Buying Blank T-shirts: A Practical Checklist

Equal prices do not mean equal shirts

Two shirts can look similar in a photograph while differing in weight, fibre composition, construction and fit. Build one brief that lists the neckline, sleeve length, material, colour and quantity per size. Ask every supplier to quote against it, including printing where required. A cheaper unit price may exclude a feature that another quotation includes.

Explore the related guide or collection: Custom Promotional T-shirts

Choose fabric and print together

Ask for fibre composition rather than relying on trade names. The print process must suit the fabric, colour and stretch. Test your artwork on the same garment and colour you plan to order. A result on white fabric does not establish how the design will look or feel on a dark shirt.

Explore the related guide or collection: Plain T-shirts for Branding

Collect sizes from an agreed sample

M and XL labels are not identical across different patterns. Agree how flat chest width, body length and sleeve length are measured. Where practical, use a sample size set for the team. Keep the final size breakdown in one approved document so scattered changes do not create conflicting totals.

Explore the related guide or collection: Custom Piqué Polo Shirts

Evaluate the sample in use

Inspect the underarm seams, neckline, hem and overall balance. Follow the stated care instructions for a sample wash, then compare measurements and artwork before and after. One sample cannot guarantee every unit, so document the specification and delivery inspection criteria as well.

Explore the related guide or collection: Apparel Printing & Logo Embroidery

Final purchasing checklist

Before approval, review the style, colour, material, size quantities, final artwork, print dimensions and placement, packaging, destination and date. For a scheduled event, allow separately for sampling and transport. Start with the promotional T-shirt collection to compare the available styling directions.