When I started making custom shirts for clients, one of the most common questions I got was: “How much does it cost to put a logo on a shirt?” At first, I thought there was a simple answer. After years of working with different printing methods and order sizes, I learned that the price can vary a lot.
On average, adding a logo to a shirt costs between $5 and $15 per piece in small quantities. In bulk orders, the price drops to $2–$6 per shirt. The final cost depends on the printing method, fabric quality, logo size, number of colors, and quantity ordered.
I remember the very first logo order we did. It was only 25 shirts, so the cost per shirt felt high. Later, when the client ordered 200 shirts, the price per piece dropped by almost half.
Table of Contents
- Why does the printing method affect the logo cost?
- How does quantity change the price?
- Does the size and placement of the logo affect the cost?
- How do fabric and shirt type affect logo pricing?
- How much does embroidery cost compared to printing?
- How much does it cost just to add a small logo?
- Conclusion
Why does the printing method affect the logo cost?
Different logo application methods come with different costs.
Screen printing is cheaper for bulk orders, DTG (direct-to-garment) works well for small runs, heat transfer is affordable for simple designs, and embroidery costs more but gives a premium look.
| Method | Best For | Price Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Screen printing | Bulk orders | Low cost per piece in bulk |
| DTG printing | Small orders, complex logos | Higher per piece |
| Heat transfer | Simple small logos | Moderate cost |
| Embroidery | Premium look | Higher cost |
One client of mine changed from DTG to screen printing when ordering 150 shirts and saved more than 40% on logo printing.
For more insights, see Printful – T-shirt Printing Methods.
How does quantity change the price?
Quantity has the biggest impact on price.
Small orders have a high cost per shirt because setup costs are shared by fewer pieces. Bulk orders (100+ pieces) significantly reduce the unit price.
Typical costs for a small front logo:
- 20 shirts: $8–$12 each
- 50 shirts: $5–$8 each
- 100 shirts: $3–$6 each
- 500 shirts: $2–$4 each
I often tell new brands: if your budget allows, always order a few more pieces to bring the unit cost down.
Does the size and placement of the logo affect the cost?
Yes, logo size and placement matter a lot.
A small logo on the chest is cheaper, while a large print across the front or back costs more. Multiple placements (front and back) almost double the cost.
- Small chest logo: Cheapest
- Large front logo: More ink and work
- Front + back: Almost twice the cost
- Sleeve logo: Additional charge per location
I had a client who initially wanted a small chest logo, but later added a sleeve logo as well. That added about $1 per shirt.
How do fabric and shirt type affect logo pricing?
The blank shirt itself adds to the cost.
Basic cotton T-shirts are cheaper. Heavyweight shirts, organic cotton, or specialty fabrics (polyester blends for sportswear) cost more to decorate.
Approximate blank shirt costs:
- Basic cotton: $2–$3 each
- Heavy cotton: $4–$5 each
- Organic cotton: $5–$7 each
- Performance fabric: $6–$10 each
The price you pay for logo printing always includes the blank shirt price plus the printing cost.
How much does embroidery cost compared to printing?
Embroidery costs more but gives a long-lasting premium look.
For a small chest logo, embroidery can cost $4–$7 extra per shirt on top of the shirt price. The cost depends on logo size and stitch count.
Printing vs embroidery:
- Screen printing: Cheaper, good for logos with fewer colors
- Embroidery: More expensive but very durable
I’ve noticed that high-end restaurants and companies often prefer embroidered logos on polos rather than printed ones.
Reference: Thread Logic – Embroidery Pricing Guide
How much does it cost just to add a small logo?
For simple, one-position logos, prices are clear.
For a 100-piece order with a small one-color chest logo using screen printing, the cost is usually $3–$6 per shirt, including the logo. For small runs (20–30 shirts), expect $8–$12 per shirt.
Example:
- 100 shirts, one-color logo, screen print: ~$500 total
- 25 shirts, one-color logo, DTG print: ~$250 total
For bulk orders, screen printing is the most budget-friendly option.
Conclusion
Adding a logo to a shirt can cost $5–$15 per piece in small quantities, but drops to $2–$6 per shirt in bulk. Printing method, order size, logo size, and fabric type all affect the final cost. Screen printing is best for bulk orders, while embroidery is the premium choice.