Live a Tahoe Day Apparel Quality
Quality and softness are the most frequent comments we hear from our customers. We buy our blank apparel items from leading apparel companies that embrace responsible and sustainable business practices. Before we print any of our designs, we always order samples. Quality affects not only the comfort of our apparel items, but it also determines how well our print designs will look when you first buy them as well as over time. So, we decided to share with you the “ingredients” that contribute to the comfort and value of our products for your enjoyment!
How Apparel Fabric is Made
Ring-spun Cotton
Ring-spun cotton is created by an innovative spinning process that softens and straightens each cotton fiber. The more times the fiber is twisted, the softer and smoother the fabric. The spinning process also results in a tighter more durable knit and tends to last longer. Ring-spun cotton is commonly described as “30 Singles Ring-Spun.” This term is used to indicate the diameter of the yarn. The higher the number, the thinner and softer the yarn.
Combed and Ring-spun Cotton
In addition to the ring-spun process, the cotton in some apparel items is also combed to further remove impurities and shorter fibers. The stronger, longer fibers that remain result in a smoother, softer finished product for better printing quality and superior comfort.
Airlume Combed and Ring-spun Cotton
Airlume signature cotton from Bella+Canvas takes combed cotton a step further by removing 2.5x more impurities in the cotton than standard combed cotton. Bella+Canvas then spins only the longest cotton fibers resulting in a premium soft product ideal for screen printing and comfort.
Single Count
What is a single count anyway! A single count refers to the number of times the fabric fiber is spun/twisted into shape. In the apparel industry single counts generally range from 18-40. Entry level cotton products are typically in the 18-20 range and a 30 count (30s) is considered to be a premium quality. A single count determines the softness of an apparel item. The higher the number, the finer, softer and thinner the shirt. A higher single count also results in a better print quality and fabric that is less likely to fade, look fuzzy or tear.
Fabric Content
Cotton
Cotton is a natural plant-based fiber and the most common fabric found in apparel. It is breathable and durable, but lacks moisture-wicking qualities.
Jersey
Jersey is a single-knit cotton fabric that’s known for its stretch and softness. Jersey fabric does not wrinkle easily because its characteristic stretch lets it keep its shape.
Heather
Color effect created by blending two or more colors of fiber or yarn.
Blends
T-shirts that are a combination of two or three different materials are known as blends. Some of the more common blends are Cotton/Polyester and Cotton/Polyester/Rayon (triblend). A Cotton/Polyester blend results in a fabric that remains cool and light from the cotton, plus it has the moisture-wicking, strength and wrinkle resistant qualities of polyester. Triblends have the comfort of cotton, shape retention of the polyester, and the rayon allows the fabric to drape against the body for a slimming look. A triblend is typically lightweight, stretchy and more loose fitting.
Polyester
Polyester is a man-made durable fabric that stands up to repeated washing and wearing. It is lightweight with a silkier feel than cotton. Polyester resists stains well, is not prone to shrinking or wrinkling and has great moisture wicking-qualities (releases moisture and dries quickly).
Rayon
Rayon is a fabric created as a substitute for silk. It is made out of trees, cotton and woody plants. It has a breathable, silky hand and is more prone to wrinkles. Rayon is typically 25% of the fiber found in triblends.
Canvas
Live a Tahoe Day market totes are made from 100% organic canvas fabric. Canvas is a very durable and long-lasting material.
Weight
T-shirts range in weight from light (3-4 oz.), to standard (5-6 oz.) up to a heavier (7-8 oz.). Triblends tend to be on the lighter end of the scale.
Types of Fabric
Upland Cotton
Upland is the most common type of cotton. 90% of all cotton production is from Upland cotton.
Organic
Any type of cotton that is grown without the use of chemicals or genetic engineering is organic. These fabrics will cost more than the faster, more environmentally taxing counterparts.
Bamboo Viscose
Bamboo viscose is a very sustainable man-made fabric from the fibers of the bamboo plant. It has a soft, silky feel, breathes well, moisture-wicking properties and is very durable.
Quality and customer care are values that drive and motivate our team. We always encourage customers who visit our shop in Tahoe City to pick up items and try them on. So please stop by and say hello or Contact us with any questions regarding our products!
Live a Tahoe Day 
