T-shirt Design – Printify https://printify.com Make it. Your way. Print on Demand and eCommerce solutions. Mon, 26 May 2025 13:11:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://printify.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Printify-Green-Favicon-96x96.png T-shirt Design – Printify https://printify.com 32 32 10 Best t-shirt and ink color combinations https://printify.com/blog/t-shirt-and-ink-color-combinations/ https://printify.com/blog/t-shirt-and-ink-color-combinations/#comments Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:20:53 +0000 https://printify.com/?p=130323 We've prepared ten different t-shirt and ink color combinations to inspire your designs.

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Make your own shirt today

T-shirts are a profitable product to sell, and designing them can be super fun. But choosing between all the different t-shirt and ink color combinations can get overwhelming. 

This article will go over choosing the perfect color combinations, so you’ll end up with beautiful, eye-catching t-shirts every time.

Whether you want a more traditional look or to try something with bright colors to grab customers’ attention, we’ve got you covered.

Basics of color theory

Before diving into shirt color combinations, let’s go over a few theoretical aspects of color mixing in visual arts and design.

The color wheel has three primary colors (blue, red, and yellow), three secondary colors (orange, purple, and green), and six tertiary colors (vermillion, amber, chartreuse, teal, indigo, and magenta). 

Combinations from different points on the wheel create different color schemes.

For example:

  • Complementary colors – These are opposite each other on the wheel (e.g., blue and orange) and create strong contrast that makes designs stand out.
  • Analogous colors – These sit next to each other on the wheel and create a more harmonious look.
  • Triadic color schemes – Three colors evenly spaced on the wheel, often used for vibrant, lively designs.

High-contrast shirt and ink color combinations make t-shirt designs pop, while neutral colors offer a more timeless aesthetic. Understanding contrast and visibility is key when designing custom apparel.

Quick tip

When creating t-shirt designs, it’s essential to understand color modesRGB is used for digital displays, while CMYK is the standard for printing. Since t-shirt printing relies on CMYK, what you see on screen might look slightly different in real life.

10 T-shirt and ink color combinations that work

You’ll find a huge range of t-shirt colors in the Printify Product Catalog. Some shirts have up to sixty colors to choose from. We all love variety, but not every shirt and ink color pairing will be a bestseller. 

To get you started on the right track, here are 10 t-shirt color combinations that will look fantastic.

Tip

Read our guide on how to choose a t-shirt style that’ll be a fan favorite in your store.

Black and yellow

A woman wearing a black “Peaceful” t-shirt on a light olive green background.

The black and yellow shirt combo is a staple in sportswear, branding, and custom t-shirt design. From athletic apparel to streetwear brands to rap songs, this high-contrast pairing is both striking and versatile. 

  • Black t-shirts create a sleek base, making yellow ink pop with vibrant energy.
  • Yellow t-shirts with black ink deliver bold contrast, ensuring t-shirt designs remain eye-catching and legible.
  • Black and yellow are a great t-shirt color combo when starting a clothing brand, thanks to their contrast and clarity in custom ink prints. 

Use black and yellow designs for high-impact, statement-making t-shirt color combinations that attract attention and drive sales for your t-shirt business. 

Red and white

A man wearing a white “Surf club” t-shirt on a light olive green background.

A red t-shirt and white ink (or the inverse) create a high-contrast look that turns heads.

  • Red is a primary color and naturally grabs attention, so it’s commonly used on warning signs and high-visibility branding.
  • White ink on a red t-shirt offers strong contrast, ensuring that intricate designs and thin lines stand out.
  • This combination is perfect for custom t-shirts, hoodies, and bold statement pieces.

Orange and blue

A blue “Think outside the sphere” t-shirt on a hanger.

Combining the complementary colors blue and orange is a powerful way to create a high-contrast t-shirt design that stands out. 

  • Bright orange and royal blue are popular for gym wear, team uniforms, and sports jerseys.
  • Consider a lighter orange t-shirt with navy blue ink to balance vibrancy with wearability.
  • This t-shirt design pairing works well for bold branding, high-energy designs, and eye-catching custom ink prints.

Although contrasting colors create a strong visual impact, avoid overly bright tones that might be too overwhelming – unless that’s what your customers want.

Blue and gold

A woman wearing a blue and gold “Martini” t-shirt on a light olive green background.

Blue and gold give a sophisticated, luxurious, and confident vibe. Blue is one of the most popular t-shirt colors because it looks good on everyone. Add gold ink, and you have a design that feels timeless, bold, and effortlessly stylish.

  • This is a pairing for high-end custom clothing, uniforms, or statement pieces that need to stand out.
  • The color combo is exceptionally good for t-shirt designs with vinyl prints, bold graphics, and intricate linework.

For the best shirt and ink color combination, go for a rich navy blue t-shirt with metallic gold ink – it looks premium without trying too hard.

Black and white

A man wearing a black and white “Chaos” t-shirt on a light olive green background.

The black and white combo is classic. Black ink on a white t-shirt is sharp and modern, while white ink on a black t-shirt is sleek and timeless. No matter which way you flip it, this high-contrast pairing makes every design pop.

  • Perfect for any aesthetic – minimalist, vintage, or edgy streetwear.
  • Works exceptionally well for detailed graphics, thin lines, or high-contrast typography.
  • A safe bet for any custom apparel business because black and white look good on everyone.

When in doubt, go black and white – these shirt colors are a foolproof choice that never goes out of style.

Blue and white

A man wearing a blue t-shirt with a white print on a light olive green background.

If you’re after a versatile and timeless choice, blue and white is one of the best t-shirt color combinations you can try.

  • Experiment with different shades of blue. Medium to darker shades usually look best in this combo since white lettering would quickly get lost on a light blue t-shirt. 
  • White ink on a blue shirt provides a nice contrast, making even thin lines and intricate details stand out.
  • Flip the script with a white t-shirt and blue ink – a fresh, summer-ready combo perfect for beach-inspired designs. 

Olive and gold

A woman wearing an olive and gold “Let me free” t-shirt on a light olive green background.

This isn’t your average t-shirt color combination, but that’s why it works. While most people stick to safe, conventional color choices, this duo screams bold, stylish, and unexpected – perfect for a brand looking to stand out.

  • Olive is an underrated neutral – earthy, warm, and versatile. It lets gold designs shine without overpowering them.
  • Go big or go home with your designs. Gold ink looks best in bold letters, clean graphics, and statement prints.

Maroon and white

A man wearing a maroon and white “Stay wild and free” t-shirt on a light olive green background.

Maroon and white are classic, bold, and effortlessly stylish t-shirt colors. If you’re looking for t-shirt color combinations that pop in dark colors, this is the one.

  • Maroon t-shirts are often linked to fall fashion, school pride, and vintage aesthetics, making them a go-to for uniforms and streetwear.
  • White ink on maroon creates a strong contrast, making designs crisp and highly visible. This combination is perfect for bold logos, typography, and intricate details.
  • Flip the script with a white t-shirt and maroon ink to give your shirt design a fresher look with a blank base. 

Whether you’re designing for sports fans, college merch, or trendy streetwear, this color pairing is a proven winner.

Red, blue, and yellow

A man wearing a red, blue, and yellow custom t-shirt on a light olive green background.

Bold, energetic, and impossible to ignore, red, blue, and yellow bring primary colors to life in a way that demands attention.

  • Try starting with a blue shirt as your base – navy or royal blue works best for contrast.
  • Use red and yellow ink to create a design that pops without overwhelming the eye.
  • Adjust the tones – deep blue with muted red and golden yellow makes for a balanced yet dynamic look.

This perfect combination of bright colors is excellent for bold graphics, retro aesthetics, and team apparel. 

Green and gray

A woman wearing a custom green and gray “Coastal cowgirl” t-shirt on a light olive green background.

Green and gray are unexpected but seriously underrated on our list of t-shirt color combinations. Whether you go for forest green, mint green, lime green, or kelly green, each shade can create a unique effect when paired with a gray base. 

  • Dark gray with kelly green ink is great for bold graphics, sports logos, or a nature-inspired t-shirt design.
  • Light gray with deep forest green is a classic, earthy combo that works well for minimalist designs or eco-friendly brands.
  • Heather gray with mint or neon green is a fresh, trendy look for summer collections or casual wear.

Want to make the t-shirt pop? Add white or black outlines to increase contrast and bring attention to details. Whether you’re aiming for vintage athletic styles or modern streetwear, this combo delivers.

How to choose the right t-shirt color combination

Nailing the perfect t-shirt color combinations is about making your design pop while staying true to your print-on-demand business

Here’s how to get it right:

  • Include the classics. Just about every niche appreciates a black t-shirt with white ink or vice versa. Offer this timeless combo to cover your bases with more minimalist customers. 
  • Think about your audience. What do they like? Loud, vibrant combos or more muted ones?
  • Use the color wheel. Colors opposite each other (like blue and orange) pack a punch, while analogous colors create a nice monochromatic look.
  • Contrast is king. Light ink on dark shirts (or vice versa) makes your design impossible to miss.
  • Find inspiration. Check out trending t-shirt design ideas on Etsy, Instagram, and TikTok to see what sells.

Start a t-shirt store with Printify

A person taking a picture of a custom blue t-shirt using a mobile phone.

Want to start your own t-shirt business? With Printify, launching a store is quick, hassle-free, and requires zero upfront costs.

  • Sign up for free. No hidden fees or purchasing inventory.
  • Choose your t-shirts. Browse our massive selection of styles and colors.
  • Upload your designs. Use our beginner-friendly Product Creator to customize your shirts.
  • Publish to your store. Seamlessly integrate with top eCommerce platforms for easy listing and order management.
  • Let us handle the rest. Our Print Providers take care of printing, packing, and shipping straight to your customers.
Good to know

Depending on the Print Provider, your designs may be created using several printing methods:

DTG (Direct-to-Garment). Best for detailed, full-color prints
DTF (Direct-to-Film). Offers better durability on various fabrics. 
Sublimation or all-over printing. Infuses ink directly into polyester fabrics, creating vibrant, long-lasting designs that won’t fade, crack, or peel over time. 

