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The 5 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Ordering Custom Shirts


Introduction:


Ordering custom shirts is a great way to promote a business, support a team, or create apparel for events and organizations. However, many people make common mistakes during the ordering process that can lead to unexpected costs, poor print quality, or designs that don’t turn out as expected. Understanding the biggest mistakes people make when ordering custom shirts can help you avoid frustration and ensure you receive high-quality apparel that meets your expectations.


Whether you’re ordering shirts for a business, school event, sports team, or promotional campaign, taking a few extra steps during the planning process can make a big difference in the final result.


By knowing what to watch out for, you can create custom shirts that look professional, last longer, and represent your brand effectively.



1. Choosing the Wrong Shirt Material


Not Considering Comfort and Quality


One of the most common mistakes is focusing only on price and ignoring the quality of the shirt itself. While budget-friendly shirts can work for some events, low-quality materials may feel uncomfortable or wear out quickly.


Choosing a comfortable fabric ensures that people actually enjoy wearing the shirt, which increases brand exposure if it’s used for promotional purposes.


Selecting the Right Fabric


Some common shirt materials include:


  • Standard cotton shirts

  • Soft-style cotton blends

  • Tri-blend fabrics

  • Performance or athletic materials


Higher-quality fabrics often provide better comfort and durability.



2. Submitting Low-Quality Artwork


Poor Image Resolution


Another frequent mistake is submitting artwork that isn’t suitable for printing. Low-resolution images, screenshots, or improperly formatted files can result in blurry or pixelated prints.


Professional printers typically prefer vector files such as AI, EPS, or SVG formats because they maintain quality at any size.


Not Preparing the Design for Printing


Designs should be properly formatted with the correct colors, sizes, and placement before production begins. Working with a designer or printer to finalize the artwork helps avoid costly revisions.


3. Ignoring the Printing Method


Not Matching the Design With the Right Technique


Different printing methods work better for different types of designs and apparel. Choosing the wrong printing method can affect the final appearance and durability of the shirt.


Common printing methods include:


  • Screen printing for bold designs and bulk orders

  • Direct-to-garment (DTG) for detailed or multi-color artwork

  • Vinyl or heat transfer for personalized shirts

  • Embroidery for polos, hats, and professional apparel


Understanding which method works best for your design can improve the overall result.



4. Ordering the Wrong Quantity or Sizes


Not Planning for Size Variety


Another common mistake is ordering too many shirts in one size and not enough in others. This often happens when orders are placed without collecting size information from participants or employees.


Providing a range of sizes, from small to larger sizes, helps ensure everyone receives a shirt that fits comfortably.


Not Ordering Extra Shirts


Sometimes businesses or organizations forget to order additional shirts for new employees, replacements, or future events. Ordering a few extra pieces can prevent the need for small reorders later, which are often more expensive.



5. Waiting Until the Last Minute


Rush Orders Can Be Costly


Custom apparel production takes time, especially for large orders or complex designs. Waiting until the last minute may result in rush fees or limited printing options.


Planning ahead allows printers to properly prepare artwork, schedule production, and ensure high-quality results.


Allow Time for Design Revisions


Design adjustments, size confirmations, and production schedules all require time. Starting the process early helps prevent unnecessary stress before your event or launch.



Conclusion:


Understanding the 5 biggest mistakes people make when ordering custom shirts can help you avoid common problems and ensure your project runs smoothly. Choosing the right shirt material, submitting high-quality artwork, selecting the correct printing method, planning sizes carefully, and ordering early are all essential steps for success.


When done correctly, custom shirts can be a powerful tool for branding, team identity, and promotional marketing.


By working with an experienced custom apparel provider and taking time to plan your order carefully, you can create shirts that look great, feel comfortable, and represent your brand with confidence.



Do you have questions about ordering custom shirts for your business, event, or organization? Fill out our form below and our team will help you get started on your custom apparel project. 




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