Choosing the right t-shirt fabric is one of the most important steps when ordering custom t-shirts. The fabric you pick affects how your design looks, how it feels, and how long it lasts. If you want bright, bold prints that stay strong after many washes, you need to know which fabrics work best for DTF printing.
At The Print Shop, we make this easy. We print high-quality designs on many types of fabric. We also have a 9-colour DTF printer that keeps your artwork looking sharp on any t-shirt. Whether you are a small business, a club, or just making one shirt for fun, choosing the right fabric is key.
Why Fabric Matters in DTF Printing
DTF (Direct to Film) printing works by transferring ink from a special film onto your shirt. The print sticks well to many materials, but the look and feel change depending on the fabric.
- Softness: Some fabrics feel soft and light. Others are thick and heavy.
- Print quality: Smooth fabrics show more detail. Rough or textured fabrics can make the design look less sharp.
- Durability: Strong fabrics last longer, and the print stays bright.
- Comfort: You want people to enjoy wearing the shirt.
Understanding fabric types helps you get the best result for your money.
Best Fabrics for DTF Printing
Here are the most common fabrics used for t-shirts and how they perform with DTF printing:
1. Cotton
Cotton is soft, comfortable, and breathable. It’s perfect for daily wear and casual t-shirts.
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Pros:
- Soft and comfortable
- Prints look bright and clear
- Easy to wash
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Cons:
- Can shrink if not pre-shrunk
- Heavier cotton may cost more
DTF prints work very well on cotton. For small businesses or personal orders, cotton is a great choice. You can check our t-shirt collection for options.
2. Polyester
Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is light and durable. It is often used for sportswear.
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Pros:
- Lightweight and strong
- Does not shrink
- Good for bright colours
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Cons:
- Slightly less soft than cotton
- Can feel warm in summer
DTF printing works on polyester too, but the colours can look slightly different than on cotton. If you want to make sports jerseys or activewear, polyester is the best choice.
3. Cotton-Polyester Blends
Blends combine the softness of cotton with the durability of polyester. A common blend is 50/50 or 65/35 cotton to polyester.
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Pros:
- Soft but strong
- Holds shape well
- Works well for bold prints
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Cons:
- Colours may be a little less vibrant than pure cotton
Blended fabrics are a smart choice if you want the comfort of cotton but need your shirts to last longer.
4. Heavyweight Fabrics
Heavyweight t-shirts are thicker and feel premium. They are great for hoodies or winter wear.
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Pros:
- Feels strong and high-quality
- DTF prints last a long time
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Cons:
- Slightly higher price
- Not as light for hot weather
For events, small brands, or special designs, heavy tees give a professional look. Check our heavyweight t-shirts for options.
Tips for Choosing the Right Fabric
Here are some tips to help you pick the best fabric for your DTF t-shirt:
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Think about the purpose – Daily wear? Sports? Gift? Event? The purpose helps decide soft vs. heavy.
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Check the colour – Light shirts are cheaper and prints pop easily. Dark shirts may need extra care for bright prints.
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Consider the budget – Light cotton is cheaper, heavy cotton or blends cost a little more.
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Feel the fabric – Comfort is important. People will wear your shirt more if it feels good.
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Look at your design – Small detailed prints work on smooth fabrics. Big bold designs work anywhere.
Why Choose The Print Shop for DTF Printing
At The Print Shop, we print on all these fabrics with a 9-colour DTF printer. That means:
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Bright colours on any fabric
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Prints that stay strong after many washes
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Same-day despatch if you order before midday
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No minimum order – one shirt or 100
We also offer bulk discounts if you want to save more. You can check them here: Bulk Discounts.
Our online design tool makes it easy to upload artwork or create your own design. You can pick your fabric, shirt style, and colour in minutes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fabric is just as important as your design. Cotton, polyester, blends, or heavy tees – all can work with DTF printing if you pick the right one for your purpose.
At The Print Shop, we help you get the best results every time. Whether it’s for your business, a club, or a personal gift, we have the fabrics, the printing technology, and the fast delivery to make your custom t-shirts look amazing.
Ready to print your t-shirt today? Explore our full range and start designing now: Create Your Shirt.
