Looking For Custom Merch? Here Are 10 Things You Should Know Before Ordering
So you're ready to order custom merch. Maybe you're launching band tees for your next tour, getting branded workwear for your crew, or finally putting your logo on something people will actually wear. Whatever it is, we're stoked for you.
But before you hit that "submit order" button, let's talk real talk. There are some things you absolutely need to know to avoid ending up with a box full of regret. As a SoCal-based print shop that's worked with everyone from local contractors to touring bands, we've seen it all, the good, the bad, and the "wait, this isn't what I ordered."
Here are 10 things you need to know before ordering custom merch.
1. Vector vs. Raster: Your Artwork Matters (A Lot)
Let's keep this simple because it doesn't need to be complicated. There are two types of image files: vector and raster.
Vector files (like .AI, .EPS, or .SVG) are made of mathematical paths and can scale infinitely without losing quality. Think of them as the superhero of design files, they look sharp at any size.
Raster files (like .JPG or .PNG) are made of pixels. They're fine for Instagram, but when you blow them up to print on a shirt? They get pixelated and blurry real fast.
The bottom line: If you want your logo to look crisp and professional, you need vector artwork. If you only have a raster file, make sure it's high resolution, we'll talk more about that in a minute. And please, for the love of all things printable, don't send us a screenshot from your website.
2. Not All Blank Apparel Is Created Equal
Here's the thing: the blank tee you choose matters just as much as the design on it. A killer print on a cheap, scratchy shirt is still a cheap, scratchy shirt.
At Colorcube, we're big fans of quality blanks. We work with brands like ASColor, Comfort Colors, and LA Apparel, all made with better fabrics, better fits, and better ethics. Yeah, they cost a bit more than your basic Gildan, but your customers (or your crew) will actually want to wear them. And isn't that the whole point?
Think about who's wearing this merch. Contractors need durable workwear that can handle job sites. Bands need soft, comfortable tees that fans will wear to the next show. Local businesses need polished polos that don't shrink into crop tops after one wash.
Choose blanks that match your vibe and your budget, but don't cheap out on quality.
3. Print Locations: Think Beyond the Chest
Most people default to a chest print or a big design on the front. Cool, classic, no problem. But there's a whole shirt (or hat, or hoodie) to work with here.
Consider adding:
Left chest prints for a subtle, professional look (perfect for work uniforms)
Back prints for making a statement when you walk away
Sleeve prints for that extra detail fans notice
Inside neck labels to make it feel custom and official
For hats, don't forget about side or back embroidery. For hoodies, sleeve cuffs or hood prints can add that extra fire. Get creative. Stand out. That's what custom merch is all about.
4. Minimum Order Quantities: Yes, They Exist
Here's the deal: most print shops (including us) have minimum order quantities, especially for screen printing. Why? Because there's setup involved, burning screens, mixing inks, dialing in the press. It doesn't make economic sense to do all that for just one shirt.
For screen printing, our minimums usually start at 24 pieces per design. But if you need smaller quantities or a one-off sample, embroidery or DTF (direct-to-film) might be better options with lower minimums.
Plan ahead and know your quantity before reaching out for a quote. And if you're not sure how many sizes you need, do yourself a favor and actually ask people their sizes rather than guessing. Nothing's worse than 30 mediums and zero XLs.
5. Screen Printing vs. Embroidery: Which One's Right for You?
Both methods are awesome, but they serve different purposes.
Screen printing is ideal for:
Larger quantities (24+ pieces)
Bold, vibrant designs
T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags
Band merch and event tees
Embroidery is perfect for:
Professional workwear and corporate gear
Polos, hats, jackets
Designs with fine detail and texture
A more upscale, polished look
Screen printing gives you vivid colors and works great on soft fabrics. Embroidery adds dimension and durability, it won't fade or crack. If you're outfitting a crew of contractors, embroidered polos are the move. If you're selling merch at shows, screen-printed tees are your bread and butter.
Not sure which to choose? Hit us up, we'll help you figure it out.
6. High-Res Files Are Non-Negotiable
We touched on this earlier, but it's worth repeating: your artwork needs to be high resolution. For raster images, that means 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the actual print size.
If you send us a 72 DPI logo you pulled off your website, it's going to look pixelated and fuzzy. We can't magically make a low-res file sharp, that's just not how printing works.
Save yourself the headache and the back-and-forth emails. Get your designer to send over proper files from the jump. If you don't have vector files or high-res images, we offer in-house design services to clean things up or recreate your logo. Problem solved.
7. Turnaround Times: Let's Be Realistic
We get it, you needed it yesterday. But here's the truth: good printing takes time. From artwork approval to production to shipping, you're typically looking at 2-3 weeks for most orders.
Rush jobs? They're possible, but they cost extra and aren't always guaranteed depending on our production schedule.
Do yourself a favor and plan ahead. Don't wait until the week before your event to order 100 tees. Give yourself buffer time for artwork tweaks, proofs, production, and shipping delays (because, you know, life happens).
If you're local to SoCal, you can always pick up your order in person, which shaves off shipping time. But still, start early.
8. Why In-House Design at Colorcube Matters
Not everyone has a designer on deck, and that's totally fine. That's why we offer in-house design services.
Here's why that matters: when your designer and your printer are the same team, everything runs smoother. We know exactly what files we need for production. We understand print limitations and how to make your design look killer on fabric. There's no game of telephone between you, your designer, and your printer.
Whether you need a logo cleaned up, a full merch design from scratch, or just some tweaks to make your artwork print-ready, we've got you covered. It's all part of making sure your merch turns out exactly how you envisioned it.
9. Budget for More Than Just the Shirt Price
Let's talk money. When you're budgeting for custom merch, remember that the per-shirt cost isn't the only expense.
Factor in:
Setup fees (for screen printing, we burn screens for each color)
Artwork and design time (if you need help with files)
Shipping costs (unless you're picking up locally)
Rush fees (if you're on a tight deadline)
Samples (always smart to order a sample first if it's a big run)
A $10 shirt might actually cost $15-$18 when everything's said and done. Get a detailed quote upfront so there are no surprises when the invoice hits. We break down all costs clearly so you know exactly what you're paying for.
10. Shipping vs. Local Pickup: What's Your Move?
If you're here in Southern California, you're in luck, local pickup is fast, free, and lets you inspect your order in person before you leave. Plus, you get to meet us, check out the shop, and maybe talk shop about your next project.
If you're outside the SoCal area, shipping is the way to go. Just factor in shipping time (usually 3-5 business days depending on your location) and costs. We pack everything carefully to make sure it arrives in perfect condition.
And hey, if you're planning a big event or tour and need your merch shipped somewhere specific, let us know: we'll work it out.
Ready to order? Now you know what goes into getting custom merch done right. Whether you're a band printing tour tees, a contractor outfitting your crew, or a local business building your brand, we're here to help make it happen.
Check out our services, grab a quote, or just reach out and say hi. We're always down to talk merch, printing, and making your vision come to life: one shirt (or hat, or hoodie) at a time.