Here at Spectra, we pride ourselves on the quality of our garments, and much of that comes down to our super-soft Spectra Spun fabrics. While “Spectra Spun” and ring spun cotton may sound fancy, what does it actually mean?

Ring spun cotton uses a finer, longer yarn than open-end yarn. During the spinning process, the fibers are continuously twisted and thinned, which softens and straightens each strand. The result is a smoother, stronger, and more refined fabric.

Ring spun combed cotton takes this a step further. After spinning, the fibers are combed to remove impurities and short strands, enhancing durability and creating an even softer hand feel.

When you hear terms like “20 singles” or “30 singles,” they refer to the thickness of the yarn used in the shirt. The higher the number, the finer the yarn and the softer the fabric.

Think of it like bed sheets. Higher thread count equals better quality.

As a quick breakdown:

• 18 singles: coarse yarn, typically lower-cost tees
• 20 singles: a noticeable step up in quality and hand feel, especially when ring spun ( Style 2100 )
• 30 singles: premium softness and drape, the top tier

Most inexpensive shirts are made from 18 singles open-end yarn. Lower yarn count means thicker fibers and a rougher feel. Increase the yarn count and add ring spinning, and you get a significantly more refined t-shirt.

Spectra USA offers 20 singles as our most economical option, while roughly 95 percent of our line is made with ring-spun and combed cotton. Our 20 singles ring-spun heavyweight t-shirt is the premium choice for a classic, old-school feel.

One of the biggest advantages of 30 singles ring spun combed cotton, beyond comfort, is print performance. It is an ideal base fabric for DTG printing, screen printing, heat transfers, and even sublimation when used in blends like 52/48 cotton-poly.

Spectra USA offers a wide range of styles made with premium 30 singles ring spun yarn for men, women, juniors, and kids.

Men’s

• 3100 Men’s short sleeve crew neck, 100% cotton
• 31USA Men’s short sleeve crew neck, 100% cotton
• 3050 Men’s short sleeve crew neck, 52% cotton / 48% polyester
• 3055 Men’s long sleeve crew neck, 100% cotton or 52/48 blend
• 3105 Men’s short sleeve V-neck, 100% cotton
• 3400SS Men’s short sleeve crew neck, 50% organic cotton / 50% recycled polyester
• 2007 Men’s tank top, 100% cotton or 52/48 blend

Ladies

• 8600 Ladies short sleeve crew neck, 100% cotton or 52/48 blend
• 8862 Juniors short sleeve crew neck, 100% cotton
• 8500 Juniors V-neck, 100% cotton

Kids

• 3250 Kids short sleeve crew neck, 52% cotton / 48% polyester

If you have technical questions about t-shirts or fabrics, please email Sales@SpectraUSA.net. We endeavor to answer all inquiries.

Article written by Brian McLaughlin.