A good T-shirt is more than just clothing; it represents a memory, a place or a feeling. Custom T-shirts offer the same opportunity for businesses: They help people identify with your brand and carry it into their everyday lives. For many organizations, they are one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to build recognition and loyalty. Full Press Apparel helps businesses navigate design choices, styles and printing methods to create T-shirts that people are proud to wear.
Does Your Business Need a T-shirt?
Not every business would achieve the maximum benefit from custom T-shirts. There are questions you might want to consider before deciding on whether this would be your best marketing investment.
- Does my business offer a product, service or experience that people would want to represent?
- Would people typically wear a T-shirt branded with my type of business? Would you if you didn’t own it or work there?
- Do I have an event coming up that could benefit from T-shirt promotion?
Custom T-shirts work especially well for restaurants and coffee shops, nonprofits, retail stores and businesses promoting a new product or event. Before taking the leap, be sure to evaluate your audience and if your business is the type that would benefit from a T-shirt versus a different promotional product such as koozies, coasters or hats.
Why Are Custom T-shirts a Good Choice
Built-in Promotion
Every time someone wears your T-shirt, it promotes your business. According to industry research, a promotional T-shirt generates about 3,400 impressions over its lifetime. Tons of eyes are on a person every day and every time they see the shirt, they see your brand name. A unique design can even spark conversations and help your brand spread naturally.
Budget-friendly with High ROI
Custom T-shirts are a budget-friendly way to gain ongoing publicity. Depending on the shirt style and printing method, costs can be kept relatively low, and the built-in promotion will do the work for you.
Build Brand Loyalty
People associate their favorite tees with feelings and memories. Custom shirts help create that same emotional connection with your brand. When someone feels a sense of identity and camaraderie with your company, it builds pride and turns customers into advocates for the business.
How Do You Choose a Custom T-shirt?
Tell Your Brand’s Story
- Color: Choose colors and designs that align with your brand image and make sure that what you choose is easy to read. If readers have to pause to understand it, then it’s too complicated.
- Design/Logo: When you create custom T-shirts, they are a representation of your brand and organization. You want the branding to be simple, clear and easy to recognize with bold logos and minimal text.
- Style and Materials: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to printing methods or styles. Your best option depends on how the shirts will be used and who will wear them. A few popular types of printing include screen printing, embroidery and puff ink screen printing. There are many styles of T-shirts, including basic tees, women’s fit, tank tops, baseball tees and more. Some fabrics are more moisture-wicking for physical activity, while others boast the benefit of being durable or sustainably made. Choose a quality type of material for your shirts, considering climate and how they will be worn.
- Cost: Each of these decisions has a different cost associated, which can impact the type and style of the T-shirts you order. You want to order from a reputable company that can produce a high-quality product at a reasonable price. It’s a good idea to read reviews and testimonials, ask questions and get a quote before agreeing to an order. Choose a local printing company if you can.
Frequently Asked Questions about Custom T-shirts
Q: How many T-shirts should I order?
A: It depends on your goals. If your shirts are for everyday promotion, start with a smaller run to gauge interest, then reorder as needed. If you’re preparing for a specific event, estimate based on expected attendance and order a few extra for last-minute needs.
Q: Can I bring my own T-shirts to be printed on?
A: In many cases, yes, but it depends on the fabric, brand and how well the material will hold ink. Some shirts don’t screen print or embroider well. Most companies can review your garments and advise whether they’ll produce a high-quality result or recommend similar options that match your budget and quality expectations.
Q: What printing method should I choose?
A: Screen printing is a great choice for bold, long-lasting designs. Embroidery adds a polished, elevated look, especially for uniforms or premium merch. Specialty inks like puff or vintage-wash effects can add texture and personality.
Q: How long does the custom T-shirt process take?
A: Turnaround varies depending on design needs, quantities and printing method. On average, most orders are completed within one to three weeks after the design is finalized. If you have a deadline for an event, many companies can work with you to plan production and delivery timelines.
Q: What if I don’t have a design yet?
A: No problem. You don’t need to be a designer, just bring your idea, message or inspiration. Some companies have an in-house design team that can help you develop artwork, choose colors and finalize layouts so your shirts look professional and aligned with your brand.
Work with Full Press Apparel to Bring Your Vision to Life
Our team at Full Press Apparel takes the guesswork out of ordering custom T-shirts. Let us guide you every step of the way, from perfecting your branding to selecting the right printing method and ordering the right number of shirts and size options.
From small projects to big orders, Full Press Apparel is backed by decades of experience and commitment to getting it just right. Whether you have a design to tweak or you’re starting from scratch, one of our designers will work with you to create magic.
With a production team with more than 25 years of experience, Full Press Apparel can help you turn your brand’s merchandising dreams into a reality. Call or send us a message today to discuss your big dreams for your organization or brand and how we can make them happen.
