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Introduction

Ordering custom apparel online should be simple, but small mistakes can affect the fit, print quality, cost, and delivery date of the entire order.

The best results come from making the important decisions before production begins. That means choosing the right garment, preparing the artwork, confirming quantities and sizes, selecting print locations, reviewing the quote, and checking the proof carefully.

Here is the process in its simplest form:

1. Define the purpose of the order.
2. Choose the apparel and garment style.
3. Prepare the artwork.
4. Select garment colors and print locations.
5. Confirm quantities and sizes.
6. Provide the deadline and delivery preference.
7. Review the quote and digital proof.
8. Approve production only after checking every detail.
9. Inspect the completed order when it arrives.

This step-by-step guide explains how to order custom apparel online with confidence and avoid the most common ordering mistakes.

Step 1: Define the Purpose of the Order

Before choosing a shirt, hoodie, or printing method, decide what the apparel needs to accomplish.

Custom apparel may be used for:

• Business uniforms
• Clothing brands
• Retail merchandise
• Schools and student organizations
• Sports teams
• Churches and community groups
• Family reunions
• Fundraisers
• Trade shows
• Promotional giveaways
• Special events

The purpose affects almost every decision that follows.

A promotional giveaway may need an affordable standard shirt. A clothing brand may need a premium heavyweight garment. Employees working outdoors may need durable apparel, while indoor staff may prefer lighter garments that are easy to layer.

Questions to Answer First

• Who will wear the apparel?
• Where will it be worn?
• How often will it be used?
• Does it need to look basic, professional, athletic, or premium?
• Will it be given away, used as a uniform, or sold?
• What is the total budget?
• What is the required in-hand date?

Clear answers make it easier to choose the right product instead of selecting apparel based only on appearance or price.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Apparel

Select the garment based on the audience, environment, and purpose of the order.

Apparel Type	Best For	What to Consider
T-shirts	Events, businesses, teams, brands, and promotions	Fabric, weight, fit, softness, and shrinkage
Hoodies	Schools, brands, staff, teams, and cold-weather apparel	Weight, pullover vs zip-up, fit, pocket, and hood placement
Polos	Businesses, uniforms, sales teams, and professional staff	Fabric, collar construction, fit, and logo placement
Performance shirts	Sports, outdoor events, gyms, and active employees	Polyester content, moisture control, stretch, and heat sensitivity
Hats	Brands, uniforms, teams, and promotional merchandise	Hat style, structure, closure, panel shape, and decoration area

Do not assume one garment works for every audience. A product that is perfect for a clothing brand may be too expensive for a large giveaway. A lightweight shirt that works for an outdoor summer event may not provide the professional appearance needed for a company uniform.

For more help selecting garments, read our guides on choosing the right shirt for custom printing and choosing the right custom hoodie.

Step 3: Choose the Fabric, Weight, and Fit

Garments that look similar online can feel very different in person.

Fabric

• Cotton: Soft, natural, and widely used for everyday custom shirts.
• Cotton-polyester blend: Balances softness, durability, shape retention, and drying speed.
• Polyester: Common for performance apparel and moisture-wicking garments.
• Tri-blend: Usually soft and lightweight with a more casual, premium feel.

Weight

• Lightweight: Better for warm weather, layering, promotions, and indoor use.
• Midweight: The safest all-around option for many businesses, teams, events, and organizations.
• Heavyweight: Better for premium merchandise, streetwear, workwear, and colder conditions.

Fit

• Standard fit: A dependable choice for broad group orders.
• Fitted: More shaped through the body and less forgiving across mixed audiences.
• Relaxed fit: Provides additional room without looking extremely oversized.
• Oversized fit: Popular for streetwear and fashion-focused brands.

Always use the size chart for the exact garment being ordered. A medium from one brand may not fit like a medium from another.

Step 4: Choose the Garment Colors

The garment color should work with the design and the intended use of the apparel.