FAQ

The best ink colors for t-shirts depend on the shirt’s background color, but in general, high-contrast and bold hues stand out the most.

Most digital designs are created using the RGB (red, green, blue) color model because it’s the standard for screens. However, t-shirt printing typically uses CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, and clack) inks. This difference can cause some color shifts during the printing process, so always preview your design in CMYK if possible to get a more accurate idea of how the final print will look.

Read our guide on RGB vs CMYK to ensure your files are in the correct format for crisp, colorful designs.

The best t-shirt and ink color combinations depend on personal preference, design style, and printing method.

  • DTG printing works best on 100% cotton shirts with dark ink on light fabric or white designs on darker colors.
  • DTF printing creates vibrant colors on all shirt colors, including tricky fabrics like polyester blends.
  • Sublimation printing thrives on light polyester shirts, making bright, full-color designs stand out. Because there is no white ink in sublimation, the base shirt should be white.
  • Screen printing is ideal for bold, high-contrast designs, like black ink on a white shirt or yellow ink on a navy blue or black t-shirt for a striking look.

The best three-color t-shirt combos often follow color wheel principles:

  1. Red, blue, and yellow are primary colors that add vibrancy.
  2. Black, white, and gray make up a neutral color palette for sleek, modern designs.
  3. Navy, gold, and white create a classic blend often used in sportswear and branding.

When creating a t-shirt design, the base can make or break the shirt’s success in your store.

Black ink works well with light-colored shirts for maximum readability. A white t-shirt is a go-to option for high contrast, but light gray, pastels, and earth tones also work beautifully. 

Opt for muted shades like beige, light blue, or heather gray if you want shirt colors that create a softer effect.

Ready to start making that green?

Now that you have these t-shirt color combinations to choose from, it’s time to start designing.

Our Catalog offers hundreds of t-shirt options for people of all different age groups, and our free design tools make it easy to create the perfect t-shirt design for yourself, your friends, or your online store. 

Sign up, create your new favorite t-shirt with the perfect color combination, and start selling custom apparel online!

Make it your way today!

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The ultimate t-shirt design placement guide for 2025 https://printify.com/blog/t-shirt-design-placement-guide/ https://printify.com/blog/t-shirt-design-placement-guide/#comments Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:47:00 +0000 https://printify.com/?p=112620 This t-shirt design placement guide will look at the specifics of garment printing and the eight most common print placement locations.

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Create a custom shirt with Printify

Ready to level up your custom tees? This t-shirt design placement guide for 2025 covers everything you need to know about placing your artwork for maximum impact.

From showcasing your brand’s logo or slogan to spotlighting intricate artwork, discover the best print location for your own t-shirts to sell online.

Disclaimer

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.

Key takeaways

  • Knowing the print dimensions, print size, and anchor points helps you position your designs accurately.
  • Center chest and full-front placements are popular for showcasing logos, artwork, and detailed designs for maximum visibility.
  • Upper-back and full-back placements offer plenty of space for larger designs, making them ideal for branding and event promotions.
  • Sleeve designs are a great way to add subtle branding, particularly on polo shirts or open button-down shirts, enhancing the overall look.
  • Optimize image resolution and placement using our beginner-friendly design tool, helping your custom t-shirts look their best.

T-shirt design terminology 101

A shirt factory featuring a large machine actively printing shirts, showcasing the manufacturing process in action.

To start this t-shirt design placement guide, we’ll explore key print file terminology to help you position your designs correctly.

Print dimensions

This refers to how your design fits on the t-shirt. Key terms include:

  • Print location: The general area where you’ll add the design, such as a center chest placement, left chest placement, or upper back.
  • Print placement: The exact positioning of the design within the print location, varying by garment size and style preference.
  • Print area: The total surface the design covers, including shirt features like seams and buttons (if applicable).
  • Print size: The specific measurement of the design on the fabric – necessary for maintaining print quality.

Size dimensions

Understanding the dimensions helps fine-tune your t-shirt design placement:

  • Standard size: The default size set by Print Providers, often centered within the print area.
  • Oversize print: A design larger than standard, ideal for making a bold statement.
  • Maximum size: The largest dimensions a fabric printer can handle, requiring high-resolution designs.

Anchor point

An anchor point is the fixed center point for your design, which is important for maintaining consistency, especially with intricate or asymmetrical designs.

That way, your t-shirt design placement is positioned just right.

Quick tip

Consider your preferred printing method before placing an order or printing t-shirts at home. Whether you use screen printing, direct-to-garment printing (DTG), or sublimation impacts the final result.

Top print placement locations

Let’s cover key print locations for the front, back, and sleeves, along with average measurements for t-shirt designs.

We’ll also provide tips on maintaining symmetry and appropriate spacing from collars, seams, and hems for a balanced look.

Note

The design and logo placement varies based on the t-shirt size and supplier. At Printify, most of our Print Providers offer a placement t-shirt design size chart to ease the process.

Start designing your custom t-shirts with Printify today

Front-of-shirt design placement

A man with sunglasses poses next to his bike, showcasing a stylish and adventurous spirit.

The shirt front is the most common print placement. It’s the first thing customers see, and the design remains visible even when layered with an unzipped custom jacket or open button-down shirt.

Center chest design

The center chest placement is moderate in size and is the most popular in print manufacturing. It’s about four inches below the collar and typically spans over the top half of the chest.

Align your design to the collar’s center or symmetrically with the shoulder seams. Note that front-facing designs shouldn’t overlap with – or bleed over – the shoulder seams.

Suitable designs:

A center chest logo placement is ideal for branding and subtle visuals. This placement works particularly well for smaller shirt sizes and as a tank top logo placement guide.

For larger t-shirt sizes or more intricate and detailed artwork, a full-front design might be a better option. It makes the final result more prominent, offering better image detail.

Average size range: 8” in height and width for most adult t-shirt sizes. However, depending on the design itself, it can go anywhere between 6”-10” in either dimension.

Left chest placement

This left chest location is a classic choice and industry standard, although right chest placements are also possible.

Place your design about three inches below the shoulder seam, ending no lower than the armpit seam for a balanced and polished look.

Suitable designs:

A left chest placement design is ideal for simple logos and brand imagery. The subtle print location allows for easy layering and matching with other garments.

Center the design proportionally between the sleeve and collar for a well-rounded look. Avoid excessive image detail to maintain clarity in the smaller print area.

Average size range: A t-shirt’s left chest logo placement is usually 2.5″-5″ in height and width.

Full-front design placements

The full-front design placement is extremely versatile for most medium to large-scale prints. It typically starts three to four inches below the collar and can extend down the shirt’s length.

It’s the perfect placement for bold, eye-catching designs. However, note that full-front prints can affect breathability, especially with certain printing methods where the ink lays on top of the fabric.

Suitable designs:

This placement works well for high-quality, intricate designs such as landscapes, portraits, and large artwork. It’s particularly effective on larger adult t-shirts, where the design can extend fully.

Incorporating negative space in the design helps reduce ink coverage, preventing discomfort from heavy prints.

Average size range: 10”-12” wide and 10”-14” tall. This is your largest standard-size front print option.

Oversize print: Front

A collection of shirts displayed on hangers, each shirt showcasing distinct colors and patterns in a straight line.

Oversize prints are a non-standard placement, starting two to three inches below the collar and extending to the bottom hem.

This placement is best for oversized adult t-shirts, as smaller shirts won’t effectively accommodate the design’s size. 

Proper placement for these print sizes requires knowledge of the garment’s size and the printer’s capabilities.

Suitable designs:

Oversized designs are great for those looking to create a strong visual impact. Similar to full-front designs, consider ink density and breathability, as larger prints can lead to fabric stiffness.

To avoid overprinting, consider using a transparent background or inverting the color scope to leave parts of the design clean. You can also split your print into multiple t-shirt designs.

Average size range: 12”-15” wide and 14”-16” tall. These sizes might be beyond some Print Providers’ capabilities but are popular among a niche customer base. It’s as close to an all-over print as you can get.

Create a front design placement print with the Printify Product Creator

Back-of-shirt design placement

Back designs are great for giving your t-shirts an authentic edge.

While the back of the t-shirt isn’t immediately visible, it provides more room for intricate details and larger graphics. Many custom t-shirts with back designs also have a complementary front visual.

Collar or small upper-back design

The back collar print area is one of the best upper-back design placements. Positioned approximately one inch from the base of the neck collar, it’s perfect for branding and small logos.

This area works best when paired with more prominent designs on the front or sleeves, serving as a subtle signature for your logo.

Suitable designs:

Given the small size of this placement, you’ll need a simple, effortless design. While it should still be unique, remember that people will primarily see it up close.

Average size range:1”-3” in width and height. Any smaller and the design loses most of its detail.

Upper back

The upper-back placement is a versatile, medium-sized area spanning the shoulder blade. Around four inches below the collar, it’s similar in size to the front chest area and prioritizes width for complete visibility.

This placement is popular for uniforms, event promotions, and other designs that need to stand out in a crowd. It’s also a great place for secondary logos.

Suitable designs:

Upper-back design placements are ideal for typography or logos. Add custom branding, intricate graphics, or catchy slogans that turn heads.

For a non-standard look, consider placing the design slightly lower on the back to draw attention. However, this area is prone to creases and folds and may not be visible when the wearer is sitting down.

Average size range:10”-14” wide and 1”-6” tall. The contrast between the dimensions makes this an excellent choice for typographic designs.

Full back

The full-back placement is popular among t-shirt graphic designers. Compared to the full-front print area, the back is typically flatter and less obstructed – allowing for larger, more detailed images.

The design generally starts around three to four inches from the collar and covers a significant portion of the back, often nearing the bottom hem.

Suitable designs:

Full-back designs are perfect for projects that require a large canvas, such as sports jerseys or detailed graphic art.

This placement is rarely used alone. For example, a streetwear tee might feature a signature print on the back with small logo placements on the left chest.

Average size range: 10”-14” wide and 6”-5” tall. It’s the most versatile option for larger design placements.

