Whether you’re a beginning artist, experienced designer, or just need a custom T-shirt for your sports team or business, putting your artwork or logo on a T-shirt is a great way to get exposure and generate interest. There are many technologies and printing methods available today to help turn your T-shirt idea into reality, but figuring out where to start can be daunting. Luckily, the custom shirt experts at Siefert’s Sports Center in Cincinnati, OH, has compiled a guide for creating your first custom T-shirt, from the initial design to getting it printed.

How to Design & Print Your First Custom T-Shirt

Turn Your Idea Into a Design 

You may already have an idea in mind for your custom T-shirt, but be sure to consider who you intend to wear your shirt. Some designs are more appropriate for a particular age group or gender, so knowing your target audience is important. Once you have a clear vision of what you’re going for, sketch your design on paper or use Adobe Photoshop® or another program to bring it to life.

Prepare Your Design for Printing

It’s important to decide early on what method of printing you’ll be using for your custom T-shirts. Screen printing requires additional work in programs like Photoshop or Illustrator® to separate the colors of the design into layers. However, digital printing and sublimation printing don’t have this requirement, and for a first-time T-shirt designer, this simplifies the process while still providing excellent results.

Find the Right Printer

Now that your design is ready to go, it’s time to find someone to print your shirts! Online options abound where you can upload your design to a website and the shirts will be shipped to you. But some of the drawbacks of this include the inability to ask for help with the process and taking a gamble on shirt quality. For a first-time designer, a local print shop is the best route, as the experienced staff can help guide you through the process and show you samples, ensuring your first design turns out great.

Are you ready to turn your custom T-shirt design idea into reality? Siefert's Sports Center is here to help. Their experts will assist throughout the process, from designing to on-site printing. In business for 38 years, they’ve built a reputation for stellar, personalized service. To discuss your T-shirt design and find out more about the printing process, stop by their store. You can also visit their website to learn more, or call them directly at (513) 445-4057.