There are few things that are more satisfying to look at than a good quality T-shirt. Besides
the fact that they are affordable and easy to throw on, they typically present us with a unique way of expressing our individuality, our loyalties, our creativity and even our humor. For this reason, they tend to be the best-selling products in fashion, which often drives many entrepreneurs and brands to launch their own T-shirt collections.
To this end, if you intend on creating your own T-shirt brand, it is important that you not only find quality T-shirt manufacturers online but you also learn how the manufacturing process is typically carried out. In doing so, you will have full control and understanding over all the various variables that tend to go into producing these garments, which should make it easier for you to build a successful brand that lasts.
What T-shirt Production Method Should You Use?
If you intend on ordering custom T-shirts, you will usually need to choose the type of printing that you want to use with each printing technique usually having its own benefits and drawbacks to consider.
In this regard, one of the most commonly used options is screen printing. This method typically involves creating a design stencil and utilizing a squeegee to apply ink through it onto the shirt. It often produces high-quality results and is best suited for large orders because the stencil can be reused repeatedly. It typically produces very durable results and also allows for fast production times.
Another T-shirt printing technique to consider is dye sublimation. This process involves digitally printing graphics and then heating them before transferring the dye onto the garment. As such, it is different from screen printing, as you aren’t printing on top of the T-shirt but dyeing the fabric directly, which allows you to see the colors and design more without necessarily feeling it under your hand.
Heat press printing is another popular printing technique used on T-shirts. It is also similar to dye sublimation but the main difference is that you need to print the design on transfer paper before applying heat and pressure to print it on the T-shirt. This method is good for high-quality and complex reproductions, as well as small quantities. However, do keep in mind that it doesn’t often work well on darker materials.
There are also other alternative options you can consider for your T-shirt brand such as embroidery, so it all depends on your design needs and quality preferences. You can click here and reach out to Appareify’s team to learn more about what production techniques are best suited to your desired T-shirt line.
What Other Factors Should You Consider In T-shirt Manufacturing?
Aside from production methods, there are also a few other important factors that you need to take into consideration when crafting a T-shirt clothing brand. Some of the most important include:
Raw Materials
Fabric quality is an important aspect to consider because it will help you to choose T-shirts that are well-aligned with your customers’ needs. In this respect, you should be aware that most T-shirts tend to be made of polyester, 100% cotton, or a blend of both.
Blending is actually preferred by most brands because it does well to improve the fabric’s texture, performance, and feel. It can even help to reduce the cost of production. For instance, a 52% Cotton + 48% Polyester blend is a good choice for T-shirts because they tend to be lightweight, quick-drying, and durable. Plus, they are also less likely to shrink, compared to using pure cotton.
Production & Logistical Costs
Another important aspect to consider is the cost of production. Most clothing suppliers come with minimum order requirements, which means that they will not produce T-shirts unless you make an order for a certain quantity. This can often range from just a few dozen to a few hundred to several thousand, so you must be able to find yourself a manufacturer that is able to meet your budget and inventory needs.
In addition, you also have to consider the cost of shipping and handling tends to vary depending on the order size and the destination. When it comes to small orders, it is usually easier to find a manufacturer that can offer free shipping. However, if you are dealing with bulk orders, you will usually need to factor in shipping costs to your production total.
What Should You Look Out For In T-shirt Manufacturers?
Picking the right clothing manufacturer is one of the most crucial aspects that will determine the success or failure of your T-shirt brand. To this end, there are a few key things to look out for when choosing a supplier to work with. This includes:
Hopefully, this article has provided you with a fair amount of insight into how something as seemingly simple as a T-shirt can involve having to deal with a wide range of aspects before you can get the final product.
With the T-shirt industry booming and expected to keep growing in the years to come, keeping the things we’ve talked about in mind can help ensure that you are able to create a brand that makes an impact in the community.
To this end, make sure that you partner with a reliable and reputable garment manufacturer like Appareify because they can help you to handle everything from T-shirt design to product logistics. This should help minimize any potential hiccups that may threaten to disrupt your ability to deliver quality products to your customers.