Keys to Elite Decoration of Apparel

There are factors buyers should consider when partnering with a promotional merchandise distributor/decorator:

1. Quality materials: Starting with high-quality materials such as premium fabrics, threads, and ink is essential for achieving a premium look and feel. Sourcing quality products and then sacrificing quality materials on the decoration of your brand logo is a potential disaster in the making. It’s true that not all inks and threads are created equal. After a product is decorated and shipped to the end user, the decoration materials will look similar. After several times being worn and washed, the differences will become apparent. Saving a few dollars by cutting corners on fabrics, inks, and threads will likely result in end-user frustration of a product with your faded or worn logo. Suddenly the excitement of your brand is associated with unfavorable feelings. It is important to choose materials that are durable, vibrant, and able to withstand multiple washings. This is how you maximize return on investment, positive brand impressions, and sustained happiness with end users…likely, employees, clients, or eventual clients.
2. Attention to detail: Attention to detail is critical in achieving a premium look. Every element of the design, from the font to the color scheme, should be carefully considered and executed with precision. Most elite decorators use advanced technology to increase the odds of consistency, efficiency, and quality. The true difference maker is the people. People hoop apparel prior to embroidery, people cut embroidery backings and loose threads, and people place apparel on the automated screenprint machine. The promotional product and branded apparel decorating industry has an average error rate of 3%. Many decorators deem this acceptable! Distributors that are focused on a full client experience won’t accept 3% as a norm.?Therefore, make certain to ask a distributor/decorator what their error rate has been for the last three years.?Do they have incentives in place to promote accuracy? Do they have a quality control process to catch mistakes prior to full production and shipping? Do they reward decorators for speed, accuracy, and precision? This is an event-driven industry. Your brand logo must meet brand guidelines, in-hand dates, and reflect well on the total brand identity.
3. Precision equipment: Precision equipment, such as high-quality embroidery machines, digital printing equipment, and screen-printing machines, is essential for achieving a premium look. Decoration machines are designed to produce consistent, high-quality results. But not all decorators have the capital for the latest technology. Many large distributors also sub out their decoration to multiple decorators that use different machines. These factors can put your marketing spend at risk of inconsistent logo decoration. Working with a distributor that has in-house decoration with the latest innovation, technology, and equipment, stands over production, and manages the design-to-delivery process will increase the odds of maximum satisfaction, peace of mind, and end-user delight.
4. Skilled craftsmanship: Experienced and skilled craftspeople are essential for producing high-quality apparel decoration. These professionals have the expertise and attention to detail required to execute the design flawlessly. Organizations that have skilled personnel focusing 80% of their time on one function will increase the odds of precise outcomes. For brands that have large projects and events, working with a distributor/decorator that has processes, procedures, defined roles, quality control measures, and incentives for performance will result in the highest level of security while sourcing a brand management partner.
5. Customization options: Offering customization options, such as personalized embroidery, unique design elements, and custom colors, is another key element of elite and premium apparel decoration. This allows clients to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece for destination events or themed events that drive lasting memories and brand impressions. There is always a place for marketing to the masses with standard decoration techniques and logo placement. On occasion, it’s important to create a “wow factor” that resonates more deeply with your audience. Decoration partners that have the agility to understand desired outcomes and modify standard operating procedures to create solutions are the partners worth aligning with.

By focusing on these key elements when determining your next apparel decoration partner, you can secure the likelihood of high-quality, premium brand experiences that reflect well on your decision-making process.

To inquire about Club Colors holistic brand management solutions email marketing@clubcolors.com.