If you’re in the business of custom apparel, you already know that not all sweatshirts are created equal, especially when it comes to screen printing. Whether you’re launching your own brand, fulfilling wholesale orders, or running a local print shop, choosing the best sweatshirt material for printing is crucial to delivering top-notch results that last.
In this post, we’ll break down what materials work best, which sweatshirt types to look for, and which brands are leading the way in print-ready blanks.
What’s the Best Sweatshirt Material for Printing?
The short answer? Cotton-polyester blends are your best bet.
Here’s why:
Cotton/Polyester Blends (50/50 or 60/40)
- Smooth surface: Perfect for crisp screen prints and heat transfers.
- Less shrinkage: Compared to 100% cotton, blends hold their shape better over time.
- Durability: More resistant to wear and tear, especially with repeated washing.
- Fewer wrinkles: Great for keeping your prints looking clean and professional.
This makes cotton-poly blends ideal for bulk orders, branded merchandise, and retail-ready apparel. Look for midweight to heavyweight fleece in the 7 oz to 10 oz range—perfect for layering and long-term wear.
What about 100% Cotton or Polyester?
100% Cotton
- Great ink absorption and color vibrancy.
- Super soft and breathable.
- But: Can shrink more and may pill over time.
100% Polyester
- Best used for sublimation printing (not traditional screen printing).
- Lightweight, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant.
- But: Can bleed under heat and may require special ink or additives.
Best Brands for Blank Sweatshirts & Hoodies
Now that you know what materials to look for, let’s talk brands. Here are the most trusted names in blank sweatshirts and blank hoodie styles that decorators swear by:
Independent Trading Co.
- Streetwear-ready, heavyweight fleece with a premium retail fit.
- Perfect for fashion brands, screen printing, embroidery blanks, or DTG.
- Specializes in 100% polyester fleece sweatshirts designed specifically for sublimation printing and custom decoration.
- Ultra-soft fleece lining offers warmth and comfort without sacrificing print clarity.
- Backed by a reputation for quality, durability, and dependable wholesale blank apparel supply.
Bella + Canvas
- Ultra-soft fleece with a modern, slim silhouette.
- Ideal for fashion-forward brands and premium blanks for printing.
Gildan
- The go-to for affordable, high-volume printing jobs.
- The G185 hoodie is a screen printing staple.
- Reliable sizing and available in tons of colors.
Champion
- The classic. Premium quality, heavyweight reverse-weave options.
- Best for high-end drops or exclusive collabs.
Looking for wholesale blanks? These brands all offer competitive wholesale pricing, perfect for anyone looking to shop blank sweatshirts in bulk.
Who Buys Blank Sweatshirts for Printing?
- Screen printers creating custom hoodies for schools, sports teams, or small brands.
- Etsy and Shopify sellers launching seasonal sweatshirt drops.
- Promotional product vendors adding logos for corporate clients.
- Retail brands sourcing quality blanks for private label printing.
- Embroidery shops choosing textured yet stable fleece options.
Whether you’re printing logos, custom graphics, or personalized names, the material you choose plays a big role in how your designs look and feel.
Final Tips for Choosing the Right Blanks
- Always test a blank before going all-in on a bulk order.
- Look for pre-shrunk fleece when possible.
- For embroidery, choose sweatshirts with tight-knit fleece and strong seams.
- Stock multiple color options: classic black, athletic gray, white, and natural tones are always in demand.
When it comes to choosing the best sweatshirt material for printing, it’s hard to beat a high-quality cotton/polyester blend. These blanks give you the best of both worlds—soft feel, durability, and a smooth canvas for your custom artwork.
Whether you’re looking for blank sweatshirt hoodies, plain sweatshirts, or wholesale blanks for printing, stick to proven brands and test a few before placing your big order. Your print shop—and your customers—will thank you.