Sleeve logo placement

The sleeve placement location offers a unique design opportunity, though not all Print Providers support this option.

Designs usually start one to three inches above the center point of the sleeve hem. One inch is the typical distance for a standard prints, providing adequate space from the left and right seams.

Suitable designs:

A sleeve print is ideal for simple logos, making them a popular choice for business sponsors. A single-sleeve design is often on the wearer’s left, but it’s common to see the same print on both sleeves.

Another less common location is on or over the shoulders, complementing larger and more intricate front or back designs.

Sleeve logos are perfect for adding a subtle branding element to polo shirts or button-downs, sprucing up the overall outfit.

Average size range:1”-4” in width and height. It’s a unique but limited location for adding complementary designs.

How to print images on shirts

A man utilizes a shirt printer to produce a unique t-shirt in a contemporary setting.

Before selling t-shirts online, a critical task is converting graphic designs to print-ready formats

This means defining your print size – the physical dimensions of the design – in dots per inch (DPI). It’s a print resolution measurement highlighting the richness of the ink throughout the design.

The higher the DPI, the sharper the final print.

Quick tip

Check out this handy guide for scaling designs by garment size.

To find and change your image DPI, check the image properties in Windows File Explorer, Mac Preview, or your preferred graphics design software like Illustrator or GIMP.

Print-on-demand platforms give an easy workaround by listing the optimal pixel and DPI dimensions for t-shirt printing.

Printify’s Product Creator does exactly that by showing the exact measurement for a particular product design before you upload your image:

  • Supported file format: The best format for garment printing is usually PNG, but we also support JPEG and SVG files based on the product.
  • Maximum file size: Typically measured in megabytes, larger file sizes hold higher-resolution images for better print quality.
  • Print area size: Lists the recommended dimensions for your design in pixels and DPI.
  • Maximum resolution: Outlines the pixel resolution limit so your file uploads successfully while maintaining print quality.

After uploading your design, our Product Creator checks whether your image quality is print-ready.

If it needs adjustments, use your favorite graphic design software to fine-tune the file size and resolution before re-uploading.

Tweak your t-shirt design placement by effortlessly resizing and positioning it manually on our Product Creator. It even displays physical measurements like inches or centimeters, so you know exactly what to expect.

FAQ: Design placement on shirts

Logos fit best on the center chest or left chest, aligning symmetrically with the collar four inches below. But this t-shirt logo placement guide isn’t set in stone – get creative based on your branding and design elements.

A brand logo typically falls on the left chest, aligning with the shoulder center and printed slightly lower – about three to four inches from the top – for subtle branding.

Use a print-on-demand service like Printify that provides an easy design tool and free shirt templates for optimizing your designs.

Select a t-shirt with your desired print location, upload and adjust the image resolution (DPI) for optimal quality, and position it for accurate placement.

Position pocket designs over or near the pocket area on the left chest area of the shirt. Align the visual with the pocket’s dimensions for a cohesive and balanced appearance.

Conclusion

And there you have it – your complete t-shirt design placement guide for a thriving t-shirt business.

Whether using a classic t-shirt logo placement template or adopting bold new ideas, following these tips will help your designs shine.

Leverage Printify’s features to ease your print-on-demand journey. We take the guesswork out of design and logo placement so you can focus on growing your custom t-shirt brand.

Start perfecting your t-shirt design placements with Printify

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180 Funny shirt sayings to inspire your next bestseller https://printify.com/blog/funny-t-shirt-sayings/ https://printify.com/blog/funny-t-shirt-sayings/#comments Tue, 04 Feb 2025 04:00:00 +0000 https://printify.com/?p=31487 Funny t-shirt sayings have long been the expressive canvas used to show off the comedic talents of people everywhere.

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Custom shirts, endless possibilities

Want to make people stop, stare, and snort-laugh in public? You’re in the right place. Funny shirt sayings are the ultimate way to showcase your personality, humor, and awesomeness – all while being effortlessly stylish. 

From sarcastic one-liners to pun-tastic dad jokes, we’ve got 180 hilarious ideas to turn tees, hoodies, and sweatshirts into bestselling gold.

Disclaimer

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.

A mix of ironic and sarcastic quotes

For those who like their humor dry, their funny t-shirts extra salty, and their conversations filled with eye-roll-worthy comebacks. These ironic and sarcastic quotes let you wear your attitude, so you don’t have to waste time explaining it.

  1. I have a degree in sarcasm.
  2. I’m not lazy. I’m just very relaxed.
  3. I told myself I should stop procrastinating, but I didn’t listen.
  4. Procrastinators unite!… Tomorrow.
  5. I’m not weird. I’m limited-edition.
  6. Out of my mind. Back in five minutes.
  7. I used to think I was indecisive, but now I’m not so sure.
  8. Why fall in love when I can fall asleep?
  9. I came. I saw. I made it awkward.
  10. I’m not messy; I’m creatively organized.
  11. Of course, I talk to myself – sometimes, I need expert advice.
  12. If you think I’m sarcastic, you should hear my thoughts.
  13. I’m just here for the snacks.
  14. In my defense, I was left unsupervised.
  15. I’m not grumpy. I’m just a realist.
  16. I didn’t choose the nap life. The nap life chose me.

Funny food t-shirts

180 Funny shirt sayings to inspire your next bestseller 1

Food is life. And funny t-shirts about food? Chef’s kiss. Whether you’re all about tacos, donuts, or just here for the snacks, these hilarious food quotes will make sure everyone knows your love for eating is serious business.

  1. Will work for tacos.
  2. Feed me pizza and tell me I’m pretty.
  3. Powered by caffeine and donuts.
  4. In pizza we crust.
  5. Life is short – eat dessert first.
  6. I’m sorry for what I said when I was hungry.
  7. Just here for the snacks.
  8. I’m on a seafood diet. I see food, I eat it.
  9. I’m into fitness – fitness whole pizza in my mouth.
  10. Donut kill my vibe.
  11. Taco ’bout a party!
  12. Waffles are just pancakes with abs.
  13. You had me at bacon.
  14. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are my three favorite meals.
  15. Brunch without champagne is just a sad breakfast.
  16. Abs are great, but have you tried tacos?
  17. You can’t make everyone happy. You’re not pizza.
  18. Nacho average t-shirt.
  19. Procrastibaking: The art of baking instead of doing something else.
  20. Life happens. Coffee helps.
  21. You had me at “Let’s order takeout.”
  22. Fries before guys.
  23. Make pasta, not war.
  24. My cooking is so awesome. Even the smoke alarm cheers me on.
  25. Coffee first, adulting second.

Funny sayings for family shirts

Nothing says family bonding like matching funny shirts that embarrass your kids in public. From dad jokes to mom truths, these family-friendly tees make great gifts – or at least great blackmail material for the next holiday gathering.

  1. World’s Okayest Mom.
  2. You can’t scare me. I have three kids.
  3. Sassy since birth.
  4. Chaos coordinator (aka Mom).
  5. Sisters: Partners in crime, now and forever.
  6. Dad joke loading… please wait.
  7. Family: Where life begins and love never ends (and neither do the arguments).
  8. I’m the reason we can’t have nice things.
  9. My favorite people call me Grandma.
  10. Ask your mother.
  11. Ask your father.
  12. Official family troublemaker.
  13. Parenthood: Powered by coffee, patience, and dry shampoo.
  14. Blessed with a crazy family.
  15. Auntie: The one who spoils you and then sends you home. 
  16. Our family puts the “fun” in dysfunctional.
  17. Dad bod in progress.
  18. My family is like fudge – mostly sweet with a few nuts.

Found a funny shirt saying you like? Bring it to life

From sarcastic funny shirt sayings to quirky family quotes, it’s time to pick an idea and bring it to life on an epic custom-printed shirt. Here’s how:

1. Sign up: Create a free Printify account.

2. Choose a t-shirt: Take your pick from our Catalog.

3. Add your saying: Find the perfect font for shirts and customize your funny slogan.

4. Order or sell it: Place an order or list it in your online shop.

Silly sports sayings

Some athletes just want to look awesome in a funny sports t-shirt while pretending they’re training. Whether you’re a gym rat, weekend warrior, or professional benchwarmer, these sports slogans will have you outrunning the competition… in wit.

  1. Sweat is fat crying.
  2. I just hope both teams have fun.
  3. I’m not slow, I’m just not fast.
  4. Eat. Sleep. Sports. Repeat.
  5. Sweat now, shine later.
  6. No pain, no pizza.
  7. Train like a beast, look like a beauty.
  8. I’m faster than my Wi-Fi.
  9. Running late is my favorite cardio!
  10. Stronger than yesterday, but still weak for cupcakes.
  11. Resting gym face.
  12. Squat like nobody’s watching.
  13. Yoga class? I thought you said, “Pour a glass.”
  14. My favorite sport is watching sports.
  15. I’m here to win… or at least look cool while trying.

Funny gaming t-shirts

180 Funny shirt sayings to inspire your next bestseller 2

Level up your wardrobe with funny gamer merch that lets the world know you’ve got epic skills (or at least epic excuses for losing). Whether you’re a button-mashing legend or an AFK master, these designs will have you looking OP in real life.

  1. Eat. Sleep. Game. Repeat.
  2. My life is a game, and I’m currently stuck on the loading screen.
  3. I paused my game to be here.
  4. I’m not addicted to gaming – I’m committed.
  5. Life is too short for bad games.
  6. I came, I saw, I respawned.
  7. In a relationship with my console.
  8. I’m just here for the loot.
  9. Can’t talk, I’m on a raid.
  10. I’m the reason they have to mute voice chat in multiplayer.
  11. Respawning… please wait.
  12. My favorite workout is leveling up.
  13. I don’t need sleep, I need XP.
  14. Resting gamer face.

Seasonal t-shirts: Celebrate every holiday with a laugh

180 Funny shirt sayings to inspire your next bestseller 3

Why settle for boring holiday outfits when you can wear the fun? From Halloween puns to ugly Christmas sweater energy, these seasonal t-shirts bring humor to every occasion – because nothing spreads holiday cheer like ridiculous slogans on awesome tees.

