The G500 and 3001C are the two most-used blanks in DTF printing. Both are 100% cotton. Both accept DTF transfers without pre-treatment. The differences in weight, cotton type, fit, and press behavior are real and affect which blank is right for a given order type.
Fabric and Weight
The G500 is 5.3 oz/yd² open-end carded cotton. Open-end spinning produces a slightly coarser, more textured yarn. The 3001C is 4.2 oz/yd² combed ring-spun cotton. Ring-spun yarn is tighter, smoother, and softer because the combing step removes short fibers before spinning.
The practical difference for DTF: the smoother 3001C surface gives finer edge definition on small or detailed transfers. On transfers 4 inches and larger, the difference is minimal. On transfers under 2 inches (small chest logos, sleeve prints, tags), the 3001C produces noticeably cleaner edges.
Press Settings
G500: 320–325°F, 12–15 seconds, medium-firm pressure, hot peel. The heavier weight needs more dwell time to push heat through to the adhesive layer.
3001C: 315–325°F, 10–12 seconds, medium pressure, cold peel. The lighter weight transfers heat faster and the ring-spun surface releases the film more cleanly with a cold peel.
On heather G500 colorways (50/50 blend): drop to 300–310°F and use a Teflon sheet. On Athletic Heather 3001C (90/10): press at 315–320°F with Teflon. Both blanks have colorway-specific blend variants that require lower temperatures.
Wash Durability
Both hold DTF transfers through 50+ cold-wash cycles when applied at correct settings. The G500's heavier weight and denser weave provide slightly more structural support for the transfer layer, which matters for prints washed frequently in commercial laundry contexts. For retail-quality garments washed by end consumers at home, the difference is not meaningful.
Fit and End Use
The G500 has a classic straight body with set-in sleeves. It runs true to size and is familiar to most buyers. The 3001C has a semi-fitted cut with a shorter body and slightly narrower chest. It runs about half a size smaller than the G500.
End-use distinction: the G500 is the go-to for promotional, event, team, and uniform orders where cost per piece and color availability drive the decision. The 3001C is preferred for retail-quality finished garments, boutique brands, and DTC orders where the buyer is paying for the perceived quality of the blank itself.
Colorway Availability
The G500 is available in 65+ colors, including many discontinued shades that remain in distributor stock. The 3001C has a similar range (60+ active colors) with a stronger selection of fashion-forward and heathered tones. Both carry standard colors (white, black, navy, grey) in consistent dye lots across the full size run.
Wholesale Cost
At wholesale, the 3001C typically costs 30–50% more per unit than the G500 depending on quantity tier. For a shop selling finished garments, the higher blank cost is offset by a higher retail price ceiling. For a shop decorating at cost for a client paying per piece, the G500 margin math is stronger.
Which to Stock
Stock both. The G500 handles 70–80% of DTF orders by volume in most shops — bulk runs, event shirts, uniform programs. The 3001C handles the remaining portion where fit, hand feel, and retail-quality presentation matter.
If you are starting with one blank, start with the G500. It covers more order types, has lower inventory cost per unit, and presses faster. Add the 3001C once your order mix requires it.
Both are available wholesale at TheClothingSpace. DTF transfers to press on either blank ship next business day with no minimums. For full application specs across all fabric types, see the DTF Temperature and Pressure Guide.
