The short answer
A responsible T-shirt price cannot be calculated from a photo alone. Unit cost depends on fabric composition and GSM, fit, quantity by colour, decoration, labels, packaging, quality requirements and shipping terms. A useful quotation begins with a complete specification.
For a first order, simplify colours and trims before reducing the product standard. SHENGDE can review programs from 50 units where material and design conditions allow, but every quote is project-specific.
Fabric is the largest variable
Cotton type, fibre blend, yarn, knitting structure, GSM, dye method, finishing and usable width influence consumption and cost. A heavyweight oversized jersey uses more material than a light regular-fit jersey, while custom dyeing may introduce a mill minimum.
Specify composition, target GSM, colour reference, hand feel, shrinkage expectation and performance needs. Approve a physical sample because two fabrics with the same GSM can feel and drape differently.
Construction and fit affect labour
A basic crew neck is faster to sew than a boxy style with dropped shoulders, contrast panels, coverstitching, reinforced neck tape or side splits. Oversized patterns also increase fabric use.
A tech pack should include graded measurements, seam details, stitch type, tolerances and reference images. If the pattern is not ready, allow for pattern development and fit review.
Decoration, labels and packaging
Screen printing rewards repeated runs because setup is spread across more pieces. DTG can suit detailed artwork and short batches. Embroidery changes with stitch count, placement and backing. Specialty inks require testing.
Main labels, care labels, hangtags, barcode stickers and individual bags each have artwork, minimums and handling cost. Confirm exactly what the quotation includes.
Get a comparable quotation
Send every supplier the same brief: artwork, measurements, fabric, quantities by colour and size, decoration size, label files, packaging, destination, date and Incoterm. Ask which assumptions remain open.
Compare sampling, bulk production, testing, packaging, freight, duty and remake risk as one landed-cost decision. The lowest ex-factory number is not always the safest launch.
Main T-shirt cost drivers
| Driver | Lower complexity | Higher complexity |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric | Stock standard jersey | Custom dye or specialty finish |
| Construction | Core fit | Panels and special seams |
| Decoration | One simple placement | Multiple specialty placements |
| Order plan | Focused variants | Many colour-size combinations |
| Delivery | Planned freight | Urgent split shipment |
Frequently asked questions
Can you quote from a photo?
A photo can start the review, but an accurate quote needs measurements, fabric, quantity, decoration and packaging.
Does higher MOQ reduce price?
It often spreads setup cost, but the result also depends on colours, fabric minimums and complexity.
What should I send first?
Send a tech pack or reference garment, measurements, artwork, quantity, destination and target date.