Are you looking to order custom t-shirts? They have become more than just clothing; they have become a canvas for self-expression. It is a means of promoting businesses, events, and causes and a reflection of personal style.
But one might wonder how much custom t shirts cost. Knowing what affects custom T-shirt costs is important for events or branded merchandise.
In this ultimate guide, know the various elements that impact custom T-shirt pricing. Understand the concepts that help you navigate the world of personalized apparel and make informed decisions. From fabric choices to printing techniques and quantity considerations, we’ll uncover the secrets behind how much custom t shirts cost.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a business owner exploring promotional opportunities, let’s explore the world of custom T-shirt pricing.
What is a Custom T-shirt?
A custom T-shirt is a personalized garment created to meet the specific design requirements of an individual, group, or organization. Unlike ready-made shirts with pre-designs, custom T-shirts allow individuals to express their creativity and uniqueness in various ways. It can be through customized artwork, text, colors, and styles. People use such shirts for reasons ranging from personal fashion statements to promotional and marketing tools.
You may use custom t-shirts to celebrate special occasions. Individuals print their names, dates, or inside jokes to commemorate the event as custom t shirts. Businesses also utilize custom T-shirts as a branding and marketing strategy. They feature the latest logo designs, slogans, or product designs to create brand awareness and loyalty.
For instance, a local café might print its logo on t-shirts and put it on sale. It turns its customers into walking advertisements effectively. Essentially, custom T-shirts are versatile canvases that empower individuals and businesses in a visually appealing and unique way.
How Much Do Custom T-shirts Cost?
It is safe to say that the market for custom t-shirts is pretty good right now. We can say that custom T-shirts are the way to go for several occasions.
Custom t shirt prices are subject to fluctuations, based on variables, like fabric choice, size, quantity, order deadline, etc. In addition, it is crucial to consider supplementary expenses, such as custom print or any optional services that one may require.
While creating your ideal custom T-shirt requires an initial investment, rest assured the value it brings is worth the cost. This approach provides an excellent avenue for promoting your brand, organization, or business stylishly and comfortably.
You can expect custom t shirts to cost between $20-$60.
Here is the rough of the price of custom t shirts by their types in the USA-
- Basic Custom Cotton T-shirt: It may range between $5-$15, with lower prices for bulk orders.
- Performance/Technical Custom T-Shirt: Prices can vary if one is looking for moisture-wicking or athletic-style shirts. Expect to pay between $15 and $35 per shirt.
- Tri-blend Custom T-shirts– These are made from varied materials like cotton, polyester, and rayon. They tend to be soft and have a vintage feel. Prices can range from $10 to $30 per shirt.
- Further Customized Graphics/Design: The cost of adding custom graphics to the t-shirts relies on the intricacy of the design. And not to forget, the printing method used.
Simple screen printing may cost between $3 to $7 per shirt, while direct-to-garment (DTG) printing could range between $10 to $15 per shirt. More intricate designs, embroidery, or other customizations will increase the price.
The prices will vary because of various permutations and combinations. We think it’s a good idea to request quotes from different suppliers. It will get you a more accurate estimate for your custom t-shirt project.
Key Factors That Impact Custom T-shirt Cost
In our experience in this industry, we have seen many thinking all custom t-shirts cost the same. However, that’s not the case. There are some factors involved in the custom t shirt cost. You should think carefully about what you want before coming straight for a quote.
Consider these points to gain an idea about the cost of custom t shirts-
1. Print Placement
The printing location or placement on a custom t-shirt matters a lot. One has to strategize where they want to show their design. Print locations refer to the areas on the T-shirt where your custom design or graphics are applied. The number, location size, and complexity of these print locations impact the overall cost substantially.
Single or multiple locations
You may want a single print location (only sleeves) or a double print location (front and back). The costs will vary as single printing takes less time and labor.
Design complexity according to location
Designs that are one or two colors and don’t have intricate details are usually less expensive to print on the front and back.
However, if your design includes multiple colors, intricate details, or gradients, it will require more advanced printing techniques in some locations. It can be screen printing or direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, which can be more costly.
Size according to location
The cost will vary if the specified area has a big or small print size. For instance, the pocket area will need a small design print, whereas an all-over shirt print will be expensive.
2. Order Quantity
The custom t shirt printing cost differs by the quantity you intend to order. Larger orders typically have lower per-unit costs, coinciding with most business principles.
