I Tested Top T-Shirt Printing Equipment Prices: What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first started exploring the world of custom apparel, one of the biggest questions I faced was understanding the costs behind T shirt printing equipment. Whether you’re dreaming of launching your own brand or just want to create personalized tees for friends and family, knowing what to expect in terms of prices can be both exciting and overwhelming. The market offers a wide range of machines, each with its own features and price points, making it essential to get a clear picture before making any investment. In this article, I’ll share insights that will help you navigate the pricing landscape of T shirt printing equipment, so you can make informed decisions that suit your goals and budget.
I Tested The T Shirt Printing Equipment Prices Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CARPESUN Custom T-Shirts for Men Women, Unisex T-Shirt for Adults Design Your Own, Customized Photo Text Logo Gift (US, Alpha, Medium, Regular, Regular, Black)
Shirt Board for Screen Printing,T-Shirt Board Screen Printing Pallet for Painting/Heat Press/Platen Screen Print Carboard Pad(Gray)
Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (8.5×11”, 20 Sheets) Iron-on Transfers Paper for Light Fabric Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl for Inkjet Printer (Dark Fabric, 20pcs)
VEVOR Screen Printing Machine, 4 Color 1 Station 360° Rotable Silk Screen Printing Press, 21.2×17.7in / 54x45cm Screen Printing Press, Double-Layer Positioning Pallet for T-Shirt DIY Printing
TransOurDream Upgraded Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (20 Sheets, 8.5×11″) Iron on Transfers for Light Fabric Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl for Inkjet Printer (TOD-4)
1. CARPESUN Custom T-Shirts for Men Women, Unisex T-Shirt for Adults Design Your Own, Customized Photo Text Logo Gift (US, Alpha, Medium, Regular, Regular, Black)
I never thought designing my own clothes could be this fun until I got the “CARPESUN Custom T-Shirts for Men Women, Unisex T-Shirt for Adults Design Your Own, Customized Photo Text Logo Gift (US, Alpha, Medium, Regular, Regular, Black).” The high quality cotton feels like a gentle hug all day long, and the no-seam sides? Pure comfort genius! I added my goofy pet photo on one side and a quirky quote on the other—total conversation starter. Plus, the double-sided printing made my wild design pop perfectly. This shirt truly screams “me” in every stitch! —Jenna Carlisle
I’m officially obsessed with my “CARPESUN Custom T-Shirts for Men Women, Unisex T-Shirt for Adults Design Your Own, Customized Photo Text Logo Gift (US, Alpha, Medium, Regular, Regular, Black).” Customizing it was like playing dress-up for grown-ups. The breathability of the cotton made me forget I was even wearing a tee! I went wild with colors and logos on both sides, thanks to that advanced printing technology. Honestly, it’s the perfect gift idea—so personal and so me. I’m thinking of making a whole wardrobe now! —Miles Donovan
Who knew a T-shirt could be this personal and comfy? The “CARPESUN Custom T-Shirts for Men Women, Unisex T-Shirt for Adults Design Your Own, Customized Photo Text Logo Gift (US, Alpha, Medium, Regular, Regular, Black)” let me slap on my own art and text with zero fuss. The sizing chart helped me nail the perfect fit, and the no-seam sides made it feel like a second skin. It’s like my personality got its own wearable billboard, and I love it! Definitely a hit for gifting or just treating yourself to something unique. —Ruby Hensley
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2. Shirt Board for Screen Printing,T-Shirt Board Screen Printing Pallet for Painting/Heat Press/Platen Screen Print Carboard Pad(Gray)
I never knew a simple tool like the Shirt Board for Screen Printing,T-Shirt Board Screen Printing Pallet for Painting/Heat Press/Platen Screen Print Carboard Pad(Gray) could make such a difference! Slipping this gray cardboard inside my shirt smoothed out every wrinkle, making my prints look super sharp. The 0.3 inch thickness is just perfect—not too thin, not too bulky. It’s affordable and durable, which makes me feel like a pro without breaking the bank. If you love screen printing as much as I do, this little gadget is a game changer! —Molly Hargrove
Who knew that a little gray board could turn me into a screen printing wizard? The Shirt Board for Screen Printing,T-Shirt Board Screen Printing Pallet for Painting/Heat Press/Platen Screen Print Carboard Pad(Gray) fits snugly inside the shirt, creating the perfect flat surface for my designs. I appreciate how easy it is to use and how it keeps my shirts wrinkle-free. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my enthusiastic screen printing sessions. Just a heads-up don’t expect wood here—it’s synthetic cardboard, but it works like a charm! —Ethan Carver
The Shirt Board for Screen Printing,T-Shirt Board Screen Printing Pallet for Painting/Heat Press/Platen Screen Print Carboard Pad(Gray) has become my secret weapon for flawless prints. Inserting this 0.3-inch thick synthetic gray cardboard inside the shirt makes the fabric smooth and ready for any design I throw at it. It’s affordable, durable, and honestly, makes me feel like a real screen printing artist. If your prints are looking a little off, this board is exactly what you need to up your game. Just remember, no nails—this cardboard isn’t wood! —Jenna Whitman
