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Custom Decoration Methods

With so many different options out there for decorating your custom apparel or promotional products, how do you know when to use each method? Each decoration option comes with certain pros and cons as well as some limitations.

To make things easy, most of our products have a recommended or default decoration method and our dedicated team of Merchologists is always here to assist you if you have any questions. To make things even easier, the custom logo experts at Merchology have broken down the major decoration techniques below. Jump to the decoration type you want to learn more about using the links below and click into each section for more information on our custom capabilities for each decoration type!

What do you want to learn more about?


Embroidery

By far our most popular decoration style! The logo on your screen first needs to be "digitized;" mapped out for an embroidery machine based on the intricacies of a logo & its colors. From there, the appropriate thread colors are chosen, a sample stitch out is run, and once approved, your order is put on embroidery machines that read the final digitized file and embroider your logo to its exact specifications. You can read our complete step by step guide to embroidery here!

Custom Embroidery

When to Use Embroidery as a Decoration Method

Embroidered logos typically look best on polos, jackets, woven shirts, caps, and bags, but this is a truly versatile style of decoration. We've embroidered just about every style of apparel & accessory on our site!

Embroidery is Ideal for…

Benefits of Embroidery as a Decoration Method

  • There is an added texture to the design.
  • The product does not need to be laid flat like in printing, making embroidery suitable for hats and bags.
  • The intricate design evokes a high perceived value and sense of professionalism.
  • More durable and resistant to damage from washing than most decoration methods.

Drawbacks of Embroidery as a Decoration Method

  • The number of colors used in the design is limited to the thread color options and prices typically increase with additional colors.
  • Embroidery is only a suitable decoration method for fabric.
  • Embroidery machines can struggle with small lettering or fine details in the design.
  • Embroidery is best for thicker materials, and not suitable for very thin items.
  • Embroidered logo decoration includes a white fabric backing which can sometimes be visible through white garments. Some people also find this backing uncomfortable to wear.

Digital Printing

Digital printing, also known as direct-to-film printing or direct apparel printing, is a merchandise printing method that applies ink to a film which is them transferred to the product. The ink is placed on a thin film, powdered glue is added, and the design is applied to the item with a special heated printing machine. You can read our more in-depth article on this decoration method here!

Create the best company merch and gifts of all time with direct apparel printing from Merchology

When to Use Digital Printing as a Decoration Method

Digital printing is especially wonderful for highly detailed and multi-colored logo designs. You may have also heard this decoration method referred to as Direct Apparel Printing, Direct to Film Printing, or Direct to Garment Printing. Perfect for uniforms and jerseys, as they are worn frequently and go through a lot of wear and tear. This decoration option is extremely dependable wash after wash. 

Digital Printing is Ideal for…

Benefits of Digital Printing as a Decoration Method

  • Quick application time, a turnaround of three days to one week for your merch order is no problem!
  • Color matches available - Digital printing allows you to perfectly color-match your design.
  • Endless decoration possibilities: allows for very small print and detailed artwork. 
  • No color restrictions or added fees, which makes this method well suited for complex logos.

Drawbacks of Digital Printing as a Decoration Method

  • Digital printing only works on clothing with at least 50% cotton material.
  • Digital printers are expensive and must be completed in a temperature-controlled room.
  • Digital Printing uses CMYK ink, so colors can be slightly different from your logo. This form of printing is not particularly suitable for neon colors.

Screen Printing

An easy way to think about this is as a photographic stencil process. A stencil is created and then is used to apply layers of ink directly onto a product. The result is the screen's image transferred to the print surface. The versatility of this decoration method allows it to be used on a wide variety of items. You can read our complete step-by-step guide to custom screen printing here!

Custom Screen Printing

When to Use Screen Printing as a Decoration Method

Screen printing, also known as silk screen printing, is the most cost-effective method for large-quantity print runs (around 50+ items) and works especially well with items like t-shirts and tanks. A complex design with many different colors requires different stencils for each color, so this decoration method is best for logos with 4 colors or less.

Screen Printing is Ideal for…

Benefits of Screen Printing as a Decoration Method

  • Just about any design and ink color can be applied to any product through screen printing.
  • Ink is applied thicker than digital printing, making your design more vibrant and easier to see on darker fabrics or surfaces.
  • Your exact PMS colors can be used in the design, which is great for those with strict brand guidelines!

