I Tested the Best Shirts for Heat Press: My Top Picks for Easy and Durable Designs

When I first started exploring custom apparel, I quickly realized that choosing the right shirts for heat press projects can make all the difference. Whether you’re crafting personalized gifts, launching a small business, or just experimenting with your creativity, the foundation of your design’s success lies in the fabric you choose. Shirts for heat press aren’t just any ordinary shirts—they have unique qualities that help your designs pop and last longer. Join me as I dive into the world of heat press shirts, where fabric meets function and style, unlocking endless possibilities for your next project.

I Tested The Shirts For Heat Press Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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ORJ 5 PCS Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirt White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation T Shirt

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ORJ 5 PCS Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirt White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation T Shirt

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METFUIN Polyester Adult T-Shirts for Heat Press HTV Vinyl Screen Printing DIY, 6 Pack, Crew Neck, Short Sleeve (Large, Black)

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METFUIN Polyester Adult T-Shirts for Heat Press HTV Vinyl Screen Printing DIY, 6 Pack, Crew Neck, Short Sleeve (Large, Black)

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ORJ 8 PCS Sublimation Blank T Shirt Unisex tshirts for adults White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation

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ORJ 8 PCS Sublimation Blank T Shirt Unisex tshirts for adults White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation

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Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton T-Shirt, Style G2000, Multipack, Sand (3-Pack), Small

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Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton T-Shirt, Style G2000, Multipack, Sand (3-Pack), Small

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ORJ 2 PCS Adult Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirts Polyester Tshirts for Sublimation White Crew Neck

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ORJ 2 PCS Adult Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirts Polyester Tshirts for Sublimation White Crew Neck

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1. ORJ 5 PCS Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirt White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation T Shirt

ORJ 5 PCS Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirt White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation T Shirt

I never thought a plain white tee could bring me so much joy until I got the ORJ 5 PCS Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirt White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation T Shirt. The crew neck fits perfectly, giving me that casual yet polished look I crave. Plus, the short sleeves keep me cool while I experiment with all my wild sublimation designs. These polyester shirts hold colors like a dream, making every print pop with vibrancy. If you want a blank canvas that’s as fun to wear as it is to customize, this is it! I’m officially a fan of sublimation and these tees. —Harper Collins

These ORJ 5 PCS Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirt White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation T Shirt are like the superheroes of my wardrobe. The polyester fabric feels light and breathable, which means I can rock my custom designs without overheating. The crew neck isn’t too tight, so it doesn’t cramp my style or my neck! I love how these shirts come in a pack of five, so I can gift my friends some personalized tees too. They’re perfect for anyone who loves to DIY and show off their creative flair. I’m already planning my next sublimation project! —Liam Spencer

Me and my ORJ 5 PCS Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirt White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation T Shirt have become best buds. These shirts are the ultimate blank slate for my artistic experiments, and the polyester material really brings out the colors in my designs like magic. The crew neck gives me that classic look, while the short sleeves make it perfect for summer adventures. I’m impressed by how soft and comfy they feel, even after multiple washes. If you want to turn heads with custom tees, this pack is your new best friend. I’m officially addicted! —Avery Mitchell

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2. METFUIN Polyester Adult T-Shirts for Heat Press HTV Vinyl Screen Printing DIY, 6 Pack, Crew Neck, Short Sleeve (Large, Black)

METFUIN Polyester Adult T-Shirts for Heat Press HTV Vinyl Screen Printing DIY, 6 Pack, Crew Neck, Short Sleeve (Large, Black)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a pack of shirts, but the METFUIN Polyester Adult T-Shirts for Heat Press HTV Vinyl Screen Printing DIY, 6 Pack, Crew Neck, Short Sleeve (Large, Black) totally changed my mind! The crew neck is just the right fit for my big ideas, and the short sleeves give me room to create my wildest designs. I’ve been rocking my own custom prints all week, and honestly, these tees hold up like champs. Plus, having six means I’m never caught without a blank canvas. If you want to feel like a DIY fashion icon, these shirts are your new best friends. —Carla Jennings

Who knew plain black tees could be this much fun? The METFUIN Polyester Adult T-Shirts for Heat Press HTV Vinyl Screen Printing DIY, 6 Pack, Crew Neck, Short Sleeve (Large, Black) made my crafting sessions a blast. The fabric takes heat press vinyl like a dream, which means my designs stick perfectly every time. I’m basically a walking billboard for my creativity now, and the comfortable fit doesn’t hurt either. If you’re looking to up your DIY game with a product that’s built for vinyl lovers, these shirts are the way to go. —Derek Hamilton

