A Different Kind of Shirt?
I’m always thinking of ways to improve FRIGHT-RAGS. The designs, the customer service, the entire experience…even the shirts we use. Since the beginning, we’ve used Gildan Ultra Cotton shirts for all off our designs. And while that is considered an “industry standard” t-shirt to print on, I’m wondering if we can’t do even better than that…It’s not that I don’t like Gildan, but lately I’ve been wearing other types of shirts because, well, they are just more comfortable. Sure, Gildans hold up pretty well, provide a good surface to print on, and are consistent throughout their sizes and overall quality. I wouldn’t use them if I thought they were crap… But they don’t feel like some of the other shirts I’ve been wearing lately. And although I’ve been toying with the idea of creating a more “premium line” of shirts (using high-end shirts, different printing techniques, etc), I’m still looking for ways to make our standard line even better. So, I’ve decided to start testing out some different brands of blank shirts to see if there is something else out there that fits my criteria better.
But what about you? What do you like in a shirt? I get lots of feedback from people saying they would love a more “form-fitted” shirt (like American Apparel). But then I get messages from people who say that if I ever switched to American Apparel, they’d never buy from the site again. Clearly there is some disparity among those who order our shirts. So while I wait for my new blanks to come in and try out, I thought I would ask for your opinion as to what we should do.
Vote below on what you think we should do about changing our t-shirts to a different brand. And, while you’re here, feel free to post your opinion as well!
PLEASE NOTE: This would only pertain to our regular shirts sizes S-3X. Although we are printing more 4X and 5X shirts, brands that offer them are limited, so we would still print on the same brands for those. As for girl shirts, we would still use the same for those as well.
********** UPDATE **********
I just got in the Alstyle shirt today and I have to say, I’m impressed. The fit is THE SAME as the Gildan shirts, but the fabric just feels better…higher quality… I may be doing some more tests, but i think this one would appeal to the most people.
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Mike Kenny
on August 31st, 2009
Hey Ben, I say experiment and see what you can come up with new shirts. Personally, my main concern is retaining a shirt that is not going to have the neck stretched out due to its quality. I can’t stand when the necks of shirts get stretched that’s why I’ve always preferred the Gildan shirts. Keep us posted!
jonathan
on August 31st, 2009
I actually have been holding out on buying anything from here until they are printed on American Apparel – I just like those shirts the best for some reason. Thanks!
Ross
on August 31st, 2009
I do not like the options for the poll . Gildian shirts fit me like a football jersey short and wide and sleeves stick out and are too long. I like how thick and heavy duty they are but I do not dig the fit. I am a fan of the thicker AAA (Alstyle) shirts. So I did not vote on the poll.
Colin
on August 31st, 2009
I really would just like to see a t-shirt used that is made in America (such as American Apparel). I don’t enjoy supporting companies like Gilden who have their shirts made by 8-year olds in Bangladesh for a nickel a week.
jason
on August 31st, 2009
I like the standard men’s XL shirt that American Apparel makes. I have shirts for work and from woot.com that use them, and they’re my favorite shirt hands down.
Anthony Long
on August 31st, 2009
Hey Ben,
I think the current shirts could be a bit softer. They have that scratchy cotton feeling. Perhaps the american apparel type t’s would be good.
Keep up the good work!
Stuart Bell
on August 31st, 2009
The quality of the shirts from FR’s have generally been excellent. But I really like the idea of doing a premium quality option. Also, as an athletically built kinda bloke, I would much prefer a form fitted type of shirt. I don’t have a prob paying a couple of extra quid… sorry, dollars if the quality is right!
Keep up the good work Ben.
Kristy
on August 31st, 2009
As a large lady myself, I can tell you I love the shirts, but sometimes I hate the way they look on me. I like buying shirts that are softer and more form-fitting. I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. Being on the “inside” of all of this, I know what a struggle this is for you, Ben to try and do what’s best for the Fans. Thanks for giving everyone a chance to voice their opinion though!
And while I’m here…WE NEED A POPCORN SHIRT ! (Not just a Vintage one…)
Who agrees with me?! (Sorry Ben, I had to do it…)
Eric Shuf
on August 31st, 2009
Keep the same Shirts!!!!!! don’t change
Eyeball
on August 31st, 2009
I’d dig it if the VINTAGE TEES had the form fitting softer shirts… just because theyre supposed to be “vintage”.
JV
on August 31st, 2009
if it isn’t broke…
Jamie
on August 31st, 2009
Do not change anything!
Evan
on August 31st, 2009
Understandably, providing variant brands would really kick up your cost overhead, It is nice to see a company that provides this service, and would possibly set you even further ahead of the pack. But that may be too much as well. I will say that a softer shirt with a slightly different fit, especially around the neck, would be a welcome change. Either way, I salute you for continuing to take the customers interests in mind.
Matt Desiderio
on August 31st, 2009
Keep the same shirts dude, those form fitting shirts suck! They show off my beer gut. Not Cool.
Darin
on August 31st, 2009
Hey Ben,
Funny you should post this question. I bought a few shirts from you in the past and all of them fit like crap after one washing. They all turned into the dreaded short/wide “fat man crop top” which to put it bluntly sucks and never gets worn. It went from a “Fright Rag” shirt to a “Rag” to wash my car…sadly.
