These Shirts, They Are a Changin’…
2010 is going to be big…I can feel it. There are so many ideas I have, so many things in the works, and so many designs on our “to do” list. Simply put, stay tuned for our most awesomest year yet! Ok, “awesomest” isn’t a word, I know…but it seemed to fit. Anyway, keep reading to find out more of what we will doing this year, starting with the very shirt on your back…
“I’d rather explain the price than apologize for the quality.”
- Michael Hess, Skooba Design
I worked for Skooba Design (a company that specializes in high-end laptop bags) for over 5 years before leaving to pursue Fright-Rags full time. That quote above was sort of our mantra while I was there, it helped put into perspective what the company was trying to do with it’s products and services. Every time someone would complain that our prices were too high, Michael (the owner), would graciously take the time to explain to them the quality and construction of the bag, from the reversed zippers (for better waterproofing) all the way down to the gauge of nylon used for the bag’s shell and how it was more durable than the lighter, cheaper bags found elsewhere. And it wasn’t just some bullshit jargon to try and win someone over – it was factual information based on the extensive amount of research and experience that went into developing those products (which have a lifetime guarantee, by the way). I’ve always loved that quote and the more I think about those words, the more I realize it is time for a change in our own products…
WHY THE CHANGE?
When I first started Fright-Rags, I simply wanted to create kick-ass horror shirts that were different than anything else available at the time. My focus has always been on providing designs that were unique and spoke intelligently to the horror community I love, and not just offering something basic and bland. Much of my efforts have been primarily on design, which is obviously what sells the shirts. But I never took into consideration the types of shirts we used. When I chose Gildan initially as the brand of shirt we would print on, I did so based on their prevalence in the marketplace…after all, if so many people were using them, they should be good, right? And for the most part, they worked out great…
But as we enter our 7th year of business, I feel as though we are embarking on a journey that will take us to new heights…with an ever expanding variety of some of our best work yet. And with the dawn of this new era, I feel as though it is time to address certain issues that can no longer be ignored. While the Gildan shirts (6.1 oz) we use are a fairly well made product that stands up to wash after wash, I have become disenchanted with them over the years. They are manufactured at different factories in several different countries, which has caused inconsistencies among the sizes they offer. I’ve heard from several customers saying that the size they ordered in one shirt, fits differently than the same size they have in another design…all because one was made in a different country than the other. To put it bluntly, our designs are better than the shirts we use to put them on. And therefore, they deserve better…and you do too. And while I feel Gildan is still a quality product for the most part, I realized that it was time to consider another t-shirt to use for our designs.
So, over the past year I have been doing my own research as to what would fit our needs better. I also asked for your opinion, which you gladly gave, and I thank you for your input. Based on poll results, and your feedback from the surveys I’ve sent, there have been many who want change, and many who don’t. And although it makes it harder to decide which direction to go, I feel I have come up with a solution that addresses all concerns and is the best choice for us moving forward.
ABOUT THE NEW SHIRTS
Starting with all of our new designs, we will be printing on a new style of t-shirt, made by Alstyle. All of the new shirts will be a lighter-weight (4.5 oz for S-L and 5.5oz for XL-3XL – as compared to 6.1 oz Gildan) and 100% combed ringspun cotton. What does that mean? It means that you will get the most comfortable shirt you’ve ever worn. Seriously, you’ll want to sleep in this shirt…it’s that comfortable. As for the fit of the shirt, we are using a style that is more form-fitting for smaller sizes (S-L) and more relaxed in the larger sizes (XL-3X). As for the largest sizes (4X and 5X), those will remain basically the same, with a similar fit to what we offer now, and also made of 100% pre-shrunk cotton.
