US 48 1948 (United States) Road Sign T-Shirt: Design Overview
This t-shirt features a bold and instantly recognizable design: a representation of a US 48 road sign as it would have appeared in the United States around 1948. The artwork pays homage to the iconic highway signage of the mid-20th century, a time when America's road network was rapidly expanding and defining the nation's identity.
Visual Elements and Symbolism
At the heart of the design is the classic U.S. Highway shield. A black number “48” is prominently displayed against a white shield shape, all set against a square or rectangular black background. This simple yet powerful arrangement is a standardized design element from the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which governed road sign design in the US.
The black-on-white color scheme evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, recalling the painted metal signs that once guided travelers across the country. The design’s clean lines and bold typography reflect the clarity and simplicity of mid-century American design principles. The US 48 design itself represents a specific highway that has changed through history, symbolizing the evolution and growth of the US road network. It stands as a reminder of a pre-Interstate America, representing a time of exploration and discovery on the open road.
The artwork, whether a screen print, a digital transfer, or another method, seeks to replicate the look of those classic highway signs as authentically as possible, capturing the essence of a collectible piece of Americana.
Unisex Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
A reliable classic cotton tee built for comfort, durability, and style. This unisex heavy cotton shirt is the perfect everyday staple — soft, structured, and designed to make printed designs look sharp and vibrant.
Product Highlights
- 100% heavy cotton fabric for structure and comfort
- Smooth surface ensures vivid, long-lasting prints
- No side seams for irritation-free wear
- Reinforced shoulders to maintain shape over time
- Classic unisex fit — works for all body types
Fit & Style Notes
Designed with versatility in mind, this tee works as your everyday go-to. Wear it true-to-size for a classic fit, or size up for a relaxed, modern drape. The mid-weight cotton balances softness and structure, making it equally great for layering or wearing on its own.
Style it with jeans, joggers, or skirts — its timeless silhouette makes it easy to dress up or down. Perfect for personal wear, printing, branding, or merch drops.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a t-shirt you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 18.00 | 28.00 | 15.10 |
| M | 20.00 | 29.00 | 16.50 |
| L | 22.00 | 30.00 | 18.00 |
| XL | 24.00 | 31.00 | 19.50 |
| 2XL | 26.00 | 32.00 | 21.00 |
| 3XL | 28.00 | 33.00 | 22.40 |
| 4XL | 30.00 | 34.00 | 23.70 |
| 5XL | 32.00 | 35.00 | 25.00 |
Tip: Compare these measurements with your favorite tee for the best fit.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not iron directly on printed designs
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on low heat