Hilarious t-shirt sayings for Christmas

  1. Resting Scrooge face.
  2. I’m only a morning person on December 25th.
  3. Dear Santa, I can explain.
  4. On the naughty list and proud!
  5. Yule be sorry if you don’t laugh at this shirt.
  6. All I want for Christmas is… food.
  7. The tree isn’t the only thing getting lit this year.
  8. Jingle all the way… to the fridge.

Funny quotes for Halloween

  1. I’m here for the boos.
  2. Feeling gang-tastic!
  3. Witch better have my candy.
  4. Too gourd to be true.
  5. Resting witch face.
  6. If you’ve got it, haunt it.
  7. Creep it real.

Hearty humor for Valentine’s Day

  1. Let’s avocuddle.
  2. You’re my favorite notification.
  3. Love you more than pizza. And that’s saying a lot.
  4. You make my heart skip a beet.
  5. I’m yours, no returns.

New Year, new funny t-shirts

  1. New year, same me. 
  2. My New Year’s resolution is to keep my resolutions.
  3. Here’s to another year of questionable decisions.
  4. New year, same old fabulous me.
  5. This year, I’m just winging it.
  6. My New Year’s resolution is to stop making New Year’s resolutions.

Funny vacation shirts

Sun’s out, puns out! Whether you’re hitting the beach, taking a road trip, or just flexing your “out of office” status, these vacation shirts bring the funny sayings and vacay vibes wherever you go. Bonus: They make great souvenirs.

  1. I need six months of vacation twice a year.
  2. Out of office. Forever.
  3. Sandy toes, sun-kissed nose.
  4. Vacation mode: Activated.
  5. I’m just here for the beach vibes.
  6. I’m not lost, I’m exploring.
  7. Catching flights, not feelings.
  8. My passport is my favorite accessory.
  9. Resting beach face.
  10. I’m on island time. Don’t rush me.
  11. Vacation calories don’t count.
  12. Good vibes and even better cocktails.
  13. I’m here for the tan lines.
  14. The buffet at the all-inclusive resort hates to see me coming.
  15. Adventure is out there. So am I.
  16. Tropical state of mind.
  17. Beach hair, don’t care.
  18. Wander often, wonder always.
  19. Audios, beaches.

Punny t-shirt ideas

Because puns are the best kind of humor. Whether you love wordplay, dad jokes, or ridiculously clever twists, these punny t-shirts will have you looking sharp, dressing to impress, and pun-ishing anyone who doesn’t appreciate your wit.

  1. I’m kind of a big dill.
  2. Let’s taco ‘bout it.
  3. You’re one in a melon.
  4. Don’t go bacon my heart.
  5. I’m on a roll.
  6. I’m soy into you.
  7. I’m not a photographer, but I can picture us together.
  8. You’re the peanut butter to my jelly.
  9. I’m nacho average person.
  10. Cereal killer.
  11. I’m feeling a bit knotty.
  12. I donut care.
  13. I’m egg-cited for today!
  14. Life is gouda.
  15. It’s a brew-tiful day.
  16. You had me at “Hello.” I was sold at “Free pizza.”
  17. I’m a-dough-able.
  18. I’m a big fan of you (with a fan graphic).
  19. Olive you.
  20. That’s how I roll (with a sushi roll design).
  21. I’m just here for the pun.
  22. I’m pawsitively excited (for cat or dog lovers).
  23. I’ve got a latte love for you.
  24. Bear-ly awake.
  25. Everything whale be ok.
  26. Espresso patronum. 
  27. If I was a vegetable, I’d be a cute-cumber!
  28. Have a tea-riffic day!

Funny t-shirts for animal lovers

If your t-shirt doesn’t have a dog, cat, or some ridiculously cute printed pet pun, are you even an animal person? The opportunities here are endless. From funny quotes on shirts about cat-titude to silly phrases like “Sorry, I can’t, my dog said NO,” these tees let you wear your love for furry, scaly, or feathery friends loud and proud.

Bonus? They make an awesome gift for pet-obsessed men and women who’d rather shop for their pets than themselves.

  1. I work hard so my dog can have a better life.
  2. Home is where the dog hair sticks to everything.
  3. Every day is Caturday.
  4. Dogs are my favorite alarm clocks.
  5. Pawsitive vibes only.
  6. I’m only here for the cat memes.
  7. Dogs have owners; cats have staff.
  8. Home is where my pets are.
  9. Pet hair is my fashion statement.
  10. My dog thinks I’m the best human ever.
  11. Cats: The ultimate stress reliever.
  12. A house is not a home without a cat.
  13. Paw-tners in crime.
  14. Llamaste. 
  15. Let’s face it – I was crazy before the cats. 
  16. My kid has paws.
  17. Talk birdy to me.
  18. Cat hair, don’t care.
  19. I love my DINKWAD life (Double income, no kids, with a dog).

Got the perfect funny slogan to wear? Profit from it!

Want to sell custom-printed funny t-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts to men and women worldwide? Join Printify and offer personalized gift shirts, company merch, or wardrobe staples – without worrying about inventory or logistics.

1. Sign up: Register for free.

2. Select a t-shirt: Browse our vast selection of custom tees for men, women, and kids.

3. Design your sayings: Use our Product Creator to customize your funny sayings, or use our free t-shirt designs for quality results. 

4. Decide where to sell: Pick your sales channel. Sell shirts on Etsy or Shopify, create your shop, and easily integrate with Printify.

5. Let Printify do the work: Once customers buy your awesome shirts, our Print Providers take care of the rest, printing, packaging, and shipping.

Tips for selling funny t-shirts

180 Funny shirt sayings to inspire your next bestseller 4

Selling funny t-shirts isn’t just about slapping a funny slogan onto fabric. From choosing the right print-on-demand niches to staying ahead of trends and using social media like a pro, here’s how to make your funny shirt sayings stand out, sell like crazy, and maybe even go viral.

Pick a niche

Which funny sayings for shirts sell best? The ones that speak directly to a group of passionate, slightly obsessed people. Think themes like nerdy science jokes, gym humor, or dog moms who spoil their fur babies more than their kids. 

Tools like Google Trends, eRank, Etsy’s bestseller lists, and even your own weird internet rabbit holes can help you find the perfect t-shirt niche. Pro tip? If you’d buy it, others probably would, too.

Keep up with trends

One year, oversized tees are all the rage; the next, minimal text on neutral-toned shirts takes over.

  • Stay ahead by tracking t-shirt trends on Pinterest, TikTok, Instagram, and Printify’s Blog. 

Look at funny things to put on a shirt from past viral designs, seasonal shifts (ugly Christmas sweater season is gold), and color trends. Experiment with different colors, design types, and placements, and offer something unique your customers will love.

Quick tip

Read our guides on design placement, shirt fabrics, and design size to produce tees with the best quality print for your funny sayings.

Make the most out of social media

Selling funny t-shirts? Then your marketing better be just as funny. Meme your way to success by using platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Twitter to showcase your funny shirt sayings in action. Encourage customers to post pics, run caption contests, and create funny videos featuring your shirts. The funnier your content, the more shares, likes, and cha-chings you’ll get.

Funny shirt sayings: FAQ

The best funny shirt sayings are the ones that make people do a double-take. Think “I’m not arguing, I’m just explaining why I’m right,” or “Coffee: Because adulting is hard.” Whether it’s sarcastic, punny, or just plain weird, if it makes you laugh, it’s a winner.

Your t-shirt should scream “Buy Me!” – or at least make people chuckle loudly. Go for funny slogans like “I put the pro in procrastinate” or “Currently avoiding my responsibilities.” Need more inspo? Find trending phrases on social media, in pop culture, or from your group chat’s best one-liners.

One word? That’s powerful. Keep it simple with funny, awesome, or relatable words like NOPE, MOOD, BRUH, or SLEEP. Or get extra clever – SPAM (on a Hawaiian shirt), ADULTING (crossed out), or ERROR 404: Motivation Not Found. The fewer the letters, the bigger the humor impact.

They go by many names – graphic tees, slogan shirts, printed shirts, statement tees – but let’s be real, we all call them funny t-shirts when they make us laugh. Whether it’s a funny saying, witty quote, or ironic phrase, these shirts are wearable personality boosters.

Conclusion

So, you came here looking for funny shirt sayings and left with a goldmine of funny slogans, design ideas, and selling tips – that’s how we do things at Printify. Now, it’s time to turn these ideas into reality. With POD, effortlessly create and sell funny t-shirts, hoodies, and beyond – think mugs, posters, and even hockey pucks. Start designing, start selling, and most importantly – start making people laugh!

Start a funny t-shirt business with Print on Demand today!

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How to create a t-shirt design: Full guide https://printify.com/blog/how-to-create-a-best-selling-t-shirt-design/ https://printify.com/blog/how-to-create-a-best-selling-t-shirt-design/#comments Thu, 09 Jan 2025 05:04:00 +0000 https://printify.com/?p=41833 Discover how to make a shirt design with our guide. Follow key steps, explore tools, and craft t-shirts your audience will love.

The post How to create a t-shirt design: Full guide appeared first on Printify.

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Create a custom shirt with Printify

Designing a bestselling t-shirt goes beyond just creating relevant aesthetics – it’s about connecting with your audience and crafting print designs with the right knowledge.

Whether you’re creating t-shirts for personal use, starting a business, or designing for events, this guide will walk you through every step to turn your vision into wearable art.

Disclaimer

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.

Key takeaways

  • A defined niche makes your t-shirts more appealing to specific audiences.
  • Competitor research highlights popular styles and reveals market gaps.
  • Printing methods like DTG and sublimation work best for different design needs.
  • High-resolution files and vector formats create professional-quality designs.
  • Platforms like Printify simplify designing, printing, and selling custom t-shirts.

1. Brainstorm design ideas

A man sits on a bed with a laptop, brainstorming creative t-shirt design ideas in a cozy setting.

Every great t-shirt starts with an idea. Explore creative possibilities and determine which t-shirt design ideas best resonate with your vision and audience.