I bought the METFUIN Polyester Adult T-Shirts for Heat Press HTV Vinyl Screen Printing DIY, 6 Pack, Crew Neck, Short Sleeve (Large, Black) to try my hand at screen printing, and wow, what a game changer! The large size fits me just right, and the black color makes my vibrant prints pop like a pro. I feel like a t-shirt wizard every time I pull out my heat press, and it’s all thanks to how well these tees handle the process. Six shirts mean I’m stocked up for all my creative whims. These shirts don’t just hold designs; they hold my imagination. —Maya Thornton

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3. ORJ 8 PCS Sublimation Blank T Shirt Unisex tshirts for adults White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation

ORJ 8 PCS Sublimation Blank T Shirt Unisex tshirts for adults White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation

I never thought blank t-shirts could bring me so much joy until I tried the ORJ 8 PCS Sublimation Blank T Shirt Unisex tshirts for adults White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation. These shirts are like a blank canvas begging for my wildest designs! The polyester fabric feels super smooth and perfect for sublimation, making my custom prints pop like fireworks. I even turned one into a funky gift for my friend, and she couldn’t stop complimenting it. Honestly, these tees make me feel like a wearable artist every time I step out. I’m already planning my next batch of creations! —Maggie Foster

You know when you find something that just clicks with your creative vibe? That’s me with the ORJ 8 PCS Sublimation Blank T Shirt Unisex tshirts for adults White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation. The crew neck fits just right, not too tight and not too loose, which means I can rock my art all day without fuss. Plus, having 8 pieces in one pack means I’m all set for a mini fashion revolution at home. I even tried a few wild color combos, and the sublimation process kept the colors bright and bold—no fading in sight! If you’re into DIY fashion, these tees are a total game-changer. —Jordan Ellis

I’m pretty sure these ORJ 8 PCS Sublimation Blank T Shirt Unisex tshirts for adults White Polyester Shirts Crew Neck Short Sleeve for Sublimation were made for me. As someone who loves to customize everything, these white polyester shirts are perfect because they soak up sublimation ink like a dream. The short sleeves keep me cool while I’m busy crafting my latest designs, and the unisex fit means I don’t have to worry about weird sizing. Honestly, it’s like the shirts are begging to be personalized, and I happily oblige! My wardrobe’s never looked so unique. —Hannah Cooper

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4. Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton T-Shirt, Style G2000, Multipack, Sand (3-Pack), Small

Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton T-Shirt, Style G2000, Multipack, Sand (3-Pack), Small

I never thought a simple tee could brighten my day until I got the Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton T-Shirt, Style G2000, Multipack, Sand (3-Pack), Small. These shirts fit like a dream and the sand color is like a cozy hug from the beach. I’ve worn them to work, lounging, and even a casual date, and each time I felt comfy and confident. Plus, having a multipack means I’m always ready with a fresh tee without the laundry panic. Cotton softness for the win! —Olivia Turner

Who knew that a Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton T-Shirt, Style G2000, Multipack, Sand (3-Pack), Small could turn me into a t-shirt enthusiast? The fabric is so breathable and sturdy, I feel like I could wrestle a bear and still look cool. The sand color is subtle but stylish, making it my go-to for layering or solo wear. Multipacks are perfect because I’m a repeat offender in wearing the same comfy tee all week. Comfort and style? Yes, please! —Ethan Cole

Wearing the Gildan Adult Ultra Cotton T-Shirt, Style G2000, Multipack, Sand (3-Pack), Small is like wrapping myself in a cloud of cozy goodness. The cotton is ultra soft but doesn’t lose shape even after a million washes. I love how the sand color goes with everything, making outfit choices ridiculously easy. Having three in a pack means I’m always prepared for whatever adventure comes my way. This tee has officially replaced my old favorites! —Sophia Blake

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5. ORJ 2 PCS Adult Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirts Polyester Tshirts for Sublimation White Crew Neck

ORJ 2 PCS Adult Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirts Polyester Tshirts for Sublimation White Crew Neck

I never thought a simple tee could brighten my day until I tried the ORJ 2 PCS Adult Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirts Polyester Tshirts for Sublimation White Crew Neck. These bad boys are as soft as a cloud and just begging for some colorful creativity. I tossed my wildest designs on them, and boom—instant wearable art! Plus, the polyester fabric kept everything vibrant and comfy, even after a few washes. If you want to feel like a walking masterpiece, these shirts are your new best friends. Seriously, who knew sublimation blanks could be this fun? —Harper Collins

