How to Make Your Own Running Shirt

One of the most popular hobbies today is running.  Since there is no special gear required, and most people already possess the necessary clothing, running is a great way to stay in shape on a budget.  Also, people all over train on their own time, and then compete against other people in races.  One of the best parts about competing in races is receiving a running shirt to commemorate the event.  With the onslaught of online retailers that offer customized clothing manufacturing design, you can now make your own running shirt from the convenience of your home.  This is a great way to show your personal style while keeping up with your personal hobby.

Before you can make your own running shirt, you have to locate a reputable manufacturer who can create a high quality product.  The preferred way to do this is to obtain a personal referral from someone that you know.  In this sense, you are able to hear of a company’s performance directly from someone who has already worked with them.  If a personal reference is not available, one can also seek out a website that allows previous customers to post unbiased feedback regarding their own order experience.  Reading through this feedback will help to get a good idea of the company’s business practices and reputation.

Most running shirts are either made from standard cotton or some type of moisture management fabric.  When you make your own running shirt, you will need to decide which fabric is best for you.  For runners that don’t perspire heavily, standard cotton is a good, inexpensive alternative.  Standard cotton is available in both short and long sleeve styles, and can be purchased in several different textures and weights.  In addition to standard white cotton shirts, they can also be purchased in bright or subdued colors.  The color, of course, is ultimately a personal choice, but for running, dark colors are great because they will hide perspiration marks better than a lighter colored shirt.

For those who may perspire more, or just prefer a higher quality fabric, moisture management fabric is the best choice.  Moisture management fabric is made of a polyester and spandex blend, and is designed to wick moisture away from the skin, which causes it to evaporate into the air.  This evaporation process helps the skin to remain dry, which helps to avoid odors.  Another advantage of moisture management fabric is that it is usually somewhat lighter than standard cotton, and does not wrinkle.  When you make your own running shirt, you will have to decide if this fabric is right for you.       

After these basic decisions have been made, the design of the shirt can be decided upon.  If you choose to make your own running shirt using a running club or personal logo, it is best to choose a design that is as simple as possible.  If the design has too many variables or colors, it may be confusing and not easily understood by others looking at the shirt.  In addition, when printing writing on the shirt, always use simple traditional fonts.