Congratulations! If you’re ordering custom apparel, you have something special to tell the world. Whether that is for your business, your favorite cause or your next family event, screen-printed apparel is a great way to get your message out. To help your screen printer make your dreams a reality, make sure you answer these questions before ordering custom apparel.
1. Who and what is the custom apparel for?
Are you ordering shirts for your team, favorite customers or event volunteers? Is the apparel for an outdoor event or a company retreat? Knowing the who, where and why will help your printer’s design team make suggestions about the best style, colors and printing methods for your custom apparel.
Custom company gear for team members in the field calls for printing methods and materials that stand up best to stains, heavy use and multiple washes. Volunteer t-shirts for an outdoor event need to have colors and design size that can be seen from a greater distance.
For an eye-catching brand-ambassador t-shirt, foil printing may be a fun option. But a long-sleeved running shirt featuring a dye-sublimated logo on the sleeve may be a better option for client gifts.
2. What’s your budget?
Having an ideal budget in mind before your order can help keep the project on track. If your screen printer knows how much you’d like to spend per item, they can steer you in the right direction when ordering your custom apparel. Deciding on how many imprint locations, colors to use and/or different products are all options that can help you stay in budget.
3. How many pieces do you need?
Some printers may have a minimum order for all, or some, of their custom apparel products, especially if they are screen printed. Other items, such as pieces that are embroidered or use heat application, can allow for much smaller quantities – even individual items. However, if it is the first time ordering apparel with your logo, the set-up fees certainly make it a better option to print more to lower your per-piece cost.
Knowing your number and any minimums before ordering can help you avoid having to order extra t-shirts that may never see the light of day.
4. Do you have a design in mind?
What do you want your custom apparel to look like? Designs can range from plain text, all the way to elaborate pieces of art.
To help your custom apparel come to life, you’ll need to answer questions about design, print locations and colors.
Design: Your design may include text, a logo and/or other graphic elements like a mascot or an outline of the state of Florida.
Print Locations: Common print locations for screen printing include full front, left chest, full back and sleeve.
Colors: Start with your company, association or team’s colors, and go from there!
When you share your vision with the designer, they will create a custom digital proof just for you. You can send them vector art files, screenshots or your best sketch on a cocktail napkin. The only limits are your imagination, and your budget.
5. When do you need your custom apparel?
Communicating your event or expected in-hand date when ordering keeps you and your screen printer on the same page. The turnaround time may vary depending on the complexity and size of your order, the time of year and the size of the screen printing shop.
Turnaround times can range from one to several weeks, but knowing your expectations can help the shop work with your deadline.
6. How will you distribute them?
Whether you’re social-distancing or working with a fully remote team, distribution of your custom apparel can be tricky. Different screen printers will offer different options for receiving your order, including personalized delivery packages.
To learn more about how you can create the perfect custom apparel for your team, organization or event, contact the experts at Full Press Apparel at 850.222.1003.
