What Type of T Shirts do you need for your event?

If you are planning an event and need custom apparel you may be wondering what type of t-shirts you should use, what cut will people like the most, what fabric they should be made of, and many other details that are essential in selecting apparel.

You should also consider that an effective event t-shirt must communicate your group’s identity, the purpose of your event, and the identity of your audience. By this, we mean that your t-shirt needs to reflect your brand’s identity and it can be achieved with the right t-shirt design that clearly fits your visual brand.

By combining creativity, current shirt trends, an attractive design, and your visual brand you will produce the best possible t-shirt for your event. Need inspiration? Check out some of Crooked Monkey’s iconic original tees for inspiration!

Choosing the right t-shirt for your design

This part of the process is very important because people can be very picky about what t-shirts they like to wear. The way someone prefers a shirt both feels and fits varies by individual but you when planning an event it is essential that you stop and consider who will be wearing them while also keeping your budget in mind.

If your event is having young people, consider slimmer custom t shirts. Fashion cut shirts are usually more expensive than other options, so you will need to decide if this is something that you can deliver. If your crowd is more mixed or 35+ in years, a standard regular cut personalized t shirt is the best way to go.

You can also order lady styles for your shirts or unisex types of t-shirts so that you can provide a better fit for each gender. One trick for ordering unisex sizes is ordering one size down for the ladies. You can read more about t shirt sizes in our post “How do I know my t shirt size?”.

Today, there are many manufacturers that offer an eco-friendly option, which is something you should keep in mind when selecting the t shirts for your event. However, if you have doubts about what shirts to choose, sizing and any other questions, you can read Crooked Monkey’s FAQs or contact us for help.

Types of t shirts to choose from

We believe that in anybody’s closet there’s at least one t-shirt. This piece of clothing first started out as an undergarment and today it is much more than that. There are so many styles and variations of the tee to choose from, that can be worn as a standalone or under your jacket or jumper.

Sew Guide has listed 16 different types of T shirts and which we have decided to share here with you as well so that you know what shirt options we have available for your next event. For images of each style, feel free to check the link for a better understanding of every fit.

1. Basic half sleeve T-shirt

The most simple t-shirt out there with a close to the neck crew neckline. The basic half sleeve tee is one of the most popular shirts because It suits both men and women.

2. Long sleeve Crew neck T-shirts

This tee is the same as the basic half sleeve t-shirt, but with longer sleeves.

3. Polo collar t-shirt

A simple half sleeve t-shirt with a polo collar.

4. V-neck t-shirt

Also known as a Football Jersey, this a simple t shirt with a v-shaped neck.

5. Girls’ T-shirt variations

a. Wide neck -Offshoulder t-shirts

This style makes the shirt look as if it was an off-shoulder top.

b. Yoke neck t-shirts

This is a t-shirt with a separate yoke usually with embroidery on it.

c. Boyfriend t-shirts

This is a very loose t shirt as opposed to form fitting. Named for the way a boys shirt often fits a women.

6. Douche bag neck t-shirt (Scoop neck)

This shirt shows more of the person’s body than a basic t-shirt would because of its deep scoop neckline. Some men accompany it with metal chains.

7. Henley collar T-shirt

A shirt with a Placket below and a round neckline without a collar.

8. Baseball Tshirt

These shirts look similar to a baseball uniform. They are half sleeve and are otherwise known as the Raglan sleeve t-shirt!

9. Raglan sleeve t-shirt – Long sleeve

Same as the baseball t shirt but with ¾ or full-length sleeves.

10. Turtle neck shirt

It is a simple t shirt with turtleneck.

11. Ringer T-shirt

This t shirt will have a crew neck with contrast bands on the neckline and sleeve hems.

12. Cap sleeve t-shirt

The shirt will have cap sleeves.

13. Half T shirt (Singlet)

Known also as singlets, it is a sleeveless t shirt with narrow straps that is loose-fitting.

14. Muscle Shirt

The muscle shirt is a sleeveless t shirt that is also tight-fitting so that the person who wears it can show off his or her muscles.

15. Longline T-shirt

A style of t shirt with a long length that can even reach up to the knees

16. Pocket T-shirt

This t shirt will have a small pocket that can be decorative or functional.

Best shirt materials for your bulk shirt printing

Deciding what the best material is for screen printing your custom t-shirts is also an important task. Below, we will explain the pros and cons of each fabric and other characteristics we are sure will be useful for you as you consider apparel for your event.

Cotton

A soft and natural fiber found in most t-shirts. Cotton is very soft, affordable and breathable and is perfect for casual wear. The biggest con to cotton is that it may shrink after the first warm wash.

Linen

This material is a little bit rougher than cotton and can be found in jackets and outer layers. It can wrinkle easily but it dries quickly. Linen is a great option for a more summer style of clothes!

Polyester

This fabric is used widely in sports apparel because it dries quickly, it is breathable and does not wrinkle easily. However, it is not as soft and comfortable as cotton or linen. It is a man-made synthetic fiber.

Rayon

This is another man-made material from a blend of cotton, trees and woody plants. It was created as a cheaper version of silk and is very smooth. It is also used for sportswear but it does not last as long as other materials do and can become wrinkled.

Polyester and cotton blend

This combination creates a breathable but extremely soft shirt. Polyester is a cheaper option than 100% cotton shirts and it holds its shape very well compared to other fabrics.

Tri-blends

Tri-blend shirts are usually made from a combination of cotton, polyester and rayon. Its advantage is that it can be lightweight and soft while also durable.

Text and design for screen printing

You should use the text that will go on your shirt as an opportunity to set yourself apart from just a regular t shirt as a great one. With that being said, instead of using whatever average font you have on your computer, you should be more creative. Check out DaFont for thousands of free font options!

Remember to think about the theme of your event and try to communicate that vibe through the text used in your t-shirt design. Go for a smaller font size, non-bold if you are adding a date. Although we encourage fonts that stand our, its important to remember that too much of a specialized font can be distracting. Balance is key!

As for the art and design, you should choose visual cues that go along with the theme of your event and have the same flavor as the font you selected for your shirt. Still having difficulties? No need to worry and no need to run and signup to a Photoshop course, one of our experienced Crooked Monkey team members can help you come up with a design that stands apart from the rest!

Do not forget to create staff and volunteer shirts for your event

You can use custom t shirts for more than one purpose at once, such as creating another version of your event’s shirts for your volunteers and staff. They will be most effective in every area where they’re not only offered to your attendees and participants.

Finally, Take a look at what things cannot be added to a custom t shirt and if you have any questions give us a call!

Contact us today, and lets get started creating some of the most beautiful, memorable, and comfortable shirts ever worn for the participants of your next event!