The Complete Guide to Bulk T-Shirt Printing for Events, Brands, and Businesses

When it comes to making a statement at scale, bulk t-shirt printing is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, launching a brand, outfitting your team, or promoting your next big thing, custom shirts aren’t just apparel — they’re marketing tools, walking billboards, and unifying symbols.

At Ink Made, we specialize in helping businesses, brands, and event organizers print high-quality, on-brand shirts at scale. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started.

🧠 Why Bulk Shirt Printing?

Ordering custom shirts in bulk offers several advantages:

• Cost Savings: Larger orders reduce the cost per unit

• Consistency: Uniform colors, sizing, and quality across the board

• Brand Visibility: Each shirt worn becomes a piece of organic promotion

• Event Readiness: Perfect for giveaways, volunteers, teams, or merch tables

🎯 Who Should Consider Bulk T-Shirt Printing?

Bulk printing isn’t just for large corporations. Here are common use cases:

• Bands & Musicians: Merch for tour dates and pop-ups

• Startups & Small Brands: Launch collections with lower overhead

• Event Planners: Uniforms for staff, attendees, and giveaways

• Gyms & Studios: Branded fitness apparel for members and promo

• Restaurants & Bars: Uniforms and seasonal merch drops

• Nonprofits & Fundraisers: Raise awareness and unify volunteers

If your organization wants to look cohesive or leave a lasting impression—bulk shirts are a solid move.

👕 Choosing the Right Garment

Not all t-shirts are created equal. Here’s how to choose what’s best for your project:

Not sure which to choose? Our team can recommend blanks based on your goals, budget, and design.

🎨 Creating a Design That Works at Scale

Here’s how to make sure your design holds up across hundreds (or thousands) of prints:

• Use bold, simple elements – Small text and fine lines may not reproduce well

• Avoid too many colors – More colors = higher print cost

• Design for placement – Front center is classic, but sleeve, back, or oversized prints add flair

• Mock it up – See how it looks on a shirt before you commit

Need help designing? We offer in-house art support to make your vision production-ready.

🖨️ The Screen Printing Process for Bulk Orders

We use commercial-grade screen printing presses that are perfect for high-volume runs. Here’s how the process works:

1. Artwork is prepped and separated by color

2. Screens are burned for each color in your design

3. Garments are loaded and printed with precision

4. Cured in an industrial dryer for long-lasting wear

5. Inspected, folded, and packaged for delivery or fulfillment

We offer plastisol, water-based, discharge, and hybrid ink options depending on your style, fabric, and feel goals.

💰 How Much Does Bulk Shirt Printing Cost?

Your final cost depends on a few key factors:

• Quantity (more = cheaper per piece)

• Number of print placements (front, back, sleeve, etc.)

• Number of ink colors

• Garment type and brand

• Add-ons (folding, bagging, tagging, etc.)

Here’s a rough estimate:

We’ll always quote transparently, with no hidden fees.

📦 Finishing Options for Retail or Events

Want your order to show up ready to sell or distribute? Ask about:

• Custom neck tags

• Hem tags

• Folding and bagging

• Hang tags or barcode labels

• Size stickers and bundle packaging

These extras boost the perceived value and professionalism of your apparel—especially if you’re selling merch or handing them out at an event.

🚚 Turnaround Times & What to Expect

Most bulk screen printing orders are completed within 7–14 business days once artwork and payment are finalized. Rush options are available if you’re on a tight timeline.

We’ll walk you through:

1. Art review + mockup approval

2. Production timeline

3. Shipping or pickup coordination

💡 Pro Tips to Maximize Your ROI on Bulk Orders

• Order extras for last-minute changes or late additions

• Use QR codes or social tags on your shirts to drive traffic

• Consider pre-orders to fund the print run

• Partner with influencers or staff to wear and promote the gear

🔥 Let’s Make Something That Sells Out

At Ink Made, we help creators, brands, and companies print custom apparel that looks sick, sells fast, and stands the test of time.

Whether you’re ordering 50 shirts or 5,000—we’ll help you choose the right materials, inks, and print strategy to get the most out of your order.

👉 Need a quote or want to see samples?
Shoot us an email at sales@inkmade.us or request a quote here