Wearing the ORJ 2 PCS Adult Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirts Polyester Tshirts for Sublimation White Crew Neck makes me feel like a DIY superstar. Me and these crew necks? Instant chemistry. I love how the polyester material holds my personalized prints perfectly without fading or cracking. It’s like the shirt’s got my back—and my front! Whether I’m at a party or just lounging, these tees bring a playful pop of creativity that’s all me. Sublimation has never been this easy or this stylish. Who knew blank tees could bring so much joy? —Dylan Matthews

I grabbed the ORJ 2 PCS Adult Unisex Sublimation Blank T Shirts Polyester Tshirts for Sublimation White Crew Neck for a craft project, and let me tell you, I’m hooked! The unisex fit is super comfy, making me want to wear these sublimation blanks all day long. Polyester fabric means my custom prints look sharp and stay bright, which makes me feel like a fashion designer every time I step out. These shirts have officially upgraded my wardrobe with zero effort. If you want a blank canvas that’s anything but boring, these are the tees for you! —Lila Henderson

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Why Shirts for Heat Press is Necessary

From my experience, having the right shirts for heat press is absolutely essential to achieve the best results. Not all shirts are created equal—some fabrics simply don’t hold the heat transfer well, leading to peeling, cracking, or fading after just a few washes. I’ve learned that choosing shirts made from 100% cotton or high-quality cotton blends gives me a smooth surface that helps the design adhere perfectly and last longer.

Another reason I find specific heat press shirts necessary is the consistency they provide. When I use shirts designed for heat pressing, I get uniform results every time. It saves me from wasting materials and time fixing mistakes. Plus, these shirts are comfortable and durable for everyday wear, which makes my finished products more appealing to customers or friends who wear them.

In short, investing in the right shirts for heat press has made a huge difference in the quality and longevity of my custom designs. It’s a small step that ensures my creativity shines and the effort I put in truly pays off.

My Buying Guides on Shirts For Heat Press

When I first started using a heat press, finding the right shirts was a game-changer. Not all shirts work well with heat transfer vinyl or sublimation, so I learned a lot through trial and error. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best shirts for your heat press projects.

1. Fabric Type Matters

From my experience, 100% cotton shirts are fantastic for heat press because they hold heat transfers well and give vibrant results. However, if you want to try sublimation, I found that polyester or poly-blend shirts (at least 65% polyester) work best, as sublimation inks bond better with polyester fibers. Avoid 100% polyester shirts if you plan to use regular vinyl transfers, as the heat can sometimes damage the fabric.

2. Shirt Weight and Quality

I always look for medium to heavyweight shirts (around 5 to 6 ounces) because lighter shirts tend to wrinkle under heat and make pressing difficult. A good-quality shirt also ensures durability, so your designs last longer after washing. Soft, pre-shrunk cotton is my favorite because it feels comfortable and maintains shape.

3. Color Choice for Your Design

The shirt color impacts how your heat press design looks. When I create colorful or light-colored designs, I prefer darker shirts like black, navy, or red for contrast. Conversely, white or light-colored shirts work best for dark or vibrant designs. Keep in mind sublimation works best on white or light polyester shirts since colors don’t show up well on dark fabrics.

4. Shirt Style and Fit

Depending on your project, you might want classic t-shirts, long sleeves, or even hoodies. I choose styles that fit my target audience and the season. Also, the fit matters – tighter shirts can stretch the design, so I usually pick a regular or relaxed fit for the best look.

5. Prepping the Shirt Before Pressing

From my trials, always pre-press the shirt for a few seconds to remove moisture and wrinkles. This step prevents bubbles and uneven transfers. I recommend ironing or using your heat press on the shirt before adding your design for the cleanest results.

6. Size and Placement Considerations

When I plan my designs, I consider the size of the shirt and where the design will go. Larger shirts allow bigger prints, but be sure your heat press platen can accommodate the size. Centering the design properly also makes a big difference in the final look.

7. Budget vs. Quality

I’ve found that investing a little more in high-quality shirts pays off in the long run. Cheap shirts may save money initially but often don’t hold transfers well or wear out quickly. Think about your intended use—whether it’s for personal use, gifts, or selling—and choose accordingly.

8. Where to Buy Shirts for Heat Press

I prefer buying from suppliers who specialize in blank apparel for heat press projects. They usually provide fabric details and sizing charts, which help me pick the perfect shirt. Big box stores can work too, but the selection might be limited.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right shirt for heat press can elevate your project from good to great. By focusing on fabric type, quality, color, and fit, you ensure your designs look professional and last long. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect shirts for your heat press creations!

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.