Today’s world is highly visual, and if you want to make your merch and promotional apparel stand out, you need to get ahead of the game with these design trends. More specifically, HOW and WHAT type of print methods to use on apparel.
It’s not just about the graphics but also the way you print those designs on the shirt, hoodie, or sweater.
Some of the more common ways of decorating or printing on apparel are:
- Embroidery – stitch the design directly on the shirt or jacket. Get custom thread colors to match your brand pantones.
- Screenprinting – one of the most popular ways of printing full color designs on textile with the use of a screen to layer the colors.
- Heat Transfer – graphics is cut out and “hot stamped” on clothes. This style of printing has a rubbery, smooth feel on the print.
As more and more brands have leaned in to using promotional apparel and merch to market themselves, you’ll notice that there is now a surplus of subpar, low quality products out there. It goes without saying but to ensure that your business maintains a good reputation, the merchadise you produce and put out there has to go through the proper check points, namely:
- Will this promotional apparel last for years and not fall to pieces after a few cycles in the washer?
- Is the size and fit inclusive of all body types?
- Are you in tune with trendy colorways as well as classic pieces? (Check out 2023’s Spring Colors here)
- Does the design represent your brand’s originality?
- Will the imprint or decoration last or will it look good (or better) when it’s more worn?
Ticking all the items above will give you a better chance of standing out or at least gain stronger loyalty from customers who already patronize your business. Remember that promotional shirts, hoodies, sweaters, and caps aren’t just great giveaways. They’re also worthwhile products that loyal followers can buy to support your company.
Here are two print styles for 2023 that you should try out if the objective is to stand out:
Puff Print
Give your design more dimension with a puff-printed graphic. Add texture, literally! This is recommended for statement shirts, jackets, or hoodies. Accentuate an element or highlight a tagline by stacking the graphics. Make it high contrast if you really want that eye-catching effect (bright colors on black or dark print on white).
These hoodie colorways will also add a lot of attitude to a puff print.
Water-based Print
Want the worn, vintage look? Water-based printing will give you that effect. Retro apparel have and will continue to be hot merch no matter what season of the year. Make sure that when you do go for this type of print technique, the textile has to be soft, breezy, and preferably in a relaxed fit. Here’s long-sleeve shirt that goes well with this print.
Brand Spirit can help you put together your very own merch and promotional apparel. We’ll source the right blank canvas for your designs, coordinate with the supplier about your preferred personalization, and even assist with drop shipping for multiple addresses (if you’re sending it out as a gift for clients).
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