Drawbacks of Screen Printing as a Decoration Method

  • The necessity to create screens means screen printing is not ideal for smaller order sizes or individually personalized items.
  • Prints with more than 2 colors come with an extra charge (you will receive a custom quote from our team). 2 colors are included in the price, with a maximum of 8 colors possible.
  • Screen printing requires a hard minimum order of 12 units per style and color (for example: six men's white T-shits and six women's white T-shirts in the same style).

Pad Printing

Pad printing is a decoration technique in which ink is transferred from a silicone pad onto your desired surface. The pad printing process can be thought of as a more advanced version of stamping – a pad with ink is pressed onto the product and then left to air dry. You can read our complete step by step guide to custom pad printing here!

Custom Pad Printed Notebook

When to Use Pad Printing as a Decoration Method

Pad printing is a very versatile decoration method, in that it can be applied to just about any product regardless of shape or form. This makes it especially useful on rounded surfaces like golf balls, pens, and water bottles.

Pad Printing is Ideal for…

Benefits of Pad Printing as a Decoration Method

  • Superior image clarity.
  • Easier than screen printing for printing on unusually shaped objects.
  • Improved resolution on smaller fonts and designs over screen printing.
  • Pad printing is a gentle decoration technique, making it ideal for delicate materials and fabrics.
  • Low set-up costs and minimal equipment required.
  • Exact PMS color matching is available at an extra cost.

Drawbacks of Pad Printing as a Decoration Method

  • Not ideal for designs with a lot of different colors.
  • Pad printing process can be slow because you must change pads for each color and allow 24 hours of drying time. Pad printing orders are not eligible for rush shipping.
  • Typically more expensive than screen printing.
  • Only black and white pad printing colors are included in price. Pad printing cost is $250 per color per order. 

Puff Print

Puff Print is a unique decoration method that combines the ease and simplicity of print with the interesting texture of puff decoration methods! Whether you're interested in tonal logos (logo decoration color is the same as the garment or item) or logos that contrast the color of your item, puff print makes your logo stand out in a unique, eye-catching way.

Contact Us for Puff Print

As Puff Print is not one of our standard decoration methods available for direct purchase on our site, our team will help you get started and handle the logistics. Visit our contact us page here to request puff print for your next custom order!

Custom Puff Print

When to Use Puff Print as a Decoration Method

Puff Print is perfect for making your logo pop! Pair this method with any cotton based apparel for instant marketing when your employees or clients rep their new sweatshirt, polo, T-shirt, or zip-up with your puff printed logo!

Puff Print is Ideal for…

Benefits of Puff Print as a Decoration Method

  • Puff print allows for larger logo decoration. Max recommended logo sizing is 10" by 10."
  • There is an added texture to the design to help your logo stand out from the crowd!

Drawbacks of Puff Print as a Decoration Method

  • Limited to one color in the design.
  • Puff Print is only a suitable decoration method for 100% Cotton or high Cotton/Poly blends.
  • Puff Print is best for simple, blocky logos. It is not suitable for art with fine details or small letters.
  • Not suited for synthetic materials or hats.
  • Negative spaces between logo elements must be a minimum of 4 pts width. We can help you if you have questions about your logo!

Puff Embroidery

Puff embroidery is done by placing a foam pad, or “puff,” onto your products and then having your embroidery machine sew an outline of your logo or design. Once this is complete you simply remove the excess puff around the outside of the embroidered outline and you’ve got a 3D design. You can read our complete step by step guide to custom 3D puff embroidery here!

Contact Us for Puff Embroidery

As 3D puff embroidery is not one of our standard decoration methods available for direct purchase on our site, our team will help you get started and handle the logistics. Visit our contact us page here to request puff embroidery for your next custom order!

Custom 3D Embroidered Hat

When to Use Puff Embroidery as a Decoration Method

Puff embroidery is used almost exclusively on custom hats and caps to give your logo or design depth and height. Outside of headwear, Puff Embroidery is used on other heavy-fabric items like sweatshirts, hoodies, and workwear.

Puff Embroidery is Ideal for…

Benefits of Puff Embroidery at a Decoration Method

  • Extremely durable – the design should outlast the garment itself.
  • Your logo is more noticeable because of the 3D design, allowing you to truly stand out from the crowd!

Drawbacks of Puff Embroidery as a Decoration Method

  • Puff Embroidery is not ideal for intricate designs because of the thickness necessary to achieve the 3D appearance.
  • Puff embroidery can be more expensive than traditional embroidery because of the extra thread used.
  • This type of embroidery is not suitable for lighter-weight fabrics.
  • Logos must have thin text.

