Find the Perfect Shirts for Screen Printing and Create High-Quality Custom Apparel

Screen printing is all about creativity, but the shirt you choose can make or break the final look. Whether you're designing merch, promotional tees, or uniforms, the right shirt ensures your prints pop and last. So, how do you pick the best shirts for screen printing? Let's break it down and make sure your designs shine!

What Makes a Shirt Ideal for Screen Printing?

Not all shirts are created equal when it comes to screen printing. To get bold colors, crisp lines, and durable designs, keep these key factors in mind:

1. Fabric Composition

The type of fabric plays a huge role in how well the ink adheres and how vibrant the print looks. Here are the top picks:

• 100% Cotton – The go-to fabric for screen printing. Soft, breathable, and holds ink beautifully.

• Cotton-Polyester Blends – A mix of comfort and durability. Less shrinkage and still great for printing.

• Tri-Blend (Cotton, Polyester, Rayon) – Super soft with a vintage vibe. Works best with water-based inks.

• Performance/Polyester Fabrics – Perfect for athletic wear but requires special inks to prevent dye migration.

2. Weave and Thread Count

Smoother fabrics create sharper prints. Ring-spun cotton is a winner—it’s softer and gives a polished finish compared to rougher, open-end cotton.

3. Fabric Weight

Measured in ounces per square yard, fabric weight affects durability and feel:

• Lightweight (3-4 oz.) – Super soft and breathable, ideal for fashion tees.

• Midweight (4.5-6 oz.) – The sweet spot for durability and comfort.

• Heavyweight (6+ oz.) – Thick and tough, great for colder weather and workwear.

Best Shirt Styles for Screen Printing

1. Classic Crewneck Tees

A must-have for businesses, events, and merch. Brands like Bella+Canvas, Next Level, and Gildan make top-notch options.

2. V-Neck Shirts

Sleek and stylish, perfect for casual office wear or trendy retail.

3. Long-Sleeve Shirts

Great for layering, work uniforms, and seasonal collections.

4. Raglan/Baseball Tees

A cool, sporty look that stands out for teams, bands, and casual fashion lines.

5. Tank Tops

A summer staple for fitness brands, gyms, and outdoor events.

Top Shirt Brands for Screen Printing

1. Bella+Canvas

Ultra-soft, modern fits, and eco-friendly manufacturing.

2. Gildan

Affordable, durable, and available in tons of colors and styles.

3. Next Level Apparel

Trendy, lightweight, and perfect for retail-quality prints.

4. Hanes

A classic brand known for comfort and reliability.

5. American Apparel

Fitted, stylish, and popular in the fashion-forward market.

How to Choose the Right Shirts for Your Printing Needs

Before making a bulk order, ask yourself:

• What’s the purpose? Are these shirts for a giveaway, a brand launch, or resale?

• What’s the fit? Do you want a classic, relaxed fit or something more modern and slim?

• What’s the budget? Investing in premium shirts can boost your brand’s reputation.

• What ink will you use? Some materials work better with specific inks, so make sure they match up!

Why Merchloop is Your Go-To for Screen Printing Shirts

1. No Minimum Orders

Order exactly what you need, whether it's one shirt or a thousand.

2. Premium Brands at Better Prices

Get access to top-tier brands at unbeatable prices.

3. Custom Branding and Drop Shipping

Ship branded apparel directly to your customers with ease.

4. Lightning-Fast Turnaround

Get your shirts printed and shipped quickly—no waiting around!

Get Started with the Best Shirts for Screen Printing

Choosing the right shirts makes all the difference when it comes to screen printing. Merchloop makes it easy to get premium-quality shirts that are ready for your designs. Whether you're a small business, an event planner, or a growing brand, we’ve got the perfect shirts to make your prints stand out.

Ready to create amazing custom shirts? Explore the best options with Merchloop today!