For instance, if you plan to purchase a small number of custom T-shirts, such as a batch ranging from 5 to 10 shirts, you can expect to pay the retail price, which generally falls within $20 to $30 per T-shirt.
It might appear relatively expensive, but it’s important to note that individuals who buy small batches of custom shirts typically do so for personal use, like for themselves, family, or friends. Consequently, the pricing is higher for these smaller quantities.
It’s advisable to consider placing an order for a minimum of 15 shirts or more to reduce the overall cost of your custom T-shirts. Doing so will enable you to take advantage of bulk pricing, helping you keep your expenses more economical.
3. Fabric Category
Another aspect affecting the custom t shirt cost is the type of fabric you select for your custom T-shirts. It plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost. The shirt’s fabric type is a huge element in how much it will cost to customize.
Cotton
If you opt for a cotton T-shirt, you can expect a more budget-friendly price, especially when ordering in larger quantities. Custom cotton shirts typically start at around $7 to $10 per garment, although this can vary depending on other factors.
Polyester
Polyester T-shirts work best when considering custom T-shirts for events like marathons, 5k runs, or for your sports team. These shirts have moisture-wicking material, specially designed for high-performance activities.
While they offer excellent functionality, it is worth noting that, in terms of pricing, polyester T-shirts tend to fall in a range typically higher than cotton T-shirts. The price difference could be due to the added moisture-wicking feature they provide.
Cotton/Poly Blend
Cotton/polyester blends offer several advantages. They tend to be priced higher than pure cotton or polyester options because of the mix of both materials. Nevertheless, this blend provides comfort, making the shirts a preferred choice for many.
Tri-Blend
On the other hand, if you prefer a super-soft tri-blend fabric, the cost per shirt will be higher. Tri-blend T-shirts typically have a starting price of $9 to $13.
Base your choice between 100% cotton or a tri-blend tee on your budget and the preferences of the individuals. Know who will be wearing your custom apparel.
Therefore, think wisely about what you want and create a stunning custom t shirt. Ask professionals if you have some other material and more queries.
4. Print Quality
The quality of the print creates a difference as well. Print quality is a crucial factor that significantly impacts the cost of custom T-shirts. It refers to the level of detail, durability, and overall visual appeal of the design printed on the T-shirt.
Print quality entails using specialized techniques. Achieving high-quality prints requires specialized printing techniques and equipment. Such methods demand skilled labor and costly machinery.
For example, methods like screen printing, which offer exceptional print quality, involve the creation of individual screens for each color in the design, adding to labor and material costs.
Using premium materials and ink for high-quality custom t-shirts also creates cost differentiation. Such materials ensure there is no fading or cracks taking place. These reasons make it more expensive than standard options.
Equipment maintenance and intricate designs, such as photorealistic images or multi-color artworks, require more time and precision during the printing process. It increases production costs as it demands extra attention and resources.
Customers looking for top-notch print quality should invest more to ensure their T-shirts meet their desired standards of visual appeal and longevity.
5. Printing Methods
There are a few different methods of printing that create cost differentiations. Several printing methods affect the cost of custom t-shirts, primarily determined by the imprint method used and the location(s) of the imprints.
The cost will generally increase with the number of colors and locations for the imprints.
Here’s an overview of these imprint methods-
Screen Printing
Screen printing is the most common and cost-effective imprint method. It is also highly versatile and suitable for printing on a variety of materials.
Heat Transfer
Heat transfer involves printing a design onto a sheet and then using a heat press to transfer the design onto the t-shirt.
Such a method is ideal for full-color printing but becomes more expensive as the size of the transfer or design increases.
Explore an in-depth comparison between screen printing & heat transfer.
Embroidery
Embroidery involves using needlework to create long-lasting designs. However, it may not be the best choice for t-shirts due to the puncture of thin fabric during the process.
While embroidery results in high-quality designs- it is generally more costly. The overall cost relies on the size and stitch count of the design.
Direct to Garment
DTG printing is a method where dyes are absorbed directly into the fabric. It allows for full-color printing and works best on cotton t-shirts.
One of its advantages is the ability to print just one t-shirt if needed. As with most promotional product orders, the price per unit decreases with higher quantity orders.
Ask a professional to help you with the design and cost if there is any scope for different printing methods.
6. Ink Colors
The custom t shirts prices differ due to the number of ink colors as well. Screen printing is a popular method for custom t-shirts, especially for large orders. However, it involves a setup process where they create a separate screen for each ink color in the design. This setup incurs additional costs for labor, materials, and equipment.
