Best Materials for Custom Apparel: Cotton vs. Poly vs. Blends
Not all fabrics print the same. Discover which material yields the best results for your custom designs.
The Fabric Guide
The canvas determines the art. In custom apparel, the "canvas" is the fabric.
100% Cotton
**Characteristics:** Soft, breathable, natural.
**Printing:** Excellent for DTG (Direct-to-Garment). The ink absorbs well into the fibers, creating a soft feel.
**Best For:** Everyday t-shirts, vintage looks.
100% Polyester
**Characteristics:** Smooth, moisture-wicking, durable, shrink-resistant.
**Printing:** Can be tricky for standard DTG, often used for Sublimation (all-over print).
**Best For:** Sportswear, performance gear.
Tri-Blends (50% Poly, 25% Cotton, 25% Rayon)
**Characteristics:** The "softest shirt you own." Vintage feel, drape.
**Printing:** Prints will look "vintage" or slightly faded because ink doesn't bond as strongly to the polyester/rayon parts.
**Best For:** Fashion-forward brands, retro designs.
Ring-Spun Cotton
A step up from "Carded Open End" (basic stiff cotton). Ring-spun cotton creates a smoother surface, which means **sharper prints** and a softer feel. At Print Brawl, we prioritize ring-spun fabrics for the best quality.