When planning custom apparel for your business, event, team, or fundraiser, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right garment. The type of apparel you select can affect comfort, durability, printing quality, and overall cost.
At Shirts Plus Signs & Designs, we help customers choose the best apparel for their project every day. Here are a few key things to consider before placing your order.
The first question to ask is how the apparel will be used.
Different situations call for different types of garments.
For example:
Business apparel
Polos, work shirts, or durable tees often work best for daily wear.
Team or school spirit wear
Hoodies, long sleeve shirts, and performance tees are popular choices.
Events or fundraisers
Standard cotton t-shirts are usually the most affordable option for larger groups.
Outdoor work or construction
Heavyweight shirts or moisture-wicking materials tend to perform better.
Thinking about the purpose first helps narrow down the best options.
The fabric you choose plays a big role in both comfort and print results.
Cotton
A classic option that works well for screen printing. Cotton shirts are breathable and comfortable, making them great for everyday wear.
Polyester / Performance Fabrics
Often used for athletic wear. These materials wick moisture and hold their shape well.
Blended Fabrics
Cotton/poly blends combine softness with durability and are a popular middle-ground option.
Each material interacts differently with printing methods, so choosing the right one can help ensure the best results.
The type of apparel can influence which printing method works best.
Screen Printing
Best for larger orders and simple designs. Cotton and cotton blends usually produce excellent results.
Embroidery
Perfect for polos, hats, jackets, and workwear where a more professional look is desired.
Heat Transfer or Specialty Vinyl
Great for small runs, names and numbers, or specialty finishes like metallic or reflective designs.
Our team can help guide you toward the method that will look best on the garment you choose.
Different apparel styles come at different price points.
Basic cotton shirts are often the most economical for large orders, while premium garments, jackets, or embroidered items may cost more but offer a more polished look.
Balancing quality and budget helps ensure you get apparel that fits both your project and your price range.
A great design is important, but people also need to enjoy wearing the apparel.
Soft fabrics, modern cuts, and durable materials can make a big difference in how often a shirt or hoodie gets worn.
Many customers choose upgraded garments because they know people are more likely to keep and wear them long after the event.
Selecting the right apparel doesn’t have to be complicated. Our team at Shirts Plus Signs & Designs works with businesses, schools, teams, and community organizations to find the best products for their needs.
Whether you’re planning shirts for an event, uniforms for your team, or branded apparel for your business, we can help guide you through the options.
Stop by our shop in Aitkin or send us an email with your ideas and we’ll help you get started.