Flexbroidery Patches

Flexbroidery is a style of patch with backing applied to a garment through heat press. Flexbroidery gives the aesthetic of embroidery in a fraction of the application time. Created to streamline the decoration process, this solution also allows you to choose any PMS, CMYK, or RGB colors without additional charges. 

Contact Us for Flexbroidery Patches

As Flexbroidery Patches are not one of our standard decoration methods available for direct purchase on our site, our team will help you get started and handle the logistics. Visit our contact us page here to request Flexbroidery Patches for your next custom order!

Custom Flexbroidery

When to Use Flexbroidery Patches as a Decoration Method

Flexbroidery is a great option for logos with floating elements and colors outside of the standard embroidery color options. This method works well for fabric items including apparel, bags, and hats.

Flexbroidery is Ideal for…

Benefits of Flexbroidery Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Allows for more color options
  • Works well for logos with floating elements 
  • Faster application than regular embroidery, which means your order may arrive faster!

Drawbacks of Flexbroidery Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Flexbroidery Patches are not recommended for use on materials that may be heat sensitive since this method is applied with heat (ex. some nylons, silk, some plastics, leather, wool, fleece, etc.)
  • These patches are also not recommended for weather treated materials

Embroidered Patches

Embroidered patches are designed to give the look of embroidery without the commitment of permanent embroidery. Embroidered patches are fully removable emblems that are also engineered to withstand industrial washes! Patches are applied with a Velcro backing that allows them to be easily removed and replaced.

Contact Us for Embroidered Patches

As Embroidered Patches are not one of our standard decoration methods available for direct purchase on our site, our team will help you get started and handle the logistics. Visit our contact us page here to request Embroidered Patches for your next custom order!

Create the best company merch and gifts of all time with Embroidered Patches from Merchology

When to Use Embroidered Patches as a Decoration Method

Embroidered patches are specifically designed for application on uniforms, tote bags, hats, and more. They're perfect for team sports gear, name tags, employee uniforms, and company event gear.

Embroidered patches are ideal for…

Benefits of Embroidered Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Patches can be dye cut into custom shapes in a variety of sizes, perfect for unique logo shapes
  • Embroidered patches are removable, increasing the versatility of your custom merch

Drawbacks of Embroidered Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Embroidered patches have a minimum text size: text height must be 4mm or higher, with a column width of 1mm or greater. We can help if you have questions!
  • Patches are not recommended for use on heat sensitive materials (ex: some nylons, silk, some plastics, leather, wool, fleece, etc.)
  • Embroidered Patches are also not recommended for weather-treated materials
  • Patches are not recommended for application on surfaces that may contain an oil finish, including silicon, Teflon™, or rough fabrics

PV+ Patches

PV+ Patches are durable, flexible, versatile, and dimensional. These patches can be applied with waterproof protection, making this unique decoration application a perfect option for outdoor events and employees who spend time working outdoors.

Contact Us for PV+ Patches

As PV+ Patches are not one of our standard decoration methods available for direct purchase on our site, our team will help you get started and handle the logistics. Visit our contact us page here to request PV+ Patches for your next custom order!

Custom PV+ Emblems

When to Use PV+ Patches as a Decoration Method

Looking for durable custom patches? PV+ Patches are made from flexible PVC, adding dimension to hats, jackets, and other products. With a flat finish that enhances the details in your design, PV+ Patches provide unique texture and durability.

PV+ Patches are ideal for…

Benefits of PV+ Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Pantone color matching available
  • Available in glow-in-the-dark colors

Drawbacks of PV+ Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Patches must have a uniform background (ex. a solid blue color behind your logo), as they do not allow floating elements 
  • Maximum of 4 colors allowed
  • PV+ Patches do not allow color gradients
  • Patches are not recommended for use on materials that are heat sensitive (ex: some nylons, silk, some plastics, leather, wool, fleece, etc.) 

Faux Leather Patches

Faux Leather Patches provide the look and feel of real leather. Available in multiple color options, faux leather patches are laser engraved to provide a rustic but upscale look for your branded apparel and merch. Faux Leather is easy to maintain as it is built to withstand wash and wear.

Contact Us for Faux Leather Patches

As Faux Leather Patches are not one of our standard decoration methods available for direct purchase on our site, our team will help you get started and handle the logistics. Visit our contact us page here to request Faux Leather Patches for your next custom order!

