Choosing the right fabric and printing method results in high quality T-shirts. Although it may appear straightforward, customizing and printing is a complicated procedure. External retailers may employ a variety of printing techniques that keep the lifespan of apparel below average, resulting in poorly made garments and cracking, peeling, and decolorization. Here are some factors to take note of.
Type of Fabric Used
Prints look and age better on cotton-based garments as compared to synthetic ones. Because each of their components has different expiration dates, garments constructed of blended materials lose their shape and quality quickly. However, cotton does not always guarantee high quality as not all kinds of cotton are made equal. Longer fiber lengths and tighter woven fibers result in longer-lasting T-shirts. True quality is determined by the softness and density of the material, rather than its thickness or thickness. As such, instead of a heavy and thick fabric, choose a cotton fabric that strikes a balance between soft and firm.
Durability
The durability of printed tees is impacted by the following factors:
- Good construction: Inspect the hems and seams to see if any threads are missing. Turning a garment inside-out is the simplest method to determine if it was well-made or not. Check for even stitching and look out for any loose threads. The number of stitches is also important. Generally, the higher the count, the better. Pay attention to the collar, the sleeves and the lower hem.
- Quality of fabric: It should feel soft yet firm to the touch Check the density by holding the garment against a light source and checking its transparency. The more transparency present, the less dense the fabric is. Measuring the length of the fiber can also determine the fabric quality. Longer fibers indicate better quality.
- Prints longevity: Inspect for cracks and peelings in the corners and throughout the design. Touching, stretching, and crumpling the print will also help you check for stains that could indicate a short lifespan.
Print Quality
Check for even distribution of color, which should be consistent and homogenous throughout. Pay attention to the prints and color saturation. Prints that feel rough and scratchy are not a good sign. Lighter garments that have been printed using Direct to Garment (DTG) should be soft, whereas prints on darker garments should feel thicker to the touch. When it comes to the small details, properly designed tees should have a neat, clear, and even finish on both the inside and outside. Prints should look clear and crisp, and have their outer borders and body preserved.
Breathability
100% cotton shirts should be pleasant and cooling to wear, even on hot days. A fabric’s overall softness and density and softness strongly indicates its breathability. A fabric feels hot due to air pockets with thermal insulation. Finely combing the cotton is not enough; it must also be securely woven to eliminate those air pockets and the irritating sticky sensation. T-shirts that are thick but soft should breathe better.
Find High-Quality Tees at The Dirty Cowgirl
Here at The Dirty Cowgirl, our 100% cotton printed tees are durable, easy to wash, and printed using DTG, yielding designs with sharp and high resolution. Everything on our product line is made in the USA, so you can be assured that our apparel is high-quality.