Blanks

Blanks are unprinted garments, such as plain t-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags, that are ready to be customised with designs via printing or embroidery. These garments act as the base product onto which logos, designs, text, or graphics are added. Blanks are an essential component of custom apparel production, as the quality, fabric, and construction of the blank garment directly influence the final printed result.

In Australia, blanks are widely used across business uniforms, promotional apparel, sportswear, events, and retail clothing, forming the foundation of almost every custom print job.

Types of Blank Garments Commonly Used

Blank T-Shirts

Blank t-shirts are the most commonly used base garments. They are available in various fits, weights, and fabric compositions, including cotton, polyester, and blends. The choice of blank t-shirt affects print feel, durability, and comfort.

Blank Hoodies and Jumpers

Hoodies and jumpers are popular blanks for winter wear, workwear, and merchandise. Their thicker fabrics provide warmth and are well suited for screen printing, DTF printing, embroidery, and appliqué.

Blank Polos and Workwear

Blank polos, hi-vis garments, and workwear are commonly used for corporate and industrial branding. These blanks prioritise durability, colourfastness, and compliance with Australian workplace standards.

Key Features of Quality Blanks

Fabric Composition

Blanks are available in 100% cotton, polyester, or blended fabrics. Cotton offers softness and breathability, while polyester provides durability and moisture-wicking—ideal for active or work environments.

Consistent Sizing and Construction

High-quality blanks maintain consistent sizing across batches, which is crucial for bulk orders and repeat printing. Reinforced seams and pre-shrunk fabrics improve long-term performance.

Print Compatibility

Not all blanks perform equally across printing methods. Choosing blanks designed for screen printing, DTG, DTF, or sublimation helps ensure clean, durable results.

Benefits of Using the Right Blanks

Selecting the correct blank garment delivers several advantages:

Better print quality and adhesion
Improved garment longevity
Consistent branding across orders
Enhanced wearer comfort

For Australian businesses and organisations ordering uniforms or promotional apparel, reliable blanks help maintain professional standards.

Blanks and Printing Methods

The choice of blank garment affects which printing method performs best:

Cotton blanks work well with screen printing and DTG
Polyester blanks are ideal for sublimation and athletic wear
Blended blanks offer versatility across multiple print methods
Heavyweight blanks suit embroidery and appliqué

Matching the blank to the decoration method reduces issues such as ink bleeding, dye migration, or print cracking.

Common Use Cases in Australia

Blanks are used across a wide range of applications, including:

Business uniforms and staff apparel
Event and promotional merchandise
Sports team and club apparel
Retail and fashion brand collections
School and community group clothing

Australian printers often rely on trusted local and international blank suppliers to ensure consistency and availability.

Practical Insights When Choosing Blanks

When selecting blanks, consider:

End use and wear frequencyZ
Climate and comfort requirements
Budget and order quantity
Reorder consistency

Choosing the cheapest blank is not always the best option, particularly for long-term use or repeat branding.

Why Blanks Matter in Custom Printing

Blanks are the foundation of every custom garment. Even the highest-quality printing cannot compensate for poor garment quality. By selecting suitable, reliable blanks, custom apparel projects achieve better print results, longer lifespan, and greater satisfaction. For Australian businesses, investing in the right blanks is key to delivering professional, durable, and consistent branded apparel.