Bella Canvas 3501: My Honest Review of This Long Sleeve Staple

Let me start by saying, I’m not one to rave about a basic t-shirt, but the Bella Canvas 3501 Unisex Jersey Long Sleeve T-Shirt deserves some serious love. I was on the hunt for something versatile—something I could wear casually, layer with, or even use for a few custom projects. After trying this shirt out, I’m genuinely impressed.

Here’s my honest take on the Bella Canvas 3501 and why I think it’s worth checking out.

The Fabric Feels Like a Win

The first thing I noticed when I pulled it out of the packaging was the fabric. It’s made from Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton, and you can tell immediately that it’s high-quality. The material is soft—like, really soft—and has a nice weight to it. At 4.2 oz/yd², it’s lightweight but not flimsy, striking a perfect balance.

What I Loved:

• Super Soft Texture: It feels smooth and cozy, great for all-day wear.
• No Itchy Seams: Everything about it is clean and polished.
• Durable: Even after a few washes, it hasn’t lost its softness or shape.

If you’re someone who’s picky about how fabric feels on your skin, this shirt is a win.

The Fit Works for Just About Everyone

Fit can make or break a t-shirt, and I’ll admit I was skeptical about the “unisex” label. But surprisingly, the fit is spot on.

• Relaxed But Not Baggy: It’s roomy without looking sloppy.
• Ribbed Cuffs: The sleeves don’t ride up, which is a nice touch.
• Flattering for All Shapes: Whether you’re layering it or wearing it solo, it looks polished.

I’m on the smaller side, so I sized down, and it worked perfectly. If you like a slightly oversized vibe, you could stick with your regular size.

Versatility: One Shirt, So Many Ways

One of my favorite things about the Bella Canvas 3501 is how versatile it is. I’ve worn it in so many different ways, and it just works.

How I’ve Styled It:

• Everyday Look: Paired with jeans and sneakers for running errands.
• Layering Piece: It’s perfect under a denim jacket or flannel on cooler days.
• Work-Ready: Tucked into chinos with a blazer for a casual office vibe.

It’s the kind of shirt you can dress up or down without much effort, which makes it a staple in my wardrobe.

Custom Printing: A Creative Dream

If you’re into customizing apparel, this shirt is practically begging for it. I tried a few designs on it—some screen printing and direct-to-garment (DTG)—and the results were amazing. The fabric is smooth, so the prints come out crisp and vibrant.

Why It’s Great for Customizing:

• Smooth Surface: Perfect for detailed designs.
• Wide Range of Colors: I went with a classic black, but the fact that there are 50+ colors to choose from is a huge plus.
• Durability: The prints hold up after washing, which is not always the case with lower-quality tees.

This is definitely my new go-to for custom projects.

The Downsides (Because No Shirt Is Perfect)

As much as I love the Bella Canvas 3501, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

What I Didn’t Love:

1. Sizing Can Be Tricky: Since it’s unisex, it might fit a little differently depending on your build. Women may want to size down for a snugger fit.
2. Light Colors Can Be Sheer: I tried a white one, and it was slightly see-through. Not a dealbreaker, but something to note.
3. Needs Gentle Care: You’ll want to wash it in cold water and tumble dry on low. If you’re the “throw it all in” type, you might risk shrinking it.

Who I’d Recommend This For

The Bella Canvas 3501 is perfect for anyone looking for a versatile long sleeve tee. Whether you want something for casual outfits, layering, or custom printing, this shirt delivers.

It’s a great choice for:

• Wardrobe Minimalists: One shirt, endless options.
• Custom Apparel Creators: Smooth fabric and tons of colors make it ideal for printing.
• Comfort-First Shoppers: If you value soft, breathable fabric, you’ll love it.

Final Verdict: Worth It?

Absolutely. The Bella Canvas 3501 Unisex Jersey Long Sleeve T-Shirt has officially earned a permanent spot in my wardrobe. It’s comfortable, stylish, and works for almost any occasion. Sure, you need to follow the care instructions and consider sizing, but the overall quality makes it well worth the effort.

If you’re on the fence, I say go for it. Whether you’re dressing it up, layering it, or customizing it, this shirt does not disappoint.