or specs for design placement. Reprints due to errors can incur additional fees.
By combining smart bulk ordering with print-friendly artwork, you can significantly reduce the cost per Gildan custom t-shirt while achieving a high-quality, professional look.
Choosing the right custom t-shirt provider requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure quality, value, and customer satisfaction. Start by evaluating the provider’s fabric and printing quality—opt for companies that use durable materials and offer a variety of printing methods (such as screen printing, direct-to-garment, or heat transfer) to suit your design needs. Consider the level of customization available, including shirt styles, colors, sizes, and design tools, to ensure your vision can be fully realized.
Pricing and minimum order requirements are also crucial—compare costs across providers while watching for hidden fees, and choose a supplier that aligns with your budget and order volume. Fast, reliable shipping and a clear turnaround time are essential, especially for time-sensitive projects. Don’t overlook customer service and support; responsive communication and easy-to-use platforms enhance the overall experience.
Finally, read reviews and check for a portfolio of past work to gauge reliability and reputation. By balancing quality, customization, cost, and service, you can confidently select a custom t-shirt provider that meets your needs and delivers professional, long-lasting results.
