Graphics Computer Programs

• Once you've decided you're going to design and make your own t-shirts, you should buy a graphics program that will operate on your computer's operating system. You can create your design using any graphics program that fills your designing needs so that, once you're ready to send the design to a printing company, they'll be able to print your design on t-shirts with very few problems.
  
  

Creative Concept and Design

• Begin by drawing your design on paper so you can recreate it with your graphics program. Use white paper and colored pencils or markers so you can see how your planned design will look on the computer and on the finished product. After you've created a drawing that suits your planned design, transfer it to your graphics program. If your design will require embroidery or flocking, make sure your computer program has features that will support your designs.
  
  

Screen Printer

• After you've created a design on paper and on the computer that you're happy with, you can start approaching screen printers. You'll have to verify that their computer software will support the artwork you'll be sending them. Check that you'll be able to place an order for the specific number of t-shirts you have in mind, whether that number is as low as 10 or as many as 100. To keep your costs dow, ask about volume discounts. If you've included elements in your design such as embroidery, find out if the screen printer also does embroidery orders. Again, ask about volume discounts.