Custom printed T-shirts are used by clothing brands, sports teams, colleges, companies, events, promotional garment suppliers, plus custom apparel manufacturers.
But the selection of a printing technique is only part the story.
The fabric for a printed T-shirt also plays an essential role in the final printed garment.
A fabric suitable for sublimation printing can have different requirements to a fabric selected for DTF or screen printing.
As a buyer, you should understand the importance of composition, GSM, DIA, construction, colour, surface, stretch and end use of a printed garment before bulk ordering of fabric.
In this guide, we’ll be comparing DTF vs sublimation vs screen printing from a fabric buyer’s perspective and explain what to look out for when buying fabric for different types of custom printed T-shirts.
Why Is Fabric Important for Custom T-Shirt Printing?
It’s easy to think that printing and fabric selection are separate considerations.
They are not.
The fabric is the medium for the printed design, and so it’s critical to understand how it can affect the final appearance of the garment.
Before Fabric Selection, Consider:
- Fabric composition
- GSM
- DIA / finished width
- Fabric construction
- Surface appearance
- Fabric colour
- Stretch and recovery
- Intended garment application
- Printing method
- Target price
For instance, a polyester sports jersey for sublimation printing will have different requirements to a cotton T-shirt for screen printing.
Or a stretch activewear T-shirt will need to be considered differently to a standard promotional T-shirt.
So when it comes to understanding the best fabric for custom printed T-shirts, it’s essential to think about:
Fabric + Printing Method + Garment Application
DTF vs Sublimation vs Screen Printing: What’s the Difference?
Before fabric selection it’s a good idea to understand the fundamental difference between the three main types of T-shirt printing.
| Printing Method | General Fabric Consideration | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Sublimation | Especially polyester | Sports jerseys, sportswear, custom polyester T-shirts |
| DTF | Wider range of garment fabrics | Custom T-shirts, fashion apparel, personalised garments |
| Screen Printing | Across different garment fabrics depending on ink and process | Promotional T-shirts, uniforms, branded apparel |
The end result will depend on the printing equipment, inks, fabric composition, colour, surface and the entire production process.
So rather than focusing on the question:
What printing method is best?
A more useful approach is to ask:
Which fabric and printing method is best for my T-shirt?
What Fabric Is Best for Sublimation Printing?
When it comes to the best fabric for sublimation printing, one of the most important considerations is polyester fabric.
Sublimation printing is often linked with suitable polyester fabric, which is why it’s a popular option for custom sportswear and printed garments.
Common Applications Include:
- Sports jerseys
- Football jerseys
- Cricket jerseys
- Running T-shirts
- Teamwear
- Activewear
- Custom sportswear
- Full-print polyester T-shirts
For clothing brands and sportswear manufacturers, the complete specification should be considered for a garment rather than focusing purely on the printing method.
What to Look Out For
When buying polyester fabric for sublimation printing, consider:
- Polyester composition
- GSM
- DIA
- Fabric construction
- Surface appearance
- Fabric colour
- Stretch
- Fabric stability
- Intended garment application
Different polyester knitted fabrics will have a different appearance, feel and performance.
For more information on buying polyester fabric for sublimation printing, read our comprehensive guide on polyester fabric for sublimation printing.
Why Is Polyester Commonly Used for Sublimation Printing?
One of the reasons that polyester is so intrinsically linked with sublimation printing is the interaction between the dye and the polyester fibre.
This is why polyester fabric is often specified for all-over printed sportswear and custom teamwear.
For instance, a custom sports jersey may need to have:
- Full-colour graphics
- Player’s name
- Player’s number
- Logos
- Sponsor graphics
- Multicolour design
Sublimation printing can be an excellent choice for such applications.
However, it’s essential to remember that choosing a polyester fabric isn’t the only consideration when it comes to sublimation printing.
GSM, construction, surface and the production process must also be considered.
What Fabric Is Best for DTF Printing?
DTF, or Direct-to-Film printing, works by transferring a specially prepared design from a film to the garment using heat.
One of the advantages of DTF printing is the range of garment fabrics that can be used for the process.
Depending on the printing setup and garment end-use, DTF printing can be used for:
- Cotton
- Polyester
- Polyester blends
- Some stretch fabrics
- Ready-made garments
However, it’s essential to carry out trials to ensure that the fabric is suitable for the intended printing process.
What to Look Out For
When it comes to fabric for DTF printing, consider:
- Fabric composition
- Fabric surface
- GSM
- Stretch
- Recovery
- Garment colour
- Heat/process compatibility
- Intended application
When it comes to stretch garments, it’s crucial to think about how the printed area will react to being stretched.
DTF Printing for Custom T-Shirts
DTF printing can be a great solution for:
- Small clothing collections
- Custom T-shirts
- Personalised garments
- Event T-shirts
- Teamwear
- Brand merchandise
- Limited-edition garments
This can be a great benefit for clothing manufacturers looking to create unique garments.
