How Much Does T-Shirt Printing Cost? (And What You're Actually Paying For)
If you’ve been searching “tshirt printing near me,” you probably have a project in mind. Perhaps you need shirts for an event, a business, or simply something stylish to wear. Whatever the reason, one of the first questions people ask is, How much does t-shirt printing cost?
The answer depends on several factors. Once you understand what affects the price, it becomes much easier to plan your order and ensure you’re getting quality work at a fair price.
Let’s break it down so you know what to expect.
What Affects the Cost of T-Shirt Printing?
When you get a quote from a local printer like us, here are the main things that impact your total cost:
1. Quantity
The number of shirts you order makes a big difference. The more you print, the lower your cost per shirt will be. A single shirt might cost you around $20 to $30, but if you order 100, you could get that price down to under $10 each. That’s because setup and preparation time remain the same, regardless of the number of shirts printed.
2. Printing Method
There are several ways to print on a shirt, and each comes with its price range:
Screen Printing – This method is great for large orders with the same design. It requires setup work, which makes it more expensive for small orders, but very affordable for bigger ones.
Direct-to-Garment (DTG) or Direct-to-Film (DTF) & Heat Transfer – Ideal for small batches and intricate artwork. There is no setup fee, but the cost per shirt is higher.
Embroidery – Not printing, but a common customization choice. It costs more than regular printing, but it looks professional and lasts.
3. Design Complexity and Number of Colors
If your design is simple and only uses one or two colors, you’ll save money. With screen printing, more colors mean more screens, which means more cost. DTG printing doesn’t charge extra for color count, but larger or more complex prints can still raise the price.
4. Shirt Type
There’s a big difference between a basic cotton tee and a premium tri-blend or moisture-wicking shirt. We work with all types of garments, so whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or high-end, we can help you find the right fit.
5. Print Size and Location
A standard front or back print is usually included in the base price. Adding sleeve prints, inside tags, or oversized designs will increase the cost because they require extra time and materials.
How to Get the Best Value When Searching “Tshirt Printing Near Me”
If you want to get the most bang for your buck, keep these tips in mind:
Get a Few Quotes – Reach out to a few local printers and compare prices. Make sure to ask about setup fees and any hidden charges.
Ask About Bulk Discounts – Most print shops offer price breaks at 24, 50, or 100 pieces.
Plan Ahead – Rush orders cost more. If you know your timeline, try to get ahead of it.
Check Reviews – A shop with solid reviews is worth a little extra if it means better service and print quality.
Other Costs You Might Not Think About
Sometimes people are surprised by a few extra charges that show up on their invoice. Here are a few to watch out for:
Artwork Cleanup – If your design isn’t print-ready, we may need to clean it up or recreate it, which takes time.
Setup Fees – Especially for screen printing, this covers the time it takes to make screens for your design. We don't charge setup fees; they're already included in our costs to keep things simpler.
Shipping – If you're not picking up the order locally, delivery charges might apply.
Rush Fees – If you need your shirts quickly, we’ll do our best to help, but it may incur an additional cost.
The cost of t-shirt printing can vary depending on factors such as order size, artwork, garment type, and the desired turnaround time. The good news is that you have options, and a good printer will guide you through those choices so you’re not left guessing.
Whether you need a few shirts for your crew or a few hundred for a significant event, obtaining the correct information upfront helps you avoid surprises later. And remember, sometimes it’s worth spending a little more to get shirts that last, fit well, and look great.
Ready to get started? Click here to request a quote, and we’ll guide you through the process.