I opted to use a few different styles for a couple reasons. While I like a more tapered style, I feel that is too form-fitting when you get to larger sizes (XL-3X), and therefore not really flattering for those who wear them. So I chose a more relaxed fit (similar to our current shirts) for those larger sizes. But for smaller sizes (S-L), I felt that the standard shirt was a little too boxy, therefore I chose a more form-fitting style (like American Apparel – only better). So to re-cap, here is the breakdown of the new style, according to size:
SMALL – LARGE
- 4.5 oz
- 100% combed ringspun pre-shrunk cotton
- slightly tapered fit (similar to American Apparel)
X-LARGE – 3X-LARGE
- 5.5 oz
- 100% combed ringspun pre-shrunk cotton
- relaxed fit (similar to our current shirts)
4X-LARGE and 5X-LARGE
- 6.1 oz.
- 100% pre-shrunk cotton
HOW DOES THIS AFFECT THE PRICE?
I’m glad you asked… Yes, changing styles unfortunately means we will be raising prices.
As of February 1, all regular shirts will be priced at $19.95. But, as my former boss said, I would much rather explain to you the price than apologize for the quality. It’s this philosophy that drives everything we do at Fright-Rags. So while you will be paying more for a t-shirt after February, the quality will also be improved.
As for our current designs on the site, we will start reprinting those on our new shirts very soon…but will try to sell as much of the remaining stock as much as possible before the prices change. However, we will still have some regular shirts leftover for awhile as we phase them out. I will do my best to make note of those on the products that apply, so you’ll know which type of shirt you are getting when you order.
HOW ABOUT THE GIRL SHIRTS AND VINTAGE SHIRTS?
The girl shirts will also be going up to $19.95, and I am in the process of deciding on which shirt to use while. We currently use either Bella or American Apparel for all of our girl shirts and I would like to choose just one moving forward, so all you ladies let me know which one you prefer, ok?
As for the vintage shirts, the only change will be pricing, which will increase to $22.95 as of February 1 as the cost of printing has gone up this year. We will still be using Gildan for the majority of these shirts, but I am currently testing out other brands that are comparable to our new style, and available in as many colors as we offer in our vintage section. I will keep you posted on those…
LAST THOUGHTS…
I know that posting this rather long explanation may not have been necessary. But I personally felt the need to let you know why we are changing things…not just doing it with no explanation. The main thing I want to convey is this: I am serious when it comes to our shirts and our quality.
And while you may pay a little more for our shirts, you know that you are getting a top quality product, backed by unparalleled service. As always, your satisfaction is guaranteed. That means if you don’t like it…you get your money back. Simple as that.
As always, your feedback is not only welcomed, but important…especially when making these types of changes. So, feel free to post below any thoughts or comments you have. And as we roll out our new shirts this February, I will be looking to you to tell me what you think about them. After all, we can’t improve unless we get your feedback.
Thanks again, and stay tuned for more…soon.
- Ben
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Is there any way you could start carrying XLT shirts? I have bought a couple of your shirts and while they fit great, their length leaves em a little short.
I would love to see a 3XLT so that us taller horror fans dont get too many “crack kills” comments.
Awesome!!! This is the change I’ve been waiting for at Fright Rags. Your designs are so beautiful, but I hate heavyweight t-shirts. I don’t wear my Fright Rags shirts as much as I’d like to because they aren’t as comfortable as other shirts I have. It sounds like the new brand/style will be better, and I will happily pay the slightly higher price. Bravo!!! I just wish you could redo the Night of the Living Dead design on the new shirts!
Not too happy about this change. Honestly, I like the current shirts as they are now. Like someone said, the relaxed shirst look good on real slim guys, those who weight 160lbs or less. I am perfectly happy with the current shirts… please do not change them!
Ben,
Unlike some of these people, I am of a smaller stature and I am very happy and excited you chose to make this change. I personally prefer these new shirts having tried one on my recent purchase.
Keep up the good work,
Paul
Gildan shirts are shit and anyone who says otherwise is sadly mistaken. This is a good move and 2010 is going to be fantastic for Fright Rags.
Thanks for not making the XXL shirts “emo cut” that are tight as hell with the shorter sleeves. Even though I wear a XXL it’s not like I’m a huge fat ass and my stomach hangs out, it’s just that those shirts are uncomfortable to wear and that seems to be what EVERYBODY is printing on these days. I’m 6 feet tall and just an all around bigger guy, the “emo cut” looks bad on anyone above a size med, not to mention that cut is always uncomfortably tight around the underarms and shoulders/neck. A couple shirts I own that are cut like that feel as though they’re on backwards, if that makes sense. It’s one reason I don’t order shirts online and one reason Fright-Rags has been one of the places I do order from. Anyway, enough about the “emo cut” shirts, I just how long my post is, lol.
