How is a t-shirt priced?
We constantly have customers asking questions about the screen printing process and how t-shirts are priced. Often times we get a blank stare, or look of disbelief when we share the final cost per shirt. The fact of the matter is that most people don't understand just how much goes into screen printing a t-shirt. The actual printing is the easier part, but before a job goes to press these steps must happen first. Below is a checklist of things we need before we can issue you a quote.
Artwork:
All screen printing starts with the artwork. Do you have artwork? Do you need artwork designed? Is the artwork in the proper format? Artwork has an effect on the price of the t-shirt because it tells us how many colors we're dealing with and what print location/locations would best fit the content. When approaching your artwork, think about how you want to be represented graphically to your customers.
Print Colors:
How many colors are in your artwork? It's important to note that every color is connected to it's own film positive and screen. For example: If you have 4 colors in your design, we need to separate the colors, create a film positive for each color with registration marks and output to film, then burn each film to its own screen. Set up needs to be accounted for and reflects in the price.
Style of Shirt/Garment:
Today there're a million different styles to choose from when it comes to the printed apparel industry. Economical styles are available to help promote an entry level printing experience, as well as Premium styles to give your campaign an edge. We offer styles at 4 different levels ranging from economical to high end. These levels include, Frugal, Basic, Popular and Premium. The price will change accordingly considering the level you fall under.
Quantities:
How many shirts you looking for? Our minimum order is typically 36 pieces, however we are willing to take orders of 24 and even 12. With that being said the price will increase, or decrease depending on the amount of shirts in your order. Our pricing structure was designed to accommodate higher volumes and we provide price breaks at 60, 100 and 200 pieces. To give you an example: a 1 color print on 200 Gildan 5000 white shirts may run you $5-$6. Bring that quantity down to 12 shirts and your price may be something like $12-$14.
Delivery Dates:
When do you need your shirts by? It's safe to say that we live in a "Got to have it now" world and that old saying "Time is Money" is more prevalent than ever. We understand this and do our absolute best to get your job done as quick and efficiently as we can. Sometimes the press schedule is completely jammed, so it may take longer than usual to turnaround a job in these situations. Typical turnaround time is 10-14 business working days. Delivery Date only effects price if it's a rush order.
This is a basic overview of some things we take into account before pricing a t-shirt. While not everything is listed here, you get an idea of the core factors that effect the price.
