The options seem endless when choosing the perfect long-sleeve shirt to customize for your brand or apparel business. The Bella + Canvas 3501 and the Next Level Apparel 6071 are two popular contenders in modern, stylish, long-sleeve shirts.
Both brands have earned a reputation for quality and comfort, but they have their unique features and characteristics.
We’ve been screen printing and embroidering on all kinds of apparel since we opened our doors in 2009, and we can confidently say we know a thing or two about long-sleeve shirts.
In this article, we'll compare the Bella + Canvas 3501 and the Next Level 6071 to help you decide which shirt best suits your custom apparel needs.
Bella + Canvas 3501: Unisex Long Sleeve Jersey Tee
Bella + Canvas is renowned for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and fashion-forward designs.
The Bella + Canvas 3501, from their "Unisex Jersey Collection," is no exception.
Here's a closer look at its key features:
Fabric
The 3501 is crafted from 100% cotton- incredibly soft and comfortable.
Available in 7 colors.
Fit and Style
The 3501 offers a modern, unisex fit that's neither too tight nor too baggy. It features side seams that help maintain its shape and is available in various colors to suit any personal style or branding needs.
It’s offered in sizes XS-3XL.
Printability
Bella + Canvas is favored by many screen printers and custom apparel businesses due to the 3501's exceptional printability. The smooth surface of the fabric allows for vibrant and detailed designs, making it a versatile choice for customization.
Sustainability
Bella + Canvas places a strong emphasis on eco-conscious manufacturing. The 3501 is no exception, with the brand using responsible and sustainable practices in its production process. For those who prioritize sustainability, this is a significant factor to consider.
Next Level Apparel 6071: Men’s Tri-Blend L/S Crew
Next Level Apparel is another popular brand known for its fashionable and durable garments.
The Next Level 6071, part of their "Triblend Collection," offers its own set of impressive features.
Here's a closer look at its key features:
Fabric
The 6071 is crafted from 50% polyester, 25% cotton, and 25% rayon. This unique combination produces an incredibly soft, lightweight, and breathable shirt. Adding rayon gives it a luxurious drape and a vintage look and feel.
Available in 8 colors.
Fit and Style
The 6071 features a trendy, slim fit tailored for a more modern and fashionable look.
It’s offered in men’s sizes XS-2XL.
Printability
The Next Level 6071 is a favorite among those seeking a fashionable and comfortable shirt.
The texture and composition of the fabric can affect print quality, so it's essential to work with experienced printers who understand how to achieve the best results with this material.
Sustainability
Next Level Apparel also values social responsibility and sustainability; you can read more about their initiatives here.
It’s still important to consider the environmental impact of any clothing purchase. Using eco-friendly inks and responsible printing practices can help mitigate the ecological footprint of customizing Next Level shirts.
Choosing Between the Two
The choice between the Bella + Canvas 3501 and the Next Level 6071 ultimately comes down to your specific preferences and requirements:
Comfort vs. Style
The Bella + Canvas 3501 may be better if you prioritize comfort and printability. Its soft combed and ring-spun cotton and polyester blend offers a comfortable fit and excellent printability.
Fashion-forward Look
On the other hand, if you're looking for a more fashion-forward, slim-fit shirt with a luxurious feel, the Next Level 6071 may be the winner. Its tri-blend fabric and modern cut make it a favorite among those seeking trendy apparel.
Sustainability
If sustainability is a top concern, both brands offer eco-conscious options, with Bella + Canvas emphasizing responsible manufacturing practices.
Printing Method
Your choice of printing method should also influence your decision. If you plan to use traditional screen printing, the Bella + Canvas 3501's smooth fabric surface may be more suitable. However, if you're open to alternative printing methods like direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, the Next Level 6071 can provide stunning results.
“I know a bit about these shirts now… what’s next?”
Now you know that the Bella + Canvas 3501 and the Next Level 6071 are exceptional long-sleeve shirts catering to different preferences and needs.
Bella + Canvas excels in comfort, printability, and sustainability, making it a popular choice for various custom apparel applications.
On the other hand, the Next Level 6071 offers a more fashion-forward fit and feel, making it a go-to option for those seeking trendy, stylish garments.
Choosing between these shirts should align with your style, intended use, and printing method. Whichever you choose, you can be confident that you're investing in a quality garment that will serve you well for years.
Ready to start your customized apparel journey? Connect with one of our printing pros today; they’re always here to help.