Thanks again and keep up the good work. Wreckhouse Magazine and myself personally will always support you d00d.
I just wanted to say that i love how you keep us all informed on what’s going on. You have a great relationship with you customers because of this. As for my input on the change i’m all for it. A few extra dollars for higher quality products is better and saves more money in the long run.
I am not to happy about the change. I am 5′ 7″ and I order the 2 XL shirts. I like them because i know what i’m getting. I’m afraid that the shirt changes aren’t going to fit me the right way. The uneasy feeling of a shirt now fitting along with the Price increase = a bad change in my book. I will still buy the T shirts. If i have to send the first shirt i get from the new type back cuz it won’t fit and never get another Fright-Rag shirt again that will suck. BAD MOVE!!!!!
really only time will tell
I agree with Brent!
You need to offer XLT sizes.
You are missing out on potential buyers of your great shirts.
I am a big guy and I really need the length a XLT offers.
I am probably in the minority but 3XLT, 4XLT, & 5XLT are sizes bigger fans of your shirts really want!
I know I would buy more and wear more shirts if they fit us big people a little better.
Just My Opinion!
As a female, I still prefer getting the ‘small’ in the regular size, not the ‘girl’ size. I didn’t care for the cut of Bella, and it wasn’t worth gambling, hoping it would be printed on American Apparel. I don’t mind Gildan’s weight, but a less ‘boxy’ look would be absolutely amazing. I’m looking forward to 2010′s selection and improved quality, though I was never disappointed in the past.
I don’t think you’re going to find many customers here who wouldn’t be willing to pay a little more for a higher quality product, so don’t worry about it.
I’d reccomend, as you shift to the new shirts, adding Alstyle’s quote on employee fairness to your “About Us” page. That’s something I personally look for, and can be a deal-breaker for me.
Also, one of these new, “awesomest” 2010 features better be a MJ tribute “Thriller” shirt. Because I’ve been waiting for you to print that shit since June.
@Eric – Please keep in mind that the larger sizes (XL and up) will fit almost exactly the same as our current shirts. They are just made out of a softer cotton.
@David – You bring up a great point. Part of the reason I chose Alstyle was it’s dedication to their emplyees and working environment. Here is the quote right from Alstyle regarding this:
As for an MJ shirt…hmm…that might be fun!
Ben-
As per usual, your candid approach is refreshing. But by now I expect nothing less from you.
Personally, I am thrilled with the change. I have experienced the sizing inconsistencies from design to design and I’m excited to see them become a thing of the past.
I hope everyone gives the new tees a chance. I’m already sold and ready to expand my collection!
As far as the womens shirts go, I think you already know my preference.
Lighter weight means it will wear out faster and therefore a faster repurchase for those who are unaware of this marketing ploy. Sorry, I will shop elsewhere. 20 bucks is too much for any T-shirt.. A blank T sells for 8 dollars. The only shirts I buy now are gonna be the Xombie shirts and that’s because you are the only vendor for that line of shirts.
Sorry.
@Wally – Believe what you want, but this isn’t some “marketing ploy”… I’ve personally had shirts like this for the better part of 5 years that I still wear on a consistent basis. I wouldn’t sell anything I didn’t feel would stand the test of time. I am 110% committed to putting out quality merchandise…period.
GREAT news! and I think the price is still affordable..
Can’t wait to try one of the new shirts (hopefully with a new design on it!!)
I always hated that the sizing was a bit wonky from shirt to shirt. I must have a good 20 of your shirts (small) and hated that half of them fitted like medium…
If you are going to change the manufacturer of the shirts it seems to me that you would try to use a company that produces shirts in the USA. Especially given the current job climate. Alstyle manufactures their shirts in Mexico or El Salvador. I would pay more to buy an American made product. Also, why does the price go up when the weight of the product goes down? They use less material and charge more? I do greatly admire your professional honesty and your love of our genre though. Keep it up.
