Buying budget custom t-shirts sounds simple, but many people end up disappointed after the first wash. We’ve seen it happen often. That’s why our team at ApparelnBags tested some of the most popular budget t-shirts ourselves. We printed them, wore them, washed them, and compared how they performed over time. Our goal was simple: finding the best budget custom t-shirts that offer quality, good printing results, and retain their shape over time.
In this guide, you’ll get to know what are the best budget custom t-shirts for printing, which fabrics work best, what printing methods last, and how to get the best value for your money. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to order without wasting money.
But, First Know How We Tested Budget Custom T-Shirts
We don’t just rely on brand claims or reviews. We test the top 5 budget custom t-shirts ourselves, following the same conditions customers experience.
Here’s what we do:
- Wash each shirt five times to test shrinkage and softness.
- Check how prints hold up after washing.
- Monitor the overall feel and comfort.
- Compare prices for different order quantities.
- Pay attention to any issues like pilling, stiffness, or fading.
Top 5 Tested Budget Custom T-Shirts for Printing
Each shirt we tested went through the same process so we could compare them fairly. Here’s what we found:
The Gildan G500 heavy cotton t-shirt is one of the most popular budget options online. We chose it because many small businesses start with this shirt when they first order custom tees online. Read here, “How to start a t-shirt business online in simple steps”!
We found that during testing, G500 softened after a couple of washes. Screen printing went well, and the colors stayed bright even after multiple washes. However, the fabric does shrink slightly in the first two washes.
Best for: Small businesses with tight budgets, ideal for company events
Limitations: Slight shrinkage without pre‑treating
Price: $4.36
The Bella + Canvas 3001CVC surprised us in testing. This shirt feels noticeably softer than many budget custom tees. We tested screen printing and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) on this shirt. The 3001CVC has a heather texture that gives prints a nice depth.
It performed well with both, and we noticed the fabric kept its shape after a few washes. Compared to basic cotton, this fabric feels better, even at a budget price point.
Best for: Small run merchandise
Limitations: Slightly higher cost than the most basic shirts
Price: $7.54
We included the Shaka Wear SHMHSS Max Heavyweight T-Shirt because some customers prefer heavy-feel fabric. This shirt is thicker than basic budget tees for printing, and you feel that weight when you hold it.
Testing showed it shrinks less than many lighter fabrics and takes screen printing extremely well. The heavyweight fabric gives prints a richer look, and the shirt holds up through repeat washes with minimal fading. The only drawback is that it can feel a bit heavy in hot weather compared to lighter options.
Best for: Employee uniforms, street-inspired looks, outdoor use
Limitations: Heavier feel, not recommended for everyday wear
Price: $8.38
The Port & Company PC380 Essential Performance Tee takes us into the performance category. This is lightweight and moisture‑wicking, which makes it ideal for outdoor adventures and sports.
We tested the PC380 for both screen printing and heat transfer methods. It worked well with both, but we noticed that screen printing on this budget custom shirt stayed visible and durable after multiple washes.
Best for: Sports teams, trade shows, and outdoor promotions
Limitations: Prints may look slightly less bold than on heavier cotton
Price: $5.83
The Next Level N6210 Men’s Blended Tee is recommended for people who want a fashion‑forward option that still fits a budget. It is made from CVC (Chief Value Cotton) blend that is highly resistant to shrinkage. Prints on this budget custom tee looked vibrant too and stayed same after multiple washes.
It’s easy to see why Next Level has a strong reputation for quality. Even though it costs slightly more than the simplest custom budget tees, the feel and quality make it worth a close look.
Best for: Merch, boutiques, branded clothing
Limitations: Slightly higher price than everyday shirts
Price: $6.91
Compare Our Tested Budget Custom T-Shirts Before You Buy
| Budget Custom T-shirt | Fabric Type | Best Customization Methods | Comfort Level | Shrinkage | Price (50+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gildan G500 T-shirt | Heavy Cotton | Screen Printing | Moderate | Slight | $4.36 |
| Bella + Canvas 3001CVC | Cotton/Poly Blend | Screen Printing, Direct-to-Garment (DTG) | Very Soft | Minimal | $7.54 |
| Shaka SHMHSS T-Shirt | Heavyweight Cotton | Screen Printing | Thick, Durable | Low | $8.38 |
| Port & Company PC380 Tee | Performance Polyester | Screen Printing, Heat Transfer | Lightweight | Minimal | $5.83 |
| Next Level N6210 Tee | Soft Blend CVC | Screen Printing, Direct-to-Garment (DTG) | Very Soft | Minimal | $6.91 |
How to Choose the Best Fabric for Budget Custom T-Shirts?
The right fabric makes a huge difference. Here are the common fabrics we tested:
100% Cotton
Cotton is soft, breathable, and natural. But, the only downside is that cheap cotton can shrink and feel stiff if it isn’t pre-treated. For budget custom shirts, choose mid-range weight (160–180 GSM) for better printing results and maximum comfort over time.
Cotton-Polyester Blends
60% cotton and 40% polyester blend resists shrinkage, feels soft, and holds its shape well. It also works beautifully with screen printing and heat transfer methods. For budget custom shirts, this blend offers good printing results and feels breathable too.
100% Polyester
Polyester is lightweight and cheap and ideal for sports or workouts. But, the downside is that it’s less breathable and can feel heavy on the skin. Polyester works best with sublimation printing but is not ideal for everyday wear.
Choosing Imprint Method for Your Budget Custom T-shirts
Printing is where budget custom shirts often fail. The wrong method might result in cracking, fading, or peeling.
Screen Printing: This is one of the most common imprint method for your print on demand shirts. This method is low cost for bulk orders, last a long, and result in vibrant colors. Screen printing is ideal for logos, graphics, and personalized designs on budget custom t-shirts.
Direct-to-Garment (DTG): This is the best choice for small orders. Prints full-color images well but is slightly expensive and fades faster on low-quality fabrics.
Heat Transfer: Editor’s choice for your budget custom tees since it is quick and affordable. It works well on various fabrics and with multi-color graphics but it can crack over time. Best for small runs or temporary events.
Cost Saving Tips for Your Budget Custom T-Shirts
Buying budget custom t-shirts doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. With a few smart tips as we mention below, you can save money while still getting quality budget custom t-shirts.
Here are some practical tips we’ve learned from testing and ordering multiple shirts ourselves.
- Consider Multi-Purpose Designs
Make sure you choose a neutral and subtle design for your budget custom t-shirts that you can use for multiple events, multiple times.
- Less Is More
As said, less is more, stick to simple logos, minimal text, or one-color designs. Designs with multiple colors or full prints do not only look bad but increase production costs too.
- More Is Also More (Order in Bulk)
Bulk orders are your best friend when it comes to budget custom t-shirts for groups or events. By ordering custom shirts in bulk, the per-item cost drops which results in saving money.
- Selecting Appropriate Brand
Brands like Gildan, Hanes, or Port & Company offers you wide variety in terms of styles, sizes, colors, and print-friendly materials. These options are better and cheaper than big names like Nike or Adidas, and are ideal for bulk orders.
- No Need to Rush
Timing affects cost more than most people realize. Many suppliers charge extra for rush orders if you need your custom budget shirts immediately. A tip is to plan ahead if your event is a holiday gathering, birthday, or casual campaign a month or two away.
- Stick to Standard Colors
Some t-shirt colors cost more than others. White, black, and gray are often the cheapest options while colors like neon, heather, or pastel are priced higher. Choosing standard colors keeps costs low for you.
