{"id":8421,"date":"2026-04-07T10:52:19","date_gmt":"2026-04-07T15:52:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/?p=8421"},"modified":"2026-04-07T10:52:19","modified_gmt":"2026-04-07T15:52:19","slug":"best-shirts-for-dtg-printing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/garment\/best-shirts-for-dtg-printing\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Shirts for DTG Printing"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is an easy way to apply custom designs to T-shirts, using detailed artwork and prints that feel just as good as they look.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, the end result will largely depend on the kind of shirt you use. This is because DTG uses water-based ink that soaks directly into the fabric fibers, which means different shirts can produce very different results \u2014 the type of fabric, how thick it is, and how the shirt is made all play a big role in how your design turns out.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The wrong shirt can make colors look dull or the prints wear out faster than expected, while the right one can make your design pop and keep the shirt comfortable wash after wash. So whether you\u2019re creating shirts for a family reunion, a sports team, or just something fun to wear yourself, we have you covered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are our top five recommendations for the best shirts for DTG printing, so you can make the right choice for your next project.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-scaled.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8096\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1100\" height=\"737\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-300x201.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-1024x686.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-768x514.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-1536x1029.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-2048x1372.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse31of237-850x569.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1100px) 100vw, 1100px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At a Glance<\/span><\/h2>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><\/td>\n<td><b>Features<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Feel<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Price<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/softstyle-tee-64000\/softstyle-tee-64000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gildan 64000 SoftStyle Tee<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Classic T-shirt fit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thick (4.5 oz)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100% preshrunk cotton<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight soft<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starts at $6.14<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/canvas\/bella-unisex-jersey-tee-3001\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bella + Canvas Unisex Jersey 3001 T-shirt<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side seams and semi-slim fit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight (4.2 oz)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100% combed ringspun cotton jersey<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight soft\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starts at $8.98<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/port-company\/essential-tee-pc61\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Port &amp; Company PC61 Essential Tee<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Classic T-shirt fit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavyweight (6.1 oz)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100% preshrunk cotton<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavyweight fabric but soft to the touch<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starts at $8.10<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/american-apparel\/fine-jersey-tee-2001\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Apparel 2001 Fine Jersey Tee<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side seams and semi-slim fit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight (4.3 oz)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100% combed ring-spun cotton<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight soft\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starts at $9.36<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/gildan\/ultra-cotton-tee-2000\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gildan 2000 Unisex Heavy Cotton T-shirt<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<td>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Classic T-shirt fit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavyweight (6 oz)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100% preshrunk cotton<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavyweight fabric yet soft to the touch\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starts at $6.24<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gildan 64000 SoftStyle Tee<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/softstyle-tee-64000\/softstyle-tee-64000\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8395\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/64000-Front-White.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"654\" height=\"817\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/64000-Front-White.webp 871w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/64000-Front-White-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/64000-Front-White-820x1024.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/64000-Front-White-768x959.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/64000-Front-White-300x375.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/64000-Front-White-850x1062.webp 850w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 654px) 100vw, 654px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Gildan 64000 SoftStyle Tee is a very popular pick that\u2019s comfortable, stylish, and makes a great blank for DTG printing. Since it\u2019s made with 100% pre-shrunk cotton with a high stitch density, the inks are able to better adhere to the fabric and produce a vibrant, colorful design.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This shirt is known for its tapered neck and shoulders for comfort and durability, with a tubular cut for a classic T-shirt fit. It\u2019s soft to the touch, fits true to size, and comes in a wide variety of sizes. Its lightweight fabric makes it a great choice for any custom team T-shirt or for everyday wear, especially in the spring and summer months. Finally, the tearaway tag allows for added customization and branding to each shirt.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Pros<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pre-shrunk cotton with a high stitch density for bold, vibrant DTG prints<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight and soft to the touch<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Very budget-friendly, making it ideal for large orders<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Classic tubular construction for a traditional T-shirt fit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tearaway tag allows easy rebranding or customization<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Cons<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Classic fit may feel boxy compared to modern retail styles<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bella + Canvas Unisex Jersey 3001 T-shirt\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/canvas\/bella-unisex-jersey-tee-3001\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8445\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/3001-Front-White.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"701\" height=\"876\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/3001-Front-White.webp 871w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/3001-Front-White-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/3001-Front-White-820x1024.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/3001-Front-White-768x959.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/3001-Front-White-300x375.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/3001-Front-White-850x1062.webp 850w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 701px) 100vw, 701px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When searching for a more fitted, modern style, the Bella + Canvas Unisex Jersey 3001 T-shirt is always a winner, with side seams that give it a semi-fitted and unisex silhouette compared to its competitors. Made from soft 100% cotton or a cotton blend (such as the Ash color at 90% cotton), it performs exceptionally well with DTG printing; colors print bright and last after multiple washes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s also pre-shrunk, so washing in cold water means that there is little fear of shrinkage to hinder the design. Its tearaway tag allows for another great way to add your own brand to the shirt, and it comes in a large variety of colors to choose from, so it\u2019s ideal for any project.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Due to its lightweight cotton, one drawback is that it may be slightly more see-through in white than any heavier cotton options. However, this also makes it a breathable shirt for any sports team or a summertime family reunion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re familiar with Next Level shirts, their 3600 is quite comparable to this; the main difference is that this shirt is a little longer in the torso.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Pros<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extremely soft ringspun cotton with a premium retail feel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight fabric makes it comfortable for everyday wear<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side seams create a modern, fitted silhouette<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tearaway tag makes it easy to add custom branding or labels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Available in a wide variety of colors and sizes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cons<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight fabric may feel too thin for those who prefer heavier shirts<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fitted cut may feel snug for people who prefer a classic boxy fit<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gildan 2000 Unisex Heavy Cotton T-shirt<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/gildan\/ultra-cotton-tee-2000\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8394\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2000-Front-White.