Why Are Printed T-Shirts So Expensive?

Table of Contents

 

• Does Fabric Quality Affect Price?
• How Do Printing Methods Impact Cost?
• Is It Just About the Brand Name?
• Are There Affordable Custom Alternatives?

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Does Fabric Quality Affect Price?

 

Material Types

High-quality printed t-shirts often use combed cotton, organic cotton, or tri-blends, which cost more than basic carded cotton. These fabrics feel better, last longer, and accept print more cleanly^[1].

 

Thread Count and GSM

T-shirts with higher GSM (grams per square meter) weigh more, are denser, and more durable, resulting in a fuller texture and extended longevity.

 

Fabric	Cost Level	Printing Suitability
Carded Cotton	Low	Fair
Combed Cotton	Medium	Good
Organic Cotton	High	Excellent
Tri-Blend	High	Varies (DTG-friendly)

^[1] Source: Good On You – Sustainable Fabric Guide

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How Do Printing Methods Impact Cost?

 

Setup and Technique

Screen printing necessitates setup for each color layer, making smaller orders more costly. DTG (Direct to Garment) is suitable for shorter runs but incurs high ink expenses.

 

Print Quality and Longevity

Durability and rich color printing techniques require more time, expertise, and machinery, increasing both production quality and cost. 

Method	Setup Cost	Best For	Durability
Screen Printing	High (per color)	Bulk runs	Excellent
DTG	Low	Short runs, detailed art	Good
Dye Sublimation	Medium	Polyester fabric	Very High
Heat Transfer	Low	One-offs, personal names	Moderate

^[2] Source: Printful: Screen Printing vs DTG

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Is It Just About the Brand Name?

 

Marketing and Perception

Designers or streetwear brands frequently inflate prices substantially because of their brand value. You’re paying not only for the shirt but also for the lifestyle it embodies.

 

Collaborations and Limited Drops

Brands like Supreme or Off-White create limited-edition runs that drive resale prices far beyond production costs^[3].

 

Brand	Retail Price	Estimated Production Cost	Markup Factor
Uniqlo	$14.90	$4–$5	3x
Supreme	$38–$48	$6–$8	5–8x
Off-White	$200+	$12–$15	10x+

^[3] Source: Highsnobiety – Supreme Archive

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Are There Affordable Custom Alternatives?

 

Custom vs Retail Pricing

By going direct-to-manufacturer, you can get the same (or better) print quality without brand markups. Platforms like Bless Denim let you customize shirts with low MOQ.

 

Bless Custom T-Shirt Services

We offer print, embroidery, private labels, and eco-packaging. Whether it’s 1 piece or 1000, we help brands, creators, and businesses get started affordably.

 

 

Option	Bless Denim	Typical Retail Brand
MOQ	1 Piece	50–100
Fabric Control	Yes	Preset only
Private Labeling	Available	Not offered
Custom Packaging	Yes	Basic only

Looking to create your own quality tee? Visit blessdenim.com to explore low-MOQ, full-service customization options for your brand or event.

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