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Picking The Right T-Shirt Blank For New Shop Owners

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  • Post published:Jan 12, 2023
  • Reading time:4 mins read

Picking the right T-Shirt blank is more important than some people think.

Most shop owners are probably well aware of this. But if you’re new to the custom apparel industry, educating yourself on T-Shirt blanks is something you should definitely do.

Here are four things you should know about T-Shirt blanks.

Fabric of T-Shirt Blank

Cotton and polyester are the two most common T-Shirts that you will encounter. When choosing the fabric of your T-Shirt blank, it’s important to consider comfort, but also whether or not it will work with your method of printing.

Before you choose a T-Shirt blank, you need to be educated on what printing methods work best with what fabrics. This is especially important for new shop owners.

For new shop owners, a safe bet is usually a 50/50 blend. While 100 percent Cotton T-Shirt blanks are definitely a thing, a lot of shirts that you will encounter these days are a blend. A 50/50 blend of cotton and polyester has a lot of benefits. It doesn’t shrink and it’s cheaper in the long run.

Brands

Your average consumer probably won’t know the differences in brands, but you as a shop owner should. There are some major brands in the custom apparel industry and you need to be aware of those.

Take the time to educate yourself on the leading suppliers, such as S&S Activewear. Big suppliers will have representatives that will help guide you in the right direction and make the best decision for your business.

Choosing a high-quality brand is more expensive. But if you want to run a successful business, making your customers happy should be at the top of your list. Customers will appreciate you printing their designs on a high-quality T-Shirt blank.

Comfort of T-Shirt Blank

Comfort is key.

The absolute last thing you want to do is upset a customer over a lack of T-Shirt comfort. It doesn’t matter how good the print looks if the shirt isn’t comfortable to wear.

And in a business that thrives on having repeat customers, you don’t want to sell them an uncomfortable shirt. That’s an easy way to ruin a relationship with a customer or end one before it ever gets started.

The number of custom apparel shops has grown exponentially over the past few years, so it will be very easy for a disgruntled customer to take their business elsewhere. Again, it might cost you a few extra dollars, but if it’s going to lead to repeat business, it’s a tradeoff worth having.

Your most successful print shops will likely tell you that they value quality over quantity and the comfort of the T-Shirt without a doubt falls into the quality category.

Fit of T-Shirt Blank

The last thing we want to touch on is the fit of the T-Shirt blank. Not all T-Shirts, regardless of fabric and material, are created equal.

It won’t matter too much if your T-Shirt is comfortable if it doesn’t fit. And It’s important to know what purpose your prints will be used for. Customers in a wide range of markets will reach out to print shops.

From corporate businesses to small business owners, to schools. Knowing what your shirts will be printed for will go a long way in determining what fit or style of T-Shirt blank you will need.

A good way to educate yourself on fits is to do a few test prints. Not only will that help you learn, but it can also give your customer a good idea of how it will fit and look. It’s important to be as transparent with your customer as possible.