Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Custom T-Shirt Printing

πŸ“… January 12, 2026 ✍️ James Whitfield ⏱️ 9 min read

Whether you're ordering one custom tee or a thousand, this guide walks through every decision you'll make along the way β€” from printing method to fabric, sizing, and turnaround time.

1. Choosing a Printing Method

The printing method you choose affects cost, durability, and how your design looks up close. Screen printing is the most cost-effective option for bulk orders using one to a few solid colors. DTF and DTG printing handle full-color, photo-realistic designs with ease, and are ideal for smaller runs since there's no setup cost. Embroidery is best for logos on polos and caps where a premium, textured finish matters.

If you're unsure, describe your design and quantity to our team β€” we'll recommend the most cost-effective method for your specific project.

2. Picking the Right Fabric

100% cotton is soft, breathable, and takes screen print ink beautifully β€” it's the standard choice for everyday custom tees. Cotton-poly blends resist shrinking and are more durable for workwear and uniforms. Performance polyester is moisture-wicking and suited to sports jerseys and sublimation printing.

3. Preparing Your Design

High-resolution artwork makes a huge difference in the final print quality. Aim for at least 300 DPI at the intended print size, and supply vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) where possible for the sharpest results. If you only have a low-resolution logo, let us know β€” our design team can often recreate it as a clean vector.

4. Getting Sizing Right

For team and bulk orders, always request a size chart or sample garment before committing to a full print run. Mixing sizes within one order is completely normal, and we can print the same design across youth through 5XL sizing.

5. Placing Your Order

Once you've settled on a method, fabric, and design, submit a quote request with your quantity and deadline. We typically respond within one business day with a detailed, itemized price β€” no hidden charges, no surprises at checkout.

πŸ’‘ Pro Tip

Order one sample piece before committing to a large bulk run β€” it's the easiest way to catch color, size, or print placement issues early.

Key Takeaways

  • Match your printing method to your design complexity and order quantity.
  • Choose fabric based on comfort, durability, and the printing method you're using.
  • High-resolution or vector artwork always prints better than low-res images.
  • Order a sample before committing to a large bulk run.
  • A detailed quote request gets you a faster, more accurate price.

No β€” we print single shirts as well as bulk orders of thousands.

Standard orders ship in 5–7 business days; rush options are available.

Yes, for example embroidered logo on the chest with a DTF back print.

Yes, our in-house design team can refine or create your artwork.

PNG, JPG, PDF, AI, and PSD β€” high resolution or vector preferred.

Yes, single samples can be ordered ahead of a bulk run.

Yes, pricing automatically improves at higher quantities.

Youth through 5XL, depending on the garment.

Yes, we work from Pantone references or existing brand guidelines.

Submit a quote request with your product, quantity, and deadline β€” we'll take it from there.

James Whitfield
James Whitfield

Founder & Head of Print at TShirtPrintLondon, with 8+ years in custom apparel production.

Next β†’Screen Printing vs DTF Printing: Which Is Right for You?

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