Whats the difference between Ringspun vs Regular Cotton T-shirts

Whats the difference between Ringspun vs Regular Cotton T-shirts

Cotton t-shirts are a staple clothing item for millions of people around the world. These convenient, inexpensive garments come in an almost infinite combination of colours, but did you know that not every cotton t-shirt is produced in the same way?

One of the major differences is in the method of manufacturing. Two of the most popular methods create ringspun and regular cotton t-shirts. Both start out life as cotton fibres, which are processed into yarn that is sewn together to make t-shirts, however the process creating the yarn varies between each manufacturing method.

What is a ringspun t-shirt?

You may not have heard the term ‘ringspun’ before, but it refers to the process which takes place when creating this type of garment. The cotton yarn is put through an advanced spinning process of twisting and thinning, whereby each fibre is carefully softened and straightened. This creates an exceptionally fine, long and strong collection of cotton fibres, that when manufactured into a t-shirt creates something that is both soft to wear and long lasting.

What is the difference between ringspun and a regular t-shirt?

The manufacturing method for creating a regular t-shirt differs from the ringspun version. Regular cotton t-shirts are also created by a process of twisting together fibres into yarn, which is then woven made into a t-shirt, however the process is more basic than when creating ringspun tees. The strands of cotton used are shorter and a relatively high number of these short strands may protrude from the finished product, meaning the texture is somewhat rougher and it won’t be quite as durable as a ringspun t-shirt.

The best option for you really does depend on what your requirements are. If for example, you need to purchase something that is cost-effective to use at a few promotional events, then a regular cotton t-shirt will suit your requirements very well. If however, you are creating a t-shirt to be used as part of a uniform that will be used for a long time, then ringspun t-shirts will give you a more durable option that is softer for your staff to wear.

Which type of product is better for t-shirt printing?

If you are looking to get personal branding or a design onto a cotton t-shirt, then you do need to weigh-up the differences between the different types of t-shirt that are available.

With ringspun t-shirts there are less short fibres, meaning that the printing surface is flatter and more even, which makes printing more consistent and which will result in a crisper finish, which is important if your design is intricate. Regular cotton t-shirts also work very well for printing, especially if your design is less complex.

The difference between these two types of t-shirt is important if the designs that you want printed are colourful, like Christmas sets for example. The ways in which the fibres are held together during the ringspun process means that printed colours stay more vibrant and last better over time compared to a regularly produced cotton tee.