Choosing the Right Shirt: Our Top 5 Picks for Quality, Fit & Value
Finding the perfect shirt isn’t just about looks — it’s about how it feels, fits, and performs over
time. Whether you’re outfitting your staff, launching merchandise, or creating a promotional
giveaway, the right tee ensures your brand stands out and your investment lasts.
At Austin Screen Printing, we’ve been helping businesses pick the best shirts for over 50 years.
We know what makes a great blank canvas for your logo and how to balance quality with
budget. Below, we’re breaking down what we look for — plus our top five shirts at different
price points.
What Makes a Great Shirt
- Fabric Quality
Cotton, polyester, and blends each offer unique benefits. Cotton gives softness and
breathability, polyester brings durability and moisture resistance, and blends deliver the best of
both worlds. Choosing the right mix ensures the shirt feels great and holds up after repeated
washes. - Fabric Weight
Weight is measured in ounces and reflects the fabric’s density. Lightweight shirts (3–4 oz.) feel
soft and airy, while heavier shirts (5+ oz.) provide structure and durability. We’ll help you pick the
weight that fits your project’s needs. - Knit & Gauge
Phrases like “tight knit” or “fine gauge” signal higher-quality tees that resist stretching, maintain
shape, and provide a smooth base for vibrant printing. This matters for detailed designs or
specialty inks. - Transparency
Thinner fabrics can be more see-through. Check product descriptions for terms like
“lightweight” or “sheer” if modesty or opacity is a concern.
By focusing on these four factors, you’ll get a shirt that not only looks good but also feels
comfortable, fits consistently, and provides a great surface for your logo or artwork.Our Top 5 Shirt Picks (Budget → Premium)
Our Top 5 Shirt Picks (Budget → Premium)
We’ve narrowed down our top five styles to help you make the right choice. Each offers
something a little different in feel, weight, and price point
1. Gildan 64000 Softstyle T-Shirt — Budget-Friendly
Your reliable everyday tee with a wide range of colors and solid quality for bulk orders or giveaways.
- 4.5 oz./yd² (US), 100% ring-spun cotton, 30 singles
- Smooth surface for easy printing
- Modern classic fit with narrow rib collar
- Tear-away label
- Available in 78 colors
2. Next Level 3600 Cotton T-Shirt — Mid-Tier Softness
A step up in softness and fit, ideal for retail-style tees at an affordable price point.
- 4.3 oz./yd², 100% combed ring-spun cotton, 32 singles
- Set-in 1×1 baby rib collar
- Side seams for better shape
- Tear-away label
- Available in 45 colors
3. Bella+Canvas 3001 Jersey Tee — Premium Feel, Retail Fit
Known for its premium feel, modern cut, and huge color palette — perfect for upscale events and branded merchandise.
- 4.2 oz./yd², 100% Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton
- Pre-shrunk, retail fit, unisex sizing
- Shoulder-to-shoulder taping for durability
- Side seams
- Tear-away label
- Available in 96 colors
4. Comfort Colors 1717 Unisex Garment-Dyed Heavyweight T-Shirt — Vintage Favorite
Washed, relaxed, and ultra-soft. A fan favorite for its lived-in look and comfortable drape.
- 6.1 oz./yd², 100% ring-spun cotton
- Garment-dyed for a vintage feel with almost no shrinkage
- Relaxed fit with topstitched, classic rib collar
- Shoulder-to-shoulder twill tape
- Signature twill label
- Available in 66 colors
5. Stanley/Stella SXU018 Unisex Freestyler Heavyweight Tee — Eco-Conscious Premium
Our top-tier pick. Eco-conscious, heavyweight construction, and excellent print surface — perfect for high-end or sustainable branding projects.
- 7.1-ounce (240-gram), 100% organic cotton
- Double-needle neck, sleeves, and hem
- Relaxed fit designed for comfort
- 100% recycled polyester tear-away label
- Natural Raw finish for minimal processing
- Available in 12 colors
Why This Matters for Your Brand
The shirt you choose becomes the first impression of your brand — both in how it feels and how it looks. A well-chosen tee boosts perceived value, improves comfort, and ensures your artwork looks its best.
We’re here to help you compare options, review samples, and make sure your project stays on time and on budget.
Contact us today to get started with your custom order or request samples of any of these shirts.
Austin Screen Printing & Embroidery
8613 Cross Park Dr. Austin, TX 78754
512-454-6249
