Comfort Colors T-Shirt Size Chart (1717): Inches & CM

The Comfort Colors 1717 medium measures 20.25 inches wide and 28 inches long, laid flat. Comfort Colors makes a relaxed-fit, garment-dyed cotton tee, and the 1717 is its best-known style. The chart below gives the size measurements in inches and centimeters, shows how the 1717 compares with a Gildan 5000, and lists the DTF print widths that suit each size.

Comfort Colors 1717 size chart

Measurements are flat width (seam to seam across the chest) and body length. They are from the published 1717 chart; a shirt can vary by up to an inch because the garment is dyed and washed after it is sewn.

Does Comfort Colors run small?

No, the 1717 does not run small. Comfort Colors describes it as a relaxed fit, and the medium is a little wider than a Gildan 5000 medium and a little shorter. Most buyers order their usual size. If you want the oversized look that Comfort Colors is popular for, order one size up. The fabric is prewashed to reduce shrinkage at home, but no cotton tee is guaranteed to stay exactly the same size through every wash and dry cycle.

Comfort Colors 1717 vs Gildan 5000

The 1717 is heavier and softer, but its body length is an inch shorter, so a long graphic sits a little lower on a Comfort Colors than the same print on a Gildan. See the Gildan size chart guide, the blank apparel sizing comparison and the Bella+Canvas 3001 vs 3413 vs Comfort Colors comparison for the wider picture. Our unisex t-shirt size chart lists the standard chart for other brands.

DTF print width by size

A good starting point for a full-front transfer is a width that leaves a few inches of shirt on each side. The adult widths in the placement size chart are 11 to 12 inches wide for a full front, and 3.5 to 4 inches for a left chest. On the smaller sizes, scale down, so the print does not run into the sleeve seam. The placement calculator shows any transfer size on any shirt.

Because the shirt is garment-dyed and soft, pre-press it for 3 to 5 seconds and press at standard cotton settings: 300 to 325°F for 10 to 15 seconds at medium-firm pressure with a cold peel. Follow your transfer supplier's sheet if it differs. Test one shirt first, as garment-dyed colors can shift slightly under heat.

Where to buy Comfort Colors blanks

Comfort Colors sells above Gildan and Hanes, and wholesale pricing falls on a full case. Distributors often discount closeout colors. Our blank apparel sizing comparison lists the common sources, and the wholesale blank apparel guide compares them.

Frequently asked questions

What size is a medium Comfort Colors shirt?

A medium Comfort Colors 1717 is 20.25 inches wide across the chest and 28 inches long when laid flat. That is about 51.4 by 71.1 centimeters. It is a relaxed fit, so it feels roomier than the numbers suggest.

Should I size up in Comfort Colors?

Only if you want an oversized look. The 1717 is already cut relaxed, and the medium is slightly wider than a Gildan 5000 medium. For a standard fit, order your normal size, and compare the chart with a shirt you already own.

Does Comfort Colors shrink?

The shirts are prewashed to reduce shrinkage, but they can still lose a little size in hot water and a hot dryer. Wash in cool water and tumble dry low to keep the size and the soft, faded color.

Is Comfort Colors 1717 100% cotton?

Yes, the 1717 is a 6.1 oz ring-spun cotton tee. Because it is cotton, it uses standard DTF cotton press settings, and not the lower temperature that blends and polyester need.

How does Comfort Colors compare with Bella+Canvas?

Comfort Colors is heavier at 6.1 oz against about 4.2 oz and cut roomier, while Bella+Canvas 3001 is lighter and closer-fitting. Comfort Colors suits a vintage, oversized look, and Bella+Canvas suits a modern, fitted one.