For instance, you need a custom t shirt print with a simple design consisting of a single color- black. A black logo placement on shirts will cost less due to the single color.
Now, consider a complex design with multiple colors. These colors would be red, green, and blue. Each color will require a separate screen, leading to higher setup costs.
Setup cost and printing cost are two separate things. Printing a design with multiple ink colors takes more time because artists apply each color one at a time. This extended production time can affect labor costs and turnaround times for your order.
In a nutshell, the number of ink colors in your custom t-shirt design is a significant cost driver in screen printing.
While it allows for vibrant and detailed designs, it’s essential to consider the associated setup, materials, and production time costs.
For budget-conscious projects, opting for fewer ink colors can help reduce expenses while still achieving your desired look.
7. Turnaround Time
You may wonder what is the turnaround time. It is a critical factor that can impact the cost of custom t-shirts. There are standard turnaround and rush orders and tiered pricing under the turnaround time.
Standard Turnaround
Printing companies generally keep standard production and delivery times for all custom t-shirt orders. The existence of a standard turnaround time is designed for normal production. Schedule and allow for efficient planning and cost management.
Rush Orders
If you require your custom t-shirts to be produced and delivered in a shorter timeframe than the standard turnaround time, you may incur additional costs. Printing companies often charge extra for rush orders to prioritize your project and expedite the production process.
Tiered Pricing
Many printing companies can offer tiered costing based on turnaround time. It means the custom t shirt cost varies depending on how quickly one needs it. Generally, the shorter the turnaround time, the higher the cost.
8. Shipping Costs
Shipping and per custom t shirt costs will differ if the custom t-shirts are delivered out of the state or country. You have to factor in the shipping cost per shirt.
There may be advertisements from companies saying free shipping, but we think it is best to read their terms and conditions. It may not necessarily translate into lower overall cost. Some companies providing “free shipping”, have already included the shipping expenses in the custom t shirt cost. So in essence, the t-shirts are priced higher just to hide the shipping cost.
However, if the printing company doesn’t offer free shipping, you’ll have to think of it as a separate cost. It is crucial to remember while evaluating custom t-shirt costs. It impacts the whole order and your budget.
To make informed decisions about your custom t-shirt order, consider the shirt’s base price and any associated shipping costs, whether included in the advertised price or not.
This approach will help you better understand the overall cost and choose the most cost-effective option for your needs.
9. Add-ons or Additional Personalization
One of the key factors that can influence the cost of custom t-shirts is the inclusion of add-ons or additional personalization. While this might seem obvious, it’s essential to understand how these extra features increase the cost of custom t-shirts.
These add-ons can take various forms, including additional design elements, customizations, or embellishments beyond the standard printing method. Here’s how add-ons affect costs-
Customization
When you choose to personalize your custom t-shirts further there will be extra cost. It can be adding individual names or numbers, custom slogans, or unique graphics, which involves extra labor and materials. This additional work drives up the custom t shirt cost.
Embellishments
Some customers may desire embellishments like rhinestones, embroidery, or specialty inks to make their custom t-shirts stand out. These embellishments require additional materials and demand extra time and craftsmanship, resulting in a higher cost.
For example, suppose you’re designing t-shirts for a dance team and want to incorporate rhinestones to add a touch of sparkle. The cost of the rhinestones, the manual labor involved in applying them, and any specialized equipment needed will contribute to the increased overall cost of the shirts.
Therefore, there is every possibility that one might need additional personalization on the shirt. It will have its respective cost for the value of the time, energy, and labor is justified.
Therefore, it’s crucial to communicate your specific customization requirements with the printing company to receive an accurate cost estimate that aligns with your design preferences and budget.
10. Custom T-shirt Size
The size of a custom t-shirt is a frequently overlooked factor that can impact its cost drastically. While many people may assume that t-shirts of all sizes have the same price, this is not the case in the custom apparel industry.
Larger sizes require additional material
As the title suggests, additional materials contribute to higher costs. It’s important to note that small, medium, large, and XL sizes typically have the same base price since they fall within the standard size range.
The production cost of large-size shirts
Producing larger-sized t-shirts can be more labor-intensive due to handling larger fabric pieces and printing equipment adjustments to accommodate the increased dimensions. This added labor can lead to higher production costs.
Cost scaling
What would cost scaling entail? It involves a scaling model. It’s where each size increment above the standard size will incur additional costs. The cost increase will vary for each company.
