Custom hoodies stay popular year after year. More people want comfortable pieces that show off unique designs. You can create them for your brand, team, events, or just personal use.
Blank hoodies give you a clean base. The right one makes printing easier and helps your artwork look sharp. Factors like fabric feel, weight, and surface play a big role in the final result.
This guide covers 8 best blank hoodies for printing custom apparel. You will find options for different budgets, print methods, and styles. Let's get started.
8 Best Blank Hoodies for Printing Custom Apparel
Gildan 18500 Adult Hooded Sweatshirt
You reach for the Gildan 18500 when you want something that just works without surprises. The 8 oz 60/40 poly-cotton blend now uses finer yarns and MVS Air spinning, which means the surface stays flatter for printing and you see way less pilling after the tenth wash.
A few things that actually matter in real projects:
- The double-lined hood keeps its shape even when you pull the drawcord tight
- Pouch pocket sits deep enough to hold a phone without bulging weirdly
- Ribbing has enough spandex so sleeves and hem don't bag out after a few wears
- Color range is wide enough that you rarely have to special order shades
It prints cleanly with both plastisol and water-based inks, and the classic fit gives you room to layer without looking boxy. For the price it's still one of the few blanks where the quality-to-cost ratio holds up in 2026.
Champion S700 Unisex Powerblend Hooded Sweatshirt
You grab the Champion S700 when you need a classic that balances durability with a bit of eco-conscious build.
It's a 9 oz blend of 50% cotton, 25% polyester, and 25% recycled polyester, so it feels substantial without being overly heavy, and the cover-stitching holds seams tight through repeated wear and washing.
A few practical points that come up on actual jobs:
- Two-ply hood with dyed-to-match drawcord stays structured when tied
- Pouch pocket is roomy enough for hands or small items without pulling the front out of shape
- The blend resists fading better than pure cotton options in darker colors
- Champion "C" logo on the sleeve is small and low-profile, easy to cover or work around for customs
It takes screen prints reliably with good ink hold and minimal shrinkage issues post-wash. The color selection gives you solid basics plus some unique heathers that add variety without complicating matching.
Independent Trading IND4000 Heavyweight Pullover Hood
You go with the Independent Trading IND4000 when the project calls for a premium feel that stands out from basic blanks.
This 10 oz heavyweight uses premium ring-spun cotton in a 3-end fleece, with most solid colors featuring a 100% cotton 32 singles face yarn that gives an exceptionally smooth, stable surface.
A couple details that show up consistently on the press:
- The fleece-lined hood and heavy round drawcord hold up without twisting or fading fast
- Split-stitch double-needle seams plus nickel eyelets keep everything reinforced where it counts
- Generous fit leaves room for layering but doesn't drown the wearer
- Tear-away label makes relabeling straightforward for brands
It handles screen printing with sharp detail and low bleed, and DTG comes out crisp on those cotton-face colors.
Bella + Canvas 3719 Unisex Sponge Fleece Pullover Hoodie
You turn to the Bella + Canvas 3719 when you want that softer, more elevated feel compared to standard fleece blanks. The sponge fleece fabric—made from Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton blended with polyester—lands around 8 oz and comes out incredibly plush right from the start, almost like it's pre-worn in the best way.
A few things that make a real difference when you're printing or wearing:
- The cotton-face on DTG colors keeps ink sitting clean with minimal bleed and vibrant results
- Retail fit hugs a bit closer without being skinny, so designs look balanced on the body
- White drawcords and kangaroo pocket add a clean, modern detail that doesn't clash with most graphics
- Side-seamed construction helps it hold shape through washes instead of twisting sideways
The color range stands out with tons of soft heathers, pastels, and bold solids that give your customs a fresh look. DTG prints pop especially well here because of the smooth, low-pill surface.
PrintKK Unisex Fleece Hoodie with Drawstring
You go with the Unisex Fleece Hoodie with Drawstring when you need something made in the USA for faster domestic shipping.
It's a 270 gsm 50/50 cotton-poly fleece that feels soft and warm right away, with a loose fit that works for different body types and leaves space for movement.
A few things that stand out in practice:
- Adjustable drawstring hood lets you cinch it snug for extra warmth or keep it relaxed
- Breathable enough for light activity like jogging or casual outdoor time without overheating
- High-quality stitching holds up through regular wear and cold machine washes
Since it's set up for their DTF printing, designs on front and back come out vibrant and durable, especially for all-over or multi-area customs.
JERZEES Unisex NuBlend Hooded Sweatshirt 996MR
You pick the JERZEES 996MR when you're after a straightforward, budget-friendly blank that still delivers on print quality.
The 8 oz 50/50 cotton-poly NuBlend fleece is pre-shrunk and built with high-stitch density, so the surface stays smooth and pill-resistant even after multiple runs through the washer.
