Choosing the Right Shirt for Screen Printing
When it comes to screen printing, the shirt you choose matters just as much as the design itself. The right blank can make your print look crisp, feel comfortable, and hold up wash after wash — while the wrong one can make even the best artwork look dull or shrink after a single laundry cycle.
Here’s a quick guide to what makes a great shirt for screen printing and some of our go-to picks for different styles and budgets.
1. Start with a Smooth Surface
For clean, detailed prints, you want a shirt with a smooth, tightly woven surface. Rough or open-weave fabrics can cause the ink to sit unevenly, especially on thinner lines or fine details.
That’s why soft ringspun cotton tees — like the Tultex 202 or Gildan 64000 — are some of our top choices. They hit that sweet spot of softness, durability, and printability.
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Tultex 202 has a lightweight, slightly vintage feel that’s super comfortable and great for casual wear.
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Gildan 64000 feels a bit more structured and consistent across sizes, with a smooth surface that helps prints pop.
Either one is a solid option for everyday printing projects.
2. A Note on Gildan Heavy Cotton
You’ve probably seen Gildan Heavy Cotton tees used for bulk or budget jobs. While they’re affordable, we usually avoid them unless specifically requested.
The fabric can feel a little scratchy, and it tends to shrink more than ringspun cotton, which can throw off sizing after washing. They’re fine for short-term use, but if you want something soft that lasts, we recommend sticking with a ringspun or premium option.
3. Looking for a Premium Feel?
If you want something that feels more upscale, Comfort Colors 1717 is a favorite.
It’s garment-dyed, giving it that soft, washed-in look and a relaxed, broken-in feel. The heavier cotton makes it feel premium, and the muted, vintage colors are perfect for outdoorsy, lifestyle, or boutique-style designs.
Each shirt has slight variations in tone — that’s part of what gives Comfort Colors its charm.
4. Need Something Thick and Sturdy?
For a heavier, long-lasting option, you can’t go wrong with the Hanes Beefy-T.
It’s a true classic — thick, durable, and built to last. It holds ink well and keeps its shape even after repeated washes, making it perfect for workwear, bands, or anywhere you want that rugged, solid feel.
5. Streetwear Vibes
If you’re after that oversized, structured streetwear look, the Shaka Wear SHMHSS delivers.
It’s a heavyweight tee with a boxy fit and thick cotton fabric that gives designs a bold, high-end presence. Perfect for brands or drops that want that premium merch feel.
6. Choosing What Fits Your Project
Here’s a quick breakdown of where each shirt shines:
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Everyday merch or event tees: Tultex 202 or Gildan 64000
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Budget option (when requested): Gildan Heavy Cotton
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Premium or vintage look: Comfort Colors 1717
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Heavy-duty or workwear: Hanes Beefy-T
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Streetwear style: Shaka Wear SHMHSS
No matter which direction you go, starting with the right blank makes a big difference in how your finished print looks and feels.
The Bottom Line
A great print starts with a great shirt.
The right material, weight, and texture can turn a simple design into something people actually want to wear again and again. Whether you want soft and modern, thick and durable, or bold and street-ready — we can help you pick the perfect base for your next project. Contact us to get a quote or discuss other options for shirts.