Introduction
In a world where creativity and personalization are increasingly sought after, finding the best t-shirt printing companies for custom apparel has become paramount. Whether it’s for promotional events, fundraising, business branding, or personal fashion, custom t-shirts play a pivotal role in expressing identity and sending a message. But not all t-shirt printing companies are made equal. Quality, cost, service, delivery time, and the user interface of design tools are among the many factors that can significantly influence your overall experience and the final product. This article aims to guide you through the jungle of options by presenting the top 10 best t-shirt printing companies for custom apparel. These companies have been selected based on a multitude of criteria including customer reviews, variety of services, ease of use, and quality of products. Read on to discover which company might be the perfect fit for your custom apparel needs.
Table of Contents
What Makes a Great T-Shirt Printing Company
When looking for the best t-shirt printing companies for custom apparel, there are a few key features and criteria that set some businesses apart from the rest. These are the factors we used to rank the companies in this list:
- Quality of Products: The most crucial factor is the quality of the t-shirts and prints. Great companies offer products that are durable, comfortable, and hold their color and shape over time, even after numerous washes.
- Printing Options: The best companies provide a variety of printing options, such as screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), embroidery, and heat transfers, to cater to different needs and budgets.
- Design Flexibility: A wide selection of design templates, fonts, and the ability to upload custom designs offer flexibility to customers. User-friendly design tools are a significant plus.
- Product Range: Besides t-shirts, top companies usually offer a range of products like hoodies, polos, caps, and more, expanding the opportunities for brand consistency across different items.
- Price: Affordability without compromising on quality is a crucial factor. Companies that offer volume discounts or special offers for bulk orders also get higher rankings.
- Customer Service: Excellent customer service, including easy access to support, fast response times, helpful staff, and clear communication, is a vital factor.
- Turnaround Time: Speedy production and delivery times can be critical, especially for time-sensitive orders like event merchandise.
- Eco-friendliness: In today’s world, many consumers appreciate companies that offer environmentally friendly products and practices.
- User Reviews and Reputation: High customer ratings and positive reviews are good indicators of company performance and customer satisfaction.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about which t-shirt printing company is the best fit for your custom apparel needs. Keep reading as we delve into the top 10 best t-shirt printing companies that excel in these areas.
The Importance of Custom Apparel
Custom apparel, particularly t-shirts, holds a unique place in our society. Beyond just being a piece of clothing, it’s a powerful tool with numerous benefits. Let’s discuss the value and advantages of custom apparel:
- Brand Visibility: Custom apparel is like a walking billboard. It offers an excellent way to increase brand visibility and recognition. When employees or customers wear your custom printed t-shirts, they expose your brand to a larger audience, helping you reach potential clients.
- Uniformity and Team Spirit: For organizations and teams, custom apparel can foster a sense of unity and belonging. Uniforms contribute to creating a professional image and can boost team spirit.
- Promotional Tool: Custom t-shirts are a cost-effective promotional tool, perfect for events like trade shows, product launches, or fundraisers. They can generate buzz, start conversations, and leave a lasting impression.
- Customer Engagement: Offering custom apparel as merchandise or gifts can be an effective way to engage with customers. They serve as a constant reminder of your brand every time the wearer uses them.
- Expression of Creativity: For individuals, custom apparel provides an avenue to express personal style, beliefs, and creativity. They allow you to make a statement and stand out from the crowd.
- Durability of Advertising: Unlike other forms of advertising that have a short lifespan, a well-made, custom printed t-shirt can last for years, promoting your message every time it’s worn.
- Memorabilia: Custom t-shirts can serve as memorable keepsakes for events like concerts, family reunions, or school graduations. They can encapsulate memories and spark nostalgia.
Given these significant benefits, it’s crucial to choose from the best t-shirt printing companies for your custom apparel needs. A high-quality custom t-shirt can be the difference between a forgettable piece of fabric and a powerful, long-lasting advertisement or memento. Let’s dive into our list of top 10 best t-shirt printing companies to ensure your custom apparel truly makes a mark.
