Portland Printing CompanyA guide to Portland print shops
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How to Order Custom Shirts

A complete guide to ordering custom t-shirts in Portland. Whether you're ordering for a band, business, event, or team, this guide will help you get quality prints at a fair price.

Reviewed for accuracy by Black Bell Co., a Portland screen printing shop that runs this site. Last updated October 2026.

1. Decide What You Need

Before you contact a print shop, answer these questions:

  • Quantity: How many shirts do you need? Print shops often have minimum orders (typically 12-24 pieces).
  • Deadline: When do you need them? Most shops need 10-14 business days. Rush orders cost extra.
  • Budget: What can you spend per shirt? Knowing your budget helps shops suggest the right method.
  • Use: Are these for resale (band merch), giveaways (events), uniforms, or personal use? This affects quality and print method.

2. Pick a Print Method

Different methods have different strengths. Here's a quick breakdown:

  • Screen Printing: Best for bulk orders (24+), 1-6 colors, durable and vibrant. Higher setup cost, lower per-piece cost.
  • DTF (Direct to Film): Full-color designs, no minimums, works on many fabrics. Higher per-piece cost than screen printing.
  • DTG (Direct to Garment): Best for small runs, soft feel, full color. Works best on 100% cotton.
  • Embroidery: Premium look, great for logos and hats. More expensive, not for detailed images.

Not sure? Ask shops for recommendations based on your design, quantity, and budget.

3. Choose Your Garments

Most print shops offer blank t-shirts and apparel from these brands:

  • Gildan: Budget-friendly, standard quality.
  • Next Level, Bella+Canvas: Soft, fitted, premium feel.
  • Comfort Colors: Thick, vintage feel, popular for merch.

You'll need to decide:

  • Style: Standard tee, fitted, pocket tee, long sleeve, hoodie, etc.
  • Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL, etc. Plan your size breakdown (how many of each).
  • Colors: Choose garment colors that work with your design. Dark garments may cost more for some print methods.

Most shops can provide blank pricing so you can compare. Some shops allow you to bring your own garments (customer-supplied), but not all.

4. Prepare Your Artwork

This is where many first-time buyers get stuck. Here's what you need:

  • File format: Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) are best. High-resolution PNG or JPG (300 DPI minimum) can work.
  • Color separation: For screen printing, each color needs to be separated. Many shops do this for you, but it helps if your file is clean.
  • Size: Know the print size in inches (e.g., 12" x 14"). Most shops print chest designs around 12"-14" wide.
  • Mockups: If you have a mockup (your design on a shirt), send it. It helps shops understand what you want.

Don't have a designer? Many print shops offer design services or can recommend local designers.

5. What to Include in a Quote Request

When you contact a shop, include:

  • Quantity (and size breakdown if you know it)
  • Garment style and brand (if you have a preference)
  • Print locations (front, back, sleeve, etc.)
  • Number of colors in your design
  • Deadline
  • Artwork file or mockup (link to Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.)
  • Any special requests (eco-friendly inks, packaging, etc.)

The more details you provide, the more accurate the quote. Expect responses within 1-2 business days.

6. Understanding Pricing

Custom shirt pricing includes:

  • Blank garments: The cost of the shirts themselves.
  • Printing: The labor and materials to print your design.
  • Setup fees: For screen printing, shops charge for creating screens (usually $15-$50 per screen/color). Waived on reorders.
  • Add-ons: Extra print locations, special inks, tags, etc.

Typical range (screen printing, 50 shirts, 2 colors): $8-$15 per shirt depending on garment quality and print complexity. Smaller orders cost more per piece due to setup.

7. Proofs and Approvals

After you place your order:

  • The shop will send you a proof (a digital mockup of the final design).
  • Review it carefully. Check spelling, colors, size, and placement.
  • Once you approve, changes are expensive or impossible. Double-check everything.

Some shops print a physical sample before the full run. Ask if this is available.

8. Turnaround and Rush Orders

Standard turnaround: 10-14 business days after approval.

Rush orders: Available for an extra fee, usually 5-7 business days. Not always possible during busy seasons.

Plan ahead, especially for events.

9. Pickup, Delivery, or Shipping

  • Pickup: Many Portland shops offer free pickup.
  • Local delivery: Some shops deliver for a fee.
  • Shipping: Available, but can be expensive for large orders.

When you pick up or receive your order, check it before you leave or sign. Count the shirts, check sizes, and look for print defects.

10. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until the last minute. Shops need time. Rush fees add up.
  • Low-resolution artwork. Blurry files result in blurry prints.
  • Not approving the proof carefully. Once it's printed, you own it.
  • Ordering the wrong size breakdown. Always ask for a size recommendation or run a survey if you're ordering for a group.
  • Choosing the cheapest option without understanding quality. Cheap blanks and cheap printing may not hold up.

Ready to Get Started?

Request quotes from Portland print shops using our quote form. Compare prices, ask questions, and choose the shop that fits your needs.