How to Learn T-Shirt Design and Printing Online: Best Courses for Beginners
If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own T-shirt line or simply want to design and print T-shirts for fun, now is the perfect time to start. Thanks to online learning platforms, you can now learn T-shirt design and printing from expert instructors—without setting foot in a classroom.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or a budding creative entrepreneur, this guide breaks down the top-rated online T-shirt design courses that will teach you everything from digital design to printing techniques—and even how to launch your own T-shirt brand.
Why Learn T-Shirt Design and Printing?
The custom T-shirt market is booming—expected to reach over $10 billion globally in the next few years. More people are turning to print-on-demand (POD) and side hustles, and with platforms like Etsy, Redbubble, and Shopify, launching a T-shirt brand has never been easier.
But to stand out, you need skills: A sharp eye for design, knowledge of printing methods, and an understanding of what sells. That’s where a good online course can be a game-changer.
Top Online Courses for T-Shirt Design and Printing
Based on in-depth research, we’ve reviewed the two most popular and practical online courses for learning T-shirt creation. Each caters to different learning styles and budget preferences.
1. T-Shirt Typography Design by Joaquín Lluis (Domestika)
- Platform: Domestika
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Duration: 3 hours 13 minutes (16 lessons)
- Price: $84.99 (often discounted)
This course is perfect if you’re drawn to visual storytelling and want to master the art of typography for T-shirt design.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to design and compose custom typefaces
- Basics of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for T-shirt mockups
- Creating designs with cultural references and emotions
Pros:
- Easy-to-follow structure and downloadable resources
- Lifetime access to materials
- Affordable with sales and bundle packages
Cons:
- Focuses mostly on typography, not all-over designs
- May require Adobe software (included trial available)
2. T-Shirt Design Workshop 01: Foundation by Ray Dombroski (Skillshare)
- Platform: Skillshare
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Price: Included in Skillshare Premium ($15/month)
This workshop is ideal if you’re interested in both design technique and the manufacturing process behind custom T-shirts.
What You’ll Learn:
- History of T-shirt design and screen printing methods
- Designing with specialty inks, color separation, and graphics
- Setting up your own screen-printing process at home
Pros:
- Hands-on demos and print technique breakdowns
- Perfect if you plan to DIY print or start a side hustle
- Available under a free trial (first month free)
Cons:
- Limited access if Skillshare subscription ends
- Less focus on marketing your T-shirt brand
Udemy Option: T-Shirt Design Mastery
Another strong contender is the T-Shirt Design Mastery course on Udemy, which provides a broader foundation for digital design, branding, and selling online.
- Beginner-friendly
- Lifetime access with a one-time purchase
- Covers design tools like Photoshop and Canva
This is an ideal choice for learners who want to integrate creative tools with entrepreneurship and build a scalable income stream.
Who Are These Courses Best For?
Choose a T-shirt design course if you are:
- A creative hobbyist wanting to design custom T-shirts
- An aspiring entrepreneur ready to start a POD business
- A freelance designer expanding your product offerings
- Looking for a side hustle that involves both art and business
Is Investing in a T-Shirt Design Course Worth It?
In short—yes. A well-structured course can fast-track your progress, build your confidence, and give you real-world design skills that can turn into income. At an affordable price point (especially during sales or free trial periods), these courses offer high value without the heavy price tag of traditional design programs.
Things to Consider Before Enrolling
- Your goals: Want to design for fun or build a business?
- Your budget: One-time payment or monthly subscription?
- Your tools: Do you have design software, or will you need free alternatives like Canva?
Whatever your reason for diving into T-shirt design, there’s a course out there that fits your learning style and business ambitions.
Final Thoughts: Which Course Should You Choose?
If you’re into creative design and want to master typography, T-Shirt Typography Design (Domestika) is a sleek, artistic choice. If you’re more interested in hands-on printing and process, T-Shirt Design Workshop (Skillshare) offers a strong foundation.
However, for a more versatile and budget-friendly entry point—especially if you’re aiming to sell designs online—the T-Shirt Design Mastery course on Udemy combines design, branding, and sales into one flexible package.
With the right course, a bit of creativity, and some marketing hustle, you can turn a simple idea into eye-catching wearables—and maybe even your next business venture.