Finding the right tee shirt factory is crucial to the success of your clothing line. From understanding cotton to ensuring high-quality printing, there are many factors to consider. This guide will help you navigate the process and make informed decisions.
Knowledge of Cotton
A reputable tee shirt factory must have in-depth knowledge of cotton. Cotton quality can vary greatly, and understanding the different types is essential:
• Regular Cotton: Affordable and commonly used, but may shrink or lose shape over time.
• Egyptian Cotton: Known for its long fibers, providing a softer and more durable fabric.
• Pima Cotton: Similar to Egyptian cotton, it offers superior softness and strength.
• Organic Cotton: Grown without pesticides, it’s an eco-friendly option.
Sizing and Custom Fit
A good manufacturer should have a comprehensive sizing sheet and the capability to create custom fits. Accurate sizing ensures customer satisfaction and reduces returns. The sizing sheet should include measurements for chest, waist, length, and sleeve length for each size.
Reliable Printing
Even if printing is outsourced, it must be reliable and of high quality. Printing methods suitable for tee shirts include:
• Screen Printing: Durable and vibrant, ideal for large quantities.
• Digital Printing: Best for small runs or designs with many colors.
• Heat Transfer: Suitable for smaller orders and complex designs.
Types of Fabric Suitable for Tee Shirts
Different fabrics offer various benefits and are suitable for different markets:
• Cotton: Soft, breathable, and versatile.
• Polyester: Durable, moisture-wicking, and retains shape.
• Linen: Lightweight and breathable, great for hot climates.
• French Terry: Soft and absorbent, ideal for casual wear.
• Egyptian Cotton: Premium quality, providing superior softness and durability.
Minimum Order Quantities
Most factories require a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 100 pieces or more. This is due to the roll size of fabric, which is typically around 50kg. Smaller orders are not cost-effective for manufacturers.
Calculating Fabric Yardage
To calculate fabric yardage needed for a tee shirt:
1. Determine Fabric Width: Standard fabric width is 60 inches.
2. Measure Tee Shirt Dimensions: For a medium tee shirt, you might need 1.25 yards of fabric.
3. Calculate Yardage: Multiply the number of shirts by the yardage per shirt. For 100 shirts, you would need approximately 125 yards of fabric.
Cutting Fee Charged by Factories
Factories charge a cutting fee, which can vary but typically ranges from $0.50 to $1.00 per piece. This fee covers the cost of cutting the fabric into the required shapes and sizes.
Outsourced Printing
Printing is often outsourced because specialized equipment and expertise are required. Not all factories are vertically integrated; some focus solely on garment construction while partnering with printing specialists.
Washing Instructions for Cotton
Proper washing instructions are crucial for maintaining the quality of cotton tee shirts:
• Machine Wash Cold: Prevents shrinking and preserves fabric quality.
• Use Mild Detergent: Avoids harsh chemicals that can damage fibers.
• Tumble Dry Low or Line Dry: Reduces heat exposure to prevent shrinkage.
Meta Description
Learn how to find a reliable tee shirt factory. Understand the importance of cotton quality, custom sizing, printing methods, and more. Get expert insights and avoid common pitfalls.
Summary and Conclusion
In the world of garment manufacturing, selecting the right tee shirt factory involves thorough research and understanding various aspects such as fabric quality, sizing, and printing. Ensuring your manufacturer has a deep knowledge of cotton, offers reliable printing options, and can handle custom fits will set your brand up for success. Minimum order quantities and understanding fabric yardage are also crucial components of the process.
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