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Choosing the right t-shirt brand is just as important as selecting the right fabric when it comes to custom printing. Each brand offers different levels of quality, fit, and compatibility with printing techniques such as screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), and sublimation. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular t-shirt brands for printing and break down their pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your custom apparel.
Gildan is one of the most well-known t-shirt brands in the custom printing industry. They offer a wide variety of styles at budget-friendly prices, making them a popular choice for bulk orders and promotional events.
Pros:
✔ Affordable and widely available.
✔ Offers different fabric weights, including Heavy Cotton and Ultra Cotton.
✔ Works well with screen printing, DTG, and heat transfers.
✔ Comes in a broad range of colours.
Cons:
✖ May shrink slightly if not pre-shrunk.
✖ Not as soft as premium brands.
✖ Some styles feel boxy and less fitted.
Best for Printing:
Gildan shirts are excellent forscreen printing and heat transfers. Their heavier cotton options also work well forembroidery.
Bella+Canvas is a premium brand known for its stylish cuts and soft fabrics. This brand is a favourite among businesses looking for high-quality retail-style t-shirts.
Pros:
✔ Super soft, lightweight fabric.
✔ Modern, retail-quality fit.
✔ Great colour selection.
✔ Works well with screen printing, DTG, and sublimation.
Cons:
✖ More expensive than budget brands like Gildan.
✖ Some styles may feel too thin for certain customers.
✖ Lighter colours are slightly transparent.
Best for Printing:
Bella+Canvas t-shirts areperfect for DTG printing and screen printing. Their lightweight fabric also makes them a good option forsublimation on lighter colours.
Next Level Apparel offers high-quality, fashion-forward t-shirts with a modern fit, making them a great option for those looking for a stylish and comfortable custom shirt.
Pros:
✔ Soft, premium feel.
✔ Fitted, modern cuts for a trendy look.
✔ Good balance between affordability and quality.
✔ Ideal for retail brands and fashion-forward businesses.
Cons:
✖ Slightly more expensive than Gildan but still affordable.
✖ Not as widely available in all regions.
✖ Some shrinkage after washing.
Best for Printing:
Next Level shirts work exceptionally well forscreen printing, DTG, and embroidery. Their tri-blend styles are also great for a softer vintage look.
Hanes is a household name that offers durability and affordability, making it a great option for workwear and promotional items.
Pros:
✔ Affordable and widely recognized.
✔ Sturdy construction for long-term wear.
✔ Works well for bulk orders and uniforms.
✔ Available in a variety of fabric blends.
Cons:
✖ Not as soft or stylish as Bella+Canvas or Next Level.
✖ Some styles may shrink after washing.
✖ Limited modern fit options.
Best for Printing:
Hanes shirts are best suited forscreen printing and heat transfers. Their heavyweight options also work well forembroidery.
American Apparel is known for its ethically made, high-fashion basics with a unique urban appeal. It’s a great choice for premium brands and high-end retail.
Pros:
✔ Stylish, fitted cuts with a contemporary aesthetic.
✔ Made in the USA and sweatshop-free.
✔ High-quality, soft fabric that feels luxurious.
✔ Works well with a variety of printing methods.
Cons:
✖ More expensive than most other brands.
✖ Limited availability compared to Gildan or Hanes.
✖ Some customers find the fit too slim.
Best for Printing:
American Apparel shirts are excellent forDTG, screen printing, and sublimation. Their high-quality fabric allows for vibrant, lasting prints.
ATC is a Canadian-based brand known for offering a great balance of quality and affordability, making it a strong choice for businesses and organizations.
Pros:
✔ High-quality fabrics with good durability.
✔ Wide variety of styles, including moisture-wicking performance shirts.
✔ Works well with multiple printing methods.
✔ Affordable pricing for bulk orders.
Cons:
✖ Not as widely known outside of Canada.
✖ Some styles may run smaller than expected.
Best for Printing:
ATC t-shirts areversatile for screen printing, DTG, and heat transfers. Their performance shirts are alsogreat for sublimation.
M&O is another excellent budget-friendly option, known for providing a solid alternative to Gildan and Hanes with slightly softer fabrics.
Cons:
✖ Limited premium or high-fashion options.
✖ Some styles may have slight shrinkage after washing.
Best for Printing:
M&O shirts perform well withscreen printing, DTG, and heat transfers, making them a strong option for cost-effective custom prints.
Each brand has its strengths, and the right choice depends on yourbudget, style preference, and printing method. Need help picking the perfect t-shirt for your next print order? Contact us today for expert advice at StrategicDesignTs to create custom apparel that you and your team will truly love and appreciate!