However, it’s essential to carry out testing on the garment before bulk printing commences.
What Fabric Is Best for Screen Printing?
Screen printing is one of the most traditional methods of custom T-shirt printing.
The process can be used across a wide range of garment fabrics, depending on the ink and printing process.
Common Applications Include:
- Promotional T-shirts
- Brand merchandise
- Event T-shirts
- College T-shirts
- Company uniforms
- Casualwear
- Bulk printed garments
The suitability of different fabrics depends on the desired appearance, garment end-use and printing method.
What to Look Out For
When considering fabric for screen printing, it’s important to think about:
- Fabric surface
- Fabric composition
- GSM
- Colour
- Construction
- Stretch
- Intended garment application
A suitable surface profile for a fabric can help to achieve the desired print outcome, but it’s not the only consideration when it comes to successful screen printing.
DTF vs Sublimation vs Screen Printing: Fabric Guide
Let’s review the differences between DTF printing, sublimation printing and screen printing from a clothing or fabric buyer’s perspective.
| Printing Method | Best Suitable For | Common Applications | Fabric Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sublimation | Suitable polyester-based custom sportswear and all-over printed garments | Sports jerseys, teamwear, performance T-shirts, custom sportswear, full-print garments | Polyester composition + GSM + construction + surface + intended application |
| DTF | Custom designs across a wider range of garment fabrics | Fashion T-shirts, small-batch apparel, custom clothing, promotional garments, personalised T-shirts | Composition + surface + stretch + recovery + process compatibility |
| Screen Printing | Promotional, branded and bulk printed garments depending on artwork and production setup | Promotional T-shirts, events, college apparel, company uniforms, brand merchandise | Surface + composition + GSM + colour + construction |
Which Printing Method Is Best?
There is no one printing method that is best for every custom printed T-shirt.
Your considerations should begin with the garment that you want to create.
Making Sports Jerseys?
Sublimation printing can be a great choice when working with suitable polyester fabric and requiring complex graphics.
Making Custom Fashion T-Shirts?
DTF printing can offer the flexibility that you need across different garment fabrics.
Producing Promotional T-Shirts in Bulk?
Screen printing can be the most cost-effective option, depending on the artwork, quantity, fabric and printing requirements.
The most important consideration when it comes to fabric for custom printed T-shirts is:
Don’t select the fabric after making all of your other production decisions.
How Does GSM Affect Printed T-Shirts?
GSM stands for grams per square metre and refers to the weight of a fabric.
It can impact:
- The feel of the garment
- Weight and drape of the fabric
- The overall look and appeal of the garment
- Durability of the fabric
- Cost of the garment
- End-use of the garment
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best GSM for custom printed T-shirts.
A standard promotional T-shirt will have different requirements to a high-end fashion T-shirt or a sports jersey.
When it comes to fabric selection for printed T-shirts, always think about GSM in relation to fabric construction, composition and end-use.
For more information on GSM and fabric selection, read our Complete Guide to Fabric GSM.
How Does Fabric Construction Affect Printing?
Two fabrics can have the same GSM but look and feel completely different.
One reason for this is the difference in fabric construction.
Some common fabric constructions include:
Single Jersey
A staple construction for T-shirts and other casualwear styles.
Piqué
A variation of single jersey often used for polo-style garments.
Interlock
A double knit construction that features a smooth surface on both sides of the fabric.
Mesh
A construction often used in sportswear due to its breathable nature.
This shows the importance of looking beyond GSM when it comes to fabric selection for printed T-shirts.
To learn more about the differences between different fabric constructions, read our Single Jersey vs Piqué vs Interlock vs Mesh Fabric Comparison Guide.
Does Fabric Colour Matter for T-Shirt Printing?
Yes.
Fabric colour can play a significant role in the appearance of a printed T-shirt.
The requirements for printing on:
- White fabric
- Black fabric
- Navy fabric
- Bright colours
- Other fabric colours
can be different.
This is especially true when it comes to fine detail work, bright graphics or large-scale designs.
Always carry out testing of:
Fabric Colour + Printing Method + Artwork
before bulk printing commences.
What About Stretch Fabrics?
When it comes to T-shirt printing, stretch fabrics require additional consideration.
If a garment has stretch, the printed area must also be able to stretch with the fabric.
This is especially important for:
- Sportswear
- Activewear
- Gymwear
- Fitted T-shirts
- Stretch garments
Some Common Considerations for Fabric With Stretch Include:
- The percentage of stretch in the fabric
- Recovery in the fabric
- Fabric composition
- Print flexibility
- Print durability
- Finished garment performance
Always carry out testing on the printed garment rather than the fabric itself.
Custom Sportswear: Fabric Selection Comes First
For sportswear manufacturers and teamwear suppliers, the selection of fabric for custom jerseys and sportswear is paramount.