Overview of the Top 10 Best T-Shirt Printing Companies for Custom Apparel
As we journey into the realm of personalized style and statement-making, the following section provides an in-depth look at the top 10 best t-shirt printing companies for custom apparel. This selection is designed to make your search easier and more effective, saving you valuable time and effort.
The companies chosen for this list are leaders in the industry, each offering unique advantages in terms of quality, service, design options, and more. We’ve taken into account their reputations, customer reviews, product ranges, and various other criteria mentioned earlier.
You’ll find detailed insights on each company, including descriptions, the pros and cons, and the reasons they stand out as one of the best. The companies featured include Printful, Printify, Spring (formerly Teespring), Spreadshirt, RedBubble, UberPrints, Zazzle, CafePress, CustomInk, and DesignAShirt.
Whether you’re a business owner looking for branded merchandise, a designer planning to start a t-shirt business, or someone who just wants to express their creativity through personalized apparel, this review will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the top options in the market. Let’s begin the journey of finding the best t-shirt printing company for your custom apparel needs.
Printful
Description:
Printful is a global drop shipping company that provides print-on-demand services for t-shirts and other custom merchandise. It integrates seamlessly with popular eCommerce platforms, making it a convenient choice for businesses of all sizes. Offering a wide range of high-quality products, Printful takes care of the printing, packaging, and shipping process, allowing you to focus on your design and marketing.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
Printful is among the best t-shirt printing companies for custom apparel because it offers a blend of quality, variety, and convenience. Its easy-to-use platform and robust integration capabilities make it an excellent choice for both novices and experienced sellers. Moreover, with high-quality printing and a wide range of products, Printful can meet the diverse needs of creators and businesses alike.
Pros
- High-quality print results.
- Offers a variety of printing techniques like direct-to-garment (DTG), embroidery, sublimation, and cut & sew.
- Seamless integration with popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, WooCommerce, and more.
- No upfront costs or inventory requirements.
- Global warehousing and fulfillment.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
- Custom branding options like pack-ins and custom labels come with additional costs.
- Limited editing tools in the mockup generator.
Printify
Description:
Printify is a print-on-demand platform that operates with a network of printing partners worldwide. With a business model based on drop shipping, Printify handles the printing and shipping process on behalf of the seller. Their wide range of products allows businesses to add a great variety to their stores without needing to manage any physical inventory.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
Printify makes it to the list of best t-shirt printing companies for its extensive product catalog and seamless e-commerce integrations, making it an excellent choice for businesses. The ability to choose from multiple print providers allows businesses to select an option that best fits their pricing and shipping needs. Its user-friendly interface and the option of a free plan make it accessible to businesses of all sizes. Its business model, offering the ease of print-on-demand with the diversity of a marketplace, sets it apart.
Pros
- Wide variety of products available for printing.
- Seamless integration with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, and eBay.
- Ability to choose from multiple print providers for each product, offering flexibility in terms of pricing and shipping.
- Mockup generator tool is user-friendly and has extensive customization options.
- Offers a free plan, along with premium plans for higher-volume businesses.
Cons
- As printing is outsourced to various providers, there can be variations in print quality.
- Customer support has received mixed reviews.
- The shipping cost varies as it depends on the print provider and the shipping destination.
Spring (formerly Teespring)
Description:
Spring, formerly known as Teespring, is a print-on-demand platform that focuses on allowing creators to design and sell their merchandise. It offers a range of products including t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories. Its user-friendly interface makes it simple for users to upload designs, set prices, and start selling without having to worry about inventory or shipping.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
Spring ranks among the best t-shirt printing companies for its focus on enabling creators. Its user-friendly platform, combined with a broad product range, makes it simple for individuals and businesses to design, sell, and ship custom apparel. The opportunity to set your own profit margin offers flexibility in pricing strategy. Additional features like the ‘Boosted Network’ and customizable storefronts provide extra value, helping extend the reach of your products and enhance your brand presence.