A few things that hold up in everyday custom work:
- 2-ply hood with grommets and matching drawcord doesn't fray or twist easily
- Double-needle stitching on neck, armholes, and waistband keeps seams from popping
- Pouch pocket and 1x1 rib with spandex give it a comfortable, non-bulky feel
- Wide color range (over 50 options including heathers and brights) lets you match almost any design without hassle
It handles screen printing well with low bleed and takes DTG decently on lighter shades. The quarter-turned construction reduces twisting after washing, and the tear-away label makes branding swaps simple.
PrintKK Mens Hoodie with Pockets
You select the PrintKK Mens Hoodie with Pockets when you're running single-sided sublimation jobs through their platform and want a fitted, stretchy option geared toward men.
The 95% polyester / 5% spandex ultra-soft velvet fabric feels light yet warm, with enough give to move comfortably without feeling baggy.
A few aspects that show up in real use:
- Black drawcord on the hood keeps it looking sharp and functional for colder days
- Front kangaroo pocket sits deep enough to hold keys, phone, or wallet securely
- Elastic at the cuffs creates a snug fit around the wrists that doesn't ride up
- The stretch helps the hoodie drape better on different builds compared to rigid blanks
Sublimation printing gives full-color, vibrant results on the single-sided design area without cracking or peeling over time. It's tailored for everyday scenarios like casual outings, travel, or lounging in spring through winter.
Tultex Unisex Fleece Hooded Sweatshirt 320
You choose the Tultex 320 when you want a lighter-weight option that still feels premium and prints sharp without the bulk of heavier hoodies.
At 7.5 oz with an 80/20 ring-spun cotton/poly blend (100% cotton face on solids), it offers a soft, cozy interior and a smooth exterior that's ready for DTG or sublimation right away.
A few details that play out well in real printing runs:
- Jersey-lined hood and matching flat drawcord keep things clean and comfortable
- Drop shoulder design gives a relaxed, modern fit that layers nicely
- Pouch pocket and ribbed cuffs/waistband with 5% spandex hold shape without stretching out fast
- Reactive-dyed colors stay vibrant longer, even on heathers
The color selection includes useful basics plus some softer tones like Neo Mint and Cantaloupe that work for seasonal or branded drops. It shrinks minimally and feels broken-in from the first wear.
Key Factors for Picking the Right Blank Hoodie
You want the best results when printing custom hoodies. Here are the main things to check before you buy.
- Fabric weight and blend matter a lot. Heavier hoodies like 10 oz feel thicker and last longer, while lighter ones around 7.5 oz work better for everyday wear. A cotton-poly blend usually prints clean and shrinks less. Pure cotton faces give sharp detail for DTG.
- Surface smoothness affects how well ink sticks. Look for ring-spun cotton or high-stitch density. These keep the fabric flat so your prints stay clear and do not bleed.
- Fit and cut change the final look. Classic fits give room for layering. Retail fits hug closer for a modern style. Measure samples first so your design sits right on the body.
- Color options help match your artwork. Some brands offer 50+ shades, including heathers and brights. Solids with 100% cotton faces print brightest, while dark colors need white underbase for light designs.
- Durability features save time later. Check for double-needle stitching, spandex in the ribbing, and pre-shrunk fabric. These keep the hoodie from twisting or bagging out after washes.
- Print method compatibility guides your choice. DTG needs smooth, cotton-heavy surfaces. Screen printing works on most blends. Sublimation likes high polyester content.
- Price and minimums fit your budget. Basic blanks cost less for big orders. Premium ones raise the price but give better feel and print quality.
- Sustainability details come up more now. Look for recycled materials, low-impact dyes, or U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. These matter when customers ask about eco choices.
How to Choose the Best Blank Hoodies for Different Uses
Team & Group Apparel
When you are outfitting cheer teams, schools, or clubs, consistent fit and color are important. Choose mid-weight hoodies that can be worn year-round.
Make sure the blanks are logo-free for clean customization. Durability matters because these hoodies will see frequent washing.
Sports & Active Use
For athletes or active wear, pick hoodies with breathable cotton-poly blends instead of heavy fleece. Mobility and comfort are more important than thickness.
Look for fabrics that resist pilling and shrinking. Flexible fabrics that work with screen printing make it easier to add designs.
Streetwear & Fashion Brands
If you are creating for streetwear or fashion, a heavier fabric gives a premium feel. Modern or oversized fits work well with trends. Fabric texture can enhance the quality of prints. Blanks should support your brand identity without any visible logos.
Print-on-Demand & Small Businesses
Small brands need hoodies with consistent sizing across different batches. Reliable stock ensures you can fulfill orders on time. Pick blanks that work well with DTG and heat transfer. Consider a balance between cost and quality to protect your margins.
