Why We Print on Comfort Colors 1717 Heavyweight Tees

A masterpiece deserves a canvas that feels considered. That is why every Vintage Art Wear design is now printed on the Comfort Colors 1717 heavyweight tee in garment-dyed Ivory.

Why the Comfort Colors 1717

The 1717 is made from 6.1 oz. 100% ring-spun cotton. It has more substance and structure than a lightweight promotional tee, while the garment-dye and wash process gives it a soft, broken-in feel from the beginning. The relaxed unisex shape is easy to wear, and details such as twill-taped neck and shoulders and durable double-needle stitching help it stand up to repeat wear.

In short: this is not an afterthought beneath the artwork. It is a premium shirt chosen to become a favorite.

Why garment-dyed Ivory works with vintage art

Ivory gives historic artwork a warm, quiet ground without the starkness of bright white. Garment dyeing adds the subtle tonal character and lived-in attitude we want beside century-old posters, lithographs, paintings, and woodblock prints. The fabric and artwork feel like they belong together.

Our print approach preserves the softly aged character of the source instead of forcing every image to look newly manufactured. Fine linework remains visible, muted colors keep their depth, and the print feels integrated with the shirt rather than sitting on top as a stiff plastic panel.

Fit and care

The Comfort Colors 1717 has a relaxed unisex fit. Choose your usual size for the intended relaxed shape, size down for a closer fit, or size up for an oversized look. Because the garment is pre-shrunk during the dye and wash process, shrinkage at home should be minimal when cared for properly.

Wash inside out in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid bleach and high heat. Air drying is best for longevity, though tumble drying on low also works.

A better frame for every piece

We restore every artwork with care and print each shirt to order in our Ohio shop. Moving to the Comfort Colors 1717 lets the physical product match that level of attention: heavyweight, soft, durable, and already carrying the easy character of something worth keeping.