Pros
- Easy-to-use design interface.
- No upfront costs, inventory management, or shipping concerns.
- Allows creators to set their own profit margins.
- Offers an option to create a custom storefront for showcasing all products.
- Unique features like ‘Boosted Network’ extend your products reach to other marketplaces.
Cons
- Limited control over printing quality as it handles printing in-house.
- Customer service has received mixed reviews.
- The platform takes a considerable portion of the selling price, which may affect profit margins.
Spreadshirt
Description:
Spreadshirt is a global print-on-demand platform that allows individuals, businesses, and organizations to create, buy, and sell custom merchandise. Its platform is known for its easy-to-use design tool, extensive product range, and high-quality printing. Spreadshirt offers the flexibility to open a free online shop to sell your designs or purchase custom products directly.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
Spreadshirt is one of the best t-shirt printing companies due to its comprehensive platform that supports both creators and consumers. The simple-to-use design tool, combined with a diverse range of products, offers significant flexibility and creativity. Spreadshirt’s model is not just geared toward businesses, but also for individuals looking to create a one-off design for themselves or as a gift. It also shows a commitment to sustainability, offering eco-friendly options, which is a draw for environmentally conscious consumers and businesses.
Pros
- User-friendly design tool with a large selection of design templates.
- Offers both direct purchase and the option to open a free online shop.
- Wide range of products available for customization.
- No upfront costs or inventory management.
- Provides eco-friendly product options.
Cons
- Shipping can be slower compared to some competitors.
- Pricing can be higher than some other platforms, particularly for single items.
- Custom branding options are limited.
RedBubble
Description:
RedBubble is an online marketplace that connects independent artists with customers. Artists can upload their designs, and RedBubble handles the printing and shipping on a wide range of products, including t-shirts, hoodies, and other merchandise. The platform gives artists the freedom to set their own margins, essentially controlling how much they earn per sale.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
RedBubble stands out among the best t-shirt printing companies due to its artist-first model. It offers a unique platform for artists to sell their work without the need to manage production, inventory, or shipping. The ability for artists to set their own profit margins and the wide product range make it an attractive option. While it may not fit the traditional eCommerce or dropshipping model, for independent artists seeking a straightforward way to sell their designs on custom apparel, RedBubble is a top choice.
Pros
- Great platform for artists to reach a wide customer base without worrying about production and shipping.
- Offers a large variety of products to print designs on.
- Artists have control over their profit margins.
- The platform often runs site-wide sales which can boost the visibility and sales of your designs.
Cons
- As it’s an open marketplace, competition among artists can be intense.
- Customer service and print quality can vary, as RedBubble outsources production.
- Does not offer eCommerce platform integrations, as the primary model is B2C rather than dropshipping.
UberPrints
Description:
UberPrints is an online custom t-shirt printing company that offers a design studio for creating personalized t-shirts. They cater to both individual and bulk orders, providing options for digital printing, screen printing, and embroidery. With a range of clothing options and styles, UberPrints aims to deliver a balance of quality, speed, and excellent customer service.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
UberPrints is among the best t-shirt printing companies due to its focus on user-friendly design capabilities and quality printing techniques. Its service is particularly advantageous for individuals or organizations that need custom apparel in a hurry, thanks to their fast turnaround time. Although it doesn’t offer eCommerce integrations like some competitors, its strengths in customer service, quality, and speed make UberPrints a solid choice for those in need of custom apparel.
Pros
- User-friendly online design studio with a wide selection of clipart, fonts, and design ideas.
- Offers different printing techniques, including digital printing, screen printing, and embroidery.
- Fast turnaround time with rush delivery options available.
- Customer service is known for being responsive and helpful.
Cons
- Pricing can be higher, particularly for smaller orders.
- No direct integration with eCommerce platforms, making it less suitable for dropshipping.
- Limited range of products compared to some competitors.