Consider:

• Contrast between the artwork and garment
• Business, school, or team colors
• How easily the garment will show dirt or stains
• Whether all requested sizes are available in that color
• Whether several garment colors will use the same artwork

A dark design may disappear on a dark shirt without a light outline or underbase. Light artwork may need stronger contrast on white, cream, or pastel garments.

Do not rely only on the color displayed on a computer or phone screen. Garment colors can vary by fabric, brand, lighting, and production batch.

Step 5: Prepare the Artwork

The finished print can only be as good as the artwork supplied to the printer.

Whenever possible, provide:

• A high-resolution PNG with a transparent background
• A vector file such as AI, EPS, PDF, or SVG for logos and clean graphics
• Artwork created at or near the intended print size
• Correct spelling, dates, phone numbers, and names
• Clearly identified garment and design colors

Avoid submitting:

• Screenshots
• Small images downloaded from social media
• Blurry JPEG files
• Artwork with an unwanted white background
• Images that have already been enlarged beyond their original quality
• Files containing missing fonts or hidden elements

Check the Artwork Before Uploading

• Is every word spelled correctly?
• Are all dates and phone numbers accurate?
• Is the background supposed to print?
• Are small words large enough to remain readable?
• Is the image sharp at the requested print size?
• Do you have permission to use every logo, character, photograph, and trademark?

Do not assume changing a low-resolution image from 72 DPI to 300 DPI creates new detail. The original file must contain enough real image information for the requested print size.

Step 6: Choose the Print Locations

Print placement affects visibility, appearance, and cost.

Print Location	Best For	What to Know
Left chest	Business logos, staff apparel, and understated branding	Keep the design simple and readable at a smaller size
Center chest	Brands, teams, events, and general merchandise	Creates more impact without using the entire front
Full front	Bold artwork, merchandise, and event designs	Large solid artwork may feel heavier than an open design
Full back	Business information, team graphics, and detailed artwork	Hoods can cover the upper part of a hoodie design
Sleeve	Secondary logos, sponsors, dates, and brand details	Adds cost and may have a smaller printable area
Inside neck	Clothing brands and private-label details	Must fit the available neck area and garment construction

Every additional location usually increases the total cost because it requires another production step.

A strong one-location design is often better than adding several prints that do not improve the finished garment.

Step 7: Choose the Printing Method

The printing company may recommend a method based on the garment, artwork, quantity, and desired result.

• DTF: A flexible choice for detailed full-color artwork, multiple garment materials, and personalized designs.
• Screen printing: Often effective for larger identical orders with simple artwork and limited colors.
• DTG: Common for detailed designs and smaller orders on cotton or cotton-rich garments.
• Embroidery: Often used for professional logos on polos, hats, jackets, and uniforms.

You do not need to become a printing expert before ordering. You should, however, understand why a method is being recommended and whether it suits the garment, artwork, quantity, and expected use.

Read our complete Screen Printing vs DTF vs DTG comparison for more detail.

Step 8: Confirm the Quantity and Size Breakdown

Do not submit only the total number of garments. Provide the quantity required in every size and color.

For example:

Size	Black	White	Total
Small	3	2	5
Medium	6	4	10
Large	7	5	12
XL	5	3	8
2XL	3	2	5

DTFera’s current custom shirt minimum is 12 shirts. Confirm the minimum for the exact apparel service before placing the order.

Should You Order Extras?

A few extra garments may be useful for:

• Late additions
• Size exchanges
• Damaged or lost garments
• New employees or team members
• Future promotion or display

Order extras based on a realistic need. A lower bulk price does not save money when the additional inventory will never be used.

Remember Extended Sizes

Sizes such as 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, and larger may cost more because blank garment suppliers frequently charge more for them.

Include extended sizes in the original breakdown so the quote is accurate.

Step 9: Set the Deadline Correctly

Tell the printer when you need the completed apparel in your hands, not only the date of the event.

Your timeline may include:

• Garment availability
• Artwork review
• Proof preparation
• Customer approval
• Production
• Quality control
• Shipping or delivery

Waiting to approve artwork or submit sizes can delay the order even when the printer is ready to begin.

