If you’re planning to print custom t-shirts for your business, team, or event, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “How much does screen printing cost per shirt?” At RiseDigitizing, we understand that quality, affordability, and design precision matter. In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that influence screen printing prices and help you make the most cost-effective decision for your custom apparel needs.
What Is Screen Printing?
Screen printing is a popular method for creating custom t-shirts, hoodies, and apparel. It involves pushing ink through a mesh stencil (screen) onto fabric, resulting in vibrant, durable, and long-lasting prints. Businesses and individuals often choose screen printing for bulk orders due to its cost efficiency and professional finish.
Average Cost of Screen Printing Per Shirt
The cost of screen printing per shirt can vary depending on several factors, but on average:
| Quantity | Colors in Design | Average Price (Per Shirt) |
| 1–10 shirts | 1–2 colors | $10–$25 |
| 20–50 shirts | 1–3 colors | $7–$12 |
| 100+ shirts | 1–4 colors | $4–$8 |
| 500+ shirts | 1–6 colors | $3–$6 |
These prices can change based on your design complexity, shirt type, and print location (front, back, sleeves, etc.).
Key Factors That Affect Screen Printing Cost
1. Number of Colors
Each color in your design requires a separate screen setup. The more colors you use, the higher the cost.
Tip from RiseDigitizing: Try simplifying your artwork or using spot colors to reduce printing expenses.
2. Quantity of Shirts
Bulk orders significantly lower the price per shirt. The setup cost gets divided across more items, making large runs more affordable.
3. Shirt Quality and Material
Basic cotton tees are cheaper to print than premium blends or specialty fabrics. If you want a soft, luxury feel, expect to pay slightly more.
4. Design Placement
Printing on multiple areas (like the front and back) increases both setup and printing time, slightly raising the total cost.
5. Setup Fees
Most printing companies charge setup fees per color or design. This covers the preparation of screens, inks, and equipment.
How to Save Money on Screen Printing
If you want to reduce your printing costs without sacrificing quality:
- Order in larger quantities to benefit from bulk discounts.
- Stick to 1–2 color designs for simplicity and affordability.
- Choose standard shirt colors to avoid custom dyeing fees.
- Work with a trusted service provider like RiseDigitizing for efficient artwork preparation and accurate screen setup.
RiseDigitizing: Your Trusted Partner for Custom Apparel
At RiseDigitizing, we specialize in embroidery digitizing, vector art services, and custom apparel design preparation for printing businesses across the USA. While we focus on digitizing and artwork conversion, our expertise helps screen printers and designers create flawless, print-ready files—saving both time and production costs.
Whether you need embroidery digitizing, custom vector art, or guidance on artwork setup for screen printing, our skilled team ensures you get high-quality, print-perfect results every time.
Related Services from RiseDigitizing
- Embroidery Digitizing Services in USA
- Custom Vector Art Services in USA
- How to Convert an Image to an Embroidery File
Final Thoughts
So, how much does screen printing cost per shirt? The answer depends on your design, colors, and order quantity—but typically ranges from $3 to $25 per shirt. If you’re planning your next custom apparel project, partner with RiseDigitizing for professional digitizing and artwork preparation that makes your printing process smoother and more affordable.