Ben, great choice, thanks for the heads up on price change, I am stoked with the change to slim fit soft shirts, I find those styles easier to wear rather than a relaxed fit shirt. The soft light cotton is great for the Aussie summers in the local pubs beer garden. Once again, thanks, and look forward to the 2010 designs.
@Christian – The weight of the shirt doesn’t necessarily dictate the price. However, please know that these are going to be combed ringspun cotton. To see the difference between that and what we use now, check out this link:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_ring_spun_carded_and_combed_yarn_and_what_are_their_uses
As for using American, the main reason I did not go that route was because I couldn’t find a manufacturer that had the blend of styles I was looking for (the form fitting smaller ones AND the relaxed fit larger ones). In regards to the fact that they are made in Mexico, I addressed that earlier, but will re-post Alstyle’s stance on their working conditions:
I am really excited about this change, and definitely don’t mind paying a little extra for higher quality shirts — besides, $19.95 does seem pretty standard for a t-shirt anyway.
As for the girl shirts, I agree with Michelle… I don’t really care for the cut of the Bella shirts either, I definitely vote for American Apparel.
The new Alstyle shirts sound amazing, too, though. If I were going to get a small in the men’s/unisex style it’s nice to know they aren’t as boxy as the Gildan ones.
I am not to happy about the switch..the older style shirts last forever..the new style feels like hot topic shirts that fit snug and don’t last..my evil dead shirt was a small xxl and wafer thin! If I knew you changed I would have got xxxl ! Hell I still have shirts from your first run! Last forever! And with my wife doing the wash…that’s a small miracle! I hope the new shirts work out…thanks for the update ben…I will always be a loyal customer
Hell yes!
This is an apology for my earlier comment. The comment was made out of recent financial frustrations I have encountered. I never meant to offend Ben or any of his wonderful loyal customers. I have several of FR’s shirts and I know they will continue to be a terrific product. Again I am sorry if I caused any unnecessary concern.
Got several of the Alstyle shirts already, and I love every one of them! Glad you are making the change! The price increase is to be expected, and thanks for explalining why…now, just get Zornow busy on that BUBBA HO TEP shirt and we’ll extra extra happy!!
Can’t wait to see the new designs!
$20 is standard for t-shirts, many are much more than that now. prices can’t stay the same forever.
this is exactly what needed to be done and i’m sure the majority will love the new fit and feel of the shirts.
thanks ben!
Thanks for explaining this change. I’ve always loved your tees for their great designs. The tee shirt material has been sturdy and not too scratchy. That said, I’ll be happy to be able to buy your kick-ass designs on comfier shirts. Ringspun cotton-yay!
As a girl, I can only tell you that Bella is sized too small for someone with my…um…gifts. I’m not sure about American Apparel. But I’ll probably just keep buying your guys’ shirts. (Don’t tell!)
Ben,
Knowing the ‘behind the scenes’ with the mighty Fright Rags, I’m full aware of the time/effort you put into the actual SHIRT, as well as the design itself.
You wouldn’t have lasted 7 min, let alone 7 years if you didn’t care about the quailty of your product. Kudos to you for keeping up-to-date on all aspects of your company…..I’m psyched to see the new designs that are forthcoming!! 2010 will be a great year for Fright-Rags!!!
Ben – being a XL to XXL guy I’m glad to here the bigger shirts have some “wiggle” room. Great job as always – your shirts are the BEST!
I guess the Larger sizes won’t change much except for the softness of the Material . That’s good news. Anyway the Zombie VS Shark shirt has my name written on it for my next purchase. Zombi 2/Zombie is awesome. Fulci da man lol anyway changes changes Changes Adapt or die is what they say. So i’m warming up to the idea of the new shirts.