So, I dunno…maybe let the customer pick the shirt they want printed. If fat short guys have wood for the GILDAN ULTRA COTTON shirts, let ‘em have it. If a guy (me) wants American Apparel shirts (truly the absolute hands down best t shirts made anywhere) let us pick those.
Anyhow, I would more than likely reorder my shirts from you and continue ordering from you if you offered an American Apparel option. Thanks for your time Ben.
All the Best,
Darin
dave
on August 31st, 2009
voted!! i personaly prefer form fitted tees like american apparel, plus they are more comfortable.
Mary Bastian
on August 31st, 2009
Hi
I have purchased at least 15 shirts from you (4 just last weekend at MonsterMania) and I am very pleased with your Gildan Ultra Cotton brand. They wear extremely well, only minor shrinking lengthwise but minimal compared to other companies. In fact, when I buy tee shirts, I look at the tag to see what brand it is and usually only buy if its Gildan Ultra Cotton.
I also agree in that I would not wear these awesome prints if they are printed on American Apparel type tee shirts. I understand that the tighter look is ‘in’ now but with a movie tee shirt, I feel that they should be on normal tee shirts. And most fans, over 30, I dont think would be interested in wearing these types of shirts.
I hope my insight was helpful
Mary Bastian
Max Reinhart
on August 31st, 2009
My personal favorite brand of shirt is Bay Island sportswear…they sell shirts that are very soft like American Apparel, but not quite as fitted. They are kind of in between what you sell now and AA.
Aaron
on August 31st, 2009
Why not do a liitle of both. I am a guy with a thin athletic type of build, so I like some of my shirts to be a little form-fitting, but I also wear just regular t shirts as well. Regardless, I will still buy from the site, but it would be kinda cool to have a few more options when getting new shirts.
Ryan
on August 31st, 2009
I love the shirts you have now, but I do think you could go for a softer material. I would avoid the current trend towards American Apparel shirts, as they have a significantly different cut (more “modern” or “euro”) and I don’t think the designs would look as good on them. Metal shirts and Horror shirts need that classic “boxy” t-shirt look.
Begita
on August 31st, 2009
I do agree that Gildan keeps the design nicely, they are a bit rough… if that’s the right word, they are not as comfortable as some of my other shirts, I do have other Horror shirts printed on American Apparel and they are more comfortable but they are also a thinner material I find, I also have some shirts printed on Bella brand, which are a bit stronger but also nice and soft and form fitting, if FrightRags were to switch to American Apparel or whatever other brand I would still continue to buy.
But I do think trying some different brands might be beneficial, my They Live “Obey” shirt is printed on American Apparel I’ve noticed and it fits me much better than the Gildan shirts, it also washes differently I find.
Gildan gets a bit stiff after you air dry the shirt where as American apparel doesn’t.
So that’s my two cents hope it helps a bit in the end decision.
Stephan
on August 31st, 2009
American Apparel ALL THE WAY!
Adam
on August 31st, 2009
Personally, I like the shirts as they are now.
I’m really sick of the new trend that everything needs to be form fitted. I don’t like how those shirts look, or feel on me at all. So sadly, if fright-rags was to switch over, while I’d still want to support this site and the awesome shirts, I probably wouldn’t buy anything.
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” – know what I mean?
Keegan
on August 31st, 2009
American Apparel or Tultex. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!
Ryknowcrazy
on August 31st, 2009
I too have been holding off on buying shirts until they are on better, form fitting material..like American Apparel..the girls shirts especially because they are not flattering and strech out with the current material…
abe
on August 31st, 2009
IM a fat guy and 5x is what i buy and i love every shirt i get from Fright Rags but a softer shirt would be nice. I know this is just for S-3x still it would be cool to have something softer
bigbroMike
on August 31st, 2009
never had a problem with your shirts, so in my humble opinion, don’t change them!! i own several metal band shirts, all with different degrees of fit for an XL….what i love about yours is that i KNOW your shirts will fit, and it’s just a matter of what great design i want!!!
noey
on August 31st, 2009
The truth of the matter is that most of us Horror fans aren’t skinny little hipsters. So i say HELL NO to American Apparel. I mean, if you want to provide it as an option i really don’t care with that but to outright switch to American Apparel would suck.
Lon
on August 31st, 2009
YES! AMERICAN APPAREL FOR GIRLS TOO!
Damian
on August 31st, 2009
One of the biggest issues, that isn’t really expressed here is shirt size.
I find that if you wear large or x-large or bigger, the Gildans usually fit fine. When you start going to small and medium, the Gildans fit AWFUL. Its like they use the same size sleeve and same width but just go shorter…
Everyone is talking like Its gildan vs american apparel for shirts… there are other options that aren’t as fitted as AA but aren’t as boxy as Gildan.
Check out: http://www.alstyle.com/
Sloan – If you want to see some alstyle shirts, I can get you samples. I’m not selling for them or anything but I know a lot of local companies that use them and they are good quality good fit, low shrink. http://www.coalitionpress.com/ uses them for many of their clients.
plastek
on August 31st, 2009
A bit rough? Are you some kind of man-girl?
Womens panties always seemed softer than the underwear I wear, maybe we should all start wearing those too!
Honestly I wouldn’t mind if you improved the shirt quality, but I don’t think I would be willing to pay a premium for it.
Hopefully if you do decide to go this route you can continue to offer the great prices.
I appreciate your willingness to improve your product, but I don’t think it’s something I’m interested in.