Zazzle
Description:
Zazzle is an online marketplace that allows designers and customers to create their own products with independent manufacturers. It offers a wide range of products for customization, including t-shirts, business cards, invitations, and more. With an easy-to-use design tool, Zazzle provides a platform for individuals and businesses to create and sell custom products.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
Zazzle is among the best t-shirt printing companies for its vast product range and focus on customization. Its platform allows designers to create and sell, but it also caters to individuals and businesses looking for one-off custom products. With frequent discounts and an easy-to-use design tool, Zazzle is a versatile platform for custom t-shirt printing and beyond.
Pros
- Offers an extensive variety of products for customization.
- The design tool is user-friendly, offering pre-made design templates.
- Provides a platform for designers to sell their designs.
- Frequently runs promotional discounts.
Cons
- Quality can vary due to the vast network of manufacturing partners.
- Shipping and production can be slower than some competitors.
- Customer service has received mixed reviews.
CafePress
Description:
CafePress is an online retailer of stock and user-customized on-demand products. It serves as a platform where designers can upload their designs, set up online shops, and sell a variety of products, including t-shirts, mugs, and more. CafePress handles the manufacturing, distribution, and customer service, making it easier for creators.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
CafePress stands among the best t-shirt printing companies due to its versatile product range and the platform it provides for designers to create and sell. It simplifies the process of selling custom apparel by handling the manufacturing, distribution, and customer service. While the print quality can be inconsistent, its wide product range and the ease of setting up an online shop make it a popular choice for creators. CafePress is an excellent option for those looking to monetize their creativity with minimal hassle.
Pros
- Wide range of products available for customization.
- Allows designers to set up their own online shops.
- No upfront costs or inventory requirements.
- Frequently offers discounts and promotional offers.
Cons
- Print quality can be inconsistent.
- The platform takes a significant percentage of sales, which may affect profit margins.
- Shipping costs can be high for international orders.
CustomInk
Description:
CustomInk is a service that specializes in custom apparel for groups, businesses, and communities. Known for high-quality screen printing and embroidery, they offer a range of products including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more. CustomInk’s design lab provides an easy and fun way to design and preview your custom apparel before ordering.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
CustomInk stands among the best t-shirt printing companies for its focus on quality and group orders. Their user-friendly design lab and the ability to handle orders for large groups or events sets them apart. Although they may not be the best fit for a dropshipping model, their commitment to quality and excellent customer service make them a great choice for schools, businesses, sports teams, and community events looking for custom apparel.
Pros
- User-friendly design lab with a wide selection of fonts, templates, and artwork.
- High-quality screen printing and embroidery.
- Provides options for group ordering and individual payment.
- Offers customer service support through multiple channels including phone, email, and chat.
Cons
- Pricing can be higher than some competitors, particularly for smaller orders.
- No direct eCommerce platform integrations, making it less suitable for dropshipping.
- Production and shipping times can be longer than some competitors.
DesignAShirt
Description:
DesignAShirt is an online platform that specializes in creating custom t-shirts and other apparel for various occasions. They offer a user-friendly design tool that allows customers to choose from an array of garments, customize their design, and place their order, all from the convenience of their home or office.
Why it’s among the best t-shirt printing companies:
DesignAShirt is among the best t-shirt printing companies due to its commitment to quality, customer service, and easy-to-use design tool. The platform caters well to both individuals and businesses looking for custom apparel, and the option for rush services is a standout feature for those in a hurry. While it might not be the best fit for a dropshipping business model, for customers looking for a straightforward way to design and order custom apparel, DesignAShirt is a top choice.
Pros
- User-friendly online design tool with numerous customization options.
- High-quality screen printing and digital printing.
- Offers rush services for faster delivery.
- Provides options for individual and bulk orders.
Cons
- Pricing can be higher than some competitors, especially for smaller orders.
- No direct eCommerce platform integrations, making it less suitable for dropshipping.
- The range of products is narrower compared to some competitors.
