What does custom garment printing cost? Eight price factors
There is no useful universal price per printed shirt. The total is built from the garment, quantity, method, positions, artwork and production requirements.
Two projects with the same number of garments can have very different costs. A basic one-colour logo on one position is not equivalent to individual names, front-and-back decoration and special packaging. A transparent quotation separates the factors that genuinely change production effort.
1. The garment
Fabric, brand, weight, fit and certifications influence the blank garment price. A premium organic shirt, performance polo and work jacket also require different handling.
The cheapest blank is not always the cheapest project choice if sizing, opacity or availability causes replacements and delays.
2. Quantity and size breakdown
Larger quantities can reduce unit cost by spreading setup and handling. The saving depends on whether all pieces use the same artwork, position and production method.
Mixed colours and many individual size lines can add sorting work even when the total quantity is high.
3. Method, size and number of positions
DTF, DTG, screen printing and embroidery have different setup and running costs. Print dimensions and ink or stitch coverage matter, not just the number of colours.
A chest logo plus large back print requires two production positions. Sleeves, trouser legs and difficult seams may also need extra handling.
- Garment type and quality
- Total pieces and variation
- Decoration method
- Number of positions
- Print or embroidery dimensions
- Artwork preparation and personalisation
4. Timing, samples and finishing
A confirmed deadline affects scheduling and shipping. Rush work may require a different production route or may not be feasible at all.
Samples, custom labels, folding, individual packaging and split delivery should be quoted from the beginning rather than added after approval.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about this subject
Why is there no single fixed printing price?
The garment, process, size, positions, quantity and finishing differ between projects.
Does the unit price fall with volume?
Often, but the reduction depends on method, setup and how consistent the order is.
Is embroidery always expensive?
No. A compact low-stitch logo can be efficient; large dense embroidery takes more machine time.
Do individual names cost extra?
Usually yes, because each garment needs unique data and additional production control.
What information gives the fastest accurate quote?
Provide products, quantities by size, artwork, dimensions, positions, deadline and finishing requirements.
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