Blank Apparel: Where do I start?

Copied!

The Ultimate Guide to Blank Apparel for Crafters and Small Business Owners

Whether it's crafting or running a small business in the custom apparel world, choosing the right blanks is essential. Whether you're personalizing for a special event, creating a trendy collection, or fulfilling bulk orders, the variety of blank shirts, hoodies, and other garments available makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the best options for blank apparel, including popular brands like Bella + Canvas, Gildan, and key color choices for crafters and business owners alike.

Why Blank Apparel Matters

The quality of the base garment you choose directly affects the final product’s look, feel, and of course your customers' satisfaction. Whether you need 100% polyester shirts for sports jerseys, bulk t-shirts for a large event, or trendy heather gray shades for a custom clothing line, starting with the right blank apparel is crucial.

Popular Brands for Blank Shirts and Hoodies

1. Gildan Hoodies and T-Shirts
If you're looking for dependable and affordable bulk shirts, Gildan has you covered. Their Gildan hoodies and t-shirts are staple choices for heat transfer projects. Available in a variety of colors, from classic shades like dark heather to vibrant options like hot pink, Gildan's range fits all your needs, whether you're customizing bulk t-shirts for a sports organization or individual custom shirts for a local business.

2. Bella + Canvas
Known for its super-soft fabric and modern fits, Bella + Canvas (often written as bella canvas or bellacanvas) is a favorite among crafters and small businesses. Their blank t-shirts are perfect for high-quality custom designs. Plus, with options like heather gray, heather green, and heather blue, you can offer trendy, versatile styles to your customers.

Best Materials for Crafting and Custom Goods

Cotton and Cotton-Blend Options
If you're looking for versatile fabrics, cotton and cotton-blend shirts are ideal for Jiffy DTF transfers. Bella + Canvas and Gildan offer an array of cotton options, with heather gray and dark heather blends providing a unique, textured look for your creations.

100% Polyester Shirts
Shirts that are high in polyester work well for athletic wear as they provide a soft hand-feel and moisture-wicking properties for active customers. If you're decorating your apparel using sublimation transfers, shirts with at least 65% polyester are a must! Their fabric is designed to absorb dyes more effectively, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting designs. Unlike traditional printing methods, sublimation doesn’t lay ink on top of the material—it actually infuses the dye into the polyester fibers of the item. Under the high heat, the sublimation ink turns from a solid into a gas without going through a liquid phase—this is called sublimation. As the ink turns into gas, it bonds with the fibers of the material. The fibers open up when heated, allowing the gaseous ink to seep into them. Once the heat is removed, the fibers close back up, trapping the ink inside and embedding the design directly into the material.

Click here to see all Jiffy items that are suitable for sublimation.

⚠️Sublimation transfers will look dull on cotton shirts and any image that does transfer will likely be destroyed in the first wash. Ensure you're using apparel made with the highest polyester content possible!

Color Trends for Custom Apparel

The color of the blank apparel you choose can define the mood and appeal of your custom designs. Here are some trending colors to consider:

• Heather Gray: A classic neutral that works for both casual and professional designs.
• Hot Pink: Eye-catching and fun, this color adds a pop of vibrancy to any custom t-shirt.
• Irish Green: A bold, rich green that’s great for special events, like St. Patrick’s Day.
• Light Olive Green: A trendy earth tone that’s become a staple in modern fashion.
• Dark Heather: A deeper shade, perfect for autumn and winter collections.
• Baby Blue: Soft and pastel, this color is a popular choice for children's clothing lines.

Buying Blank Apparel in Bulk

When scaling your custom apparel business, it’s crucial to buy t-shirts in bulk from a reputable supplier. This helps you save on costs while ensuring you have enough stock for large orders. The great new is that whether you’re purchasing wholesale t-shirts for large projects or need just a few blank shirts for a personal occasion, Jiffy offers excellent options, all at wholesale prices.

Final Thoughts

For crafters and small business owners, having access to a variety of high-quality blank t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel is essential for success. No matter that project you're working on, the right garments will help your creations shine.

Start exploring the options and see how the right blank apparel can elevate your crafting game or get your business to the next level!