A custom sports jersey will often require the following:
- Lightweight construction
- Breathable fabric
- Moisture-wicking properties
- Suitable level of stretch
- Good recovery
- Comfortable hand feel
- Appropriate GSM
- Printing suitability
This shows why it is so important for sportswear buyers to think about:
Fabric + Printing Method + Garment Design
when selecting materials for sports jerseys.
For more information on fabric selection for sportswear, read our complete guide to the Best Polyester Fabrics for Sportswear.
What Should You Say to Your Fabric Supplier?
Before asking for a quotation, it’s important to give your fabric supplier as much information as possible.
Rather than stating:
“I want polyester fabric.”
State:
“I need a sports T-shirt using sublimation printing. I require 1,000 pcs. Target GSM is 140–160. Colour is white. Application is sportswear.”
This will allow the supplier to provide greater clarity on the following:
- Fabric construction
- GSM
- DIA
- Quantity
- Price
- Sample
- Availability
- Bulk supply
For more information on fabric DIA and width, read our Complete Guide to Fabric DIA, Width, Cutting and Fabric Consumption.
Why Should You Test Fabric Before Bulk Printing?
Even if you think you know what you want, always carry out testing.
Before placing a large order of fabric, carry out testing of the fabric + printing method combination.
Fabric
- GSM
- DIA / width
- Construction
- Composition
- Stretch
- Hand feel
Printing
- Colour appearance
- Print clarity
- Print adhesion
- Stretch behaviour
- Washing performance
- Overall appearance
Garment
- Fit
- Comfort
- Print placement
- Print feel
- Overall appearance
Testing a sample garment before bulk production begins can save you time, money and headaches.
Common Fabric Mistakes When Buying Fabric for Custom Printed T-Shirts
Mistake 1: Choosing Fabric Only by Price
The cheapest fabric is not always the best choice for your garment.
Mistake 2: Choosing the Printing Method Without Considering the Fabric
The fabric and printing method should always be considered together.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Fabric Composition
Fabric composition is especially important for certain printing methods, such as sublimation printing.
Mistake 4: Ignoring GSM
Two fabrics can have the same GSM but have very different weight, drape and feel.
Mistake 5: Skipping Sample Testing
Always carry out sample testing before bulk production commences.
Mistake 6: Assuming Every Polyester Fabric Is the Same
Polyester is a fibre type, not a fabric construction.
Polyester fabrics can vary greatly in terms of:
- GSM
- DIA
- Construction
- Surface
- Stretch
- Hand feel
- Performance
Quick Fabric & Printing Guide
| Requirement | Fabric Considerations | Printing Method to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Sports jerseys | Suitable polyester, GSM, construction and breathability | Sublimation printing |
| Full-print teamwear | Suitable polyester fabric and surface | Sublimation printing |
| Custom fashion T-shirts | Composition, surface, GSM and stretch | DTF printing or screen printing |
| Promotional T-shirts | Cost, GSM, colour and construction | Screen printing or DTF printing |
| Personalised T-shirts | Suitable garment fabric and surface | DTF printing |
| Corporate apparel | Comfort, durability and colour | Screen printing or DTF printing |
| Stretch activewear | Stretch, recovery and composition | Depends on garment and print |
Note: The best printing method and fabric will depend on the specific garment, artwork, printing equipment and overall requirements. Always carry out sample testing before bulk production begins.
What Should You Check Before Buying Fabric for Custom T-Shirts?
Before buying fabric for custom T-shirts, always ensure that you carry out the following checks:
☑ Fabric composition
☑ GSM
☑ DIA / finished width
☑ Fabric construction
☑ Surface appearance
☑ Fabric colour
☑ Stretch and recovery
☑ Intended printing method
☑ Intended garment application
☑ Sample approval
☑ Printing test
☑ Required quantity
☑ Bulk price
Getting these specifications right can help to avoid common issues with T-shirt printing and garment manufacturing.
Final Takeaway
There is no one best fabric for every custom printed T-shirt.
The best fabric for your printed garment will depend on what you’re making, how you’re printing it and who is going to be wearing it.
Sublimation printing is often used for suitable polyester fabric and is popular for custom sportswear and full-print garments.
DTF printing offers a flexible solution across a much wider range of garment fabrics and is often used for custom garments, including small-batch production.
Screen printing remains a popular choice for promotional, branded and bulk printed T-shirts.
But the printing method is only one consideration when it comes to fabric selection for printed T-shirts.
A suitable fabric choice will require consideration of:
Composition + GSM + DIA + Construction + Surface + Stretch + Printing Method + Garment Application
At Walrus – Yes India Can, we supply polyester and knitted fabrics for clothing brands, sportswear manufacturers, teams and bulk buyers from Tiruppur.
Whether you’re creating custom sports jerseys, printed T-shirts, promotional apparel or a complete clothing collection, it’s essential to choose the right fabric for the job.
Explore our range of wholesale polyester fabric and discover the perfect fabric for your next custom apparel project.
