Printing Planet UK
Most delays and pricing errors on T-shirt printing orders happen because the initial enquiry is missing basic information. A print shop cannot quote accurately without knowing the quantity, garment colour, fabric type and print method.
This checklist tells you exactly what to include when you contact a print shop for the first time.
The Essential Brief Checklist
1. Quantity and size breakdown
How many garments total, and in what sizes? A rough breakdown is enough for an initial quote. For example: 30 total, roughly 5 small, 10 medium, 10 large, 5 extra large.
Quantity affects price significantly. Most print methods have a lower cost per piece at higher volumes. If you are flexible on quantity, say so. The shop can show you where the price breaks fall.
2. Garment type and colour
What type of garment: T-shirt, polo, hoodie, tote bag? What colour or colours? White and pale garments are almost always cheaper to print than black or dark garments because dark fabrics require a white ink underbase.
If you have a specific brand in mind (Gildan, Stanley Stella, Continental Clothing, AWDis), mention it. If not, the shop will recommend something based on your budget and use case.
3. Print position and size
Where does the print go: front chest, full front, back, sleeve, left chest only? How large should the print be?
If you are unsure, say “standard left chest logo” or “full front print” and the shop will advise on typical dimensions.
4. Number of colours in the design
Screen printing prices are based on colour count. DTG and DTF printing are not, but it helps the shop know whether your design has any unusual requirements.
5. Your artwork file
The most common cause of delays is receiving artwork that cannot be used. Ideal file types:
- AI or EPS with fonts outlined
- SVG at full size
- PDF with vector paths
- PNG at 300dpi at the intended print size with a transparent background
A JPEG logo from a website at 72dpi will not print cleanly. If your logo only exists in low resolution, mention this and the shop will advise whether it can be traced.
6. Your deadline
When do you need the garments? If the deadline is tight, say so upfront. Same-day is possible on small DTG and vinyl orders before 11am. Standard turnaround is 3 to 7 working days depending on method and quantity.
7. Budget per piece (optional but helpful)
If you have a target cost per garment, share it. The shop can recommend the method and garment combination that fits your budget rather than quoting for something out of range.
What Happens After You Brief
Most shops will respond with a quote within a few hours. The quote should include:
- Garment cost
- Decoration cost
- Any setup or digitising fees
- Delivery or collection options
- Estimated production time
If the quote asks you to clarify anything, respond promptly. The more complete your brief, the faster you get to production.
At Printing Planet UK, you can email your brief to [email protected], WhatsApp on 07376 464869, or walk in to 395 Tildesley Road, Putney Heath, SW15 3BD. We respond to most enquiries within 2 to 4 hours on working days.
For help preparing your artwork file specifically, read our artwork preparation guide.