Baker
on August 31st, 2009
Personally I am a shirt snob. I rarely wear anything other than American Apparel. the fit on the neck and sleeves are much more comfortable than the Gildans longer sleeves.
Although, I do have a few shirts on Gildan’s answer to AA, the SoftStyle tees. they are pretty nice, and much cheaper too.
Ben, I love all of your shirts… and I have wanted to buy most of your tees just because you are the Horror Standard for tees…. but, I just can’t bring myself to wear thick and bulky Gildans.
Please change to a softer shirt and you’ll for sure have a new customer.
-baker
Travis
on August 31st, 2009
I am holding out on buying shirts from you guys until u offer the form fitting shirts popular at stores like Urban Outfitters, etc. They have cool tees but your designs are SO MUCH better and unique! Hope u can make the switch!!!! Will start buyin lots!!!
kalvin
on August 31st, 2009
I’ve worked in the screen printing industry for years and I know that Gildan is a popular standard shirt choice. They just don’t fit me right, the sleeves are too long and they are rough. I have a lot of your shirts because the designs are so cool but honestly, I don’t wear them often because I am not a fan of the way this shirt feels or wears. I don’t want tight form fitting, just softer and without boxy sleeves that stick out.
Some suggestions: District Threads, Alternative Apparel, American Apparel (thought some of their styles are too form fitting for my taste)
Ben
on August 31st, 2009
Actually, I just ordered from Alstyle. I like their shirts because they are softer, but have the same fit.
Ethan
on August 31st, 2009
form-fitting scares me, i’d have to lose weight
Martha
on August 31st, 2009
Hi Ben,
I think you should offer both, including a regular woman’s tee. I’m willing to try a different brand. As long as you wash and dry one and let us know how much it shrinks so we can order the correct size, ok? Personally, I wouldn’t mind one that was a little shorter and falls at the hip. Those baby doll tees are for dollies!
Keep up the good work, and thanks for asking for opinions. You’ll keep the customer happy this way for sure.
Martha
Eric Thomas Craven
on August 31st, 2009
Is there really hostility towards American Apparel? Any t-shirt I’ve ever bought that’s been printed on one of their shirts is a favorite of mine–you can’t beat the softness or fit.
Dustin
on August 31st, 2009
The one thing I don’t like about the shirts is the fact that they attract LINT!
They always wind up covered in hair, fur, strings…you name it, if it sticks it’s on the damn shirt.
I’m a slendor guy and it’s tough finding shirts that fit me anymore. For some reason they think everyone in America is FAT and needs an extra wide shirt or an extra long shirt.
I’d prefer a good fiitted shirt(not too long, especially not too wide) that doesn’t collect lint like Disney collects assests.
Chuck You Farely
on August 31st, 2009
i like the shirts you use because they seem very durable but they are a little rough..
slim fit tees might be an option too ben! i would buy one
Chris
on August 31st, 2009
Well, I LOVE the shirts that you currently use. They are, by far, my favorite shirts that I own, which is why I buy so many of them. I like the way they fit, feel, etc. They don’t shrink too much and are consistently comfortable to wear.
If you switched to a more form-fitting brand, such as American Apparel, I’m afraid I’d never purchase one of your shirts again, which would totally suck. If you want to establish a premium line (but, please keep em’ loose fitting), that’s fine, I’d probably even purchase them, although, again, I’m fine with the product, as is.
If you ever do print form-fitted t’s, please label them as such so I know not to buy them. I’m not trying to be rude, it’s just that I truly hate that fit of shirt.
BANE
on August 31st, 2009
I’m 6’3″ and for once I’d like a shirt that doesn’t shrink lengthwise after the first wash. Any shirt I buy seems to be too wide and short.
Joseph La Scola
on August 31st, 2009
i really like “form” fitting shirts. i cant stand when sleeves sort of “Flip out” for lack of a better analogy. i also don’t like when a shirt is to “wide” when the shirt looks like you have a giant tumor on your lower back. i’m not a big guy but im not really skinny. i would buy a shit ton more shirts if they were form fitting or athletic whatever the terminology is. i often get excited when i see an awesome design on the site and then i buy it and put it on and i don’t like how it fits. i really like the way american apparel fits so if you can get something close to how they fit, i for one would buy alot more shirts.
Ben
on August 31st, 2009
Unfortunately, offering both regular and form-fitting wouldn’t be an option. That would be an inventory nightmare
I’d like to at least offer form-fitting tees on the vintage ones…that we may do soon.
The softness of American Apparel comes from the fact that they are ringspun cotton. Alstyle (and other brands) offers this as well, which is why I’m considering them.
Mike Kenny
on August 31st, 2009
After reviewing most of the comments, I think if anything, you guys should just have a premium shirt option with each shirt along with the regular Gildan shirt because personally I do love the Gildan shirts and find nothing truly wrong with them at all. Like someone else said, if it’s not broken, don’t bother Ben.
Mike Kenny
on August 31st, 2009
Woops sorry Ben, just noticed your comment after I sent that last one. I can absolutley understand what an inventory problem that would create. That said, I think sticking with Gildan is the best move, people just need to be aware of getting a size that’s going to fit with them the best after washing them.
Joseph La Scola
on August 31st, 2009
just on a side note, fuck whats “in”. i feel like an asshole when i wear a shirt thats too wide and the sleeves stick out, it looks ridiculous. i cant find good horror tees that are a little more nicer looking and clean, not to mention comfortable.