Order Early When:

• The event date cannot change
• The order is large
• The garments are specialty styles
• Several colors or products are required
• Names and numbers are personalized
• A sample must be approved
• Shipping is required

Rush production may be available, but it can limit garment choices and increase costs.

Step 10: Review the Quote

Do not compare custom apparel quotes using only the advertised price per item.

Confirm whether the quote includes:

• The blank garments
• Printing or embroidery
• All requested print locations
• Artwork preparation
• Setup charges
• Extended-size charges
• Names and numbers
• Rush service
• Shipping or delivery
• Taxes

Also confirm:

• The exact garment brand and style
• Garment colors
• Total quantity
• Size breakdown
• Design locations
• Estimated completion date
• Pickup or shipping method

A quote for a basic shirt with one print should not be compared directly to a quote for a premium garment with front and back printing.

For more pricing guidance, read How Much Does Custom T-Shirt Printing Cost?

Step 11: Review the Digital Proof Carefully

The proof is one of the most important parts of the ordering process.

A digital proof usually shows how the artwork is expected to appear on the garment. It is your opportunity to find mistakes before production begins.

Check the Artwork

• Spelling
• Dates
• Phone numbers
• Website addresses
• Names
• Logo details
• Missing or unwanted backgrounds

Check the Placement

• Front, back, chest, sleeve, or neck location
• Centered or intentionally offset alignment
• Distance from the collar
• Relationship to pockets, seams, zippers, and hoods

Check the Design Size

Confirm that the artwork is not too small, too large, or positioned differently from what you requested.

Remember that one print size may appear larger on a small shirt and smaller on a 3XL shirt. Ask whether different print sizes will be used for youth, small adult, or extended-size garments when that matters to the project.

Check the Garment Details

• Correct garment style
• Correct garment colors
• Correct quantities
• Correct sizes
• Correct print locations

Understand Color Limitations

A digital proof is viewed on a backlit screen, while the final design is printed using physical ink or transfers on fabric. Exact color appearance may vary because of the monitor, garment color, fabric, printing method, and lighting.

Do not approve the proof quickly just to keep the order moving. Once production begins, approved details may be difficult or impossible to change.

Step 12: Approve the Order and Keep Records

After confirming the proof and quote, approve the order using the printer’s required process.

Keep copies of:

• The approved artwork
• The final proof
• The garment and size breakdown
• The quote or invoice
• The promised completion or shipping information
• Any written changes

Do not rely on memory or scattered messages for important changes. Put quantity, sizing, colors, placement, and deadline updates in writing.

Step 13: Inspect the Completed Order

Inspect the apparel as soon as possible after pickup or delivery.

Count the Garments

Confirm the total quantity and compare each size and color against the approved order.

Inspect the Prints

Look for:

• Correct artwork
• Correct placement
• Readable text
• Consistent color
• Clean edges
• Proper alignment
• Missing names or numbers

Check the Garments

Confirm that the garment styles, colors, and sizes match the approved order.

Report Problems Promptly

If something appears incorrect, keep the garments in their received condition and contact the provider promptly with clear photographs and order details.

Online Custom Apparel Ordering Checklist

Step	What to Confirm
Purpose	Audience, environment, use, and budget
Garment	Product type, fabric, weight, fit, brand, and style
Colors	Garment colors and artwork contrast
Artwork	High-quality file, correct spelling, and intended background
Placement	Front, back, chest, sleeve, neck, or combination
Quantity	Total units and reasonable extras
Sizes	Exact breakdown using the garment-specific size chart
Deadline	Required in-hand date and delivery method
Quote	All garments, locations, setup, shipping, and fees
Proof	Artwork, spelling, size, placement, colors, and garment details
Final order	Count and inspect immediately after receiving it

Common Custom Apparel Ordering Mistakes

Choosing Apparel Based Only on Price

The cheapest garment may not provide the comfort, durability, fit, or appearance the project requires.

Guessing the Sizes

Collect sizes from the actual people whenever possible and use the exact garment’s size chart.