Understanding these costs will help you keep a sound budget. It’s also worth noting that these size-related cost factors might not be as apparent in retail pricing but are significant considerations in the custom apparel industry.
11. Other Unpredictable Charges
Wondering what could be some unpredictable charges? Apart from the common factors of customized t-shirt costs, there may be some unplanned costs.
Apart from the more common factors that impact custom t-shirt costs, there can be additional and sometimes unpredictable charges that customers may encounter when placing orders. These charges can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your order and the policies of the printing company.
We’ll enlighten with a few of them:
Artwork readjustments
If there’s a design you didn’t like or want to change, then modifications will have costs. For instance, the design may be of incorrect resolution or a different file format or need color adjustments.
Special requests
The custom t-shirt orders having non-standard or unique requests will incur extra costs. Special requests can be specific packaging, labeling, or customization that doesn’t fall in the production process.
Shipping surprises
Shipping costs are generally very straightforward, but sometimes special handling fees or changes in shipping rates may happen.
Order detail changes
Any changes or additions to your order after order confirmation and production have begun may result in additional costs. It includes changes to the design, quantities, or other specifications.
There are events where you deal with unpredictable situations and adjust the cost. We advise you to keep some money as a backup for any shortcomings. It will make things easier for you.
What Are The Benefits of Buying Products in Bulk?
Bulk buying is common for big companies and retailers. Many might need bulk orders for different reasons. Buying products in bulk offers several benefits, both for individuals and businesses. Here are some of the key advantages-
1. Cost-effective
Every business wants to save money in every way possible. Cost-saving is one of the primary advantages of buying any product, whether custom t-shirts or crockeries. Suppliers often offer lower unit prices or discounts when purchasing items in large quantities.
It can result in substantial savings, especially for frequently used products. It will also lead to profitability.
2. Reduced Waste
Buying in bulk often leads to less packaging, leading to reduced waste. Instead of multiple smaller packages, you have one large container, helping reduce the environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability efforts.
3. Convenience
Having a larger supply of essential items means you are less likely to run out of them. It can save you time and effort since you won’t need to make frequent trips to the store to replenish your stock. There is ease in stock keeping if you have planned orders from beforehand.
Buying in bulk means you’ll need to shop less frequently. It is because you have a larger supply of products. It can save you time and reduce the hassle of frequent trips to the store.
4. Economies of Scale for Business
For businesses, buying in bulk can lead to significant cost advantages due to economies of scale. Ordering larger quantities can help reduce production costs, transportation expenses, and storage costs per unit, increasing overall profitability. We think this is a great benefit for companies or individuals.
5. Consistency
In our experience, the consistency of the product matters a lot. When you buy in bulk, you can often get products from the same batch or production run. It ensures consistency in quality and characteristics.
It can be important for businesses that need uniformity in their products. For example, having the same color ordered custom t-shirt would be better than buying single pieces having slightly varied shades.
6. Customization Options
If you need customization of your product, some suppliers do it. Several suppliers offer customization options for bulk orders, allowing you to tailor products to your needs particularly.
For example, you can request custom packaging or branding for your business. You can also schedule delivery for bulk products.
7. Inventory Management
Managing the inventory is the hardest part of any business. Several things may go wrong if it isn’t checked properly. Buying in bulk can simplify inventory management.
It’s easier to track and reorder when you have larger quantities on hand, reducing the risk of stockouts. There are fewer operational errors if there is bulk buying for business.
8. Emergency Preparedness
It may seem a far-fetched thought, but hear us out. In our years of experience, bulk buying helps people stay ready for emergencies. Bulk purchasing can be part of your emergency preparedness strategy by having essential items in stock.
It can be crucial in case of unexpected events or emergencies. You never know when a fire breaks or an earthquake takes place.
While there are many benefits to buying in bulk, it is essential to consider factors like storage space, product shelf life, and actual cost savings. It will ensure that bulk purchasing is the right choice for your specific needs and circumstances.
A Breakdown of Tampa Clothing’s Custom T-Shirt Pricing
When it comes to creating custom t-shirts for various occasions and purposes, understanding the pricing structure is essential. Tampa Clothing, a reputable custom t-shirt company, offers a range of customization options to cater to the unique needs of its customers.
In this breakdown, we will delve into Tampa Clothing’s custom t-shirt pricing to provide you with a clear understanding of the cost of your personalized apparel.