Consider who you’re designing a t-shirt for. Define your audience and occasion – what interests, preferences, and values should affect where you look for inspiration?

Explore trends

Trends help you find design inspiration by identifying themes that resonate with broader interests and popular values. Use these sources to discover and refine your approach:

  • Social media channels: Explore Pinterest and Instagram to find inspiration for your typography, color palette, theme, and other design elements.
  • Research tools: Use Google Trends or eRank to track rising topics, for example, “retro t-shirts” or “nature-inspired designs”, by analyzing search interest over time.
  • Seasonal themes: Tap into seasonal trends for timely designs – festive motifs for winter holidays or tropical colors for brand summer collections.

Use this research to sketch initial designs that feel current but unique to your brand. For example, if retro graphics are trending, tailor your designs to match them, like 8-bit art for veteran gamers or a ‘50s-inspired marketing poster for 20th-century pop art lovers.

Narrow down a niche

Choosing a niche helps your t-shirt designs appeal to a specific, dedicated audience. Popular options include hobbies like gaming or gardening, fitness themes, cause-based designs such as eco-conscious slogans, or simply a particular art style preference.

Steps to find your niche:

  1. Define your audience:
    • Who are they? (e.g., age, gender, lifestyle)
    • What interests, values, or challenges do they care about?
    • What designs resonate emotionally – humor, activism, or elegance?
  2. Research interests:

    Identify rising interests through top-performing products on marketplaces, popular tags and accounts on social media, and tools like Google Trends, Semrush, or eRank to find topics and keywords tied to your potential niche.
  3. Spot market gaps:

    Study competitors in the same niche – are there underserved audiences? For instance, if pet-themed t-shirts focus on dogs, target cat or bird lovers instead.

When planning how to make your own t-shirt designs exclusively online, checking popular print-on-demand niches can help you focus on a result-oriented approach.

Analyze competitors

Competitor analysis helps you understand what’s working in the market and identify opportunities to differentiate your t-shirt designs. Here’s what you should focus on:

Identifying your competitors:

  • Marketplaces like Etsy or Amazon: Browse categories and filter for best-selling or most-reviewed products to identify popular designs in your preferred category.
  • Social media platforms: Look at trending hashtags for new graphic tees on Instagram and TikTok to find small brands and popular creator merchandise.
  • Print-on-demand showcases: Explore sites like Printify, which features trending designs across various product categories and gives insights into top sellers.

Evaluating designs, branding, and engagement:

  • Design styles: Observe visuals, fonts, and slogans – are the designs minimalistic, artistic, or trend-driven?
  • Best-sellers: Note recurring patterns like color palettes or placements that consistently drive success.
  • Customer reviews: Identify what buyers praise (e.g., “high-quality print”) or criticize (e.g., “poor durability”).
  • Pricing and promotions: Analyze pricing strategies, discounts, and bundles.
  • Marketing: Check if they use social media like Instagram, influencer partnerships, or paid ads to promote products.

2. Pick your shirts

The material, style, printing method, and design placement will directly affect the quality and appeal of your custom t-shirts.

Printing methods

Your printing option determines the look, feel, and longevity of your t-shirt designs.

Popular methods include:

Printing techniqueHow it worksBest forProsCons
Direct-to-garment (DTG)Uses inkjet technology to print designs directly onto the fabric.Small batches of custom t-shirts with intricate, full-color designs.Exceptional detail and vibrant colors, ideal for high-resolution designs on cotton.Higher cost for bulk orders, limited to cotton fabrics.
Sublimation printingTransfers designs to polyester fabrics using heat and dye, allowing for seamless all-over prints.Full-coverage designs on polyester-base t-shirts.Long-lasting, bright colors, perfect for intricate and bold all-over designs.Limited to polyester fabrics, unsuitable for darker materials.
Screen printingPushes ink through stencils (screens) for each color in the design.Bulk orders of simple, graphic t-shirt designs with few colors.Cost-effective for large runs, durable prints on various fabrics.Labor-intensive for multicolor designs or small orders.

Each method has specific requirements, so it’s important to match your final design to the best printing method. Select based on these criteria, costs, and user preferences.

Shirt styles and types

Different shirt styles cater to different markets, so consider your audience when selecting t-shirt options:

  • Crewnecks and v-necks: Timeless choices for most t-shirt design ideas.
  • Tank tops and cropped shirts: Great for summer collections or fitness.
  • Long sleeves and hoodies: Perfect for cooler climates or seasonal wear.

There’s more to shirt styles, such as reinforced stitching, sizing, and fit options, which you can consider on a case-by-case basis. Your shirt design should complement the chosen style to create a cohesive look that customers will want to wear.

Design placements

Where you place your design impacts its visibility and appeal. Here are some popular t-shirt design placements:

  • Front and center: The classic choice for bold or statement pieces.
  • Upper chest: A professional look, often used for logos or minimalist designs.
  • Back: Great for detailed graphics or event-specific messaging.

Combine these elements, like both the front and back for busy designs suitable for events, and placements like the sleeve or hem for subtle branding elements. Use tools like the Printify Product Creator to visualize placements before production.

Materials and fabric options

Choosing the best t-shirt fabric material for your designs affects comfort, durability, and the appearance of the print on the shirt. 

Common options include:

  • Cotton: A top choice for DTG printing, cotton offers softness and breathability, ideal for everyday wear.
  • Polyester: Known for its durability, it’s perfect for sublimation printing and vibrant printing colors.
  • Blends: Fabrics like cotton-polyester blends combine comfort and durability, making them versatile for most t-shirt designs.

Consider the fabric color carefully – lighter tones work well for bold, vibrant designs, while darker colors can enhance minimalist or monochrome aesthetics.

3. Create the design

A young girl in pineapple sunglasses and a pink sweatshirt that says "Hey girl you rock" sits on a counter, showcasing her fun personality and style.

Bringing your concept to life is one of the most exciting parts of the t-shirt design process. Whether you’re working on a custom t-shirt design for a special event or t-shirt business, this step is all about refining ideas into a polished, perfect t-shirt design.

Here are the essentials to guide you through this process:

Design file

Use high-resolution images (300 DPI or higher) for sharp prints, especially when working with photorealistic elements. When designing, a vector format like SVG is the best option because it scales without losing quality.

Raster formats, like PNG or JPEG, should only be used when they meet the resolution requirements. Pay attention to sizing and placement to avoid distortion when printing.

Print colors

Most printers use CMYK printing, which can differ from the RGB colors on your screen. As a result, printed colors may appear less vibrant due to how ink interacts with fabric.

To minimize discrepancies, create your design in CMYK mode from the start. Contrast matters, too – light-colored designs work well on dark shirts and vice versa. This is why testing your design with samples is key to meeting expectations before production.

Use design software

Designing your t-shirts is easier than ever with the right tools. Adobe Express and other free t-shirt design software are great for creating clean designs.

For beginners, Printify’s Product Creator offers user-friendly features for refining pre-existing designs with digital mockups, free templates, image manipulation, and background remover tools. Experiment with fonts, brand colors, and layouts to make your own design stand out.

Digitize your art

You’ll have to digitize your art if you’re working with hand-drawn sketches or illustrations. Use tools like Adobe Illustrator or Gimp to clean up lines, adjust proportions, and enhance details. Scan your artwork at a high resolution to meet printing requirements.

Outsource

If designing isn’t your strength, consider outsourcing to professionals, especially when you need a polished, market-ready design quickly. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork offer various services, from t-shirt design ideas to pre-made graphics you can adapt.

Make it happen today!

How to create and sell custom t-shirts with Printify

A young woman in a tie dye sweatshirt sits at a table in the park, focused on her laptop while enjoying the outdoors.

Printify simplifies creating and selling personalized t-shirts with free intuitive tools and a global network of Print Providers. Skip the hassle of inventory management, upfront costs, and shipping logistics – design, customize, and sell from anywhere in the world.

1. Sign up

Create a Printify account for free. Explore t-shirt templates, discover pre-made designs, and connect with top Print Providers for product fulfillment in just a few clicks.

2. Pick a shirt

Browse our Catalog for a variety of printing options. We offer a wide selection of shirts, whether you’re designing crewnecks, tank tops, or long sleeves.

3. Customize it

Click Start designing from the product page. In the Product Creator, upload your design following the resolution requirements or create one from scratch using AI, free graphics, and other convenient features. Adjust placements, edit assets, and manage layers to create print-ready mockups.

4. Add it to your store

Connect Printify with platforms like Shopify or Etsy to list your designs. Add engaging descriptions and product images from sample photos or our Product Creator preview.

5. Start selling

Order prints of your designs as samples for quality checks and marketing. Promote your custom t-shirts through social media, email campaigns, or influencer partnerships

Tailor your products to your audience and meet the key needs of your niche. Once sold, our network of fulfillment centers will deliver to the customer.

FAQ

When thinking about how to make designs on shirts, Printify’s Product Creator is a simple, intuitive option. It offers tools to upload your own photos, adjust placements, and preview your product to design shirts without any upfront costs or prior experience.

One of the easiest ways how to make shirt designs is with graphic design software. Consider a graphic design platform like Adobe Express, which offers more hands-on tools and focuses on precision and scalability to produce quality results for t-shirt printing.

Yes, t-shirt designs can be profitable. Selling prints on Etsy is a great option, or you can use Printify to sell custom-print t-shirts without inventory costs. To succeed, focus on a niche, create original designs, and market your store effectively.

Start with a memorable logo reflecting your identity. Design unique shirts for your target audience, focusing on their preferences and trends. Use Printify to streamline management and minimize production time to quickly test concepts and see how many t-shirts resonate with your audience. Promote your brand through engaging content, collaborations, and social media campaigns highlighting your story and designs.

Final thoughts

Exploring how to make a design for a shirt can be creative and fun. Whether you’re learning how to make your own t-shirt design from scratch or experimenting with free t-shirt mockups, t-shirt design is a rewarding skill. With the right tools and techniques, mastering how to create a shirt design can set you up for success as a profitable brand.

Make it happen today!