How to Choose the Best T-Shirt Printing Company for Your Needs
This section will help readers make an informed choice among the best t-shirt printing companies based on their individual needs. It should cover the following points:
Understanding Your Needs:
Explain that before choosing a t-shirt printing company, one must understand their specific needs. Whether they are an independent artist looking to sell designs, a business wanting to create branded apparel, or an individual wanting a one-off design, different platforms cater to different needs.
Quality of Prints:
Discuss the importance of the quality of prints. While all companies in our top 10 list offer good quality, there might be variations. Highlight how factors such as the printing technology used, the quality of the ink, and the fabric of the t-shirt can affect the final product’s quality.
Cost:
Talk about cost-effectiveness. Pricing structures vary between different companies. Some may have lower costs but take a larger cut of sales, while others might have higher upfront costs but lower ongoing fees. It’s important to consider the cost structure that best fits your budget and business model.
Range of Products:
Discuss the importance of the range of products offered by the printing company. While some may specialize in t-shirts, others might offer a wider range of products like hoodies, mugs, and more. If variety is important to your business, this is a crucial factor to consider.
Ease of Use:
Discuss how the user interface and ease of design can affect your experience. A platform that is easy to use can save time and make the design process more enjoyable.
Delivery and Shipping:
Explain how shipping costs and delivery times can impact your decision. For businesses, timely delivery can be crucial. For individuals, shipping costs can significantly impact the total cost.
Customer Service:
Highlight the importance of reliable customer service. Good customer service can help resolve issues quickly, leading to a better overall experience.
Eco-Friendly Options:
If sustainability is important to you or your brand, consider t-shirt printing companies that offer eco-friendly products and printing processes.
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve taken an in-depth look at the top 10 best t-shirt printing companies for custom apparel, providing a breakdown of each company’s unique offerings, their pros and cons, and why they stand out in the competitive field of t-shirt printing. These companies span from Printful and Printify to CustomInk and DesignAShirt, each providing different benefits that cater to various needs.
Whether you’re an artist looking to sell your designs, a business needing branded apparel, or an individual wanting a unique t-shirt design, the options are plentiful. The right t-shirt printing company for you will largely depend on your specific needs, whether that’s quality, cost, product range, user interface, shipping, customer service, or eco-friendly options.
We encourage you to explore these best t-shirt printing companies for your custom apparel needs. Remember, the perfect t-shirt printing company is the one that aligns best with your needs and goals. So, whether you’re creating merchandise for your brand, designing a unique gift, or starting a t-shirt business, there’s a platform out there ready to bring your designs to life. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which t-shirt printing is best?
The "best" t-shirt printing depends on your specific needs. If you are looking for high-quality prints, direct-to-garment (DTG) and screen printing are often considered the best. For cost-effectiveness and large orders, screen printing may be more suitable. For full-color designs and small batches, DTG or heat transfers could be best. The companies listed in this article like Printful, Printify, CustomInk, and more all offer different printing methods.
Which t-shirt printing is most durable?
Screen printing is often considered the most durable t-shirt printing method, as it lays down thick layers of ink that can withstand many washes. However, it's important to note that the durability also depends on the quality of the ink used and the skill of the printer. Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing can also produce durable prints if high-quality inks are used.
Who are the biggest t-shirt suppliers?
The biggest t-shirt suppliers can vary depending on the region. In the U.S., companies like Gildan, Bella+Canvas, and Hanes are some of the biggest suppliers. These suppliers offer a variety of t-shirts in different styles, colors, and materials.
What do companies use to print on shirts?
Different companies use different methods for printing on shirts. These methods include direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, and embroidery. The choice of printing method depends on various factors such as the complexity of the design, the number of colors, the fabric of the shirt, and the number of shirts being printed.
What is better DTF or DTG?
Both Direct to Film (DTF) and Direct to Garment (DTG) are digital printing technologies used in t-shirt printing and each has its strengths. DTF can print on a wider variety of fabrics including cotton, polyester, and blends, and it offers a softer feel and great washability. DTG, on the other hand, is great for detailed and colored designs and works best on cotton. The choice between DTF and DTG will depend on your specific needs in terms of fabric type, design details, and color requirements.
