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A Short Guide to Choosing Blank Apparel for Customization

by Theresa Hartwell 17 Apr 2026

The term "blanks" is commonly used in the apparel industry to refer to plain, unbranded garments such as t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and tote bags. These are essentially pre-made items that can be customized or embellished.

We are here to help you find the perfect blank apparel that fits your budget, quality preferences, and brand aesthetic. Below is a list of popular blank brands, along with tips for selecting the ideal blank for any occasion. If you have a specific blank item in mind that is not listed, please email us at Made@oaklandish.com.

  1. Gildan - Gildan is an excellent choice for entry-level blank apparel, as it helps keep costs low. It is ideal for promotional giveaways and comes in a wide range of sizes.
  2. Next Level Apparel - This brand offers soft, lightweight to mid-weight blanks that are comfortable and versatile.
  3. Stanley/Stella - A trendy premium option, Stanley/Stella focuses on sustainability, with most of their blanks made from 100% organic cotton and/or recycled polyester.
  4. AS Colour (An Oaklandish Made Favorite) - AS Colour provides a diverse selection of premium blank apparel available in stylish designs and colors

When deciding on the blanks you want to use, it's important to consider the intended purpose of the garments—whether for athletic wear, promotional tees, or launching your brand. Also, consider the decorating methods—such as screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, embroidery, and heat-pressed direct-to-film (DTF) transfers—as these may vary in suitability depending on the fabric content and style of the garments.

Understanding various printing techniques and fabric compatibility is essential. Techniques include screen printing, DTG, embroidery, and heat transfer.

  Screen Printing 
 Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing Embroidery Direct-to-Film (DTF)
  • 100% cotton provides a smooth surface for vibrant prints and is comfortable to wear.
  • Cotton-Polyester Blends, such as fleece and tees that have some stretch.
  • Canvas Tote Bags
  • Sportswear can be suitable but would need to be reviewed first.
  • 100% Cotton is ideal (100 % combed or ringspun).
  • Avoid garments that are polyester based or have high polyester content. 
  • Medium to heavyweight garments is best to embroider on. 
  • Avoid garments that are thin and stretchy for best results.
  • Great for detailed artwork on varying fabrics.
  • CMYK colors are ideal to note for most accurate printing

 

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