Best T-shirt for printing: which Fruit of the Loom tee should you choose?
For most print jobs the best T-shirt is the Fruit of the Loom Valueweight T: it has a smooth, even print surface and comes in 15 colours and sizes from XS to XXXL. If the tee should feel heavier and more premium, or if your logo will be embroidered, the Iconic 195 Premium T is the better choice.
Marmalade Co. is an official Fruit of the Loom retailer, and we print both styles from 10 pieces. This guide explains which T-shirt works best with which print technique, and which one to pick for events, staff, clubs and merchandise.
| Valueweight T | Iconic 195 Premium T | |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric weight | 160 g/m² in white, 165 g/m² in colours | 190 g/m² in white, 195 g/m² in colours |
| Material | 100% cotton in most colours. Light blue and light pink are 50% cotton, 50% polyester | Combed ringspun cotton |
| Print surface | Smooth and even with a fine knit | Smooth and soft |
| Neck label | Tear-away | Label-free |
| Colours at Marmalade Co. | 15 | 4: white, black, navy and grey |
| Sizes | XS–XXXL | S–3XL |
| Best for | Events, clubs, sports days and large runs | Staff, premium merchandise and embroidery |
Which T-shirt is best for printing?
The Valueweight T is the best all-round T-shirt for printing because it pairs a smooth print surface with a wide choice of colours and sizes. Fruit of the Loom designed it for high-volume printing, and its fine knit gives sharp, vibrant prints.
The Iconic 195 Premium T is the best choice when the quality should be obvious the moment someone picks it up. It is around 30 g/m² heavier than the Valueweight and made from combed ringspun cotton, which gives it a soft, smooth surface.
The cut is the same: both have a crew neck and a classic unisex fit. The fabric is what sets them apart, and it affects both the print and how the T-shirt feels.
Which T-shirt suits which print technique?
Both T-shirts work with screen printing, DTG and transfer, and the Iconic 195 is the better base for embroidery. The right combination depends on your design and your quantity.
Screen printing suits the Valueweight T when many people need the same design, for example for an event or a club. DTG usually gives the best result on pure cotton, so for photos and full-colour artwork choose one of the 100% cotton colours.
Transfer is used for names, numbers and anything else that changes from shirt to shirt, and it works on both styles. For embroidery, the heavier Iconic 195 fabric gives a firmer base. Sublimation needs polyester, so it is rarely the right choice for cotton T-shirts.
Not sure? We recommend the technique that suits your design and the fabric when we send your quote. Our screen printing vs DTG guide goes into more detail.
Which T-shirt should you choose for your purpose?
For events, festivals, sports days and clubs, the Valueweight T is the best choice: it is light, comes in lots of colours and fits most people in sizes XS–XXXL.
For staff and workwear, the Iconic 195 is the stronger option. Fruit of the Loom describes it as ideal for frequent-wear garments such as workwear and uniforms.
For merchandise you plan to sell, the Iconic 195 feels more premium, and because it is label-free it is easy to add your own neck print. The Valueweight has a tear-away label, so it can take a neck print too.
Can the whole group wear the same printed T-shirt?
Yes. The Valueweight also comes as a V-neck and a long-sleeve T, and our Fruit of the Loom kids' T-shirt lets adults and children wear the same print.
The kids' T-shirt is 100% cotton at 160–165 g/m², just like the Valueweight T. That makes it practical for schools, sports clubs and family events where everyone should match.
How to choose a T-shirt for printing
- Choose the Valueweight T for events, clubs and large runs in many colours and sizes.
- Choose the Iconic 195 Premium T for staff, workwear and merchandise that should feel premium.
- Choose the Iconic 195 Premium T if your logo will be embroidered.
- Choose a 100% cotton colour if your design will be printed with DTG.
Frequently asked questions about T-shirts for printing
Which Fruit of the Loom T-shirt is best for printing?
The Valueweight T is the best all-round T-shirt for printing, with a smooth print surface, 15 colours and sizes from XS to XXXL. The Iconic 195 Premium T is best when the tee should feel heavier or when the logo will be embroidered.
How heavy should a T-shirt for printing be?
It depends on the purpose. The Valueweight T weighs 160–165 g/m² and is light and breathable. The Iconic 195 weighs 190–195 g/m² and feels more substantial. Both print well.
How many T-shirts do I need to order for printing?
We print from 10 pieces. The price per piece falls the more you order of the same design.
Can I see the print before production?
Yes. You receive a free digital mock-up of your design on the T-shirt to approve before anything is printed.
Can I order a sample print?
Yes, a sample print is possible. The price is included in your quote.
Get a quote for printed T-shirts
Tell us how many T-shirts you need, which style and what your design looks like. You will receive a personal quote within 24 hours on weekdays and a free digital mock-up.
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