How to Make Custom T-Shirts: The Complete Guide for Beginners & Businesses
Want to create your own custom T-shirts but don’t know where to start? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step — from choosing the right fabric and design tools to exploring printing methods like screen printing, Direct to Garment (DTG), and Direct to Film (DTF). Whether you’re making shirts for fun, events, or to launch a business, this article will help you turn your ideas into high-quality custom T-shirts.
How to Make Custom T-Shirts: The Complete Guide for Beginners & Businesses
Making a custom T-shirt has never been easier. Whether you’re starting a small clothing brand, creating event shirts, or just want to design something unique for yourself, there are many ways to bring your idea to life. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from designing and choosing materials to understanding popular printing methods like screen printing, DTG, DTF, and heat transfer.
Step 1 – Define Your Purpose
Before creating a shirt, think about why you need it.
- Personal use: family reunions, birthdays, sports events.
- Business use: brand promotions, uniforms, resale.
- Creative projects: DIY fashion, fundraising campaigns, online stores.
If you’re running a business, consider scaling with screen printing wholesale to lower costs on bulk orders.
Step 2 – Choose the Right Garment
Not all T-shirts are created equal. You’ll need to select the right fit, fabric, and style.
Fabric types:
- Cotton (soft, breathable, classic choice)
- Polyester (durable, wrinkle-resistant, moisture-wicking)
- Blends (best of both worlds, cost-effective)
Styles available:
Tip: Choose quality garments to ensure your prints last longer.
Step 3 – Design Your T-Shirt
This is where creativity comes in. You can use tools like Photoshop, Canva, or our online design studio at Custom One Online.
Key design tips:
- Keep it simple — bold designs print better.
- Use high-resolution images (300 DPI recommended).
- Consider placement: chest, back, sleeves, or full print.
If you’re not confident in your design, our art repair & review service can refine your files for professional results.
Step 4 – Select the Printing Method
There are multiple ways to print your T-shirts. Each method has unique advantages depending on your budget, quantity, and design.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is one of the most popular methods for bulk orders.
- Best for: Large quantities, bold designs with few colors
- Pros: Durable prints, vibrant colors
- Cons: Not cost-effective for small runs
Learn more about our screen printing service.
Direct to Garment (DTG)
DTG printing uses inkjet technology to print designs directly onto fabric.
- Best for: Small batches, full-color designs, photos
- Pros: No setup fees, unlimited colors
- Cons: Works best on 100% cotton
Explore DTG services.
Direct to Film (DTF)
DTF printing transfers designs onto film before heat pressing them onto garments.
- Best for: Versatility on different fabrics
- Pros: Strong durability, vibrant prints
- Cons: Requires pretreatment for best results
Check out our DTF printing.
Heat Transfer Printing
Heat transfer printing uses special vinyl or sublimation paper pressed with heat.
- Best for: Small runs, personalized names and numbers
- Pros: Perfect for sports teams, quick turnaround
- Cons: May peel over time if not cared for properly
Browse our heat transfer vinyl services.
Step 5 – Order or Print Your Shirt
- DIY at home with a heat press or iron-on transfers
- Order online with fast turnaround times — at Custom One Online, we even offer same-day shipping
Step 6 – Care for Your Custom T-Shirt
To keep your prints lasting longer:
- Wash inside out in cold water
- Avoid bleach and harsh detergents
- Hang dry or tumble dry low
- Don’t iron directly on the print
More care tips available in our Help Center.
FAQs About Making Custom T-Shirts
How much does it cost to make a custom T-shirt?
The cost of a custom T-shirt depends on:
- Printing Method – Screen printing is cost-effective for bulk, DTG for small batches
- Quantity – Bulk and wholesale orders reduce per-shirt cost
- Garment Type – Basic cotton vs premium hoodies & sweatshirts
- Design Complexity – Multi-color prints cost more in some methods
Average: $8–$20 per shirt, with big savings on bulk orders.
How long does it take to get custom T-shirts printed?
- Standard Orders: 3–7 business days
- Rush Orders: Same-day shipping is available
- DIY: With heat transfers, under an hour
What’s the best printing method?
- Durability: Screen printing
- Detail & small runs: DTG
- Versatility: DTF
- Personalization: Heat transfer vinyl
How long do printed T-shirts last?
- Screen printed: Years
- DTG prints: 50+ washes
- DTF prints: Highly durable
- Heat transfer vinyl: May peel if poorly maintained
Wash inside out, cold water, no bleach to extend life.
Can I print on different types of apparel?
Yes! Beyond T-shirts, you can print on:
Can I make custom T-shirts at home?
Yes, with heat transfer vinyl, iron-on paper, or Cricut machines. Fun for small projects, but professional methods like DTF or DTG deliver better quality.
Are custom T-shirts good for starting a business?
Absolutely! The custom apparel market is booming. Many entrepreneurs launch online stores with small runs and scale up using wholesale screen printing.
What should I avoid when making custom T-shirts?
- Low-resolution images (<300 DPI)
- Poor-quality garments
- Ignoring washing instructions
- Overly complex designs that won’t print well
Conclusion
Making custom T-shirts is a fun and rewarding process, whether for personal projects or professional use. With the right garment, design, and printing method, you can create apparel that lasts and makes a statement.
Ready to start? Explore our T-shirt collection and design your own today.