Alex
on August 31st, 2009
I love the shirts you’ve been putting out and have bought countless different designs. The one qualm I have had consistently is that they aren’t form-fitting like nearly all of my other tees. If you were to change to a more form-fitting design it would rock my world. This is of course a decision based on personal preference so it would be difficult to say that this would be the best for everyone, but I would truly love to see some form-fitting options in the future.
Eric Shuf
on August 31st, 2009
I hope you don’t change the shirts but if you do you can send me all your 2XL shirts. That you have left over i can take those off your hands lol
But i’ll say it again DO NOT CHANGE THE SHIRTS!!! I love my fright rags shirts the way they are.
Hollywoodeast
on August 31st, 2009
Ben,
I think waht you have now is great! Maybe a little more of a form fit would be nice, but other than that……..I wouldn’t change a thing!
Dave
on August 31st, 2009
Your shirts are the most well-designed and creatively-illustrated of any I’ve found yet on the net — switching to a softer, form-fitting style like an American Apparel seems like an obvious choice. The thick, boxy, scratchy black cotton horror t-shirts of yesterday? Old news, not to mention unflattering to my increasingly-thickening 40-year-old torso. You guys put so much care and work into doing your shirts right, and the fact that you ask your customers for this kind of input goes to show what a great company Fright Rags is. You guys rock.
Nik
on August 31st, 2009
One thing that I don’t like about the fit of the current shirts is their overall length. I think that they are too long. I’ve also noticed from the shirts that I have purchased, that although they are the same brand, if they were made in different locations the fit is also different. I have had one shirt fit pretty much ideally, while two others were a tighter fit. It turns out that they were a half inch less wide than the first one mentioned. It doesn’t sound like much of a difference, but believe me, it is.
As far as the poll is concerned, I do not really care if the shirts are softer or not, my concern is with the fit. I also do not like fitted tees at all. I think offering the form-fitting tees as an option for the vintage shirts would be alright, but if they were the only option, I wouldn’t buy lthem.
Dave
on August 31st, 2009
I love the shirts the way they are! I wear a 4 or 5x anyway so this doesn’t partain to me but I am a long time fan/customer and I agree with the guy above who said “IF IT AIN”T BROKE……”
Thanks Ben, You rock!!
PS: Wheres the Tarman shirt??
Mike
on August 31st, 2009
I’ve always been a fan of the “ringer” style, but what you’ve been doing is just fine.
Joseph
on August 31st, 2009
American Apparel shirts are made in US, have great fits/sizes, and are soft forever!! I would buy much much more if you used AA shirts. My 2 cents…
Andres
on August 31st, 2009
I really like what you have now. I have 4 shirts from you guys and my brother has 2. Im ordering the They Live design right now. These shirts feel fine to me.
Mike
on August 31st, 2009
I love the shirts you currently use, but wouldn’t buy anything fromyou on American Apparel, since as a big man I find their shirts very small. I have a 3x AA shirt from shirt-woot, and it’s smaller than most 2xl shirts! I usually buy the 3x of your shirts as I like them a bit big (I normally wear a 2xl), but I don’t want to have to buy 4x shirts JUST because you switch to the form fitting American Apparel shirts, as those would be huge on me.
Josh
on August 31st, 2009
People keep saying…’if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, but it is broke for us slimmer people. I agree with the person who said the Gildans are fine for size L and up, but if there were a slimmer option for mediums (not skin tight, but just a regular fitted shirt…think 70′s or 80′s,ya know? Probably the kinda shirts that were in style when these movies came out!), then I’d be buying alot more shirts.
Great designs, though!
kellimetal
on August 31st, 2009
i agree and think american apparel shirts would be the best. the feel of them is great as is the fit. plus this way fright rags could offer some designs in v-neck which i love and dont see any horror shirts in this style yet
kellimetal
on August 31st, 2009
… and maybe keep printing the XXL and XXXL on the shirts you already use as it seems people who buy the larger sizes arent digging American Apparel, which I have heard before from friends who like me love the feel of the shirt, just not how small they run in larger sizes
Nick
on August 31st, 2009
If anything, make the shirts softer. But no change is needed/essential.
Pat S.P. Fitzgerald
on August 31st, 2009
I think the shirts are great the way they are. They wash well, they’re comfortable and the fit very well. I’m not sure how you could improve them.
-Pat
Ryan
on August 31st, 2009
My two cents…
American Apparel pros: super super soft, USA made
American Apparel cons: not as flattering on heavier bodies, more expensive
Gildan pros: sturdy print surface, thick (warmer at Halloween time)
Gildan cons: not so soft
AAs are certainly nice quality and comfy. But to me they almost seem aimed at different sort of fashion conscious crowd. Gildan seems like a easier, safer, standard choice for the general audience. I like my Gildan Fright Rags shirts so much that I’m switching back to Gildan for the shirts I’m selling this year (after a couple years trying AAs)
Jordan
on August 31st, 2009
Please keep it the same. So many other sites shirts do not fit, and the fright rags ones fit perfectly. I doubt I would order any in a different style.
ralphus
on August 31st, 2009
I’ve been loving the shirts I’ve bought from your site since back in the day with the Night Of The Living Dead shirt i got, and I love the way they fit. I’m sure other people who are a bit more on the uh…shall I say fluffy side like the shirts because those form fitting shirts are very VERY small, like Mike said. Maybe you could see if there would be a big enough market for smaller slim fit shirts on here and have it as an option?
simeon DOWN-STARES
on August 31st, 2009
Number one thing is the designs gotta be killer. After that, I’m down to wear some FRIGHT RAGS printed on American Apparel…
Sara
on August 31st, 2009
Come on, don’t go in for the trendy form-fitting cut…it’ll be out of style in a couple of years, and you’ll be S.O.L. with tons of overstock. As far as the idea of keeping the standard tees and just providing a second option, anything that will raise the prices is bad in my eyes…one of the best things about your shirts is the affordability! And I’ve never had a problem with the shirts you’re using right now anyways, so, like someone else on here said…if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!
