When it comes to custom t-shirt printing in Edinburgh, the range of options available today is broader than ever. Whether you’re a business looking to kit out your team, an individual after a unique gift, or an organiser putting together event merchandise, understanding your choices will help you get the best result for your budget. Crescent Print, Edinburgh’s trusted local printing specialist, is here to walk you through everything.
What Does “Custom” Actually Mean?
In garment printing terms, “custom” simply means the design, text, or imagery is specific to you. This could be anything from a company logo embroidered on a polo shirt to a full-colour photograph printed on the front of a tee. The customisation element can involve a single colour, multiple colours, photographic images, text-only designs, or complex graphics , the possibilities are genuinely vast.
Option 1: DTG (Direct-to-Garment) Printing
DTG is one of the most popular options for custom t-shirt printing because it handles complex, full-colour designs with ease. The technology works similarly to a standard desktop printer, but instead of paper, it prints directly onto the fabric.
This method is best suited to:Designs with many colours or gradientsPhotographic imagesSmall quantities (even single items)Designs where achieving exact Pantone colour matching is less critical
DTG is a go-to choice for personal gifts, promotional samples, and anyone who wants a detailed, high-quality print without committing to a large run.
Option 2: Screen Printing
Screen printing is Edinburgh’s most established garment printing method and remains the industry standard for larger volumes. Each colour in the design requires a separate screen, so setup costs apply , but once set up, the prints are fast, vibrant, and extraordinarily durable.
Screen printing works best when:You’re ordering 20 or more garmentsThe design uses a limited number of solid colours (typically fewer than six)You want the most cost-effective rate per unitLong-term durability and wash-fastness are important
For sports clubs, businesses, schools, and charities ordering in bulk, screen printing offers unbeatable value.
Option 3: Heat Transfer Printing
Heat transfer involves printing a design onto a specialist transfer sheet and then applying it to the garment using a heat press. This method is highly versatile and works across a variety of garment types and fabrics.
Heat transfer is commonly used for:Personalised names and squad numbers on sportswearSmall text or intricate detail on dark fabricsIndividual customisation within a larger batch (e.g., different names on identical shirts)
At Crescent Print, we use high-quality transfer materials that produce a smooth, professional finish.
Option 4: Embroidery
While technically not printing, embroidery is worth including as a premium customisation option. Thread is stitched directly into the fabric, creating a raised, textured finish that’s particularly popular for corporate clothing, workwear, and caps.
Embroidery adds a premium, professional feel and is highly durable , the design won’t peel, crack, or fade in the wash the way some printed finishes can. It works best for logos and text rather than complex photographic imagery.
Choosing the Right Garment
Beyond the printing method, your choice of garment makes a significant difference. At Crescent Print, we can supply:
Classic crew-neck t-shirts in a wide range of colours and weightsV-neck stylesLong-sleeve topsPerformance and sports tees in moisture-wicking fabricsLadies’ fitted cutsChildren’s sizes
The garment colour will influence your printing options , for example, DTG printing on dark garments often requires a white underbase layer to ensure colours appear vibrant. Our team will advise you on this during the ordering process.
Placement and Finishing
Custom printing doesn’t have to be limited to the front of a t-shirt. Options for placement include:
Front chest (most common)Full frontBack (full or centred)Sleeve (left or right, or both)Collar or hem tag replacement (for branded garments)
Multiple print locations can be combined, though each additional placement adds to the cost.
Artwork Considerations
Every printing method has slightly different artwork requirements. For the cleanest results:
Screen printing requires vector artwork (AI, EPS, or PDF format)DTG printing accepts high-resolution raster files (300dpi or above)Heat transfer handles both, depending on the complexity of the design
If you don’t have a print-ready file, the team at Crescent Print can often help you adapt what you have, or advise on what you’d need from a designer. Don’t let artwork uncertainty put you off getting in touch , we’d rather help you figure it out than have you go elsewhere.
Ordering Process at Crescent Print
Getting your custom t-shirts from Crescent Print is a straightforward process:
1. Get in touch via contact form or visit us in Edinburgh
2. Share your design (or discuss your requirements with us)
3. Choose your garments , style, colour, and sizes
4. Receive a quote and confirm the order
5. Approve a digital proof before production begins6. Collect or receive your finished garments
We work with individuals, small businesses, event organisers, charities, universities, and large corporations , all with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality. Whatever your custom t-shirt printing needs in Edinburgh, Crescent Print has an option to suit you.
