Screen printing is one of the most popular methods for customizing T-shirts. But finding a reliable screen printing service in the USA can be challenging, especially for bulk orders. Where can you get high-quality T-shirt printing at a competitive price?
The best screen printing services in the USA include Printful, RushOrderTees, Custom Ink, and local print shops. These companies offer bulk printing, high-quality ink options, and quick turnaround times. Choosing the right provider depends on budget, order size, and customization needs.
Understanding the cost, quality, and sourcing of T-shirts is essential for finding the best screen printing service. Let’s explore where to get T-shirts printed, the cost of production, and how to find high-quality garments.
Which Brands Make Good Quality T-Shirts?
Not all T-shirts are created equal. Some brands focus on affordability, while others prioritize durability and comfort. Which brands consistently produce high-quality T-shirts suitable for screen printing?
Brands like Bella+Canvas, American Apparel, Next Level, and Gildan are known for their premium fabrics and durability. These brands provide high-quality cotton blends that hold up well during screen printing, ensuring long-lasting designs.

What Makes a T-Shirt Ideal for Screen Printing?
Screen printing requires T-shirts with smooth, absorbent fabrics. Key factors to consider include:
- Fabric Type: 100% cotton and cotton-polyester blends1 work best.
- Thread Count (GSM): Medium-weight (150–180 GSM)2 provides durability.
- Pre-Shrunk Fabric3: Prevents shrinkage after washing.
- Tight Weave: Ensures smooth ink application and vibrant prints.
How Do the Best T-Shirt Brands Compare?
Here’s a breakdown of top-quality T-shirt brands for screen printing:
| Brand | Fabric Type | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bella+Canvas | Soft ring-spun cotton | Premium retail-quality prints | TBA |
| American Apparel | 100% combed cotton | High-end fashion brands | TBA |
| Next Level | Cotton-poly blends | Bulk screen printing | TBA |
| Gildan | Affordable cotton | Budget-friendly bulk orders | TBA |
| Hanes | Classic cotton tees | General use, promotional wear | TBA |
Each brand offers different qualities suited for various printing projects. Choosing the right one depends on the intended use and budget.
How Much Does It Cost to Produce a Good Quality T-Shirt?
Screen printing businesses must consider the total cost of producing a T-shirt, including material, printing, and labor. But how much does it actually cost to make a high-quality printed T-shirt?
The cost of producing a good quality screen-printed T-shirt ranges from $5 to $15 per unit, depending on the fabric, printing method, and order quantity. Bulk orders lower the per-unit cost, making large-scale production more affordable.

What Factors Affect T-Shirt Production Costs?
Several key factors influence the price of producing printed T-shirts:
- Fabric Quality4: Organic cotton costs more than basic cotton blends.
- Printing Technique5: Plastisol ink is cheaper than water-based ink.
- Number of Colors: More colors increase printing complexity and cost.
- Order Quantity6: Larger orders reduce the per-unit price.
- Printing Location: Domestic production costs more than overseas.
Cost Comparison of T-Shirt Printing by Volume
Here’s how bulk pricing affects T-shirt printing costs in the USA:
| Order Size | Basic Cotton ($) | Premium Cotton ($) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 – 50 | $8 – $12 per unit | $12 – $18 per unit |
| 51 – 200 | $6 – $10 per unit | $10 – $15 per unit |
| 201 – 500 | $5 – $8 per unit | $8 – $12 per unit |
| 500+ | $4 – $7 per unit | $7 – $10 per unit |
Bulk orders offer significant savings, making large-scale screen printing projects more cost-effective.
How to Find High-Quality Shirts?
Finding the right T-shirt for screen printing requires research on fabric quality, durability, and printing compatibility. But where should businesses look for the best wholesale options?
High-quality T-shirts can be sourced from manufacturers, wholesale distributors, and direct suppliers. Checking fabric samples, reading reviews, and verifying supplier reliability ensure good quality.

What Are the Key Features of High-Quality T-Shirts?
When sourcing shirts for screen printing, consider these features:
- Fabric Softness7: Ringspun and combed cotton feel softer and more comfortable.
- Shrink-Resistance8: Pre-shrunk materials prevent size inconsistencies.
- Tight Stitching9: Reinforced seams improve durability.
- Weight & Thickness: A good balance between lightweight and heavy fabric is ideal.
Where to Source High-Quality T-Shirts?
Businesses can find premium T-shirts from the following sources:
| Sourcing Method | Best For | Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Wholesale Suppliers | Retail and bulk printing | Lower costs, bulk discounts |
| B2B Platforms (Alibaba, Faire) | Custom orders and private labels | Variety of options, direct factory pricing |
| Trade Shows (Canton Fair, MAGIC) | Direct manufacturer contacts | Supplier vetting, in-person quality checks |
| Local Manufacturers | Sustainable, USA-made production | Ethical sourcing, high quality |
Choosing the right supplier ensures that T-shirts meet brand standards and customer expectations.
Where Are Shirts Usually Manufactured?
T-shirts are produced worldwide, but manufacturing locations affect quality, price, and availability. Which countries dominate the T-shirt production industry?
China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam lead global T-shirt production, offering cost-effective bulk manufacturing. However, for high-end apparel, Turkey, Portugal, and the USA provide premium alternatives.

Why Are Most T-Shirts Made in Asia?
Asian countries dominate T-shirt production due to:
- Low Labor Costs10: More affordable than Western alternatives.
- Large-Scale Production: Factories handle massive order volumes.
- Diverse Fabric Options11: Access to various cotton and synthetic blends.
- Strong Export Infrastructure12: Efficient shipping networks support global trade.
Comparison of Global T-Shirt Production
Here’s how different countries compare in T-shirt manufacturing:
| Country | Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| China | Cost-effective, scalable production | Rising labor costs |
| Bangladesh | Lowest-cost bulk production | Quality consistency varies |
| Vietnam | Ethical labor, reliable quality | Higher costs than Bangladesh |
| Turkey | European-quality textiles | Higher pricing |
| USA | Sustainable, premium production | Expensive labor |
Choosing the right manufacturing location depends on budget, sustainability goals, and lead time requirements.
Conclusion
Finding a reliable screen printing service in the USA depends on fabric quality, printing techniques, and order volume. Brands like Bella+Canvas and American Apparel provide premium T-shirts, while bulk printing costs vary based on fabric type and customization. Whether sourcing locally or internationally, selecting the right supplier ensures long-lasting, high-quality printed T-shirts.
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Explore the advantages of these fabric types for screen printing to ensure high-quality results and durability. ↩
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Understanding GSM can help you choose the right fabric for durability and print quality in your projects. ↩
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Learn why pre-shrunk fabric is essential to prevent shrinkage and maintain print quality after washing. ↩
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Understanding fabric quality can help you make informed choices for cost-effective T-shirt production. ↩
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Learning about printing techniques can help you choose the most economical option for your T-shirt designs. ↩
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Exploring order quantity insights can lead to significant savings in your T-shirt production budget. ↩
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Understanding fabric softness can help you choose comfortable t-shirts that enhance customer satisfaction. ↩
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Learn why shrink-resistance is crucial for maintaining the fit and longevity of t-shirts after washing. ↩
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Discover how tight stitching contributes to the overall durability and quality of t-shirts, ensuring they last longer. ↩
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Understanding the benefits of low labor costs can help you grasp why many brands choose Asian manufacturers for T-shirts. ↩
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Exploring diverse fabric options will give you insights into the quality and variety available in T-shirt production. ↩
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Learning about export infrastructure can reveal how it facilitates efficient T-shirt distribution worldwide. ↩