By the way, I know for a fact that my husband, who has twice as many of your shirts as I do, would stop buying from Frightrags if you switched to the softer, more form-fitting shirts. He hates the way they fit, and just would never spend the money on it because he knows he’d never wear it.
Evelyn
on August 31st, 2009
All I ask is that you keep the current size range. There is nothing I hate more than finding an awesome shirt, then dscovering it doesn’t come in your size!!!
Keegan
on August 31st, 2009
Don’t forget about Tultex brand shirts. They are like AA just not as form fitting. I would buy tons of your shirts if they printed on either AA or Tultex. One more thing, make a Jaws design already!
Becky
on August 31st, 2009
I think the shirts you have already are nice, soft and comfy for me anyways. However, I would love the girls shirts to be fitted and longer, it sucks having shirts cut off at a wierd point on your body! Longer shirts just look nicer.
darrell
on August 31st, 2009
i say american apparel!!! feel great fit great !! thanks -d
darrell
on August 31st, 2009
p.s i would buy way more designs if on the AA shirts !
Nick
on August 31st, 2009
Thinner softer shirts wear out quicker.American apparel shirts get to thin when they wear out…I won’t buy them..The best thing to do is ,,Offer the option to people so nobody gets dissapointed.when people pick the shirt size, they can pick the type of T-shirt they want.
Kristy
on August 31st, 2009
Ok, I don’t want to complicate this conversation, buuuuuttttt, I was shown the difference between a couple of different Gildan shirts, and there was only a .5 difference in weight, and it made a world of difference.
It still felt the same, it still “fit” the same, but it felt lighter. I loved it. I didn’t like it as much as the American Apparel type shirts, but it could definitely be a happy medium for all of us.
Joseph
on August 31st, 2009
Id love Fright-Rags to offer more form fitted shirts!!!
stew
on August 31st, 2009
one thing that i would like to see offered would be a work shirt style fright rag offered. Toxic Toons got em and they sale for around 35 bucks and I’ve already got two from them.
Annie
on August 31st, 2009
Don’t you guys realize that a comfy, loose fitting shirt gives you an edge when you’re being pursued by monsters, zombies, and aliens?!?
Tim Metayer
on August 31st, 2009
I concur with the other fine fellows who advocated the use of American Apparel. I actually didn’t purchase the new “They Live” shirt in an effort to not support companies that exploit their native workforce. Plus my pecs are taut, and the AA shirts fit like they were made for tiny women. Or perhaps if there were a company that provided sweatshop-free clothing. Either way seems like a good way to go.
C. Bernal
on August 31st, 2009
I prefer softer, more breathable, tees- not necessarily “form-fitting” but the softer they are they do tend to fit that way. Over the past few years I typically find my favorite shirts called “vintage”. i was also always partial to “screen-stars tees”, and Jockeys. The Gildan shirts are nice, but they are pretty hot in the warmer months. Just a personal thing.
KidKobun
on August 31st, 2009
Form-fitting FTW!
Not all horror fans like wearing beefy-tees. ( -_-)
Stephane
on August 31st, 2009
As one person said, I think I wont vote because none of the choices fit what I would like to vote for…that is: I would click on something like “same quality” but more form fitting. I too, think that the Gildan are, well, super quality, no doubts, but I feel the sleeves are too long…
Anyway, great work, still…no matter what you do man, I will still buy!!
But, thanx a bunch for asking us!
Matthew Orsman
on August 31st, 2009
Ben—
As you know, I am an oversized guy. I wear a 5x, (and would get a 6 if you offered one to account for shrinkage — plus I like a bigger shirt) but of all the shirts I have purchased from you, my favorite one to war as far as the feel and fit of it was your Ltd. ed. Ultimate f13 shirt. I know you had to go with a different brand of shirt to do that kind of printing… What was that?
Eric
on August 31st, 2009
Hi!
First off, I have to say that Gildan are NOT consistent throughout their sizes. I wear small tees and some of the shirts fit really well while some others fit more like medium.s.. That said, I find that to be the same for all brands of t-shirts.
So it doens’t really matter what brand you use, I’ll buy them anyhow.
Buuut I guess that Fruit of the Loom and Jerzees usually seems to be a bit better, more form fitting!
Jon
on August 31st, 2009
The designs are the best on the market here at Fright-Rags. I’ve just been getting the hit & miss a bit with shirt quality though. The neck/collar stitching on my F13 special edition shirt started coming out after one wash & my Cujo shirt (one of my faves I own) has sleeve stitching coming apart now. I’m very meticulous with my shirts too. I even hang dry most of ‘em.
