Blank T-Shirt Sizing Guide: Comfort Colors, Bella Canvas, Next Level & More

2026-03-08 · 7 min read min read · Get Custom Team

One of the biggest complaints in blank apparel? "It doesn't fit like I expected." Every brand fits differently, and if you're ordering blanks for the first time — or switching brands — you need to know what you're getting into.

The Big Picture: Fit Categories

Blank tees generally fall into three fit categories:

Relaxed/Oversized: Comfort Colors 1717, Gildan 5000, Gildan Hammer. These run generous. If you're between sizes, size down. The 1717 especially has a boxy, relaxed cut that looks intentionally oversized on most body types.

Modern/Retail Fit: Bella Canvas 3001, Next Level 3600. These are cut closer to the body with tapered sides. They look more like something you'd buy at a retail store. True to size for most people.

Fitted: Next Level 6210 CVC, Bella Canvas 6004. These are designed to be form-fitting. If you prefer a looser feel, size up.

Brand-by-Brand Breakdown

Comfort Colors 1717

  • Fit: Relaxed, boxy, oversized
  • Runs: Large — size down if you want a fitted look
  • Length: Longer than average
  • Shoulders: Wide, dropped
  • Best for: Streetwear, casual, vintage aesthetic, people who like roomy tees
  • Tip: A Medium in CC1717 fits like a Large in Bella Canvas

Bella Canvas 3001

  • Fit: Modern unisex, slight taper at waist
  • Runs: True to size
  • Length: Standard
  • Shoulders: Fitted
  • Best for: Retail brands, fashion-forward printing, people who want a clean silhouette
  • Tip: 100% cotton means it will shrink slightly — if you're between sizes, go up

Next Level 3600

  • Fit: Modern unisex, similar to BC3001 but slightly less tapered
  • Runs: True to size, slightly roomier than BC3001
  • Length: Standard
  • Shoulders: Standard
  • Best for: All-purpose blank, good middle ground between relaxed and fitted

Gildan 5000

  • Fit: Traditional, boxy
  • Runs: True to size but boxy
  • Length: Standard to slightly long
  • Best for: Budget orders, events, promotional use

General Sizing Tips

  1. Always order a sample first if you're buying for resale. A $5 sample saves hundreds in returns.
  2. Wash before measuring — especially cotton tees. The post-wash measurements are what your customers will experience.
  3. Women typically size down in unisex tees. A Women's Large is usually a Unisex Medium.
  4. For printing: ensure your design fits within the printable area of the SMALLEST size you're offering.

Need blank tees in multiple sizes? Our bundle deals let you mix any sizes in a single order with free shipping.