T-shirts are the default band merch item, but they require more planning because size runs, blank quality, and upfront cost can create inventory risk.
T-SHIRTS
The classic first merch item for most artists
T-shirts are the default band merch item, but they require more planning because size runs, blank quality, and upfront cost can create inventory risk.
Why Sell T-Shirts?
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High Demand
Fans always want merch. A staple that never goes out of style.
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Great Margins
Low production costs mean stronger profit per item sold.
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Easy to Bundle
Pair with albums, posters, and stickers to boost value.
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Tour Friendly
Lightweight, easy to pack, and simple to sell everywhere.
About T-Shirts
Pros
- Always in demand
- Wide range of styles, colors, and fits
- Easy to design and produce
- Great for almost every budget
- Works for any audience
- Easy to upsell and bundle
Cons
- High competition
- Sizing and fit can vary
- Returns on wrong sizes
- Cheap blanks can feel cheap
- Overprinting can raise costs
Best For
Best Suppliers for T-Shirts
Z
Zazzle Top Pick
★★★★★ 4.6
Zazzle is a marketplace-style platform for custom products, stickers, buttons, posters, apparel, gifts, and simple fan merch.
View Profile →
G
Gelato Top Pick
★★★★★ 4.6
Gelato is a global print-on-demand platform focused on local production, international fulfillment, posters, apparel, and creator products.
View Profile →
W
WizardPins Top Pick
★★★★★ 4.6
WizardPins makes enamel pins, stickers, keychains, charms, and small custom merch for artists, creators, and brands.
View Profile →
G
GS-JJ Top Pick
★★★★★ 4.6
GS-JJ produces custom enamel pins, patches, keychains, medals, coins, and small accessory merch.
View Profile →DIY Gear & Supplies
S
Screen Printing Kit
$129.99
All-in-one kit for printing your own designs.
B
Blank Tees
$3.50 – $6.00
Quality blanks in bulk for screen printing.
T
Transfer Paper
$22.99
Inkjet transfer paper for DIY heat transfers.
H
Heat Press
$199.00
Professional results for heat transfers.
V
Vinyl Cutter
$299.00
Cut vinyl for heat transfers and custom names.
Merch Profit Calculator
Product Cost$6.00Print Cost$4.00Shipping$2.50Total Cost$12.50
Sell Price$25.00Profit / Item$12.50Margin62.5%Break-Even13 items
Calculate Your Numbers →
Design & Selling Tips
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Keep It Simple
Bold designs sell better and print more cleanly.
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Limited Colors
Use 1–3 colors to save money and stand out.
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Offer Variety
Different fits, colors, and styles sell more.
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Create Urgency
Limited edition drops drive faster sales.
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Show It Off
Wear it, tag it, and get fans involved.