Well overall I’m okay with this. I’m very happy to pay more money for a quality item. Truth be told, I actually like the softer feel of the American Apparel type shirts. However I’m a very oddly shaped person so I have trouble fitting into those types of shirts. I kinda got sleepy halfway down the comments page so I’m not sure if this was asked but if we order a shirt and it doesn’t fit properly, can we exchange it out for a new size? I’m just hoping that I’ll still fit. I’m kinda pushing the envelope on the medium size and I’ve yet to find a large that’s not too long for me.
Alstyles rock! I’m very happy with this news (as I wear a large) & I look forward to the new designs on these new shirts. Also the eventual turn of the older designs to theses new shirts. I feel my wallet shrinking as I type.
Great news Ben & crew. Fright-Rags has definately lived up to the “quality horror shirts” tag!
Firat of all, no one ever commented to me on the quality of my shirts. People look at the design, not the fabric.
Second, I know the new shirts you speak of and they DO shrink, even tho they’re preshrunk. And they dont last; they become thread-bare and thin. For a woman, this becomes embarrassing, becuz certain things tend to stick out. I must say, however, they are comfortable.
I think you should shop around some more and find a decent standard.
Champion used to make great shirts. Are they still around?
Until I get a new shirt, I am glad to wear the ones I have. I stole them from my bf!!!
The two shirts I ordered before were great so it’s even better news to know the quality will only improve. I’ll order in 2010, as soon as you have new designs available.
I see this as only good news. I love the shirts I already have, and the idea of doing anything and everything to improve the quality even further is just another reason why I keep shopping Fright-Rags.com. One thought though – These new shirts sound great, but I usually order the vintage tees. Any plans on making the option available to get them printed on the new, more comfortable shirts?
@Joe – Yeah, that is actually something I’m looking into…I want to offer the “vintage” style tees for our vintage/custom line. Hopefully we’ll be doing that in the next few months.
Gotta say, I’m not particularly happy with the changes. The price hike is understandable, but will mean I’ll have to be much more discriminating with shopping with you guys…I’ll only spend that much for a shirt I can’t live without.
My real problem, however, is the change in the shirt. As a heavier, and quite busty, girl, I’ve always preferred unisex/men’s tees to girl tees because of the extra weight and wiggle room they give me. Lighter fabric clings too much, particularly during the ultra-humid summers here in southeastern Louisiana – let’s not even talk about the issue of sweat! Both problems are only exacerbated by a tapered-fit.
My husband will be happy that you’ve more or less left the XXL alone. For my part, any designs on the site right now that I want, I’ll try to get before the changes take place….as for after the changes, if a can’t-miss design comes out, I may get it, because I want to give you the benefit of the doubt. But I will be expecting disappointment, and will not be purchasing anything else afterwards if it presents any of the problems I think that it will.
Love you guys anyways. Your dedication to your customers can’t be beat. But I can’t help but be disappointed by these decisions.
@Heather – Yes, as always, we offer a money back guarantee. If it doesn’t fit right when you get it, you can return it for a different size, or a refund.
American Apparel, please!!
If these shirts are anything like American Apperel shirts, then this is a horrible decision…Thinner shirts wear in qicker and thin out very quickly. I have to wear all black t-shirts for work and I’ve purchased from many different t-shirt labels.My American Apperel shirts wore out the fastest and faded the fastest because of being “Lightweight”. How is that better quality that you have to charge more for? It’s common sense that thicker shirts hold there color better and dont wear out as fast. At least offer the option of what type of shirt you want your print on.Give people the option the way you did with the Stripe shirts. Its kinda shitty to just make the decision for us when you ask our opinion.Some people want thin shirts, some people prefer thick.Whats wrong with giving the option?…Especially with the made to order classic shirts that are printed when ordered per shirt. Doesnt make to much sense to me, but I’m all about giving people choices
@Nick – All I can say is that I’ve been testing out blanks for awhile now and these hold up just as good, if not better, than anything else out there. As for the idea that “thicker is better quality”, I understand where you are coming from. However, please understand that these shirts are made of ringspun cotton, not chopped up carded cotton. They are much softer to the touch and simply feel more comfortable.