Submitting Low-Quality Artwork

Blurry images and screenshots cannot produce the same result as clean, print-ready artwork.

Forgetting Additional Print Locations

A front-only quote will not include a back or sleeve design unless those locations are clearly requested.

Waiting Until the Last Minute

Late orders create fewer garment choices, less time for corrections, and a greater chance of rush expenses.

Approving the Proof Without Reading It

Never assume spelling, numbers, dates, placement, and sizing are correct. Check every detail.

Making Changes After Approval

Production may begin immediately after approval. Late changes can cause delays, extra costs, or unusable garments.

Ordering No Extras

Large group orders may need a few additional garments for late participants, exchanges, or replacements.

Ignoring Garment Availability

A style shown online may not be available in every size or color when the order is placed.

Comparing Incomplete Quotes

Make sure each quote includes the same garment quality, number of print locations, services, and delivery requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What information do I need to order custom apparel online?

You will normally need the garment type, quantity, size breakdown, garment colors, artwork, print locations, deadline, and pickup or shipping preference.

What is the best file type for custom apparel printing?

Vector files such as AI, EPS, PDF, and SVG are often best for logos and clean graphics. A high-resolution PNG with a transparent background is also commonly accepted for detailed or full-color artwork. Requirements can vary by printing method and provider.

How many custom shirts should I order?

Order enough for the confirmed group and consider a small number of realistic extras for exchanges, late additions, or replacements. Do not purchase excessive inventory only to reach a lower per-shirt price.

How do I choose custom apparel sizes?

Use the size chart for the exact garment style. Collect individual sizes whenever possible instead of guessing from a different brand or product.

Should I order a sample first?

A sample is useful for large orders, clothing brands, premium garments, unusual fits, important color requirements, or complicated design placements.

What should I check on a custom apparel proof?

Check spelling, dates, names, phone numbers, artwork details, garment style, garment color, design size, print placement, quantities, and locations before approving production.

Can the final print color look different from the digital proof?

Yes. Screens display light, while finished apparel uses ink or transfers on fabric. Monitor settings, garment color, fabric, printing method, and lighting can affect the final appearance.

How early should I order custom apparel?

Order as early as possible, especially for large quantities, specialty garments, personalized designs, samples, or fixed event dates. Confirm the current production and delivery schedule before placing the order.

Can I change my order after approving the proof?

Changes may not be possible once production begins. Contact the provider immediately, but do not assume an approved order can be stopped or modified.

Why do larger sizes sometimes cost more?

Blank garment suppliers commonly charge more for extended sizes because they require more material and have higher manufacturing costs.

Should I choose the cheapest online custom apparel company?

Not automatically. Compare garment quality, print quality, reviews, communication, proofing, turnaround, order accuracy, and issue-resolution policies in addition to price.

Conclusion

Ordering custom apparel online becomes much easier when every important decision is made before production begins.

Start with the purpose of the order. Then select the garment, fabric, weight, fit, color, artwork, print locations, quantities, sizes, and deadline.

Review the complete quote instead of focusing only on the advertised price per item. Most importantly, inspect the digital proof carefully before approving it.

A few extra minutes spent checking spelling, placement, sizing, colors, garment details, and quantities can prevent expensive mistakes across the entire order.

Ready to Order Custom Apparel?

DTFera helps businesses, clothing brands, schools, teams, churches, organizations, and event planners create professional custom apparel for many types of projects.

To request an accurate quote, provide your garment preference, quantity, size breakdown, colors, artwork, print locations, deadline, and pickup or shipping needs.

Visit our Custom Apparel Guides for more help planning your order.

Continue Learning

• Custom T-Shirt Printing: Complete Guide for Businesses, Events & Brands
• How Much Does Custom T-Shirt Printing Cost? (2026 Pricing Guide)
• Screen Printing vs DTF vs DTG: Which Printing Method Is Right?
• Custom Hoodie Printing: Choosing the Right Hoodie
• How to Choose the Right Shirt for Custom Printing
• Explore All Custom Apparel Guides