How Screen Print Pricing Works: What You Need to Know Before Ordering

If you’ve ever looked into ordering custom T-shirts, hoodies, or other apparel, you’ve probably noticed that screen printing, also called silk screen printing or silk screening, prices aren’t always one-size-fits-all. In fact, the final cost can vary a lot depending on several factors — and understanding them can help you get the best value for your order.

At College Hype, we’ve been screen printing for decades, so we know that pricing can be confusing for first-time buyers. Here’s a breakdown of the main things that go into your custom print cost.

1. Quantity of Items

One of the biggest pricing factors is how many pieces you order. In screen printing, the setup process takes time and materials — but once the screens are made, printing more shirts is much faster and more cost-efficient.

• Small orders: Higher price per piece because setup costs are spread over fewer items.

• Large orders: Lower price per piece since setup is spread across more items.

Pro tip: If you think you might need more shirts later, ordering extras now often saves you money in the long run.

2. Number of Print Colors

Each color in your design requires its own screen, setup, and printing pass. More colors mean more time and labor, which increases the cost.

• 1-color designs: Most budget-friendly.

• Multi-color designs: Higher cost but allow for more detailed, vibrant artwork.

3. Print Locations

Every location you print on (front, back, sleeve, etc.) is treated like a separate job. Adding a sleeve print or a second location means additional screens and setup time.

• Single location: Most affordable.

• Multiple locations: Adds to overall cost but can make your apparel stand out.

4. Garment Type & Brand

The blank apparel you choose plays a big role in the price.

• Basic T-shirts: Usually the most cost-effective.

• Premium or specialty items: Hoodies, jackets, dri-fit shirts, and eco-friendly fabrics cost more but can elevate your brand’s look and feel.

5. Specialty Inks & Effects

Want metallics, puff ink, glow-in-the-dark, or water-based prints? Specialty inks often require different production processes and can add to the price — but they also create unique, eye-catching results.

6. Setup Fees

Screen printing involves making physical screens for your design. Many shops (including us) include setup in the price per piece for larger runs, but small orders may have a one-time setup fee to cover this labor.

7. Rush Orders

Need your shirts fast? Rush production is possible but usually comes with an additional fee to move your job to the front of the line.

An Example Price Breakdown

Let’s say you order:

• 50 Gildan 5000 T-shirts

• 1-color front print

• Standard turnaround

You might pay around $8–$10 per shirt. But if you order:

• 50 shirts

• Full-color front print

• Additional sleeve print

• Rush turnaround

Your cost per shirt could rise to $14–$16.

How to Get the Best Value

1. Order in bulk — the price per piece drops significantly.

2. Keep designs simple — fewer colors = lower costs.

3. Plan ahead — avoid rush fees by ordering early.

4. Choose the right garment — match the quality to the purpose of the apparel.

At College Hype, we’re always happy to walk you through your options and give you clear, upfront pricing. Whether you’re printing for a business, school, event, or fundraiser, we’ll help you get the best look for your budget.

Ready to start your order? Contact us today at 617-282-8883 and let’s bring your design to life!