I agree with the AAA (Alstyle appearal & activwear). I have quite a few shirts printed on these & they outlast all the others.They retain there qualities after washing. They are slightly longer so you don’t end up looking like you’re wearing a half-shirt when you lift your arms. The neck stays tight & they are a little more slim-fitting without lbeing so tight they look like you borrowed it from your 12 year old sister.
The Gildan’s always seem too wide for me & they shrink up. I still have a creepshow “hold my breath” shirt that I hardly wear because it feels like i’m in a tent. Anvil shirts are hit & miss, some I have are perfect & others are horrible shrinkfests that I never wear again.
I hope my rant doesn’t sound like i’m an ass. I just really love the shirts here, but I’ve gotten very picky about ordering lately.
Thanks for the time
-Jon
TracyQ
on August 31st, 2009
Fright-Rags shirts are the only horror shirts I own that haven’t gone to total shreds after multiple wears and washes. Dobn’t change a thing, please!
However, if you have other ideas, I would be very interested in reading about them. FR certainly knows what they are doing!
Ben
on August 31st, 2009
Just so everyone is aware, I will not sacrifice quality. So even if I make a change, it won’t be for something inferior. I know the people that are posting about their love of Gildan is because they hold up. IF I make a change, it will be after rigorously testing the new tees by printing on them as well as washing the crap out of them.
That said, it seems as though most people don’t mind the general fit of the Gildan shirt. That’s one of the reasons why I left that as a choice but with the inclusion of a “softer” shirt. If you don’t mind the Gildan “fit” would you mind an almost identical shirt only a bit nicer to the touch?
Seems to me that’s where this debate is heading…
eric
on August 31st, 2009
Go for the form fitted! I dug my t-shirt until i washed it and it just didnt fit the same… Go for American Apparel
William
on August 31st, 2009
I’d easily concede it’s true that for many customers they have no reason to request or even be interested in a complete switch over of shirts to a new style/brand/fit. I don’t think any one has seriously proposed this. At this point the poll would indicate a complete switchover is not going to solve anything. The problem is, if you’re trying to appease the people who’re requesting different types of shirts you can’t replace any style outright because you’ll end up aggravating the people who prefer the old style of shirt.
The shirts you do sell are good quality. I’ve never had a problem with them in that regard. The only criticism, and it’s more of a wish, that I’ve ever had is for you to stock multiple styles of shirt. Because of the wide variety of body shapes a single cut of shirt is not going to fit everyone correctly or more importantly to their preference. It’s due to both build and preference that I think as fright-rags grows you’ll find a widening audience of people who would be absolutely elated to have an option to purchase your shirts in at least one other kind of cut. I would seriously consider repurchasing designs I already own if you offered them in a softer more tight fitting cut!
Also if we’re throwing around brand names American Apparel is probably my first choice.
I think the success of instituting any kind of change will come with the introduction of more options, not a simple switch. It’s that point I’d stress above all else.
MIke
on August 31st, 2009
Hemp shirts last forever!
Brad
on August 31st, 2009
The shirts in my opinion are perfect. They keep color well and are a nice quality. I say don’t change them. And please don’t change the hoodies. They are the best i have ever worn. Awesome zippers.
Brian
on August 31st, 2009
i bought a “the thing” shirt and it was on an anvil shirt and i hate how it fits. its to short and thick. i have 3 gildan shirts they seem to realy hold up well. i think its good to keep gildan. but if you had the option for some more form fitting softer shirts i think for i would pay a little more for them.
PS: i love the new “they live” shirt but i am already sick of people asking me if i have bubble gum.
thanks
brianw
Supreme*Sicko
on August 31st, 2009
I think the quality of the shirts you have now is excellent. They look and feel great. My only complaint is that certaint designs I’ve bought have a bit of difference in sizes (such as the Zombie vs Shark And Fluffy designs are tighter fitting than others i bought in the same order) other than that I’m cool with keeping with what your doing.
Leah A.
on August 31st, 2009
I initially loved Fright-Rags shirts partially because of the way they fit. Now I love them because they’ve held up like beasts — no holes, hems intact, minimal to no fading.
KEEP THE FIT.
I don’t care if they’re softer, but in my experience, those trendy softer, fitted shirts are only flattering on slim/athletic people AND tend to get holes and unraveled hems easily. One reason why I own more Fright-Rags shirts than Threadless shirts.
Justin
on August 31st, 2009
I’d definitely prefer something softer and something more form-fitting as well. If I had to sacrifice one of those two qualities though, I’d sacrifice the form-fitting, if it means I could get a softer shirt. I love the Fright Rags tees but compared to some of the other shirts I wear, the softness just doesn’t compare. Go soft.
barry
on August 31st, 2009
most fatty americans fit the gildan stuff. i, for one, prefer a fit that’s slimmer, more modern and lighter weight. american apparel, for instance.
wanna look like a dinner bell? keep wearing those fruit of the loom/gildans.
windsor
on August 31st, 2009
big shirts belong on rednecks. let’s go with the slimmer stuff, ben!
OSH MCFATZ
on August 31st, 2009
I dig da way they are now but i mostly buy 4x but can easily wear a 3x . I think if u switched I may buy a couple of form fitting type 3x jus for a change. I LOVE BEIN FAT. Jus keep dealin out those grusome screen prints that you do so well.
