Design Custom T-Shirts Using These Free and Paid Apps
Design Custom T-Shirts With These Free and Paid Apps
In a previous article, we shared over 38 T-shirt design template sources to help you get started in case you are coming up blank with unique designs. This time, we listed down mobile and desktop apps that you can use to create a one-of-a-kind artwork for your custom T-shirts.
Are you ready? Free up some phone storage and keep reading!
1. Sketchbook
Sketchbook is a mobile app but it also comes with a desktop version. This app will be loved by illustrators since most of the features are specifically for drawing. It comes with a wide range of customizable brushes and lets users mirror pen strokes which is useful for symmetrical T-shirt designs.
2. GraffixPro Studio
GraffixPro Studio is a paid desktop software perfect for T-shirt designers who are familiar with more complex programs such as Adobe Photoshop. Now on its fourth version, this platform allows you to manipulate existing artworks and add effects like shadow, gradient, distressed designs, and more. There is also a built-in quote and barcode generator, as well as a direct print function.
3. CorelDRAW
Need a professional platform that gets the job done? Look no further than CorelDRAW. This Windows-exclusive software is filled with tools so you can create vector illustrations, layout and edit photos, and create typography projects hassle-free. The annual plan costs $36.58 per month or $859 for a single purchase.
4.GIMP
GNU Image Manipulation Program (GIMP) is a free cross-platform image editor that comes with a wide range of design tools and customization features. There is a bit of a learning curve when using this software but don't worry, there are several video tutorials and walkthroughs online that even those with no design background can easily follow.
5. Fotor's T-shirt Design Maker
Fotor's T-shirt Design Maker is just one of the many personalization platforms hosted by the photo-editing website. It offers several design templates that you can use as a jump-off point or if you need inspiration and design elements that you can incorporate into your own artwork. It's a paid service but signing up for an account gives you free access for a limited time.
6. Fusion Developers T-Shirt Design Pro
Fusion Developers' Android-exclusive mobile app is lauded by users for its intuitive and simple layout. Like the previous items on this list, it's filled with customization features and tools that beginners can easily use to come up with their unique T-shirt designs. It also lets you upload photos straight from your gallery!
7. Picmaker
If you are solely designing statement T-shirts or adding a motivational quote or two to your custom shirt, Picmaker is the platform for you. It comes with templates that you can easily personalize, and it has an AI-driven design button that you can use in case you can't find a specific design element from their library.
8. Customily
Customily is Shopify's very own product personalization software. It's also compatible with other ecommerce platforms such as WooCommerce, Magento, Walmart, and Etsy. Although Customily is only available for a fixed price of $49 per month (plus transaction fees), anyone can use its nine-day trial period for free.
9. OShirt
OShirt is an app-based custom apparel manufacturer with their own design tool. They have millions of design assets that you can use to personalize your T-shirt order and shipping is free if your order reaches $40 and above. Their app is available for free on both Google Play and the App Store.
10. Yayprint
Yayprint is another free T-shirt design mobile app available on both Google Play and the App Store. Aside from custom T-shirts, you can also personalize drawstring bags, socks, and even phone cases. You can get cashback credits for each order and if you sign up for an account, you will be entitled to exclusive discounts and coupons.
11. Snaptee
Snaptee's free mobile app lets it users design, order, and sell their custom creations within the platform. You also have the option to synchronize your photo or Instagram albums if you plan to incorporate your own images in your design. The artworks are printed on 100% organic T-shirts, a good thing to remember if you're in the market for this material.
12. Inkxe
Inkxe is an all-in-one desktop app that lets users design their own custom apparel, signage, and other promotional products. It also comes with back-end admin features that make operating an e-commerce business a breeze. Inkxe can be easily plugged into any shopping cart system such as Shopify, BigCommerce, and Magento. Users can choose between two one-time payment subscription plans: Essential ($2999) and Pro ($3999).
13. DesignAShirt's Design Studio
DesignAShirt's Design Studio is a straightforward customization platform that lets customers personalize their custom T-shirt orders before checkout. The design preview is mocked up on the shirt itself so you can see your work in real time.
14. MØ Studios
MØ Studios' mobile design app was created with beginners in mind. With over 30 styles ranging from T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and sweatshirts, 110 font options, and 10 categories for stickers, this free app is a good starting point for entrepreneurs who are just starting to explore T-shirt customization and printing.
15. PVS Studio
PVS Studio's T-Shirt Design Studio is another free mobile app that lets users design their own custom T-shirt with just a few clicks. They claim to ship your order within one to six days wherever you are in the world which may be a good deal for you if you're working a strict timeline.
16. Super T-Shirt Designer
Super T-Shirt Designer is an App Store-exclusive app perfect for iPad owners. The free plan is already rich in features such as cloud storage, 300 templates, and a wide selection of shirt colors. However, signing up for a VIP subscription lets you edit your saved designs across different devices and gives you first-hand access to new T-shirt templates uploaded monthly.
Nowadays, a professional design background is no longer a requirement when designing custom T-shirts that people would want to flaunt. With the sheer number of free and paid apps and programs available online, you will surely find one that suits your needs and your budget. Let us know which one is your favorite in the list!