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"717\" height=\"896\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2000-Front-White.webp 871w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2000-Front-White-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2000-Front-White-820x1024.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2000-Front-White-768x959.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2000-Front-White-300x375.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2000-Front-White-850x1062.webp 850w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 717px) 100vw, 717px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gildan T-shirts have always been a popular choice for DTG printing, and the Gildan 2000\u2019s heavy, 6.1-ounce, 100% cotton fabric makes it a soft yet durable T-shirt that keeps its shape better than many lightweight tees \u2014 a big plus if you like a more structured fit. It has a tubular construction for a classic T-shirt fit, and the seamless collar and durable fabric make it comfortable for frequent wear.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like all Gildan T-shirts, it includes tearaway tags that let you add an extra touch of personalization.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, due to the heavy cotton fabric, it can feel warm or bulky in the hot summer heat. So this one might be best for cooler months and air-conditioned climates.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Pros<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Durable heavyweight cotton that holds up well to frequent wear<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Excellent surface for bold, opaque screen prints<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Very budget-friendly, making it ideal for large orders<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Classic tubular construction for a traditional T-shirt fit<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tearaway tag allows easy rebranding or customization<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Cons<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavier fabric can feel warm in hot climates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Classic fit may feel boxy compared to modern retail styles<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fabric is not as soft as premium blanks like tri-blend tees<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Port &amp; Company PC61 Essential Tee<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/port-company\/essential-tee-pc61\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8446\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/PC61-Front-White.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"699\" height=\"873\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/PC61-Front-White.webp 871w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/PC61-Front-White-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/PC61-Front-White-820x1024.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/PC61-Front-White-768x959.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/PC61-Front-White-300x375.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/PC61-Front-White-850x1062.webp 850w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 699px) 100vw, 699px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Port &amp; Company PC61 is another classic heavy cotton shirt (100% cotton for most colors) that performs well with DTG printing. It has a wide range of size options, with most colors going up to a 6XL, so it\u2019s easy to get a variety of sizes to fit groups with different body types. It also comes with handy tearaway tags.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This fabric is another thick, heavier cotton. While this adds durability and structure, it can feel warmer to wear during hot summer months.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Pros<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Durable heavyweight cotton that is soft to the touch<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sizes that go up to 6XL<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pre-shrunk fabric helps maintain sizing after washing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tearaway tag allows easy branding customization<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Cons<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavier fabric can feel warm in hot climates<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Higher cost than basic cotton blanks<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Apparel 2001 Fine Jersey Tee<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/brands\/american-apparel\/fine-jersey-tee-2001\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8447\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2001-Front-White.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"634\" height=\"792\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2001-Front-White.webp 871w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2001-Front-White-240x300.webp 240w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2001-Front-White-820x1024.webp 820w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2001-Front-White-768x959.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2001-Front-White-300x375.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/2001-Front-White-850x1062.webp 850w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 634px) 100vw, 634px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Well-known brands like American Apparel have always been a go-to for DTG printing. Like the Bella + Canvas 3001, this shirt is made of 100% combed ring-spun cotton and has side seams for a flattering, more fitted look. It\u2019s also a little longer, like the Bella 3001, with an added \u00be inch in length \u2014 which is good if you prefer a longer fit or plan to tuck your shirt in. And like many of the other shirts on this list, it comes with tearaway tags for easy branding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s also a lightweight cotton fabric that\u2019s perfect for events in the hottest months throughout the year. Not so much for colder months.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Pros<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Soft, fine jersey cotton fabric with a smooth, premium feel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight material makes it comfortable for everyday wear<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fashion-forward retail fit that works well for branded apparel and merch<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Cons<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slimmer retail fit may feel too fitted for those who prefer a relaxed cut<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight fabric may feel less substantial in colder climates than heavyweight cotton tees<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the Best Shirts for DTG Printing<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-scaled.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8248\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1131\" height=\"795\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-300x211.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-1024x720.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-768x540.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-1536x1079.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-2048x1439.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/BlueCottonWarehouse226of237-850x597.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1131px) 100vw, 1131px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the right shirt for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/productivity\/screen-printing-vs-direct-to-garment-printing\/\">DTG<\/a> printing can make a huge difference in how your final design looks and feels.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For best results, it\u2019s recommended to use T-shirts that are 100% cotton or high cotton\/poly blends (with 50% or more cotton) since the ink absorbs directly into the fabric. It\u2019s also worth considering how the T-shirt will be used when making your final choice. For example, shirts designed for outdoor team events may benefit from lighter fabrics that allow better airflow, while heavier cotton styles are ideal for cooler weather, workwear, or everyday casual use. Fit can also play a big role in satisfaction, as some people prefer a relaxed, boxy silhouette while others want a more fitted look.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you prefer the soft fit of Bella + Canvas, the lightweight comfort of American Apparel, or the dependable, classic style of Gildan and Port &amp; Company, there\u2019s a great option for every team or group.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is an easy way to apply custom designs to T-shirts, using detailed artwork and prints that feel just as good as they look.\u00a0 However, the end result will largely depend on the kind of shirt you use. This is because DTG uses water-based ink that soaks directly into the fabric fibers, which&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":8422,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[238],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8421","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-garment"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Best Shirts for DTG Printing |<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bluecotton.com\/blog\/garment\/best-shirts-for-dtg-printing\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Best Shirts for DTG Printing |\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is an easy way to apply custom designs to T-shirts, using detailed artwork and prints that feel just as good as they look.\u00a0 However, the end result will largely depend on the kind of shirt you use. 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