Tia Galati
on August 31st, 2009
ok…well my 1st fright rags shirt i bought at a monster mania convention in nj…” ur so cool brewster”…at 1 st it was great but after 2 washes…the collar got all big and the bottom all big too…and considering i am top heavy with the boobs…i look crazee in it. now i sleep in it. recently i bought some other shirts..they actually shrunk a little…so not bad. if u put the option for a softer type of shirt i would definitely buy it …even if it was a little more expensive. the shirt doesnt have to be a second skin and shit…but i dont want to fit 8 people in it either. whatever u decide…i will still buy it dude.
Joe
on August 31st, 2009
As a big guy I say stick with what you got. I hate change and I know that if you switch I will be taking my business elsewhere. I’m sure a lot of others will agree and join in with me.
John
on August 31st, 2009
Keep it the same. I love my Fright-Rags just the way they are!
Moe
on September 1st, 2009
Old Navy sells these black undershirts 2 for 10 bucks.
They wash well, fit better, are super soft, and last forever.
Just a suggestion…
Cheap and good shirts.
Brett (aus)
on September 1st, 2009
hey ben,
i will still buy from your site regardless so i’m not so concerned about which you change to. a problem i’ve found with american apparel is sometimes the shirt can stretch or shrink but the printing will not. the shirts fucked then. If you’ve got something that works and isn’t causing any problems stick with it. And some guys should toughen up, whats with all this soft shirt shit? hahaha
rock out
Bill N.
on September 1st, 2009
I have found that I prefer the Anvil brand shirts because at size 3X they fit better without being overly long in the body or sleeves. They are also a little thinner and softer. The Gildan shirts are also a little stiffer, but they are well made and probably will last longer. I own six Fright Rags shirts, two Anvil and four Gildan. The Anvil shirts get worn more often. I would suggest going with the Anvil shirts for your main supply, but any shirt that is the same quality as what you now offer and that doesn’t get funky with the proportions in the larger sizes will do. I’ll have 20 more of your shirts before I’m through regardless.
Misery Records
on September 1st, 2009
Huwarghhhh….Bennnn !!
The clash war topic that create by Ben…hahahaha..
I think the best way is from S till XL used an
American Apparel because all the thin / small user
need it on form fit,soft cotton !! Very suits with their small size…
And from 2XL till 5XL or whateva bigger size,
u can make it on Gildan / Fruits Of The Loom because
this Heavy Cotton Tee was suits for a BIG GUYS like
me too..Gigantic and Monster user….hahahaha
So,both side Will Agree and No More Blood on this page…hahaha….
FRIGHT RAGS The Best !!
Jen
on September 1st, 2009
I just want to say that I love your shirts and Fright Rags is the only place I get my horror shirts. I would like to be able to get tank tops though. I usually only wear tank tops all summer and would love to sport the Fright rags all year long! Besides that keep up the GREAT work and can’t wait for the new designs!!
glenn
on September 1st, 2009
I see there’s a lot of opinions on this.I love the shirts,so whatever you go with is fine.Only one thing i would suggest is that the sleeves not be so big.i don’t have big arms,just an average guy and the sleeves make my arms look like sicks,so just make the sleeves a little smaller and it will be just fine.
Jimmy Pop Harris
on September 1st, 2009
First off… I love Frigt Rags. I have 4 shirts that are of excellent quality, have not diminished in quality since I bought them, have not flaked or pulled apart. My only criticism is the size (not form fitting) and the neck has seemed to stretch with age (even though I’ve followed precise cleaning instructions).
While form fitting would be nice and the collar not stretching would be nice these two issues would not stop me from buying another shirt and in fact I hope to buy a new one soon.
Let’s work on some Hammer horror designs. I could really use a Dr. Terror’s House of Horrors shirt.
Yakobie
on September 1st, 2009
I would love an option for a “Hip-Hop” style T-shirt because I like the longer length and the smaller collar, I would buy just about every shirt you had if you had this style as an option!
Also long-sleeves in the Horror T-shirts section would be awesome.
Joey
on September 1st, 2009
I’m not into soft shirts, I prefer them the way you have them. The only complaint I have is that the collar stretches too wide after a while… none the less, I enjoy the shirts.
carey leigh
on September 1st, 2009
My 2 cents… I was in an all girl band and we ranged in size from stick thin to a shade over weight. Our favorite brand was Fruit of the Loom Best & Heavy. Those 2 kinds seem to fit a wide range of body types and are soft and durable. The Best line is softer, but the Heavy isn’t too bad.
Jason Oestreicher
on September 1st, 2009
I’d definitely prefer a softer material and different cut. As many have mentioned above me, the current shirts have that short/boxy fit after a while. It pains me, but most of my Fright Rags tees end up sitting in the closet and only come out for special occasions.
If you went with a softer material, make it a bit more form fitting, I’d rebuy a bunch of my shirts and wear them a lot more.
Jesse H
on September 2nd, 2009
Hi Ben,
Good to see this is up for debate. I don’t mind Gildan but the quality is hit and miss, and the feel is very rough, even after using fabric softener. I think there are better options. I recently bought a “Back to the future” shirt printed on a Alstyle shirt and it was a better fit and softer. I wear it alot. I never have had a AA shirt so I have no opinion about that. I love the horror art designs here and probably would buy more if they were printed on a more reliable tee. Good luck!
joshua
on September 2nd, 2009
I’ve only had trouble with one shirt I’ve purchased through you. A Nosferatu shirt became unraveled at the hem around the bottom… not a big deal, but I don’t wear the shirt.
