Custom t-shirts, the coolest trend nowadays!
And you probably already have one in your wardrobe, or are planning to get one soon. Right? And why not? Custom t-shirts are everywhere these days. Whether it’s for a school camp, your small business, a fun family outing, or just something personal, these tees are the perfect way to show off who you are (or what you believe in) without saying a word.
Simply pick a shirt, add your design, print it, done! But if you have ever actually tried ordering custom t-shirts, you will definitely know it’s not always that easy. From choosing the wrong fabric to getting the sizing wrong, there are many factors that can mess up the whole order. So, before you hit that “confirm” button on your order, let’s understand the five common mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.
Mistake 1. Not Checking the T-Shirt Fabric First
One of the biggest mistakes is choosing the wrong fabric for your t-shirts. Not all shirts feel or fit the same, and not all fabrics work well with every printing method.
Like cotton is soft and breathable, which is perfect for everyday wear. Polyester is better for sports or outdoor use because it dries faster. Also, not all fabrics work well with every printing method. For example, digital print heat transfer or DTF (Direct-to-Film) prints look better on certain materials. So, it is always a good idea to ask your printing company which fabric is best for your design.
Tip: If possible, order one sample t-shirt first before printing in bulk. This helps you feel the fabric and see the print quality.
Mistake 2. Using Low-Resolution or Complex Designs
Your design may look great on your screen, but that doesn’t always mean it will print well on fabric. Blurry images, pixelated logos, or tiny text can look messy once printed. If your design has too many small details or very thin lines, it might not show clearly after printing, especially with methods like silkscreen printing, which work best with bold, simple graphics.
Tip: Use high-resolution files and keep the design clean and easy to read. If you are not sure, ask your printing partner to help you adjust it.
Mistake 3. Not Understanding the Printing Method
There are different t-shirt printing methods, each with its own benefits. Not knowing the difference can lead to unexpected results. For example, Silkscreen Printing is ideal for large quantities with simple designs. It’s cost-effective and durable. And on the other hand, DTF (Direct-to-Film) and digital print heat transfer are better for colourful, detailed images and smaller batches. So, choose wisely.
Tip: Always talk to your printing provider and explain what kind of shirt you want. They will help you choose the best method for your needs and budget.
Mistake 4. Forgetting to Check Sizes and Measurements
It is very common to assume that a “medium” or “large” is the same everywhere. But sizes can vary between brands and countries. If you are ordering t-shirts for a group, getting the sizes wrong can cause a lot of problems. Also, some t-shirts may shrink slightly after washing. So, also consider that point when choosing your sizes.
Tip: Ask for a size chart from the supplier and double-check measurements. If possible, do a quick survey to find out the right sizes for everyone before placing your order.
Mistake 5. Ordering at the Last Minute
This is one mistake almost everyone makes, leaving the order until the last minute. Custom t-shirt printing takes time. First, the design needs to be checked, then the shirts printed, dried, packed, and delivered. Rushing the order means extra costs, fewer design checks, or even missing your deadline. To avoid stress, it is always better to order early and give yourself plenty of time.
Tip: Always place your order early, at least 1–2 weeks ahead if you can. This gives you enough time to review a sample, make changes, and get your shirts on time.
Conclusion
Ordering custom t-shirts is a fun experience, whether it’s for your team, your business, or a personal event. But it’s also important to plan properly and avoid these common mistakes. Picking the right fabric, using clear designs, understanding print methods, checking sizes, and ordering early will make a big difference in the final result.
At TJG Print, we help you every step of the way, from choosing the best fabric to advising on the most suitable print method. In short, our team is here to make your t-shirt printing experience simple, smooth, and stress-free. And we don’t stop at t-shirts, we also offer tote bag printing if you are looking for something practical and stylish to enhance your look. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today and let’s bring your custom ideas to life!