Making your own t-shirts really isn't as bad as it sounds. While most mass produced music t-shirts use processes such as silk-screening, you can do the same or go an easier route that will hold up just as well. Remember, you want your t-shirts to go the distance and be able to withstand washing and drying and all the other abuse a groups of teenage musicians can put them through.

The first thing you need to do, assuming the organization asking you to print all these t-shirts hasn't supplied them, is get the t-shirts. If you have not been provided with a size list, ask for one and enlist someone to help you contact the students if you have to do it yourself. If you know how to do screen printing, start gathering up all the supplies you will need, including the t-shirts you now have sizes for.

When you create the design, limit the number of colours in it, especially if your screen printing or using iron ons from your computer. This saves time and money in your supplies and the process it takes to make the logo look right on the t-shirt. Also, use a program like Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW to create your logo. When you are cutting a stencil for screen printing, you want good solid lines to follow. If you are no good at graphics programs, enlist the aid of a professional, but be aware that they may charge for the design. Always get quotes on this work in case you need to back up why you used one person over another.

If the t-shirts are to be made using coloured shirts and iron ons you print, make sure you purchase the right type of iron on transfer sheets. Plain transfer sheets will not show up properly on coloured t-shirts and the colours will be distorted. Use transfer sheets designed for dark or black t-shirts even if you are using a light coloured shirt. This will ensure that the logo stands out in the property colours on the coloured background.

Of course, you always have the option of taking everything to a professional printer and having your music t-shirts professionally printed. The amount of money you may spend in labour and supplies may be the same or more than what a professional might charge you.

When making these t-shirts, always use colour-fast shirts and inks. Iron on transfers should always be applied with a think cloth between the iron surface and the back of the paper to prevent burning. If screening the logo onto the shirt, make sure you give them plenty of time to dry. Designing and creating t-shirts can be not only an enjoyable hobby, but also a lucrative business. You will be proud of what you've created, especially when you see the band marching in the parade wearing the clothing you made.