Ben
on September 2nd, 2009
When did you order it? That shouldn’t have happened… Email me…
Anthony
on September 2nd, 2009
I’m not terribly big on “form fitting” shirts as I don’t think I really have the best body type, lol. However, Iif Fright-Rags does choose to switch to a thinner, softer, material I won’t be discouraged and will still be a loyal customer.
Marvin
on September 2nd, 2009
Hey Ben, I love the shirts just the way they are. The vintage and the regular shirts are great. If you want to make’em softer, that’s fine, but don’t change the fit. You know the old saying, if it aint broke don’t fix it. Keep up the great work.
Ben
on September 2nd, 2009
********** UPDATE **********
I just got in the Alstyle shirt today and I have to say, I’m impressed. The fit is THE SAME as the Gildan shirts, but the fabric just feels better…higher quality… I may be doing some more tests, but i think this one would appeal to the most people.
"BISIE"
on September 2nd, 2009
I think you shirt’s straight the way they are it wouldn’t hurt to get some a little softer but I think these one’s are fine maybe start off with a couple of test one’s and sell a limited supply I’ll be the first one to buy one from you.
Felicia
on September 3rd, 2009
I would actually buy both. I love what you have now because I modify my shirts when I receive them. This brand always seems to stay intact for years. Maybe you should just have both brands? ; )
Jesse H
on September 3rd, 2009
Ben!! If Alstyle is good enough for “Back to the future”… one of the greatest franchises ever, it should be good enough for Fright Rags! Go man go!
I will agree that the fit is similar but not exactly the same. Since I only have the one shirt I don’t really know about consistency. I will say between my gildan XL and Alstyle XL my Alstyle fits a little bit better. Overall, they are similar but have enough differences where it counts.
Justin Z
on September 4th, 2009
Hey Ben I have a shirt for the Band Skinless and its gotta be one of the most high quality shirts I have and it holds the ink well, and is so freaking comfortable. The actual shirt is a “Hanes Tagless 6.1″ well at least thats what it says, and its just so comfortable and I wear it allot and even my girlfriend wore it for awhile, even with her mom washing ti with cheap detergent it keeps good color and best of all NO HOLES! I have this problem allot with Jinx shirt I get, they seem to get a ton of holes. I mean the shirts you use now are nice and they don’t get holes, but sometimes I dunno they just don’t feel comfortable.
I think you should look into the “Hanes Tagless 6.1″ I really do. feel free to email me if you would like to ask any questions, absolutely love your designs keep it up man!
TheCryptOrchid
on September 4th, 2009
it may be too much… but it would be excellent if there were a “girl tee” option, for more form fitting shirts.
David C
on September 4th, 2009
I haven’t gotten an of the new shirts because I do not like the fit of the shirts I have. I am a smaller dude and like shirts that fit my body. American Apparel x-small and small are my favorites. Fruit of the Loom Heavy Cotton small is a pretty good one too, most of the time. Sometimes they are larger than normal for some reason. I do love the designs and support the company 100%
Rob
on September 6th, 2009
Go with what works. I’ve seen it too many times that everyone wants change & once you change the shirts people will be saying they liked the old one’s better & will stop buying. Why not keep your old shirt’s & also offer the new shirts giving people a choice. If they don’t like the new shirt they can always order another shirt that is the orignal style.
People love choice
Wil
on September 10th, 2009
I like the idea of form fitting, softer shirts, but I see where some people dislike the idea of a “high end” type of shirt, I say it’s up to you Ben, if you feel you can strike a neutral ground with a specific brand of shirt (By the sounds of it, Alstyle hits the mark) go for it!
As long as the shirts don’t go past $20, I’m happy
Matt
on September 27th, 2009
Gildan brand t-shirts just plain suck. They are made for short fat people and the sleeves are too long. Not only are the sleeves too long, but they stick out and make you look like you have wings and are gonna fly away or something. Dont like ‘em at all.
A.B:
on September 30th, 2009
Hey Ben! Did you use a regular Gildan shirt for the NOTLD limited edition shits? Mine feels…eh, different. Not like an American Apparel obviously (which I love) but it didn’t feel like a regular Gildan shirt either (with the weird fit and sand paper feel).
Ben
on October 1st, 2009
Yup – it’s a Gildan shirt. Slightly different weight, though, Why, did you like it?
A.B:
on October 1st, 2009
Well…it feels a lot better than regular Gildan shirts. I still prefer AA shirts tho but yeah, I liked it…I can say I’ll wear it until it disintegrates . Dunno about those “Alstyle” shirts but if they’re something in between, then I’ll keep buying shirts. I haven’t bought shirts from you because they were printed on Gildan shirts but I took my chances with that NOTLD because the design was just awesome.
Anyway, I ranted a lot and the point is, your shirts rock and I think you should use at least something different for those limited editions, you know, just to keep everyone happy.
Joe
on January 8th, 2010
As some other folks have mentioned, I’ve also held off on buying any of your shirts until a better quality tee is used. Now, I’m a big guy. I stand at 6’5″ and I weigh nearly 290lbs but I still prefer American Apparel.
American Apparel shirts do run small but as a standard most tee shirt distributors suggest ordering one size larger. I normally wear a 2x so with American Apparel I always order a 3x. I probably own close to 20 American Apparel tees and they are all great, very soft and believe it or not, they rarely shrink!
Blank Shirts
on May 25th, 2010
I love Alstyle shirts. You really can’t beat the quality of the fabric.