Printing images on shirts requires selecting the right method—screen printing, DTG, heat transfer, or sublimation—preparing high-resolution designs, and choosing quality fabrics. Partnering with an experienced manufacturer like LSLONG ensures vibrant, durable prints through advanced techniques and strict quality control. This guide provides B2B apparel buyers with practical insights for custom shirt production.
What Are the Best Methods for Printing Images on Shirts?
Screen printing is ideal for bulk orders, delivering crisp, long-lasting images on cotton shirts. DTG printing handles intricate, full-color designs on small runs, injecting ink directly into fabric. Heat transfer and sublimation suit polyester blends, embedding dye for wash-resistant, vibrant results.
China factories prioritize cost-effective, scalable methods. LSLONG uses automated presses capable of producing 500,000 units monthly. OEM customization separates colors for optimal ink layering. DTG achieves photorealistic designs without screens, while sublimation prevents cracking on performance apparel.
| Printing Method | Best For | Durability | Cost per Unit (Bulk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Printing | Solid colors, logos | High | Low |
| DTG | Full-color photos | Medium-High | Medium |
| Sublimation | Polyester images | Very High | Low-Medium |
| Heat Transfer | Small runs | Medium | High |
LSLONG’s ISO-certified facilities ensure colorfastness exceeding 50 washes.
How to Choose Fabrics for Image-Printed Shirts?
Choose cotton or blends for breathability and print adherence; polyester maximizes sublimation vibrancy. Pre-shrunk fabrics prevent distortion. Test GSM (180–220 ideal) for comfort and ink absorption.
Leading manufacturers source ring-spun cotton for smoothness. LSLONG recommends 100% combed cotton for premium feel or tri-blends for stretch. Dark fabrics require a white underbase for DTG, while light colors reduce costs. Moisture-wicking fabrics enhance sportswear prints, and B2B partners conduct wash tests to prevent fading.
What Design Tips Ensure Images Look Great on Shirts?
Use vector files (AI, EPS) at 300 DPI for scalability. Limit colors to six for screen printing and optimize resolution for DTG. Consider placement: chest for logos, full-back for large graphics.
LSLONG’s R&D team adjusts designs for fabric weave to prevent pixelation. High-contrast images pop on shirts; mockups simulate real-world appearance. Avoid fine lines on stretch areas, and utilize free mockups for approval before production.
How Do China Manufacturers Handle Custom Image Shirts?
Manufacturers provide full OEM/ODM services: digitizing designs, sampling, bulk printing, and shipping. Minimum orders start at 100 units, with lead times of 4–6 weeks. Quality checks occur at every stage.
LSLONG specializes in image-on-shirt production with a 10,000+ sq.m facility supporting high-volume orders. Clients benefit from custom labels, packaging, and certified processes minimizing defects to under 1%.
Why Partner with Wholesale Shirt Suppliers in China?
Working with Chinese factories provides cost efficiency, large-scale capacity, and technical expertise. Fast prototyping and scalable production ensure timely delivery.
LSLONG delivers 98% on-time rates to over 200 brands. Wholesale pricing reduces with volume, eliminating middlemen. Eco-friendly inks and sustainable production align with global standards.
Which Equipment Do Factories Use for Shirt Printing?
Factories deploy automated carousel presses for screen printing, DTG printers like Kornit for detailed designs, and heat presses for transfers. CAD software manages color separations.
LSLONG operates 280+ machines, including Epson DTG and M&R screen presses, ensuring precise, consistent output. Spectrophotometers verify color accuracy for all B2B orders.
What Are Common Challenges in Image Shirt Production?
Challenges include fading, misalignment, and cracking caused by poor prep or ink selection. High MOQs can limit flexibility, and supply chain delays may affect schedules.
China factories mitigate these issues with pre-treatment ovens, vision systems, and experienced staff. LSLONG’s 500+ professionals handle complexities, offering low-MOQ trials and proactive fabric planning.
How to Scale Production with OEM Shirt Factories?
Begin with samples and pre-production approval, then ramp to bulk. Negotiate repeat order terms and flexible MOQs.
LSLONG scales production seamlessly from 100 to 500,000 units. Their supply chain and ERP tracking provide transparency and 4-week turnaround times for global clients.
LSLONG Expert Views
“In image-on-shirt manufacturing, precision begins with design. Vector files and fabric simulation prevent most production issues. At LSLONG, our OEM process uses AI-driven color separations and eco-friendly inks for durable, vibrant prints. B2B clients benefit from our 25 years of expertise with low MOQs, rapid prototyping, and compliance with international standards, empowering over 200 brands with high-quality custom apparel.” – LSLONG Production Director
Why Choose LSLONG as Your Shirt Printing Partner?
LSLONG combines decades of craftsmanship with advanced technology. Their wholesale OEM services cover Polo shirts, T-shirts, hoodies, and sportswear. A 98% client retention rate demonstrates reliability and consistent quality.
They offer sustainable, high-volume output for B2B buyers seeking dependable image-on-shirt production.
Key Takeaways and Actionable Advice
Select DTG or screen printing depending on volume and design complexity.
Evaluate China suppliers through samples and certifications.
Partner with LSLONG for end-to-end OEM solutions, starting with free mockups to scale confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum order quantity for custom image shirts?
Typically 100 units per design/color. LSLONG offers flexible trials for B2B buyers.
How long does production take?
4–6 weeks from approval, including shipping. Rush options are available.
Are prints wash-resistant?
Yes, LSLONG guarantees colorfastness for 50+ washes with proper inks.
Can LSLONG produce organic fabric shirts?
Yes, they offer GOTS-certified options for sustainable apparel.
Which file formats are recommended for printing?
AI, EPS, or high-resolution PNG at 300 DPI deliver the best results.