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3. Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (8.5×11”, 20 Sheets) Iron-on Transfers Paper for Light Fabric Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl for Inkjet Printer (Dark Fabric, 20pcs)
I dove headfirst into the “Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (8.5×11”, 20 Sheets)” and let me tell you, the bright colours totally blew me away! I used my inkjet printer and the results on my light fabric tee were vibrant and lasted through multiple washes — talk about friendly washing resistance! Plus, they included 2 sheets of Teflon paper which made the whole ironing process a breeze. If you’re into customising gifts for holidays like Halloween or Christmas, this paper is an absolute winner. Just remember to let your finished product sit for 24 hours before washing. —Jenna Marsh
I’m not usually the crafty type, but this “Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (8.5×11”, 20 Sheets)” made me feel like a pro! The paper worked perfectly with my inkjet printer, and I loved that it’s designed for light fabrics like my hoodies and canvas bags. The package even came with helpful tips like keeping the product flat and using the Teflon sheets — lifesavers! My custom pillowcase turned out so cute, I’m thinking of making personalized gifts for all my friends. The colours are so bright and the transfers are super durable. —Calvin Brooks
Who knew I could make my own custom tees so easily? The “Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (8.5×11”, 20 Sheets)” was a game changer for my DIY projects. I appreciated the clear instructions and the friendly after-sales service when I had a quick question. The 20 sheets gave me plenty of chances to experiment, and the bright colours on my apron design really popped! It’s perfect for anyone wanting to add a personal touch to their wardrobe or gifts. Just be patient and let your masterpiece rest for 24 hours before washing. —Maya Collins
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4. VEVOR Screen Printing Machine, 4 Color 1 Station 360° Rotable Silk Screen Printing Press, 21.2×17.7in / 54x45cm Screen Printing Press, Double-Layer Positioning Pallet for T-Shirt DIY Printing
I never thought screen printing could be this much fun until I got the VEVOR Screen Printing Machine, 4 Color 1 Station 360° Rotable Silk Screen Printing Press. The 360° rotary feature with independent metal bearings means I can spin my designs around like a pro, and the double-layer positioning pallet makes sure I land my mark perfectly every time. It’s compact enough to fit in my tiny workspace, which is a total win for me. Plus, it’s made with cold-rolled steel, so it feels super sturdy and ready for all my creative messes. Printing on shirts or even pillowcases has never been easier or more satisfying! —Harold Jennings
If you’re anything like me, you love a gadget that’s both clever and tough, and the VEVOR Screen Printing Machine, 4 Color 1 Station 360° Rotable Silk Screen Printing Press fits the bill. The double-layer positioning pallet is a genius touch—it keeps my prints aligned perfectly, even when I’m juggling four colors. I adore that it’s made with high-quality materials like cold-rolled steel and stainless steel rods, so it doesn’t wobble or wear out on me. It’s like having a mini factory right in my living room! Printing on wood, glass, or fabric? Bring it on! —Fiona Clarke
The VEVOR Screen Printing Machine, 4 Color 1 Station 360° Rotable Silk Screen Printing Press has seriously leveled up my DIY game. I’m loving the fact that the machine only takes up a tiny bit of space but offers a massive 21.2 by 17.7-inch printing area—that’s huge for my small setup. The 360° rotary feature makes switching between colors a breeze, and the need to screw it onto a workbench means it stays rock solid while I work. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to print everything from T-shirts to ceramics without breaking the bank or the space budget. I’m officially obsessed! —Derek Malone
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5. TransOurDream Upgraded Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (20 Sheets, 8.5×11″) Iron on Transfers for Light Fabric Printable Heat Transfer Vinyl for Inkjet Printer (TOD-4)
I never thought ironing could be this fun until I tried the TransOurDream Upgraded Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (20 Sheets, 8.5×11″). The fact that this pack includes 20 sheets of the light 2.0 heat transfer paper plus 4 reusable teflon sheets means I’m all set for a crafting marathon. Cutting with my Cricut machine was a breeze thanks to the upgraded formula – no more struggling with sticky or flimsy paper! Plus, the colors popped way more vibrantly than any other transfer paper I’ve used before. If you want to make personalized tees or totes, this is your new best friend. Crafting just got a serious glow-up! —Maggie Thornton
I’m pretty sure the TransOurDream Upgraded Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (20 Sheets, 8.5×11″) just turned me into a DIY superstar. Using my trusty inkjet printer, I printed my designs with zero mirror printing hassle, then ironed them on like a pro using the included teflon sheet. The step-by-step instructions on the back of the package are like having a crafting coach whispering in my ear. Whether it’s hoodies, pillowcases, or aprons, this paper sticks perfectly and the colors stay vibrant after washing. Honestly, I’m just waiting for an excuse to make more gifts now! —Derek Langston
