If you’ve shopped on Etsy or browsed for cozy sweatshirts online, you’ve probably noticed two big names come up again and again: Bella + Canvas and Gildan HeavyBlend.
At LivByDesigns, we get this question a lot:
“Why do you use Bella + Canvas crewnecks? Aren’t Gildan HeavyBlend sweatshirts more common — and cheaper?”
Great question. And here’s the honest answer:
We choose Bella + Canvas for a reason. Actually, for a lot of reasons — and we think when you pull on one of our crewnecks, you’ll feel the difference immediately.
Let’s break it down.
💛 1. Fabric Quality: It’s All in the Feel
Bella + Canvas:
Made with premium airlume combed and ringspun cotton, Bella + Canvas sweatshirts are lightweight, silky-soft, and smooth to the touch. They’re perfect for everyday wear — no scratchy insides, no stiff fabric.
Gildan HeavyBlend:
A blend of carded cotton and polyester, Gildan crews are thicker, coarser, and have that classic “old-school sweatshirt” feel. While they’re durable, they can feel bulky or rough, especially before a few washes.
✨ Why we love Bella + Canvas:
Our customers consistently tell us they love the softness and lightweight comfort — it’s the kind of crew you’ll reach for again and again.
👕 2. Fit & Style: Flattering, Not Frumpy
Bella + Canvas:
Unisex modern fit, slightly slimmer through the body, with just the right amount of drape. It’s flattering on everyone and works dressed up or down.
Gildan HeavyBlend:
Classic boxy fit — roomy, heavier, and less shape-conscious. Great if you’re after a vintage, oversized vibe, but less polished for everyday outfits.
✨ Why we love Bella + Canvas:
It looks just as good with jeans and boots as it does with leggings on the couch. Minimal shrinking, great shape retention, and no “bulk” factor.
🌎 3. Ethical & Eco Commitment: Made Better
Bella + Canvas:
Proudly made in the USA and WRAP-certified (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production), Bella + Canvas focuses on sustainability, fair wages, and ethical manufacturing. They use eco-friendly dyes, reduce water waste, and prioritize solar energy in production.
Gildan HeavyBlend:
Produced overseas in large-scale factories, Gildan focuses on mass production and affordability. While they have sustainability initiatives, they’re generally considered a budget-friendly, bulk-production brand.
✨ Why we love Bella + Canvas:
We want you to feel good in your sweatshirt — and feel good about where it came from.
💰 4. Price & Value: You Get What You Pay For
Bella + Canvas:
Yes, it costs a little more — but you’re paying for softness, durability, better fit, and ethical production. It’s a premium piece designed to last.
Gildan HeavyBlend:
Affordable, widely available, and popular with bulk printers. While durable, the trade-off is often feel, fit, and sustainability.
✨ Why we love Bella + Canvas:
We believe in offering value over volume. You’re investing in something you’ll love wearing, not something you’ll toss aside after a season.
💬 5. What Our Customers Say
“This is the softest sweatshirt I own. I wear it almost every day!”
“The fit is SO good — not too tight, not too loose.”
“It washed perfectly and still feels like new.”
We hear it again and again: you can feel the difference when you choose Bella + Canvas.
🛍 Ready to Try One Yourself?
Check out our Bella + Canvas crewneck collection and upgrade your cozy game. Whether you’re looking for a minimalist look or a fun, seasonal graphic, we’ve got a design (and the perfect fit) waiting for you.
👉 Shop Now → Custom Apparel
📢 Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, we believe what you wear should reflect what you value:
comfort, quality, and conscious choices.
That’s why we stand behind Bella + Canvas, and why we think once you try it, you’ll never go back.