Custom t-shirt ordering has never been more accessible — but that accessibility also means more room for costly errors. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned buyer, these mistakes can result in shirts you can't use, money wasted, and deadlines missed. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the most common pitfalls and exactly how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Submitting Low-Resolution ArtworkThis is the single most common mistake, and it leads to blurry, pixelated prints that no one wants to wear. Anything below 300 DPI at the actual print size will look soft and unprofessional when transferred to fabric. Always supply vector files (AI, EPS, SVG) or high-resolution PNG/TIFF files. Never enlarge a small image and assume it'll print fine — upscaling adds nothing but blur.


2: Ignoring Colour LimitationsScreen printing uses spot colours — each colour in the design is a separate screen and costs more. Customers often submit full-colour, gradient-heavy designs expecting screen printing prices, then get surprised by the quote. Understand your printing method's colour rules before designing. If you want full colour at low cost, choose DTF or DTG instead of screen printing.

Mistake 3: Not Ordering a SampleOrdering 200 shirts without seeing a sample first is one of the riskiest things you can do. Colours shift. Sizes run differently than expected. Placement can be off by an inch. A single sample print costs very little compared to a bulk misprint. Any reputable custom t shirt near me provider will offer samples — always take that option before committing to a full order.

Mistake 4: Choosing the Wrong Shirt BlankThe blank shirt matters as much as the print. A beautiful design on a scratchy, ill-fitting shirt will not be worn. Don't just choose the cheapest blank — consider fabric weight, feel, shrinkage rate, and fit. If you're designing oversized shirts, make sure the blank is actually oversized in its construction (dropped shoulders, boxy cut), not just a standard shirt ordered in a larger size.

Mistake 5: Incorrect Size OrderingGetting the size breakdown wrong is extremely common, especially for group orders. Most people overestimate how many large and XL sizes they need, and underestimate demand for medium and small. Collect actual size preferences from your group before ordering — don't guess. For retail, a common starting split is: 10% S, 30% M, 35% L, 20% XL, 5% XXL.

Mistake 6: Rushing the OrderRush fees can add 30–50% to your total cost. More importantly, rushed production increases the chance of mistakes — there's no time for quality checks or reprints. Plan your orders at least 2–3 weeks ahead of any deadline. If you're working with a new printer for the first time, allow even more lead time for design approval, sampling, and production.

Mistake 7: Not Proofreading TextA typo on a t-shirt is permanent and embarrassing. Check every word, every name, every date, every URL, and every phone number before sending to print. Then have someone else check it again. Printers typically do not proofread your artwork — they print what you supply. The responsibility for accuracy is entirely yours.

Mistake 8: Choosing Price Over QualityThe cheapest quote is rarely the best value. A batch of t-shirts that fades after two washes, peels at the print edges, or arrives with inconsistent sizing will cost you far more in the long run — in reprints, refunds, or brand damage. Invest in a printer with verifiable quality, strong reviews, and a clear guarantee. A trustworthy custom t shirt near me studio will be upfront about their process and proud to show you their work.

Mistake 9: Forgetting Washing Instructions Even the best prints can be destroyed by improper washing. Make sure you understand (and communicate to end-users) how to care for your shirts. Turn inside out, cold wash, no tumble drying is the standard recommendation for most printed garments. Without this guidance, customers will ruin their shirts and blame the print quality.

Avoiding these mistakes is simpler than it sounds — it just takes a bit of planning, the right file preparation, and a reliable printing partner. Treat your first order as a learning investment and every subsequent order will be smoother, faster, and better.