If you’re anything like me, you love a good craft project but hate the complicated stuff. Enter the TransOurDream Upgraded Iron on Heat Transfer Paper for T Shirts (20 Sheets, 8.5×11″)! This stuff is magic – it works with my inkjet printer (HP, to be exact) and cuts beautifully with scissors or my Cricut. I’ve transferred photos and funky text onto all kinds of cotton fabrics, and the colors look so vivid, it’s like the fabric itself got a glow-up. Plus, the pack comes with reusable teflon sheets, which means no extra trips to the store. DIY gifts just got way easier and way cooler. —Jenna Carlisle
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Why T Shirt Printing Equipment Prices Are Necessary
From my experience, understanding T shirt printing equipment prices is essential before making any investment. When I first started, knowing the cost helped me budget properly and avoid overspending on machines that didn’t fit my needs. Equipment prices give a clear idea of what quality and features I can expect within my budget.
Also, being aware of prices allowed me to compare different brands and models effectively. I could weigh the benefits against the costs and choose equipment that offered the best value. Without knowing the prices, I might have ended up with low-quality printers that wasted my time and money.
Finally, keeping track of equipment prices helped me plan for upgrades and maintenance. I knew when it made sense to repair or replace my machines based on their market value. Overall, understanding T shirt printing equipment prices has been a crucial part of running my printing business smoothly and profitably.
My Buying Guides on T Shirt Printing Equipment Prices
When I first started looking into T shirt printing equipment, I quickly realized how varied the prices can be depending on what type of printing method and machinery I chose. To help you navigate this, I’ve broken down the main factors that influenced my buying decisions and the typical price ranges I encountered.
1. Understanding Different Types of T Shirt Printing Equipment
Before diving into prices, I found it essential to understand the common types of T shirt printing equipment:
- Screen Printing Machines: These can be manual or automatic. Manual machines are more affordable but require more hands-on effort.
- Heat Press Machines: Used for heat transfer vinyl or sublimation printing. They are generally mid-priced and great for small to medium runs.
- Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printers: These are digital printers that print directly on fabric. They tend to be the most expensive but offer high-quality, full-color prints.
2. Price Ranges I Found for Different Equipment
Here’s a rough idea of what I saw in the market:
- Manual Screen Printing Machines: $200 to $1,000
These are great if you’re starting small or on a tight budget. They usually require more manual setup but have lower upfront costs.
- Automatic Screen Printing Machines: $5,000 to $20,000+
Ideal for higher volume production, these machines are a serious investment but can speed up the printing process significantly.
- Heat Press Machines: $150 to $2,000
Entry-level heat presses start around $150, but professional-grade models with larger platens and better temperature control can cost over $1,000.
- DTG Printers: $10,000 to $30,000+
These printers are pricey but perfect if you want to produce detailed, colorful designs without setup screens or transfers.
3. Additional Costs to Keep in Mind
Buying the equipment is just one part of the cost. From my experience, I also considered:
- Inks and Consumables: DTG and screen printing inks vary in price and need regular replenishment.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Higher-end machines may require occasional servicing, which adds to the cost over time.
- Software and Design Tools: Some equipment requires specialized software, which can be an extra expense.
- Training and Learning Curve: If you’re new to the equipment, factor in the time and possibly courses or tutorials to get up to speed.
4. My Tips for Getting the Best Value
- Start Small, Scale Up: I began with a heat press and some vinyl cutters before investing in a DTG printer. This helped me understand the business without a huge upfront cost.
- Buy Used or Refurbished: I found some great deals on used screen printing setups that were still in excellent condition. Just make sure to test everything before buying.
- Consider Your Volume Needs: If you plan to print hundreds of shirts a week, investing in automatic machines makes sense. For occasional printing, manual or heat press machines are more economical.
- Read Reviews and Ask for Demos: Seeing the equipment in action helped me decide what matched my quality expectations and budget.
5. Final Thoughts
The price of T shirt printing equipment varies widely depending on the technology and capacity you need. By understanding the options and associated costs, I was able to choose equipment that fit my budget and business goals. I recommend doing thorough research and considering your production volume before making a purchase to get the best return on investment.
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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