The 5 Best Tees for Printing
When you're deciding on the perfect tee for printing, whether it's for a small-run event like a family reunion or a larger run like custom band tees or uniforms, choosing the right t-shirt can make a big difference. Here are our (current) top-5 tees for all sorts of different needs:
Bella+Canvas shirts are known for their quality, which makes them them perfect if you're willing to spend a little more for a longer-lasting, more comfortable feel. Their tees offer soft, smooth fabrics with a great fit, which makes them ideal for designs that need to pop. One thing to keep in mind is that these shirts tend to run a little tight and they can cling to the body a bit, so they're definitely more fitted than some of the others on this list. This is why they’re a favorite choice for bands - especially emo or metal - where fitted, high-quality tees tend to be the popular choice (think American Apparel circa 2004). While Bella+Canvas run pricier, the premium quality is worth it for the right crowd.
Gildan tees have been around a long, long time, and are a staple tee. They’re a heavier weight than Bella+Canvas and have a boxier shape, which gives them a classic feel while staying durable and long-lasting. Gildan tees are perfect for both small-run events like family reunions and larger runs like casual uniforms or basic merchandise. Their affordability and consistency in quality make them the go-to brand for basic tees, offering solid value for money, especially for bulk printing.
Champion has established itself as a premium, recognizable brand, and that brand power can carry a premium on pricing, especially when it's for resale. Champion tees are durable, with high-quality fabrics and attention to detail; the iconic “C” logo on the sleeve stands out and tells everyone just how quality the tee is. Whether you're printing for a small boutique or a larger band merchandise run, Champion tees are a great way to combine style, comfort, and quality.
Hanes is another brand that offers similar qualities to Gildan, with a very similar shape and feel. It's splitting hairs to choose between the two a lot of the time, as they're both budget-friendly and reliable;, while they're just a little less heavy than Gildan, Hanes still offers a great balance of quality and affordability for bulk orders. They’re an excellent option for those who need something simple but effective.
Although American Apparel was acquired by Gildan, their tees are still a well-known name in the apparel world and the drop-off in quality wasn't nearly as drastic as people made it out to be. Their shirts are softer compared to Hanes, Gildan and Champion, and they offer a more “fashion-forward” fit, making them a popular choice for people who want a softer, lighter feel. They’re not quite the same quality they were before Gildan’s acquisition, but for smaller runs or specialty prints, they’re still a recognizable brand with a good reputation for comfort.
Choosing the best tee for printing ultimately comes down to your budget and the vibe you’re going for. Whatever you choose, these five brands all bring something different to the table, so you really can't go wrong - it's just a matter of opinion. As always, if you're looking for help or guidance in deciding which tee to use, just send us an email!