What Impacts the Price of a Screen Printed Order?

Trying to figure out how much your custom t-shirt order will cost? Here's a transparent look at the real factors that impact screen printing pricing.

Introduction

Let’s talk money. When it comes to custom screen printing, pricing isn’t random. It’s based on a mix of materials, prep work, production time, and a whole lot of ink.

If you’ve ever wondered why one screen printed t-shirt costs $8 and another costs $18, this breakdown is for you. Whether you’re ordering for your business, your team, or your next merch drop, here’s what actually affects the cost of a screen printing order.

The 5 Main Factors That Affect Screen Printing Prices

We believe in being upfront about pricing. No vague fees. No guesswork. Just real explanations that make sense.

1. Garment Type and Quality

Let’s start with the basics. Not all shirts are created equal.

A lightweight cotton tee from a value brand is going to cost less than a heavyweight streetwear hoodie from a premium supplier. The brand, fabric blend, garment weight, and even the color all play a role in how much your order costs.

Here’s something most people don’t know. Black shirts often cost more than white ones because they require more dye during production. That extra cost starts at the mill, not with us.

If you’re not sure which garment is right for your project, we can help you decide based on your budget, audience, and the look you’re going for.

2. Total Quantity Ordered

This one’s straightforward. The more shirts you order, the less you pay per shirt.

That’s because screen printing has upfront setup costs. We have to burn screens, prep the artwork, mix the inks, and line everything up by hand. Whether we’re printing 12 shirts or 200, that setup time is the same.

When you order more, those fixed costs get spread out. That’s why 100 shirts often cost only a little more than 50, but the price per shirt drops significantly.

3. Number of Ink Colors in the Design

Each color in your design requires its own screen. So a 1-color print is quick and cost-effective, while a 6-color print takes more time and more setup.

More colors mean more:

Screens to burn
Ink to mix
Print passes to run
Time on press

If you’re trying to stay within budget, we can help simplify your design or suggest ways to create a premium look using fewer colors. You’d be surprised what a strong one-color print can do with the right placement and contrast.

4. Print Locations

Printing just on the front of a shirt is the most affordable option. Adding more print locations means more work and more cost.

Each additional location requires a new screen and another round of setup. A front and back print is double the labor. Adding sleeve prints or custom neck labels adds even more.

We’re happy to do multi-location prints, but we want to make sure you know exactly what goes into the pricing.

5. Artwork Prep and File Quality

Clean artwork speeds up the process. If you send us a print-ready vector file like an AI, EPS, or high-res PDF, we can move straight to production.

But if you send a low-res PNG, a photo from your phone, or a screenshot from Instagram, we’ll need to spend time rebuilding the design. That extra time adds cost.

Want to avoid the extra fee? Send us the best version of your artwork. If you’re unsure whether it’s usable, just ask. We’re always happy to take a look.

Why We Don’t Use One-Size-Fits-All Pricing

We get asked this all the time. “How much does it cost to print a shirt?”

The truth is that it depends on a few key details. Your shirt style, quantity, print locations, number of ink colors, and artwork file all influence the final price.

Instead of giving a flat rate, we price each job based on the actual specs. That way your quote is accurate and tailored to your order. It’s fair for you and fair for us.

Want a Quick and Easy Quote?

Try out our custom quote calculator. Just enter your info and get a real estimate based on your needs. It’s fast, simple, and built to help you make decisions without any pressure.

Or reach out directly if you’d rather talk it out. We’re screen printers who enjoy answering questions and helping people get their projects rolling.

Quick Recap: What Impacts Price

The type and quality of the blank garment
How many items you’re ordering
The number of ink colors in your design
How many locations you’re printing on
Whether your artwork is print-ready or needs cleanup

Have an idea for your next project? Let’s bring it to life.

Let’s Make Something You’re Proud to Wear

Whether you’re new to custom tees or lining up your tenth merch drop, we keep the process clear and quick. Expect sharp prints, fast turnarounds, and a local crew that has your back.

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