Today, T-shirt printing is a technique that is used by businesses and individuals to create memorable designs that are also wearable. While you can see these custom T-shirts around just about every corner, they aren’t just a modern invention. There’s actually a long history of design and printing that has contributed to today’s modern methods.

T-Shirt Printing: From Past to Present

Woodblock Printing

Before T-shirts were even around, an early version of textile printing was starting to form. The earliest known instance of this method was from third-century China. Textile makers would cut shapes out of wood blocks and use them to apply ink onto a piece of fabric, creating a pattern or intricate design. That fabric could then be used for anything from clothing to bedding.

Military Roots

T-shirts as we know them today didn’t actually come into being until the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. They were initially issued to sailors as an undergarment to wear under their jackets. However, they began to wear the shirts on their own, which then popularized the look for other working-class individuals, like farmers and miners. Since textile printing methods were already fairly well formed at this time, it was natural for those methods to be applied to T-shirts as well.

Modern Popularity

From there, printing companies began to expand on their offerings, especially in terms of T-shirts. Screen printing allowed people to create intricate designs with multiple colors. In addition to the funny sayings and slogans that were popularized in recent decades, companies could also have their logos and other custom designs added to shirts, and individuals can even have their own unique designs created for special events or initiatives.

If you’re interested in T-shirt printing or monogramming, The Monogram Company in La Crosse, WI, can help. The company offers screen printing, embroidery, and a number of other options for custom T-shirts and banners. With a large facility and state-of-the-art equipment, you can trust them to create quality products and complete jobs quickly. Call (800) 784-9647 or contact the team online to learn more.