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How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide https://printify.com/blog/how-to-use-placeit-t-shirt-design-tool/ https://printify.com/blog/how-to-use-placeit-t-shirt-design-tool/#comments Mon, 31 Oct 2022 09:34:31 +0000 https://printify.com/?p=134526 We’ll show you how to use the Placeit t-shirt design tool to create awesome-looking merch and mockups for your business.

The post How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide appeared first on Printify.

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Bring your design ideas to life

If you’ve always wanted to start your own t-shirt business but freeze at the idea of creating your own designs – you’ve come to the right place! No, we won’t revel in your despair; we’ll provide a solution to boost your business.

In this article, we’ll show you how to use the handy Placeit t-shirt design tool to create awesome-looking merch and mockups for your business. We’ll also give you a step-by-step guide on how to use Placeit t-shirt design templates and sell them with Printify. 

Grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get started!

Disclaimer

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.

About Placeit

Placeit is an online design tool that allows you to create marketing materials and designs for your business. To make your life easier, no complicated software is necessary – design straight from your browser without any prior designing knowledge.

You know what they say – time is money. And Placeit is here to save you both, as it’s so easy to use that even absolute beginners will end up having amazing-looking imagery.

Placeit – your one-stop design shop

They have it all, with gorgeous and unlimited mockups, templates, videos, and branding resources. Placeit is your solution for smart designs, mockups, logos, and more. Besides, commercial licenses are included with all your downloads.

Placeit is wallet-friendly, as their subscription starts from just $7.47/mo, and they also offer tons of free templates that you can easily use for your products. 

If you subscribe and then download any templates from Placeit, there will be a one-month minimum commitment — apart from that, you can cancel anytime.

By the way, thanks to the Printify x Placeit partnership, you’ll get a 15% discount for the unlimited subscription!

How to use Placeit t-shirt design templates

When you sign up with Placeit and create a free account, you get access to thousands of various high-quality t-shirt design templates. You can use them as they are or tweak them up to match the vibe you wish to bring to your customers with your t-shirts. 

You’ll find shirt design templates organized by tags in their template library. From animals to Mexican food to dogs and leisure to gaming and hip hop – if you can think of it, Placeit probably has design templates for it.

To better understand how to use Placeit templates in your shirt designs, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the whole process.

1. Choose the template

In the upper menu of the website:

  1. Select Designs
  2. In the dropdown menu, select T-shirt Designs.
  3. On the left, you’ll see the tags arranged alphabetically – you’ll find almost any topic or niche. Alternatively, you can use the search bar to look up specific keywords.
How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide 5

Scroll through to find what you like. And remember – even though each template comes with a graphic or text, you can modify it to match your brand.

If you first wish to try out Placeit without subscribing, they offer some free templates you can alter to see if you enjoy using it.

2. Create your t-shirt design

Once you select your template, you will be taken directly to the Placeit t-shirt designer. There, on the right side, you can change the text, font, and color, plus add more text. 

On the left side, you’ll see various tools: background color, the main graphic menu, and buttons to remove the graphic altogether or upload your own graphics or photos.

The main graphics menu will show related images. If you don’t see anything you like, try typing a keyword in the search bar to replace the image in the template with a new one. Or upload a PNG with a transparent background from your device.

Adjust the placement of the graphic and text, change the size, and add extra graphics – it’s easy, and the snap guides allow centering and positioning of all elements with ease.

Here you can change the background color or remove it completely to use on your product mockups without the colored square behind the graphic.

How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide 6

3. Download your new design template

Once you’re happy with the design, download it to your device to use on product mockups for your brand. Free account owners can download one free hi-res design to use on Placeit apparel mockups or the Printify Product Creator (formerly known as Mockup Generator) to create custom t-shirts for your business.

But, as we mentioned earlier, the paid subscription is worth it, as it allows the creation of unlimited mockup templates for your t-shirt business.

How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide 7

4. Create and download product mockup

  1. In the website’s top menu, select Mockups
  2. In the dropdown menu, find Apparel → T-Shirts. Like with the design templates, mockups for tees are categorized by tags.
How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide 8

Placeit has a huge library of high-quality images. Among thousands of photos and images, find lifestyle settings, flat lay images, and various occasions for your photo-realistic t-shirt mockup.

When you select the mockup you’d like to use on your social media channels and eCommerce store, you’ll be taken to the mockup studio. There, on the left-hand side, you can upload the design you created previously and add some text to spice things up and make this mockup truly yours.

How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide 9

Crop and scale the design to adjust it on the image. On the right-hand side, you’ll see a live preview, so you can see how large and where exactly on the product the artwork is positioned.

When you’ve placed the image the way you like it, click Crop, which will bring you back to the design space.

On the right side of the screen, you can see all the tools: change the color of each product, add, change or remove the overlay, and add texture.

How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide 10

You can download the image when you’re happy with what you see. Just a one-off download costs more than a month’s subscription. But if you want just one, who are we to judge? 

No matter your choice, you’ll have a high-quality mockup photo to use on your social media channels and in your online store. Just be mindful that the t-shirt on the mockup should look the same as the shirt you’re selling.

One more thing regarding Placeit’s tools: they have a fabulous logo maker that you can not only use for creating your brand logo but also make t-shirt designs as well.

Placeit offers product mockups for popular t-shirts, like Bella Canvas 3001, 3001T, and more. When it comes to mockups, Placeit is indeed wonderful with its themes and setups. 

However, to create mockups that you’ll use to sell t-shirts online, you can also use the Printify Product Creator. Continue reading to learn more about that.

How to sell your Placeit t-shirt designs with Printify

Printify is a print-on-demand dropshipping platform. Print-on-demand is a unique order fulfillment method. It consists of printing a product only after the customer pays for it, which is great for several reasons.

First, there’s no waste, as the products are printed on demand. And second, sellers no longer need to keep bulky stock in the corner of their bedrooms or pay for storage space. 

Also, merchants don’t need to worry about anything that happens after they make a sale. The whole process, from printing, fulfillment, and packaging to shipping and customer support, is entirely in the print-on-demand site’s hands.

Print-on-demand sites like Printify also hook you up with online platforms and marketplaces like Etsy, Shopify, Wix, WooCommerce, and others via easy integrations, where you can open a store and sell your beautiful creations.

So, how to sell your Placeit t-shirt designs with Printify? Glad you asked! Here’s how to do it in six simple steps.

Sign up for Printify

To start selling t-shirt designs, first, you need to register for a free Printify account. You only need a valid email address to do this.

Choose a product from the catalog

Head to Printify’s catalog, which is currently home to over 820 products (and counting), and select the product you wish to design. Under each product, you’ll see all available print providers. Choose the one that makes the most sense to you based on the price, location, rating, color variants, shipping times, and rates. 

Then click Start designing to get instantly taken to the free Product Creator we mentioned earlier.

Add your design

Here, you can upload the designs you created on Placeit or elsewhere (by hiring a graphic designer or designing them yourself in software like Photoshop or its free alternatives).

Edit and save the product

Printify’s Product Creator is super easy to use. Get creative and upload up to five layers to add to your t-shirt. Use the text edit tool and its many trendy fonts to add some words.

On the right-hand side, select all the shirt’s base color variants you want to offer in your eCommerce store.

When you’re happy with what you have, press Preview to see a realistic product mockup. You’ll see multiple options – flat lay and on a person. If you see that some additional adjustments are needed, click Edit to resize or reposition your design.

Once you’re done editing, press Save product to proceed. Then, you’ll see all available mockup options. If you don’t like any of them, click the long blue button that will take you to Placeit.

Connect your store

As mentioned earlier, Printify integrates easily with some of the most popular eCommerce platforms and marketplaces like Shopify, Etsy, eBay, Wix, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Squarespace, and others. Choose the one that works best for your brand.

Publish and start selling

When all your product mockup images are nice and ready, your brand new store is connected with Printify, it’s time to publish them to your online store. 

You can effortlessly do it straight from your Printify dashboard. Edit product descriptions and prices, and – voila! – your t-shirts are now up for grabs.

Key takeaways

Name a more epic duo than Placeit and Printify. We’ll wait. They go together so beautifully.

Placeit lets you create amazing product designs, mockups, and even your brand logo, promo videos, and social media images, while Printify provides a super low-cost opportunity to start an online business selling fabulous t-shirts and other apparel and accessories. 

Create products and mockups and start making money online with your beautiful designs powered by Placeit’s t-shirt template magic.

Make it happen today!

The post How to use Placeit t-shirt design tool to create your merch: a step-by-step guide appeared first on Printify.

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Business shirt ideas that stand out https://printify.com/blog/business-shirt-ideas-that-stand-out/ Wed, 11 May 2022 10:40:42 +0000 https://printify.com/?p=106235 Are you searching for business shirt ideas to make your business stand out? We've prepared a list of ideas for you to choose from. Read more to find out.

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Make a shirt with Printify today

Every business reaches a moment when it’s time to design a company t-shirt. Whether you’re creating custom t-shirts for employees, coming up with giveaways for an event, or selling branded apparel, custom shirts make your business look legit, ooze professionalism, and create a sense of unity within the team. And without a doubt – custom-designed tees look fantastic!

Why it’s worth having a company shirt design

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Business t-shirts are great for marketing. Imagine adding your brand name or logo to your team’s t-shirt design. Potential customers will notice your brand wherever your employees go, and the shirt will serve as a great conversation starter. This way, you can pass on information to possible new clients without directly approaching them.

Placing your business logo on a shirt will boost your recognition and brand identity. Every company is unique – using your logo and company colors on apparel will help you stand out in the crowd and showcase your individuality.

If you’re thinking of creating custom t-shirts for your employees, they’ll also help foster team spirit and inspire loyalty. Not to mention that your team will look really professional when donning a neatly designed company t-shirt.

Read this article to find out what you need to consider when designing a company shirt and get ideas for your final designs.

Where do I start with company shirt ideas?

We’ve established that company shirts are an excellent idea for any team, but where to start? Luckily, Printify offers a wide range of shirt options for you to make even your wildest design ideas come to life.

