When it comes to Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, the type of shirt you choose can make or break the quality of your design. A vibrant, long-lasting print depends not just on the printer or ink but also on the material, weave, and overall quality of the garment.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best types of shirts for DTG printing, including top brands like AS Color, Hanes, Gildan, and Comfort Colors, to help you make informed decisions for your custom apparel projects.
DTG printing works by spraying water-based inks directly onto a shirt’s surface, which are then absorbed into the fibers. This process requires a shirt that can hold the ink effectively while producing sharp details and vibrant colors. Shirts that are poorly suited for DTG can result in faded designs, uneven prints, or even wasted materials. By choosing the right shirt, you’ll ensure your prints look professional and withstand multiple washes.
When it comes to DTG printing, 100% cotton shirts are the gold standard. Cotton’s natural fibers have excellent ink absorption properties, allowing DTG inks to bond effectively and produce vivid, high-resolution prints. Shirts made from synthetic materials like polyester or nylon tend to repel water-based inks, leading to muted colors and poor adhesion.
While 100% cotton is preferred, certain polyblend shirts—typically 50/50 cotton-polyester or tri-blends—can also be used for DTG printing. However, the results may vary:
Pros: Polyblends often have a softer, more lightweight feel, making them appealing for wearability.
Cons: The polyester content can reduce the vibrancy of prints, especially on dark fabrics.
The weight of a shirt, often measured in grams per square meter (GSM) or ounces per yard, affects its printability. Lightweight fabrics (e.g., 4.5 oz) are breathable and soft, but heavier fabrics (e.g., 6.0 oz) are more durable and absorbent. For DTG printing, a medium-weight shirt (5.0–5.5 oz) strikes the ideal balance between comfort and print quality.
A smooth, tightly woven fabric is critical for DTG printing. Rough or uneven surfaces can cause ink to pool or spread, resulting in blurry designs. Pre-shrunk and ring-spun cotton are excellent choices because they provide a smooth, consistent surface.
AS Color is a favorite among DTG professionals for its premium-quality 100% cotton tees. The AS Color Classic Tee (5026) stands out with its:
Material: 100% combed cotton for exceptional smoothness.
Weight: 6.5 oz, ideal for both comfort and durability.
Fit: Modern, relaxed style that appeals to a wide audience.
Hanes offers excellent options for budget-conscious projects without compromising quality. The Hanes Beefy-T (5180) is particularly popular for DTG printing:
Material: 100% ring-spun cotton for a soft feel.
Weight: 6.1 oz, making it highly durable and absorbent.
Versatility: Available in a wide range of colors and sizes.
The Gildan Softstyle 64000 is a staple in the DTG community for its affordability and print quality:
Material: 100% ring-spun cotton for a smooth finish.
Weight: 4.5 oz, providing a lightweight yet durable feel.
Fit: Semi-fitted design, perfect for retail-quality custom shirts.
Comfort Colors is known for its heavyweight, garment-dyed shirts that produce stunning prints with a vintage vibe. The Comfort Colors 1717 is a top choice:
Material: 100% ring-spun cotton with a soft, broken-in feel.
Weight: 6.1 oz, offering excellent durability.
Colors: Unique, pigment-dyed options for standout designs.
Dark-colored shirts often require a pre-treatment solution to enhance ink adhesion and vibrancy. Shirts made from 100% cotton respond best to pre-treatment, ensuring sharper and more vibrant designs on darker fabrics.
To maintain print quality over time, always choose high-quality shirts with pre-shrunk fabric. This reduces shrinkage and distortion after washing, preserving both the print and the garment’s shape.
Light Shirts: Easier to print on and require less pre-treatment.
Dark Shirts: Offer a striking contrast but need pre-treatment and white ink underbase for best results.
Selecting the best shirts for DTG printing involves more than just picking a brand; it’s about understanding the fabric composition, weight, and texture that work best for your designs. While 100% cotton shirts from brands like AS Color, Hanes, Gildan, and Comfort Colors are top choices, the final decision depends on your budget, audience, and print requirements.
Looking to create high-quality custom shirts? Explore DTG printing services or shop for premium blanks from Things Above Custom Apparel to bring your designs to life. Let’s make your next print project your best one yet!
