CVC vs TC vs Polyester: What’s Best for Uniforms and Basics?

CVC vs TC vs Polyester: What’s Best for Uniforms and Basics?

When producing uniforms, merch, or entry-level basics, fabric cost and durability matter just as much as look and feel. That’s where CVC, TC, and 100% polyester fabrics come into play.

At HEM APPAREL, we help clients balance price, comfort, and longevity by choosing the right blended fabric for each use case.


🧵 What Are These Blends?

  • CVC (Chief Value Cotton): Cotton-rich blend, usually 60/40 or 65/35 cotton-poly

  • TC (Tetron Cotton): Polyester-rich blend, usually 65/35 or 80/20 poly-cotton

  • 100% Polyester: Fully synthetic, lightweight, and moisture-wicking


📊 Comparison Table

Feature CVC (Cotton-Heavy) TC (Poly-Heavy) 100% Polyester
Comfort ✅ Soft, breathable Moderate ❌ Less breathable
Durability High ✅ Very high ✅ Extremely durable
Price Mid-range ✅ Lower cost ✅ Lowest cost
Shrinkage ✅ Minimal ✅ Minimal ❌ None (can feel stiff)
Best Use Case Uniforms, promo tees Workwear, merch, bags Sportswear, giveaways

💡 How to Choose?

Choose CVC if:

  • You want a soft handfeel

  • You’re making T-shirts that people will wear often

  • Comfort is still a priority

Choose TC if:

  • You want a slightly stiffer, durable finish

  • You’re printing promo apparel or work uniforms

  • Budget is tighter

Choose 100% Polyester if:

  • You need quick-dry performance (sportswear)

  • You're doing sublimation printing

  • It’s for giveaways or bulk merch at scale


🧠 HEM APPAREL’s Tip:

  • For schoolwear or retail basics → CVC is the most balanced

  • For printing-heavy campaigns → TC resists wrinkling and holds color

  • For outdoor uniforms or sportswear → poly mesh or poly interlock work best

We’ll help test for shrinkage, weight, and print compatibility before production.

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