School & Event Merchandise
For school or event merch, look for budget-friendly hoodies that still produce good prints. Choose wide size ranges to cover all ages. Neutral styles appeal to everyone. Make sure the blanks are easy to reorder for repeat events.
Alternative Styles (Crewneck & Quarter-Zip)
Sometimes hoodies aren't ideal for your design. Crewnecks give larger uninterrupted print areas. Quarter-zips work for teams or professional settings. Each style affects where you can place your print, so plan accordingly.
Why Your Hoodie Print Looks Blurry or Cracked
1. Fabric Surface Is Too Fuzzy or Textured
If the fabric is rough or fuzzy, your design may lose sharp edges. Small details like thin lines can blur because the ink doesn't reach every part of the surface.
Raised fibers or brushed textures make it harder for prints to stay smooth. Choosing a hoodie with a flatter surface keeps your design clean and makes it easier to layer colors.
2. Low Cotton Content Affects Print Adhesion
Hoodies with low cotton content can make your prints fade or crack over time. Polyester-heavy blends are more stretchy and less absorbent, so ink sits on top rather than bonding with the fabric.
High cotton ratios hold ink better and maintain color brightness. If your design has fine details, cotton-rich hoodies will keep them sharper after washing.
3. Hoodie Fabric Stretches Too Much During Wear
When a hoodie stretches frequently, the print can crack or warp. Thin or very elastic fabrics are more likely to distort your design when worn or washed.
Heavier, more stable fabrics maintain their shape and help prints stay intact. Consider the type of movement your audience will do, especially for active wear or daily use.
4. Dark-Colored Hoodies Reduce Print Clarity
Printing on dark hoodies can make colors appear muted or gray. Light-colored designs, especially thin lines, may get lost against a dark background.
Using higher contrast colors or simpler designs helps your prints stand out. For deep or vibrant prints, a white underbase layer is often necessary to maintain clarity.
5. Not All Blank Hoodies Are Designed for Printing
Some blank hoodies are made for comfort rather than print quality. A print-friendly hoodie has consistent fabric, smooth surfaces, and stable shapes.
Using a hoodie not intended for printing can result in uneven ink, cracked designs, or peeling. Checking fabric type and quality before printing reduces wasted time and materials.
6. Design Complexity Doesn't Match the Hoodie Fabric
Complex graphics or tiny text often don't work well on rough or textured hoodies. High-detail designs need smooth, flat fabrics to stay readable.
If the design is too intricate for the fabric, lines can blur and colors may not show as intended. Always consider the surface and thickness of the hoodie when planning detailed prints.
Read More:
High-Quality Blank Hoodies from PrintKK for Your Shop
Using PrintKK to design and order your hoodies is simple. You can upload your artwork, adjust the placement, and place your order online. You canbuy in bulk and get discounted prices when ordering larger quantities.
PrintKK also offers an AI design tool that helps you quickly optimize your graphics, so your products are ready to go faster.
PrintKK hoodies come with several advantages:
- No taxes on products shipped to the US, keeping costs predictable
- High-quality fabric at a low price, suitable for customers, employees, or gifts
- A wide range of styles for men, women, and teens
You'll even find options like pet hoodies if you want something unique. With PrintKK, you have versatile blank hoodies that are easy to print on.
Whether it's merch, uniforms, or personalized gifts, the AI tool and variety of styles make designing and launching your products faster and simpler.
Expert Tips
You've now checked out eight solid options for custom printing. Each hoodie brings something useful, from soft sponge fleece to heavy ring-spun builds.
Pick the one that matches your project best. Think about weight, fit, print surface, and colors. The right blank makes your designs look sharp and last longer.
In 2026, these best blank hoodies for printing give you reliable results every time. Grab a few samples, test your artwork, and start creating. Your custom apparel will turn out great.
FAQs
Which brand is best for hoodies?
The best brand depends on your needs. Look for hoodies that balance comfort, durability, and printability. Brands like Gildan, Bella + Canvas, and Champion are often reliable for consistent results.
What are the best brands for blank apparel?
For blank apparel, choose brands known for quality fabrics and size consistency. Gildan, JERZEES, Bella + Canvas, and Independent Trading are popular because they offer versatile options for printing.
Can I order blank hoodies in bulk for a better price?
Yes, ordering in bulk usually reduces cost per hoodie. Many suppliers provide discounts for larger orders. Make sure the sizes and colors you need are in stock before placing a bulk order.
What printing method is best for hoodies?
Screen printing works well for bold designs, while DTG printing handles detailed graphics. Heat transfer is another option. The method depends on your fabric type, design complexity, and production size.
What fabric types for hoodies are best for printing?
Cotton or cotton-blend hoodies are easiest to print on. Midweight fabrics work well for durability and comfort. Avoid very fuzzy or stretchy fabrics, as they can blur or crack the print.
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