How Much Is It to Print a Shirt?

In truth, the printing of personalised t-shirts has become a need for organizations, academic establishments, occasion planners, and personal purchasers alike. No matter whether or not you're designing garments for a group, going for walks a charity sale, or creating your personal style line, knowledge the charge elements has notable importance. A lot of people seek the help of reliable print shops and online service providers like https://shopstrange.net Evaluate the alternatives and determine the most economical one. But still the query persists: What is the cost of printing a t-shirt? The response varies according to a few factors that can affect the total price you pay.

1. The Printing Method (Your Biggest Price Factor)

Printing methods all have their pros and cons, as well as different cost structures. The selection of the proper method can result in a big difference in both price and quality.

Screen Printing

Screen printing is one of the most broadly used techniques.

• Best for: Medium to massive orders (12 portions)
• Cost: $8–$25 per shirt
• Benefits: Vibrant colours, notable sturdiness, value-powerful in bulk
• Considerations: Not ideal for small orders due to setup costs

Direct-to-Garment (DTG)

DTG is best for distinctive, complete-color prints.

• Best for: Small batches and photorealistic designs
• Cost: $15–$35 per shirt
• Benefits: No screen fees, highly detailed output
• Advantages: More steeply-priced consistent with piece for big quantities

Direct-to-Film (DTF)

DTF has surged in popularity for its versatility.

• Best for: Small to mid-size orders
• Cost: $12–$30 per shirt
• Benefits: Strong sturdiness, excellent for complicated designs, works properly on many fabrics
• Considerations: Slightly heavier feel as compared to DTG

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)

Common for sports jerseys and personalization.

• Best for: Names, numbers, and simple logos
• Cost: $10–$25 per shirt
• Benefits: Crisp lines, excellent for one-off customizations
• Considerations: Not suited for detailed or multi-color artwork

2. Quantity and Bulk Discounts

Numbers, indeed, are what greatly influences the cost. As the number of shirts subjected to screen printing grows, you will actually get a cheaper price for each one.

Example ranges:

• 1–5 shirts: $15–$40 each
• 6–20 shirts: $10–$25 each
• 20–50 shirts: $8–$18 each
• 50–100 shirts: $6–$12 each

Bulk orders spread setup costs across more pieces and require less per-shirt labour.

3. Color Count and Design Complexity

If you’re using screen printing, each color adds a new screen—and extra cost:

• 1-color print = inexpensive
• 4-color print = significantly higher setup fees

In the case of DTG or DTF, the number of colors does not determine the price, but the size of the print does. This is because large prints need more ink or film, thereby increasing the cost.

4. Print Locations Add Up

Most shops charge per print location. Common examples:

• Front print: Base cost
• Back print: +$5–$10
• Sleeve print: +$3–$8
• Inside neck tag print: +$2–$5

Furthermore, putting it several times into the same unit will consume additional labor and materials, which certainly will increase final cost.

5. Shirt Style and Material

The cost of the garment itself comprises the largest proportion of the cost. The price can vary greatly depending on the name brand, fabric, and style.

Economy Shirts

• Gildan, Hanes, Fruit of the Loom
• Price: $2–$5 wholesale

Premium Ringspun Cotton

• Bella+Canvas, Next Level
• Price: $4–$8 wholesale

Performance, Fashion, and Specialty Fabrics

• Moisture-wicking, triblends, oversized styles
• Price: $8–$20+ wholesale

Indeed, the high-quality clothes feel and fit better, are durable, and hence elevate important aesthetic factors—to mention, they are more expensive.

6. Size of the Print

• Small chest print = low cost
• Full front print = moderate cost
• Oversized wraparound print = higher cost

Larger prints need more ink, time, or transfer material.

7. Extra Fees You Might Encounter

Some print shops include everything in one price, but others may charge additional fees:

• Screen setup fees: $10–$30 per color (screen printing only)
• Art file cleanup or design services: $10–$60+
• Rush printing fees: 10–50% extra
• Specialty inks: Metallic, puff, glow-in-the-dark, etc.
• Shipping costs: Depends on weight and distance

Always ask for a detailed breakdown so there are no surprises.

8. Realistic Price Examples

Example 1: One DTG shirt

• Shirt: $6
• Print: $15–$25
• Total: $21–$31

Example 2: 24 screen-printed shirts, 1 color

• Shirt: $3
• Print: $5
• Screen setup divided into quantity: ~$1 each
• Total per shirt: ~$9

Example 3: 50 shirts, 3-color front + 1-color back

• Total per shirt: $10–$15 depending on shirt brand and shop

The cost of printing one T-shirt can go from approximately $15 for an individual custom order to as less as $6-$10 per T-shirt in case of large screen-printing runs. The printing technique, difficulty of your artwork, kind of T-shirt, and volume are all very important factors. Whether you are doing one T-shirt or many, by knowing these factors, you will be able to budget better and select the method that best meets your needs.