Choosing the Best T-Shirt Material for Custom Printing Projects

When planning a custom apparel project, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right t-shirt material. The fabric you select affects not only how the garment feels and wears but also how well it holds ink, maintains color, and fits your overall branding.

At State Graphics, we work with organizations across Chicagoland to deliver screen printing results that meet both visual and functional goals. Whether you’re outfitting a corporate event, team, fundraiser, or retail brand, this guide will help you choose the best t-shirt material for printing success.

100% Cotton Options

Cotton continues to be a classic choice for custom t-shirts. Its natural feel, breathability, and affordability make it a go-to for many projects. However, not all cotton is created equal.

Standard Cotton

Standard cotton shirts are ideal for casual use and budget-conscious projects.

Naturally breathable and soft
Holds screen printing ink well
Available in a wide range of colors and sizes
Most affordable cotton option

Standard cotton is great for giveaways, event tees, and simple logos or one-color prints.

Ring-Spun Cotton

Ring-spun cotton goes through a refining process that makes the fibers finer and stronger.

Softer and smoother than standard cotton
Offers a cleaner, more detailed print surface
Higher durability over time
Feels more “premium” to the wearer

Perfect for brands, staff uniforms, and merchandise.

Combed Cotton

This premium-grade cotton undergoes an additional combing step to remove short fibers and impurities.

Ultra-soft and comfortable
Very strong and long-lasting
Superior print clarity and ink absorption
Ideal for high-end apparel and retail-quality products

Combed cotton is often found in luxury t-shirt lines and projects that prioritize comfort and visual appeal.

Cotton/Polyester Blends

Blended fabrics combine the best features of cotton and synthetic fibers, making them popular for versatile wear and durable printing.

50/50 Cotton/Poly Blend

This common blend is a reliable, budget-friendly option for teams, events, or repeat wear.

Lower shrinkage than 100% cotton
Good color retention and shape
Durable with frequent washing
Smooth finish for screen printing

It’s a solid choice for schools, clubs, and everyday branded apparel.

Tri-Blend (Cotton/Poly/Rayon)

Tri-blend shirts are known for their super-soft feel and fashionable fit.

Lightweight and breathable
Excellent drape and stretch
Slightly heathered look (ideal for vintage-style prints)
Modern, retail-quality finish

This is a top pick for fashion-forward brands, boutique retail, and soft-touch promotional apparel.

Performance Fabrics

When designing for athletic use or high-activity environments, performance fabrics provide superior function and longevity.

100% Polyester

A favorite for sports teams and outdoor events.

Moisture-wicking to keep wearers dry
Quick-drying and lightweight
Strong and wrinkle-resistant
Bold color retention for sublimation or heat transfer

Polyester t-shirts are common in running clubs, school sports programs, and corporate wellness events.

Performance Blends

Blended performance fabrics offer additional comfort and features.

Breathable with added stretch
May include anti-microbial or UV protection properties
Durable for high-impact or outdoor use
Great for fitted, branded activewear

Ideal for gyms, fitness brands, or corporate athletic apparel with an upscale look.

Cost Considerations

Choosing the right material also means balancing performance and appearance with your budget. Here are some factors that influence t-shirt pricing:

Material Quality: Higher-grade cotton or tri-blends will cost more than standard cotton or basic poly blends.
Minimum Quantities: Some fabric types may require higher minimum orders or longer lead times.
Color & Size Availability: Specialty fabrics may have limited color or size ranges.
Brand Selection: Popular retail brands like Bella+Canvas or Next Level cost more than generic or house brands.
Quantity Discounts: Larger orders can reduce your cost per unit, especially when sticking to common fabric types.

Work with a trusted printing provider to compare materials and options that meet both your quality expectations and budget.

Final Thoughts

The success of your custom printed apparel depends on thoughtful material selection. From the soft comfort of ring-spun cotton to the high performance of polyester blends, each fabric offers unique benefits—and printing characteristics.

At State Graphics, we help clients across Chicagoland make informed decisions for high-quality custom apparel. Whether you’re looking for the best t-shirt material for printing promotional tees, staff uniforms, or merchandise, our team is here to guide you through the process.

Have questions or want a material sample?