How Much Does It Cost to Print Custom Apparel?
How Much Does It Cost to Print Custom Apparel?
Custom printed apparel is a powerful way to promote your brand, unify a team, or launch a product. Whether you’re creating event t-shirts, uniforms, or branded merchandise, understanding the cost factors involved helps you make smart, budget-friendly decisions.
To effectively understand the cost of printing custom apparel, it’s vital to consider various factors that influence pricing.
Knowing the cost of printing custom apparel can help you make informed decisions about your branding strategies.
Ultimately, understanding the cost of printing custom apparel can lead to better financial planning for your projects.
Here’s a detailed look at what affects the price of printing custom t-shirts, hoodies, polos, workwear and more.
When calculating the cost of printing custom apparel, consider not just the product but the overall investment in your brand.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Printing Custom Apparel
Understanding the cost of printing custom apparel is essential for planning your budget effectively.
Please note: All prices mentioned are average estimates and will vary based on order size, garment type, print method, and project complexity. Every order is unique and quoted individually based on its specific requirements.
For example, the cost of printing custom apparel varies significantly based on the method and materials chosen.
1. Garment Type and Quality
Understanding the Cost of Printing Custom Apparel
The base cost of any custom apparel project starts with the blank garment itself. T-shirts, hoodies, hi-vis vests, and polos all come in different fabrics, weights, and fits. Premium options like AS Colour or American Apparel cost more than budget-friendly brands like JB’s Wear.
Estimated cost range (before printing):
- Budget t-shirts: $8–$12
- Premium t-shirts: $14–$22
- Hoodies: $28–$50
- Hi-vis workwear: $18–$40
These prices reflect not just the garment but the sourcing, inventory handling, and preparation involved.
The cost of printing custom apparel is also affected by the design complexity and required colours.
2. Printing Method – Why DTF Is Leading the Way
The print method you choose has a major impact on cost and quality. One of the most versatile and cost-efficient solutions currently available is DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing.
Why Focus on DTF?
- Works on cotton, blends, polyester, and even fleece
- Captures fine details and vibrant colours
- Requires minimal setup, making it ideal for both low and mid-volume runs
- Long-lasting prints that don’t crack or fade easily
Estimated DTF printing cost (per position):
- Small print (e.g. chest logo): $6–$8
- Full front print: $8–$12
For full-colour, high-quality prints on nearly any fabric, DTF provides the best balance between flexibility and affordability, especially compared to DTG or screen printing for smaller runs.
Other Printing Methods (for comparison):
- Screen Printing: Ideal for large orders (20+ units). Best for simple designs with 1–2 colours.
- DTG (Direct-to-Garment): Best for cotton-based garments and highly detailed images.
- Embroidery: Used for logos on polos, hats, and uniforms. Priced by stitch count.
3. Print Placement and Number of Locations
Each additional print area increases the cost. More placements = more labour, alignment, and machine time.
In conclusion, the cost of printing custom apparel is influenced by a range of factors that should be considered to optimise your investment.
- Front only: base price
- Front + back: add $6–$10
- Add sleeve or tag print: $3–$6
4. Order Volume
Higher volumes reduce the cost per unit, especially for screen and DTF prints. However, labour, QC, and handling must be factored in.
Typical volume effects:
- 10–20 units: base rates
- 50–100 units: 10–15% per-unit savings
- 250+ units: custom bulk rates
5. Artwork Setup and Pre-Production Time
Setup involves time and software for file prep, screens, film, colour separation, or embroidery digitising.
- Screen setup: $40–$70 per colour
- Embroidery digitising: $40–$60 (one-time)
- DTF: low to no setup fee depending on design size
6. Labour and Production Costs
Each order includes:
- Print/press time
- Pre-press design alignment and DTF film handling
- Machine maintenance and cleaning
These are essential components factored into per-unit pricing.
7. Overheads & Sundry Costs
Your final price reflects more than materials:
- Commercial rent and power
- Equipment depreciation and repairs
- Admin, packaging, marketing
These costs are built into the base rates to keep operations sustainable.
8. Shipping & Delivery
- Local pickup: Free
- Standard Aus shipping: $15–$40
- Freight or bulk courier: Quoted on volume & postcode
- Express options: Available with surcharge
Example Price Breakdown (per shirt):
Order of 50 AS Colour Staple Tees with full-front DTF print:
- Garment: $14.00
- Print: $10.00
- Labour/handling overhead: $3.00
- Packaging & admin: $1.00
- Total per unit: $28.00 + GST + shipping
Note: This is a general guide. Your actual quote may vary depending on your specific needs.
Need a Custom Quote?
Every order is different — let us quote based on your needs, timeline, and preferred garments.
Request your quote now: tshirtsdirect.com.au/request-a-quote
For a more tailored understanding of the cost of printing custom apparel, reach out for a custom quote.