Whatever you may use it for, knowing how the pricing works can help you make informed decisions. Get the most value out of your custom t-shirt order.
Let’s see the price breakdown-
Availability of sizes in apparel printing: Small- 8x
1. Crew/V Neck Short Sleeve Cost
- 1-20 pieces: $40
- 21-50 pieces: $35
- 51-100 pieces: $30
- 100+ pieces: $25
2. Crew/V Neck Long Sleeve Cost
- 1-20 pieces: $45
- 21-50 pieces: $40
- 51-100 pieces: $35
- 100+ pieces: $30
3. Zippered Polo Short Sleeve
- 1-20 pieces: $45
- 21-50 pieces: $40
- 51-100 pieces: $35
- 100+ pieces: $30
4. Zippered Polo Long Sleeve
- 1-20 pieces: $50
- 21-50 pieces: $45
- 51-100 pieces: $40
- 100+ pieces: $35
5. Button Polo Short Sleeve
- 1-20 pieces: $55
- 21-50 pieces: $50
- 51-100 pieces: $45
- 100+ pieces: $40
6. Button Polo Long Sleeve
- 1-20 pieces: $60
- 21-50 pieces: $55
- 51-100 pieces: $50
- 100+ pieces: $45
7. Tanks Tops
- 1-20 pieces: $35
- 21-50 pieces: $30
- 51-100 pieces: $25
- 100+ pieces: $22
8. Fleece Hoodies
- $70 for each piece
Note-
- For all the pieces, customers would have to add $2 for each size going above size XL.
- There will be a $75 per custom shirt design charge for all orders under 100 pieces and $25 as setup charges if customers have pre-made art.
Tampa Clothing- Print Custom T-shirts At Affordable Price
Now that you know how much custom t shirts cost, take the next step. Order custom-printed shirts by partnering with Tampa Clothing. Our experienced designers are ready to assist you in creating exceptional custom shirts tailored to your specific requirements.
What sets us apart as one of the premier custom shirt designers in the United States?
We have a great group of skilled designers that boast extensive experience. Find an effortless order system with Tampa Clothing by just calling us. Order a single piece or do a bulk order, there’s no minimum requirement for orders. So feel free to reach us.
Our comprehensive support and first-class materials will be something to impress you. From the initial design concept to overseeing the manufacturing of the printed shirts, we will be by your side at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much money do custom t shirts cost?
The reasonable custom t shirt prices depend on the perspective of the buyer. Several factors, including the shirt quality, the complexity of the design, the printing method used, and the quantity ordered create cost discrepancies.
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $60 for a custom t-shirt. If you still have doubts about how much a custom shirt costs, ask a professional.
2. How is my custom t-shirt price determined?
The custom t shirts price is determined by factors like material, print method, number of colors used, the design, order quantity, and more. Suppliers and print shops will provide a quote based on your specific requirements.
3. Is $100 too much for a custom t-shirt?
Generally, $100 for a custom t-shirt is considered quite expensive. But there can be exceptions for it. Unless it’s a premium, high-end shirt with intricate customization, this price is significantly higher than most people would pay.
It’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices if you’re quoted a high single custom t shirts cost.
4. How do I design my t-shirt?
Designing your t-shirt usually involves creating a digital design file using graphic design software or online design tools.
You can then upload this design to a custom t-shirt printing website or work with a local print shop to bring your design to life. Many online platforms offer user-friendly design tools to help you create custom t-shirt designs.
Here are some trending shirt designs that you can consider.
5. When will I receive my custom shirt order?
The custom shirt orders can vary depending on the supplier or print shop’s workload, the complexity of your design, and the quantity ordered.
It’s essential to inquire about the estimated production and delivery times when placing orders. Standard turnaround times can range from a few days to a few weeks.
6. How much does it cost to make t-shirts in bulk?
The cost of making t-shirts in bulk depends on factors. As mentioned earlier, bulk orders come with volume discounts and other benefits. For a more accurate cost estimate, it’s best to request a quote from a supplier or print shop based on your specific needs.
7. What is the cost of shipping custom t-shirts?
The cost of shipping custom t-shirts can vary based on the shipping method, the shipping destination, and the weight of the package.
Some suppliers or print shops may offer free or discounted shipping for bulk orders or orders over a certain amount. Be sure to ask about shipping costs when placing your order and consider them when budgeting for your custom shirts.
From start to finish Bryan is your go-to contact he will guide you through the setup and design process while making sure all your needs are met!