As far as giving people an option, I wish i could. However, we cannot feasibly print all of our design (50+ and growing) in all 8 sizes, in a number of different styles. That would be an inventory nightmare… The vintage shirts are a completely different thing as the technology used to print them is totally different, and is an on-demand type printing process rather than screenprinting. since those are custom made per order, we can offer different colors and styles. All of our regular shirts are stocked inventory that we print and ship right away, which is why it would be much harder to do that with those.
And in regards to “making the decision for you”, I actually have been asking this question for quite awhile now. I posted a poll on the blog a few months ago and received tons of feedback not only through comments posted on the blog, but through emails and even the surveys I’ve posted for over a year now. So making this decision was a culmination of all the information I’ve gathered for quite some time now. And the choice I made reflects the majority of the desires and concerns from everyone who gave me that feedback. It was not made lightly, or blindly, I can tell you that.
To be honest, when I read this, I was disappointed. I’m a, um, well…screw it, I’m fat. And as a fat guy, I’ve come to love Gildan. I have a 2X Sin City movie shirt I bought almost four years ago, and it still fits great. It’s even more impressive since A) I wash and dry it normally and B) I normally need a 3X.
Then I decided to check my closet and sure enough, I have at least one Alstyle shirt: a 3X Dethklok shirt. Had it for over a year, wash and dry it as normal, and it still fits good and the design has barely any wear on it. And I’ve worn this in hot weather, so the sweat issue has indeed come up.
The whole point of this is I’ll miss the Gildan shirts, but I’ll be willing to give the Alstyles a shot…so long as the designs are great, of course.
In addition, I also have a couple American Apparels, and trust me, the Alstyles are much more comfortable. You’ll notice the difference between these and the Gildans, but I don’t think you’ll be disappointed, folks.
man, im gonna try the shirt once, so hopefully i havent mispoken. Why are you messin with a good thing? when i found your site and ordered so many tees, i considered myself so lucky to find the perfect product, now a change. the shirt is lighter and softer!!!!! anyone who knows me has heared me go off on those light soft shirts. my uncle and me have had long discussions on the perfect tee and you dont know how may times your company came up in that. here we go so much for a good thing! hopefully you prove me wrong and i like the shirt even better. but american apparel god i had american apparel
@Antonio – Thanks for your comment and I appreciate your willingness to give them a shot. I can only hope you will see the difference as a positive one.
I’m a little leery of the lighter shirt for the same reasons that others have mentioned. I do, on the other hand, love my Fright-rag shirts and appreciate the explanation for the rising costs. Honestly, however, I wouldn’t mind seeing you use American-made shirts because 1) I hate the idea of something I wear coming from sweat shop, slave labor, and 2) our US economy could use a boost. I’d feel good about paying more for something actually made in America.
I must say i have no problem with the idea of a lighter shirt. I find heavier shirts not the greatest to wear, also being in Australia, it can be limiting sometimes in the hotter weather (which i dont handle the best, being born and raised in cold UK), as i always go for a handful of shirts (usually black is out!) I have mentioned it before, and in the questionaire thing at xmas, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE more of a variety of shirt colors!! some dark greens,reds,bergundies with designs to suit!! Also Thanks for the The live shirt that arrived today! the best part being the suprise Dr Phibes sticker (a personal fave movie) – went straight on one of my comic boxes…thanks Ben!
I can’t be too upset, seeing as you really do care about what the people want. I’ll give these new shirts a shot; but if the S fits like those awful Threadless tees all have to bow out from buying, unless it’s a design I can’t live without. Personally, I dug the boxy feel look. It fit me rather well and Gildan felt much more durable. I guess I’ll just have to wait and see.
Ben, I posted earlier, but what are the chances of you offering a “large” in a less form fitting fashion as well?
I can’t wear XL, but the Large American Apparel type shirts are absolutely horrible looking on me — the arms are way too short.
Also, if you’re planning to offer some kind of coupon for people tomorrow who are signed up, is there any chance it could be applied retroactively to an order placed today?
Thanks.
love yr tees & designs-I’ve never had any complaints in the quality of the tees, but this might be too steep for my blood…unless you have mucho discount promotions!