A t-shirt is a very common piece of garment and a staple item in every closet. However classic it may be considered, with evolving technology when another object around us is being modified how could the humble t-shirt be left behind? We’ve always thought of it as the most uncomplicated clothing item, thus choosing it on basis of color and style with our outfit. But who knew we’ll also have to ponder over what fabric to pick for different uses.
Besides the Cotton and Polyester, t-shirt brand and manufacturers are now introducing tri-blend fabric. Through the name, cotton and polyester blends are easy to comprehend but tri-blend is still a mystery. As the tri-blend fabric seems to be very much in demand right now, let’s take a look at what buzz really about. Are tri-blend t-shirts better than the cotton t-shirts we have been wearing all our lives?
The nature of fabrics
As the name indicates, the tri-blend fabric is made from three fabric types that are cotton, polyester, and rayon. Rayon fabric is originally considered as a silk substitute, made of cellulose fibers; giving the clothes a luxurious and soft feel. Rayon fabric itself cannot be used for manufacturing t-shirts because of its thin and drapey texture. It cannot be categorized as a synthetic fiber because it is made from wood pulp, an organic material. The blend is lightweight which is why it the perfect choice for t-shirts when mixed with cotton and polyester. On the other hand, a t-shirt made up of 100% cotton is also not bad. They are made from organic cotton. As the cotton crop grows with lots of water, the material that comes out of the crop is very soft in nature and gives a high-end look to the apparel that it produces.
The characteristics of 100% cotton
If you want the utmost softness, comfort, and gentle feel in your t-shirt that also does not cling to your skin when you are sweaty then 100% cotton should be your ultimate choice against polyester. Moreover, cotton tees are ideal for all types of customization whether it is embroidery, silk printing, or direct-to-garment printing. However, the downside of cotton tees is that they tend to shrink after wash, can easily stained and wrinkled. Therefore, if you want something that will have to face rough and long-term use, such as tees and jerseys for athletes then it is better to not choose the cotton fabric for your clothing. Another point is that cotton absorbs and retains moisture which makes it heavy if you are sweating profoundly during an activity wearing a cotton shirt. It can be easily concluded that where cotton t-shirts =are a safe bet and can be used in many settings, they are not suitable for sportswear and gym clothes. This is because athletes and gym-going people need something that does not absorb and hold moisture so they can remain comfortable even when they are hot and sweaty after activities.
The characteristics of tri-blend
Tri-blends have the quality of both worlds i-e cotton and polyester. It is getting increasingly popular in making t-shirts because the blend of rayon gives extra drape and softness to it. Then the CVC i-e predominant factor of cotton blend makes it breathable. Tri-blends are the ideal choice when it comes to sportswear due to their moisture-wicking nature. They absorb moisture but do not hold it and enable quick evaporation as well which keeps it dry even when the wearer is sweating heavily during an activity. It keeps the athlete dry and cool during strenuous activities. The all-encompassing quality of tri-blend makes it a bit more expensive than cotton but people associated with sports still prefer it over cotton.
Both fabrics have their individual qualities. When you are selecting the fabric for your t-shirt or t-shirts made up of one of the two fabrics then you need to recognize your own needs. The fabric that is best for your tees depends on the purpose you require them for. Obviously, the first things that you need in your tees are breathability, softness, and comfort. Both tri-blends and cotton give you all these properties. Next, it depends that whether you need moisture-wicking t-shirts; what printing method you prefer for your tees such as screen printing, embroidery, and direct-to-garment printing; your affordability; the setting in which the shirts have to be worn such as work uniforms, sports event, promotional activity, etc.; and the demographic such as the age of the wearers.
Although the tri-blend t-shirts are a bit more expensive than other fabrics, you can acquire them at low rates from a suitable online outlet that deals in next-level shirt. Likewise, t-shirts made from 100% cotton are also easy and very affordable to buy if you have found the right platform to make all your bulk purchases.
Author Bio:
Rose Venne works as a Marketing executive at ApparelnBags. She has a keen interest in digital marketing and learning new trends.
She loves traveling, exploring new places, photography, public speaking and likes to blog about her experiences.
Photo by Volha Flaxeco on Unsplash