The Best Tips for Choosing Custom T-Shirts for Your Team
Custom t-shirts are a great way to make your group stand out, whether you’re organizing a company retreat, promoting a business, rallying for a cause, or gearing up for a big event. But creating the perfect shirt isn’t as simple as picking a design and placing an order. From choosing the right fabrics to ensuring your branding is on point, there’s a lot to consider when designing t-shirts that your team will actually want to wear.
For small business owners and event planners, investing in the perfect custom shirts can push your message further, boost team morale, and create a lasting impression. Here’s how to make sure you’re choosing the best custom t-shirts for your crew.
Start by Defining the Purpose of the T-Shirts
Before you get into selecting styles and colors, step back and think about why you need the t-shirts in the first place. Custom shirts can serve different functions—a tool to unify employees, merchandise for fans or followers, promotional gear at events, or even souvenir items for a memorable occasion.
Are they primarily for branding? If so, your designs should prominently feature logos, slogans, or other visuals that represent your business. Hosting a casual event? Opt for fun and creative graphics that reflect the vibe (a line of dark humor t-shirts for an edgier crowd would pack a punch). Identifying the purpose of your t-shirts will help guide every decision you make next.
Choose the Right Fabric
Not all t-shirts are created equal, especially when it comes to fabric. The material you choose can impact how comfortable the shirts feel, how durable they are, and even how the designs appear once printed. For example, 100% cotton t-shirts are soft, breathable, and versatile—perfect for everyday wear. Cotton blends (like cotton-polyester) offer added durability and are less prone to shrinking. Moisture-wicking fabrics made from performance materials are ideal for active teams or outdoor events.
Think about when and where people will wear these t-shirts. Is it for a summer charity run? Go for lightweight fabrics that won’t trap heat. For employees at a retail store, comfort and durability should influence your decision to keep them happy during long shifts.
Nail Down the Fit and Style
Gone are the days of boxy, one-size-fits-all t-shirts. Today, custom-shirts can feel modern, fitted, and stylish depending on the cut you choose. Options range from classic crewneck t-shirts to slim-fit designs, v-necks, and even long-sleeve tee options. If you’re catering to a diverse audience, consider offering a few different fits for men and women.
Pay attention to sizing—there’s nothing worse than ordering a bulk batch of shirts only to find they don’t fit your team properly. Always request a size chart from your manufacturer or supplier, and if possible, allow your group to pre-select their sizes beforehand.
Focus on Eye-Catching Designs
When it comes to custom t-shirts, the design does the heavy lifting. Whether you’re going for clean and minimal or bold and expressive, a great design ensures your shirts not only carry your message but also look good while doing it.
For small business owners, keep branding front and center. Add your company logo in a prominent place and stick to your brand’s core color palette so the shirts feel cohesive with your identity. For event planners, don’t shy away from creative elements—graphics, slogans, or imagery that make your t-shirts stand out in a crowd will ensure everyone remembers your event.
Keep in mind that less is often more. Overcrowded designs can feel cluttered and hard to read. Aim for designs with enough breathing space and text that’s legible from a distance.
Consider the Print Method
Different printing methods achieve different effects, and knowing which one to use can make or break the final outcome of your t-shirts. Screen printing is the classic choice for bright, vibrant designs on large orders. It’s cost-effective and delivers a professional finish. Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing allows for detailed, multi-colored designs and works well for smaller orders. Vinyl printing, on the other hand, creates durable designs with a textured, glossy look for standout logos or graphics.
If you’re unsure which route to take, discuss your ideas with your printer. They’ll have insights into which printing method works best for your design, budget, and shirt fabric.
Think Ahead to Longevity
When investing in custom t-shirts, you want to ensure your designs continue to look good wear after wear. This is where quality counts. Choose a dependable provider that uses high-quality inks and ensures your shirts aren’t prone to fading, peeling, or cracking. Request samples before placing a bulk order so you can test fit, comfort, and durability.
The more your team wears their shirts, the more value they bring to your brand or event. Investing in durability ensures they’ll look and feel great long after their first wear.
Build a Community Around the Shirts
One of the most underrated aspects of custom t-shirts is the community they inspire. When employees, customers, or event attendees wear your shirt, they’re essentially ambassadors for your brand or message. Lean into this opportunity by creating unique moments around the shirts.
For example, share photos of your team wearing their t-shirts during events on social media. Encourage attendees to post selfies in their shirts and use a branded hashtag. Create exclusive t-shirt designs for specific events or milestones to add a sense of rarity. Building that community aspect turns your custom t-shirts into more than just clothing—they become memories and part of your story.
Why Custom T-Shirts Matter
A thoughtfully designed t-shirt does more than just look good. It tells a story, promotes a message, and unites people. Whether you’re outfitting your employees or prepping for an event, the goal is to create something that resonates.
By planning carefully and paying attention to things like quality, style, and design, you can create t-shirts that people actually want to wear. The perfect custom shirt isn’t just a piece of clothing; it’s an opportunity.
Are you ready to create t-shirts that your sport team and audience will love? Start today with these tips and watch your vision come to life.