If you’re looking to create custom apparel for your brand — whether it’s staff uniforms, promotional merchandise, or a full clothing line — the options can feel overwhelming. What printing method should you choose? What fabric is best? How many pieces should you order?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make informed decisions and get the best results for your custom apparel project.
## 1. Choose Your Printing Method
The printing method you choose depends on your design, quantity, budget, and the garment type. Here are the four most common options:
### Screen Printing
Screen printing is the industry standard for bulk orders. A mesh screen is used to transfer ink onto the fabric, one color at a time.
Best for: Orders of 50+ pieces with simple, spot-color designs
Pros: Vibrant colors, durable, most cost-effective at scale
Cons: Higher setup cost for multi-color designs
### DTG (Direct-to-Garment) Printing
DTG works like a printer — it sprays ink directly onto the fabric. No screens, no setup fees.
Best for: Small batches (1–50 pieces) with complex, photo-quality artwork
Pros: No minimum order, full color without setup, soft hand feel
Cons: Slower for bulk
### Embroidery
Embroidery uses thread to stitch your design directly into the garment. It adds a premium, professional look.
Best for: Polos, hats, jackets — corporate wear and uniforms
Pros: Extremely durable, premium appearance, 3D puff option
Cons: Limited to simpler designs
### Heat Transfer
Vinyl or sublimation transfers applied using heat and pressure.
Best for: Small batches, numbered jerseys, all-over prints
Pros: Versatile, no color limits
Cons: Less breathable, may crack over time
## 2. Pick the Right Garment
The blank garment you choose matters as much as the print itself.
T-Shirts (180–240 GSM): The most popular choice. 100% cotton ringspun for soft feel, or cotton-poly blends for less shrinkage.
Polo Shirts (200–260 GSM): Ideal for corporate wear. Pique knit for classic look, or jersey knit for a softer feel.
Hoodies & Sweatshirts (280–400 GSM): Perfect for streetwear. Fleece-lined for warmth, French terry for lighter options.
## 3. Prepare Your Artwork
Great prints start with great artwork. For screen printing, use AI/EPS vector files. For DTG, use PSD/PNG at 300 DPI with transparent background. Always convert text to outlines for screen printing files.
## 4. Understand Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)
- Screen printing: 50+ pieces per design
- DTG: No minimum
- Embroidery: 20–50 pieces
- Heat transfer: As low as 10 pieces
## Final Thoughts
Custom apparel is one of the most effective ways to build brand recognition. At Fashion DLM, we’ve been helping brands worldwide create premium custom apparel for over a decade. Whether you need 50 or 10,000 pieces, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to start your project? Contact us for a free quote and samples.