Sacramento Custom Apparel Guide
Minimum Order for Screen Printing in Sacramento
What most local shops require, why minimums exist, and how to get smaller runs without overpaying.
Quick Answer
- Common minimum: 24–50 pieces for screen printing in Sacramento.
- If you need 1–20 pieces, consider DTG or heat transfers.
- Smaller runs are possible—expect a higher per-item cost.
Typical minimums (Sacramento)
| Method | Typical minimum | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Screen printing | 24–50 pieces | Screens + setup time need to be covered |
| Embroidery | 12–24 pieces | Digitizing + hoop setup + run time |
| DTG printing | Often 1+ piece | Minimal setup vs screens |
Why minimum orders exist
- Setup labor: coating/burning screens, mixing ink, registration, test prints
- Downtime cost: small orders still block production capacity
- Quality control: proper setup ensures consistency, which takes time
How to get smaller runs (without wasting money)
- Use DTG for 1–20 pieces (especially full-color art)
- Ask for 1-color print if you must do screen printing at low quantity
- Choose a shop that offers gang-sheet heat transfers for small batches
- Bundle orders (front + back) only if needed—extra placements add cost fast
Quote checklist (copy/paste to send to a shop)
- Quantity + sizes
- Garment type + color
- Print location(s)
- Number of ink colors
- Deadline
- Artwork file (vector preferred)
FAQ
What is the most common minimum order in Sacramento?
Many screen printing shops start around 24–50 pieces, depending on workload, setup time, and shop size.
Can I print fewer than 24 shirts?
Sometimes—either via DTG, heat transfers, or by paying a higher per-piece rate to offset setup labor.
Do embroidery shops have minimums too?
Yes. Embroidery minimums are often 12–24 pieces, depending on digitizing and setup.