Looking for affordable t-shirts for printing? Whether you’re running a promo, building your custom apparel brand, or just need great blanks that won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered.
Not all budget t-shirts are created equal. Some are ideal for screen printing, some for DTG or heat transfer, and others shine when comfort and retail appeal matter most. In this guide, we break down six of the most affordable and print-friendly t-shirt brands available from a trusted US t-shirt supplier.
1. Gildan – The Industry Staple
- Top Style: Gildan 5000 Heavy Cotton Tee
- Fabric: 100% preshrunk cotton (5.3 oz)
- Best For: Bulk orders, event shirts, promo giveaways
Gildan is the go-to brand for cheap t-shirts for printing. The Gildan 5000 is one of the most widely used blanks in the industry thanks to its price point, durability, and color selection. It’s a heavier cotton shirt with a classic fit—great for basic logos, school events, and one-time-use apparel. If you’re printing in bulk, it’s hard to beat the Gildan price-to-value ratio.
2. Neil & David – Luxurious Feel, Wholesale Pricing
- Top Style: Tailored Fit Tee
- Fabric: Poly/Cotton blend for softness and durability
- Best For: Custom retail lines, fashion-forward giveaways, everyday wear
Neil & David bring a high-end look and feel to the wholesale space, without designer markups. Their Tailored Fit Tee is a favorite among decorators looking for a modern, flattering fit with a smooth surface that prints like a dream. Whether you’re selling on Etsy, launching a streetwear line, or handing out merch with staying power, Neil & David offers premium blank t-shirts at an affordable cost.
3. Jerzees – Comfortable and Cost-Effective
- Top Style: Jerzees 29M Dri-Power®
- Fabric: 50/50 cotton/poly (5.6 oz)
- Best For: Team shirts, school uniforms, heat transfers
Jerzees is another budget-friendly favorite that’s known for softness and performance. The 29M includes moisture-wicking technology, making it a great option for active wear and long-lasting promo pieces. The blend resists shrinking and fading and takes well to most print methods.
4. Fruit of the Loom – Trusted Classic
- Top Style: HD Cotton 3930
- Fabric: 100% cotton (5 oz), high-density knit
- Best For: Crisp designs, simple logo tees, budget merch
Fruit of the Loom’s HD Cotton collection is crafted specifically for decorators. The high-density stitch construction ensures sharper prints, while the classic fit and feel make it a comfortable choice for bulk apparel needs. It’s a reliable choice for giveaway shirts or starter stock for your custom brand.
5. Port & Company – Core Quality at a Low Cost
- Top Style: PC54 Core Cotton Tee
- Fabric: 100% cotton (5.4 oz)
- Best For: Uniform programs, nonprofits, print shops
A quiet hero in the blank t-shirt world, Port & Company offers one of the most affordable t-shirts for printing that still delivers on feel and fit. The PC54 has a smooth finish for vibrant prints and is available in a wide range of sizes and colors. It’s a solid choice when quality matters, but cost control is key.
6. Next Level – Soft and Stylish on a Budget
- Top Style: 3600 Cotton Crew
- Fabric: 100% ringspun cotton (4.3 oz)
- Best For: Retail-style brands, fashion-forward designs
While a bit pricier than the others on this list, Next Level’s 3600 is perfect if your customers care about soft fabric and modern cuts. If you’re aiming for fashion tees with screen-printed art, brand logos, or Etsy designs, this shirt offers amazing value with premium retail appeal.
Final Thoughts
From the value-focused Gildan to the elevated style of Neil & David, there’s no shortage of affordable blank t-shirts perfect for printing. Whether you’re launching a new brand or stocking up for event season, the key is to match the tee’s fabric, fit, and price with your printing method and audience.
Want access to bulk pricing from a trusted US t-shirt supplier? Browse our full collection of cheap t-shirts for printing and order online today, with fast shipping, low minimums, and reliable quality.
