SHIRT & MERCH GUIDE

 Not sure which shirt is best for your project? This guide walks you through our favorite blanks and materials by use case. From budget-friendly fundraisers to premium retail. We’ve tested them all in our shop so you don’t have to guess.

Fundraisers / events

Material: Standard cotton (often carded open-end cotton)

  1. Weight: Mid-to-heavy (5.0–6.0 oz)

  2. Durability: Holds up for casual wear but not designed for long-term softness

  3. Cost: Lowest cost per shirt, making it ideal for bulk runs

  4. Why It Fits: For one-time events and fundraisers, affordability is the top priority. Heavier cotton is inexpensive and prints bold designs well, but it won’t feel as soft as higher-end fabrics. Perfect when you need to keep costs low and get the job done.

Gyms & Athletics

Material: 100% polyester or poly blends

  1. Weight: Light (3.5–4.0 oz)

  2. Durability: Excellent against sweat and repeated washing, resistant to shrinking and wrinkling

  3. Cost: Mid-range — more than heavy cotton, less than premium tri-blends

  4. Why It Fits: Athletic shirts need moisture-wicking, fast-drying material. Lightweight polyester is key because it keeps athletes comfortable during activity. These shirts also resist odor better and last longer through sweaty workouts and multiple washes.

CORPORATE & WORK

Material: Cotton/poly blends (often pique knit for polos)

  1. Weight: Mid (4.5–5.5 oz), depending on style

  2. Durability: Very high — blends resist wrinkles, shrinkage, and fading

  3. Cost: Mid-to-high depending on style (polo shirts or buttoned garments)

  4. Why It Fits: Work uniforms need to look sharp every day. Blends balance comfort with professional appearance, while mid-weight fabric ensures structure without being too heavy. Employees get a shirt that lasts through weekly wear while staying presentable.

PREMIUM RETAIL

Material: Ringspun cotton or tri-blends (cotton/poly/rayon)

  1. Weight: Light-to-mid (3.8–4.5 oz)

  2. Durability: Good but softer fabrics may wear out faster than heavier cotton

  3. Cost: Higher-end, since soft fabrics and fashion-forward cuts cost more

  4. Why It Fits: Ringspun cotton is smoother and softer than standard cotton, making it feel premium. Tri-blends add drape and stretch, giving a fashionable look. These materials elevate the perceived value of the shirt, making customers more willing to buy and wear it often.