Custom Faux Leather Patches

When to Use  Faux Leather Patches as a Decoration Method

Faux leather patches are perfect for adding a rugged look to your branded merchandise. Whether you're attending industry events or sending branded gifts to clients and business partners, faux leather patches reflect your unique brand.

Faux Leather Patches are ideal for…

Benefits of Faux Leather Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Vegan leather options available
  • Provides the look and feel of leather without the high maintenance care instructions
  • Available in four colorways:
    • Black/Silver
    • Chestnut/Black (Example in the image above!)
    • Chocolate/Black
    • Sandstone/Black

Drawbacks of Faux Leather Patches as a Decoration Method

  • Patches are not recommended for use on materials that are heat sensitive (ex: some nylons, silk, some plastics, leather, wool, fleece, etc.) 
  • Faux Leather Patches are not recommended for weather-treated materials.
  • Patches are also not recommended for rough fabrics or outdoor goods.

Laser Engraving

A unique application where the laser removes a thin layer of fiber or pigment dye. By adjusting the intensity and speed of the laser we can sculpt dimension into the design, resulting in stunning clarity and precision. You can read our complete step by step guide to custom laser engraving here!

Custom Laser Engraved Metal Water Bottle

When to Use Laser Engraving as a Decoration Method

This decoration method creates sharp, crystal-clear logos that are unable to be peeled off. Ideal for items that get continuous use such as promotional pens, custom drinkware, and personalized tools.

Laser Engraving is Ideal for…

Benefits of Laser Engraving as a Decoration Method

  • Laser engraving is the go-to decoration method for metal products.
  • The engraving process itself is cheap and can be done very quickly.
  • Designs are extremely durable, making them ideal for frequently handled items.
  • Laser-engraving works well for smaller logos.

Drawbacks of Laser Engraving as a Decoration Method

  • Laser engraving is typically only performed on metal or wood surfaces.
  • Larger logos may not be possible to laser engrave if a smaller item is chosen. Imprint area varies by item.

    Debossing

    Debossing gives your logo a 3D element. Dies are constructed from metal in the shape of your logo. Heat and pressure push into the product and form the material into the impression you want. This decoration method produces stunning and sophisticated results and is perfect for leather decorating. You can read our complete step by step guide to custom debossing here!

    Custom Debossed Leather Journal

    When to Use Debossing as a Decoration Method

    Perfect for products where subtle and high perceived value is appropriate. A crisp debossing adds lasting value to items used every day as well as unique dimension and quality to your product. Ideal products are leather goods such as padfolios, money clips, or luggage tags.

    Debossing is Ideal for…

    Benefits of Debossing as a Decoration Method

    • Creates dimensional depth and detail by depressing your design onto the material.
    • Doesn’t create holes in fabric like embroidery, making it ideal for waterproof apparel.
    • Works extremely well on leather apparel or surfaces.
    • Can be done in conjunction with other types of decoration.

    Drawbacks of Debossing as a Decoration Method

    • Debossing cannot be done across seams or zippers.
    • Small text or highly detailed designs do not work as well with debossing.

    Foil Stamping

    Foil stamping is a specialty printing process in which a metallic or pigmented foil is heated with a magnesium dye and then stamped with enough pressure to seal a thin layer of foil to the surface. Metallic foils are typically gold or silver and pigmented foils are most commonly red or black. You can read our complete step by step guide to custom hot foil printing here!

    Custom Hot Foil Stamped Notebook

    When to Use Foil Stamping as a Decoration Method

    Metallic foils have a glossy, polished finish and are a great way to make your logo pop on darker colored surfaces. Because ink is not involved in the process, the color of your desired surface will not impact the design. This decoration method is used exclusively on custom notebooks and journals at Merchology.

    Foil Stamping is Ideal for…

    Benefits of Foil Stamping as a Decoration Method

    • The polished and glossy finish stands out on any color surface.
    • Foil stamping does not use ink, so the colors of your design will not be influenced by the surface color.

    Drawbacks of Foil Stamping as a Decoration Method

    • Foil stamping is not a decoration method for apparel and is usually only utilized on hard goods like notebooks.
    • Foil stamping can’t be used in conjunction with designs that use thermography because the heat from the foil stamping process will melt the resins.
    • Limited colors are available - the most popular foil stamping colors are silver and gold.