Over the last 18 years, we have really come to understand some of the hassles and problems that you can experience when buying garments with logos.
To help you with this, we have put together this easy to use 9 Point checklist to guide you through the buying process to ensure that you get exactly what you need.
If you have any questions when you are working through this, please feel free to contact us. You’ll get to deal with real, friendly people who can help you through the process.
Your 9 Point Checklist of Frequently Asked Questions.
1. How do I know what is the best type of garment for me?
What are you using them for?
Do you need heavyweight garments or will a standard weight be okay?
Do you need to conform to any safety legislation ie Hi Visibility or flame retardant garments etc?
Do you need long sleeve and short sleeve? Is the environment warm or cold?
Are waterproof garments required?
Are they for every day uniform wear or they for special events, exhibitions, etc?
You need to make sure you are getting exactly what you need, not what the supplier wants to sell you.
Top tip. White garments, can be see through, check they are heavyweight enough not to be see through, I suggest a minimum-Shirt weight of 165gms and a minimum Polo Shirt weight of 180gms for White garments only.
2. Can I see before I buy?
You should be able to see samples of any garment to help you make your decision. You should also ask to wash test the garments if necessary.
3. What type of logo do I need?
There are 3 main types of garment logos.
A) Embroidery:
This is stitched on and cannot be removed. It is more suitable and economical for smaller logos as the price for embroidery is worked out by the amount of stitches in the design. Larger designs are a higher price (but of course done properly look fabulous).
Lettering height is restricted to about 6mm depending on the fabric being embroidered. Designs can be embroidered in up to 12 colours (and should be at no additional cost). Logos can be scanned from any colour version of the design. Very thin fabrics ( lightweight T-Shirts or lycra etc ) will not provide a good embroidery finish.
B) Screenprinting:
This is usually an oil based ink which sits on the fabric. It is permanent and should last for the life of the garment during normal use. Its is good for large full chest or back designs. You pay more for
increasing the amount of colours in the design, but you should only pay the same price whatever the size of the design.
Screenprinting is most commonly used on T-shirts and larger design areas. It is a very cost effective way of having your logo produced. Artwork is best provided in the form of a Black and White or .eps image emailed even if the ink colour is not Black or White. A point to note is that fleece jackets and padded clothing cannot be screen printed directly.
C) Transfer printing ( heatsealing ).
This is a similar to process to Screen printing. The same inks are used, but the prints are made onto transfer paper first rather than direct onto the garment. These transfers are then heatsealed onto the garments using an industrial transfer press at a specific temperature. Virtually any type of clothing can be printed including padded jackets and High Visibility wear. There are many types of transfer for the different garments and all should be guaranteed for the life of the garment. The method is very flexible as additional transfers can be stored and then “top ups” can be ordered with very quick turnaround times. The quality of transfers is superb and the details and clarity of designs of any size is second to none. Transfer prices are based upon the size of your design, with larger designs being more expensive to produce. Artwork is best provided as an .eps file.
4. How many garments do I need?
For staff who are wearing them everyday, 5 Polo Shirts and 1 or 2 Sweatshirts is ok, with usually 2 or 3 trousers. As a minimum the rule of thumb is ” one on, on off, one in the wash “.
5. Will I see my design before it is put on my garments?
You should see samples of all designs and should approve them by fax/email or post before work is commenced to ensure that you are getting exactly the design and quality you expect.
6. What about sizing of the garments?
Sizing can be a difficult problem as different manufacturers work to different sizing patterns, much as you would find between different stores on the high Street. Make sure you ask for sizing charts for the garments that you’re considering. Remember to allow for layers i.e.coats need to be larger chest sizes than Polo Shirts or T-Shirts.
Top tip. You can avoid costly mistakes by asking for a sizing set for fitting which will enable you to size your garments with complete accuracy.
7. How can I be sure my deadlines will be met?
Make sure you ask for staged deadlines ie. When will my design be ready for me to approve. What happens if it needs alterations? When will I receive my order? Make sure you make your deadline is clear and ask for it to be confirmed in writing. Check what happens if they are not met?
8. What about continuity of supply?
You should check your suppliers only use long term providers of garments. This will show a level of trust and ensure they do not use end of line ranges, as continuity will be a big problem in the future. Ensure they can give you ample notice of any item that is being discontinued to allow you to plan or find alternatives.
9. How will I receive my order?
It is ideal if you can have an option of having your orders sent to you or for you to be able to collect as this will allow for shorter lead times.
If you need any help or have any additional questions, please call on 01733 394758.