Our product catalog has everything you need, whether you’re looking to create a custom tee, a custom long sleeve shirt, a sweatshirt, or even a hoodie. Let’s have a look at the available options so that you can figure out the best one for your business.

Pick the right apparel for you

Before jumping into the design process, we suggest going over some of the more practical aspects of creating a shirt. Who are you designing the shirt for? How often and under what conditions will they wear it? What is your budget per shirt?

Answering these questions will help you pick the most suitable option. Here’s what Printify has to offer.

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T-shirts

You can’t go wrong with the good ol’ short sleeve tee. It’s a great choice if you’re looking to design a company t-shirt that your employees can wear regularly or if you’re thinking of creating some promo merch.

Check out our men’s and women’s t-shirts and pick one for your team. Prices start from as low as $7.26.

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Long sleeve shirts

A long sleeve shirt is a great alternative to the standard t-shirt. It’s also pretty lightweight, but the sleeves go down to your wrists, providing a bit more of a professional look. They’re also super comfortable and are great for layering during the year’s colder months.

There’s a wide array of options for men and women.

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Sweatshirts

If you’re looking for a garment that’s a bit more sturdy but also super comfy, a sweatshirt is a great choice. This option has the potential to give your brand more exposure since basic t-shirts get hidden behind other layers of clothing during fall and winter. Our catalog offers a wide range of unisex options and sweatshirts for men and women.

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Hoodies

Who doesn’t love a good hoodie? Take care of your team and customers with this timeless classic. Whether you want to design a zip-up hoodie or a pullover, Printify has you covered with a ton of quality options. Check them out here.

Define your budget and quantity

You’ve now got an idea of the available apparel selection, but what about your budget? The good news is that Printify’s pricing is super competitive, and you’re sure to find an option that will match your financial possibilities.

For example, the price of a regular t-shirt goes as low as $7.26, and there are many options under $12, depending on the print provider. When browsing our catalog for products, pick an option like the Men’s Cotton Crew Tee. You’ll then see a list of print providers who offer printing for that specific t-shirt, and you can pick the one that matches your budget the best.

Keep in mind that the price will also depend on the print area. A design on the front side will cost less than a shirt with an all-over print or prints on additional areas (back, sleeve, etc.). The price will also vary depending on the print type you’re using, for example, direct-to-garment or dye sublimation. But more on that later.

When deciding on a product, calculate how many shirts you need. Print on demand lets you print the final design only when the need arises, so you don’t need to keep a stock of shirts. But if you’d like to place a bulk order, you certainly can. This way, you can get all the shirts you need in one go and save money on shipping.

Create your company shirt today!

A business shirt design like no other

If you want your custom business t-shirts to turn some heads, you need to get the design right. Although it’s not rocket science, it’s still possible to mess up a perfectly good shirt. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen.

When choosing a shirt, pick a color that matches your brand or your business field and will go well with your print design. Though you might be tempted to use flashy and bright colors, it might be worth going with more neutral tones. Make sure the colors complement each other, and the shirt design isn’t confusing.

There are also different print styles you can use. You can go the more subtle route and stick to specific print areas for your t-shirts or go all out with an all-over print.

Let the colors speak

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The color of your shirt is what others will notice first. And the colors you’re using will also determine how well others can see the actual print on your apparel. The thought process behind picking your shirt’s color depends on what you want to achieve.

Brand recognition

Since you’re looking to create a company shirt, you probably already have your brand colors established. It’s a good idea to create brand apparel that matches the colors used in your logo, website, and marketing materials. However, if you’d like to try out something different, we suggest using at least a shade of one of your primary brand colors so that your customers still recognize your brand.

Conveying a message through color

It’s been proven time and again that people have specific associations with every color. For example, people associate red with excitement and energy. Blue is trustworthy and reliable, while white conveys simplicity and minimalism.

When thinking of color for your business t-shirts, consider the message you want to convey. Do some research to find out what colors represent your brand and industry the best. Here’s a quick overview of the emotional meanings of popular colors:

Red is associated with excitement, energy, and danger. It’s also known for being the color of love and passion.

Orange is fresh, adventurous, and full of vitality. It inspires creativity and new ideas and is often associated with being cost-effective.

Yellow radiates optimism – it represents happiness and playfulness. This color can help companies connect with customers’ nostalgia for their joyful youth.

Green is natural and is often associated with sustainability. It can be seen as stress-relieving and zen but can also align with prestige and wealth.

Blue reminds people of reliability and trustworthiness. It calms the mind.

Purple is the color of royalty and refinement. Its powerful shades can also be seen as spiritual and mysterious.

Pink is feminine, sentimental, and romantic. People also consider hot pink and similar shades to be youthful and bold.

Brown is considered honest and down-to-earth. Companies often use shades of brown for organic and natural products.

White represents simplicity and innocence – it’s pure. White often conveys a minimalistic feel.

Black is seen as sophisticated and elegant. Although often associated with sorrow, it’s also considered formal and luxurious.

Standing out from the competition

Research what your competitors are doing. If they’re using black and blue for their apparel, you don’t want to dress your team in white and blue. Look for colors that will help your brand stand out – no need to confuse customers.

Whether you want to use bold colors or be a bit more down-to-earth, the Printify product catalog will help you find the right colors for your business.

Different types of shirts allow different types of print

Just as with colors, you can choose between various print areas for your apparel. With t-shirt printing, there’s the standard front side and back side print. Some t-shirt options also allow you to print your designs on the sleeves and create a neck label. And let’s not forget the all-over print – it’s the option that lets your wildest design ideas come to life.

Remember that the product price already includes one print area (front or back). You can add additional print areas to garments for an extra charge. Sort shirts by their print areas in the catalog by ticking the respective boxes in the left-side panel.

You can also use two different printing techniques for your garments: direct-to-garment printing and dye sublimation.

Direct-to-garment (DTG)

Direct-to-garment printing is similar to printing on paper – the difference is that the medium used is fabric. DTG was invented as a faster substitute for manually intensive screen printing. It’s used to print t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and other apparel, and is more affordable than sublimation printing.

Dye sublimation

Sublimation printing, also known as all-over print, is a technique where inks are transferred onto the product using heat. Dye sublimation helps create long-lasting POD products with distinct colors and high-resolution prints. Although a bit limited in product selection, this printing method will produce stunning results.

At the end of the day, it’s up to your personal preference. You can go for a more subtle look and use the standard print areas or choose dye sublimation and implement any design you like.

What to print on shirts?

It’s time for the million-dollar question – what to print on your custom t-shirts?

Since you’re creating company apparel, adding your business logo and company name seems like the obvious choice. But in addition to your brand symbols, you can also consider using patterns in your design, implementing the right imagery, and utilizing typography.

Let’s dive a bit deeper into various print design ideas.

Expand on your logo

Adding your business logo to your company shirt is always a good idea. It’s the primary symbol differentiating your brand from others, and it encompasses your brand identity. But where to place it? And what colors to use?

Business shirt ideas that stand out 17

Logo placement

The most common professional looks have a small logo on the left chest or a big logo on the middle back of the shirt. Consider how nuanced your logo is – if there are a lot of tiny details, it’s better to make it larger so that everything is visible.

You can also add your company name to your t-shirt design if your logo doesn’t already include it. Just make sure that the name uses the same brand style and be mindful of proportions. If you’re not looking to keep your final design super minimalistic, you can go for a left chest and full back print combination.

With the company logo on the back, you can also add additional information there. It all depends on the purpose of your design. For example, you could add your company values or contact information on the back.

Logo color

Just like picking the color of your shirt, it’s also important to be mindful of your logo color.

Does your business logo include multiple colors? Do people instantly recognize your multicolored logo? If that’s the case, you might want to use that version of the logo on your business t-shirts. Just make sure that the logo goes well with the shirt color – pick a fabric with a more neutral tone rather than bold colors.

If the multicolor logo doesn’t serve a specific purpose, it’s best to go for a single color or at least shades of the same color for your shirt. Use the color wheel to mix and match your colors.

Use patterns

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If you’re looking to create a t-shirt design that’s got a bit more pizzazz, try using patterns. You can test out various geometric, abstract, and floral designs – just make sure that they match your brand image. Check out Patternbank for inspiration and designs that are available for purchase.

Are there any specific design patterns you’re using as part of your communication and brand image? Try adding these to your business t-shirts. Using the same shapes and visuals on your business apparel will help with brand recognition, and you won’t need to design everything from scratch.

Remember to check out our all-over-print shirts for your pattern designs. AOP lets you cover the entire surface area with your design – your company shirts are sure to stand out in the crowd!

Imagery that speaks volumes

A powerful image can say a lot more than words. With shirts, images often make more sense than text. People usually get only a couple of seconds to check out others’ clothes, and there might not be enough time to read the message on them. So, where to find images and what to use?

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Online resources for images and llustrations

Whether it’s a graphic that relates to your line of business, an illustration that can help you get your message across, or just a fun image, you can use various online sources to spice up your custom t-shirts.

Keep in mind that Printify has a built-in Shutterstock integration that you can use as a source for images and graphics without even leaving the editor.

Here are some additional resources to consider:

  • Pixabay. An extensive, free stock photo service that offers stunning, user-generated content. With over 1 million images, there’s something for everyone.
  • Freepik. An excellent resource for high-quality photos, designs, and mockups. If you’re on their free plan, you can use any of their graphics for free, but you have to attribute them.
  • Vecteezy. Another great source for beautiful graphics. Most of their images and illustrations are free, but attribution is required.

Check out our list of free design resources for more options.

Create visuals yourself

If you’ve got a specific idea for a visual to use on your business t-shirts, you can create it yourself.

Designing an illustration from scratch can seem like a daunting task at first. Don’t worry if you don’t have a designer at your disposal. Various graphic design tools can make the process a lot easier.

For example, Canva is a popular and helpful tool for creating POD designs. It’s easy to use and lets you create anything from a logo to a t-shirt design. Just remember that you don’t need over-the-top visuals for your company shirt.

Suggestions for using imagery

For visuals to be powerful, they must be easily understandable. Remember that tiny details and complex images don’t look as good on fabric as on a computer screen or canvas. Always try to keep the imagery simple.

Also, keep in mind that the final designs are worn by people who are often in motion – passersby will most likely see the shirt only for a short moment. These conditions favor simple details and a flat perspective for your visuals.

Don’t want to use images? Typography to the rescue!

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Typography is the art of arranging a written message in a readable and aesthetically pleasing composition. The process includes working with already available typefaces and picking the right point sizes, line lengths and spacing, and letter-spacing.

Not to confuse you, typeface refers to a family of related fonts (e.g., Roboto). In contrast, font is the variation in weight and size of a typeface (e.g., Roboto Thin, Roboto Regular, Roboto Bold). In reality, most people, including designers, refer to both as fonts. Now, let’s get on with your t-shirt design.

When placed on your company shirt, text can have just as big an impact as an image. Remember that visibility and readability are essential for business-style shirts, and consider the following.

If your company already has brand guidelines, follow them when designing your shirt. We suggest using the font you use for your products and services. If you’ve got an easily distinguishable font, others will recognize your brand even before reading the message.

However, don’t forget to consider font style and weight. For example, while a thin font can look nice on a computer screen or any other hard surface, it might be difficult to read on fabric. You might want to go for a bolder font for your t-shirt. Test out different designs and see what works best.

If you’re planning on using a new font for your t-shirt, consider what people would expect from a brand in your line of business. For example, don’t go for a font that’s cartoony or too playful if you’re in the IT industry, but pick something more modern and professional-looking.

Here are some tips to consider when using typography in your t-shirt design:

  • Don’t combine more than two fonts in one design. Ideally, pick just one.
  • If you choose to go with two fonts, make sure people read your text in the correct order. In other words, use visual hierarchy.
  • Avoid handwritten fonts unless you’re sure others can read them at a distance.
  • Consider adjusting the kerning – the space between the letters of your font.
  • Stay consistent with your use of uppercase and lowercase letters.
  • Make sure your font works on t-shirts of various colors.
  • Make your text slightly larger than you’re happy with when in doubt.

Check out our t-shirt font guide to learn more about typography in your t-shirt designs.

Looking sharp already

You’re already on the right path – deciding on creating a company t-shirt is a terrific idea. Whether you’re designing shirts for your employees or customers, it’s a great way to spread the word about your brand and grow your business.

Let’s quickly go over all of the aspects to consider when working on your company shirt:

  • Start by choosing the apparel you’re going to use. Printify offers a wide range of t-shirts, long sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies. Consider who and where will be wearing the apparel.
  • Define your budget and decide on the quantity. The final product’s price depends on the type of apparel you’ve picked, its material, and the print area. As for the amount, you can order in bulk and get a discount, or use our print-on-demand solution and only order new items when necessary.
  • Decide on your shirt’s color. Use one of your brand colors or pick another shade that will set your business apart. Remember to select an option that will go well with your print.
  • Select the print area and printing method. Different shirts have different print areas available – consider whether you want to add your design only in the front, or also include the back and sleeves. Choose between direct-to-garment printing and dye sublimation.
  • Apply your print designs. Whether you only want to print your logo, mix it up with exciting patterns, or use images and typography, we suggest testing out multiple styles to see what works best.
  • Looking sharp! All that’s left is adding your shirts to your store and getting them in the hands of your employees.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a start-up or a well-established company; custom business shirts will make you look more professional and help you stand out. Printify has everything you need to get started.

Make it happen today!

The post Business shirt ideas that stand out appeared first on Printify.

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Top 5 tips to create better t-shirt designs https://printify.com/blog/top-5-tips-to-create-better-t-shirt-designs/ https://printify.com/blog/top-5-tips-to-create-better-t-shirt-designs/#comments Tue, 21 Jan 2020 13:58:31 +0000 https://printify.com/?p=19730 Whether your goal is to design custom shirts or make a practical promotional shirt, here are some helpful tips to guide you in creating the perfect t-shirt design!

The post Top 5 tips to create better t-shirt designs appeared first on Printify.

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Make a shirt with Printify today

T-shirts are a staple for everyday wear. It is a versatile piece of clothing that can be matched with a wide variety of bottoms like pants, skirts, and custom shorts. More than being a fashion favorite, custom t-shirts can express a statement and promote brand identity. It provides an outlet for creatives to craft the best designs that will please crowds and catapult any brand to fame.

T-shirt designing can both be a fun and commercial activity. Graphic artists can take inspiration from virtually anything, from famous people to quotes that anyone can relate to. Whether your goal is to design custom shirts or make a practical promotional shirt, here are some helpful tips to guide you in creating the perfect t-shirt design!

Establish your goal

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Initially, it might be a challenge to figure out the design that will capture the message you want the shirt to relay. Coming up with an idea may take a few days if you don’t know where to start.

During the brainstorming process, it is essential to ask this question: why are you designing a shirt? Establishing the main reason for t-shirt designing is the first step to conceptualizing the design. It would involve branding to an extent, and your shirt must communicate the goal.

You can base off of some of these common reasons to guide you in t-shirt designing:

  • Brand value. It’s convenient to depict brand identity or provide a visual representation of the products and services that the company offers. 
  • Internal marketing
  • Promotion. Shirts are a walking advertisement. It can be a useful tool for brand recognition, which influences a consumer’s buying decision.

2. Layout your design

Top 5 tips to create better t-shirt designs 22

Once you have a vivid idea of why you’re designing a shirt, it’s time to come up with the concept. The design could go a million different ways, which is why you need to take the time to visualize the design from your mind to paper. 

To make it easier, create a detailed list of the elements you want to include. Take time to sketch out an initial draft and make several variations to come up with the best one. You also have to consider the details of the design that works well together to unify the concept.

Style and imagery

Design elements like style and imagery depend on what your brand wants to convey and what sort of audience the shirts will be presented to. For instance, a brand catering to teens will likely use animated characters and components that spell fun and stylish. 

Color scheme

Personality is better expressed using a color scheme. Every graphic designer knows how indispensable shades, tints, and hues are in designing, although you have to more careful when applying color palettes on a shirt.

Choosing the right colors will make or break the tee, especially when designing on colored shirts. There’s no standard, but light-colored designs usually look best on dark-colored fabric, like navy or black shirts. Alternatively, dark-colored designs are effective on gray and white tees.

Keep in mind that inks could look different when printing. Approximating colors can be challenging, so make sure to use Pantone (PMS) or custom-blended CMYK. The latter is more expensive but virtually recreates colors from design to the print precisely. 

T-shirt design placement

Centering the design is the most common placement, particularly for brand promotion. However, there are many areas to choose from, such as top-left or a wrap-around image. Placing it on the back of the shirt is also a viable option for company logos or slogans.

You also need to keep in mind that when a shirt is worn, the design can be bunched up or hit awkward parts on the body.

One of the most common t-shirt design blunders includes the belly print, which is an unflattering placement. Keep the image flat to ensure that the printed version remains clear and readable. 

Typography

Typography in shirt designing is ensuring that the typeset is cohesive to the concept. Any text on display involves typography, such as in choosing the typeface or font, line spacing and letter spacing, and its harmony to other graphic elements in the design.

Also, one rule of thumb for typography is to never use over three fonts on a single design.

Text can be a smart addition to your design, but only if it works well with the other elements on the tee. Avoid committing mistakes like using all-caps on a single script typeface or choosing a font that does not apply to the theme (ex: using Batman Forever for a corporate event tee would likely be frowned upon).

3. Get the composition right

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Composition is one of the fundamental lessons in high school art classes, and it stays relevant to graphic designing. Every concept that has multiple elements need to be arranged relative to space and each other. Many designers believe that a well-composed idea depends on opinion, but sticking to some basic composition guidelines can enhance the design.

Top 5 tips to create better t-shirt designs 24

Some common missteps graphic designers make when designing a t-shirt include excessively spacing out the details, or huddling them up too close. Avoid placing the design off-balance, such as when it’s too heavy on one side and sparse on the other.  There are also cases when the type is placed in the wrong order, distorting the message on the shirt.

If you want to put several elements on your t-shirt design, give a lot of effort and time to neatly arranged everything and have another person validate it through feedback to ensure that the design is aesthetically pleasing to someone else as it is to you. 

4. Pay attention to image quality

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The image file might be good enough to view, but a low-resolution image will not look good on print. When creating a t-shirt design, stay away from low-res and ensure that the pixel information is adequate for a quality print.

Images taken from the web are usually too small—rarely full size and only at 72 dpi. The ideal setting for a print is 200 dpi and at full size

It’s also preferable to use vector files because these can be scaled to print without losing its quality. These file types include PDF, AI, EPS or SVG. For photographs, it’s better to scan at high resolution rather than taking a picture of it. Photos on photo tend to be blurry and sometimes unnecessarily cropped.

5. Complex or simple?

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In graphics and anything else, adding too many intricate details on a t-shirt design can ruin its overall aesthetic value. The human attention span lasts only for a few seconds, and you must make the best impression during those seconds. Shirt design is a moving graphic ad, so keeping it simple is better.

When trying for originality and creativity, it’s easy to get carried away and put in as many elements as possible, but stacking images, one on top of the other, creates weird angles and messes up the composition. You don’t want the concept to be messy and headache-inducing to the viewer.

It would be remarkable to have a well-executed masterpiece printed on a shirt, but complex doesn’t always mean it’s more attractive.

Minimalistic designs also do well on the market as long as it delivers the message and brand identity across.

Top 5 tips to create better t-shirt designs 27

Remember, it shouldn’t be so hard to figure out what the shirt wants to convey. Optimize the design, so it looks clean yet impactful. It might sound hard to achieve but if you get the concept right, it should be easy to finalize the design that would look perfect when printed on a shirt. 

Conclusion

Creating the perfect t-shirt design not only takes graphic design skills but also the knowledge of what works and doesn’t work for print. You can draw inspiration from social media platforms and other t-shirts that you happen to see, but don’t forget that keeping it original and authentic to the brand is the best way to go! 

Catch these bestselling t-shirts from Printify and place your design on them, before they’re gone.

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