what you should know about water-based screen printing

Water-Based Screen Printing: 10 Things You Should Know

Posted on

Water-based screen printing is one of the many choices you can make when you order custom apparel. But with many different screen printing options to choose from, how can you know which one is right for you?

Today, we’re going to share the features, benefits, and drawbacks of water-based inks and water-based screen printing. We will also touch upon water-based screen printing’s #1 enemy, plastisol. (Just kidding. They’re more like friendly competitors.)

Water-based inks are one of the most popular choices for custom apparel printing. They provide a soft hand feel and stunning colors, making them ideal for t-shirts and other garments. 

Their lightweight prints are also the perfect choice for these hot summer days.

Let’s dive deeper into all things water-based screen printing.

What is Water-Based Screen Printing?

Water-based screen printing is a printing technique that uses water-based inks. These inks are thinner and more transparent than most other screen printing inks, which means they soak into the fabric. This results in a print that is much softer to the touch and less likely to crack over time.

This type of printing is becoming more popular because it is generally more environmentally friendly than PVC-based inks. Water-based inks are also thinner than PVC-based inks, so they dry faster and don’t clog screens as easily.

Water-based screen printing is a great way to get your message across without compromising on quality. You should never have to give up either the feel of the fabric OR the feel of the print. 

At Scrappy, we’ll provide you with the best of both worlds—regardless of which printing technique and ink you choose. We’ll also be happy to advise you on what will work best for your project. We’ve been in the game for 16 years, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

For now, let’s take a closer look at the logistics of water-based screen printing:

water-based screen printing

What You Should Know About Water-Based Screen Printing

Now that we know what water-based screen printing is, let’s dive into some more information about it. Like most things in this world, this screen printing type has its own advantages and disadvantages that you will want to consider before you use it.

1. Water-Based Inks Are Lightweight and Have a Softer Hand

Water-based inks produce lightweight prints because they have a softer hand. In the custom apparel world, a hand is basically how a print feels after its printed. Water-based inks are lightweight enough to produce an almost no-hand feel on prints—so your prints will not only look fresh, they’ll feel fresh too. 

2. Breathability Like Never Before

Water-based inks absorb deep into the fabric when printed, resulting in more breathability. 

And believe us, you’ll want a shirt that allows moisture to travel efficiently during these hot summer days. No one wants sweat build-up in a cool-looking shirt. 

3. Slightly More Environmentally Friendly When Compared to Other Inks

Water-based inks contain few volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which means they release fewer harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. This makes them better for both the environment and human health.

However, don’t get us wrong. We say they’re slightly more environmentally friendly when compared to other inks, but not all water-based inks are 100% eco-friendly, either. The specific ink you choose matters a lot. Speak with our team to learn more.

4. Water-Based Printing Dries Fairly Quickly

The ink used in water-based screen printing dries quickly, making it a great choice for high-speed production runs. Water-based inks also provide excellent color reproduction and durability.

5. Store In the Right Place

We cannot stress this enough: store your water-based printed shirts in the right place. There are a few things to keep in mind when storing your water-based screen-printed custom apparel. 

  • First, make sure to store it in a cool, dry place.
  • Second, if possible, store it in a dark place – this will help prevent the colors from fading. 
  • Finally, be sure to store it away from direct sunlight, as this can also cause the colors to fade.

6. Light Colors Are the Way To Go

Since water-based screen printing uses dyes or pigments in a suspension of water, your best color results will appear on a lighter color base.

Imagine diluting some paint in water and trying to paint a black piece of paper. You’ll see the colors, they just won’t show as nicely as they would on a white piece of paper. Screen printing on t-shirts with water-based ink works the same way. 

Of course, we always keep your best interest in mind, so we want you to know that light shirt colors are the way to go. 

7. Use Discharge Ink to Print Light Colors on a Dark Shirt

If you want to use a water-based ink on a dark shirt, we recommend a process called discharge screen printing.

Discharge inks remove the dye from the shirt through a chemical reaction and then print the new design color on top of the shirt. The fabric of the shirt does not change, but the color does. This is a great way to get a vibrant design on a dark shirt without worrying about ink coverage.

The downside to discharge screen printing is that it can be a bit more expensive, and it requires a specific discharge ink. It’s also important to keep in mind that the discharge process works best on cotton. It’s not suitable for synthetic fabrics.

Discharge screen printing is a special process because it produces a print that looks like it came out of a high-end vintage store. If you’re going for that vibe, discharge screen printing is a great option for you.

8. Water-Based Inks May Not Be the Brightest Ever

As we mentioned above, the dyes and pigments are suspended in water with water-based printing. This results in colors that seep into the fabric, which in turn leads to some fabric texture coming through. We aren’t saying your prints will be dull or anything, but they probably won’t be as bright as they would be using plastisol ink. 

9. Cotton Is the Way To Go

100% cotton is the best option for water-based screen printing. If you want to learn more about your fabric choices, speak with our team.

10. Water-Based Screen Printing Requires Training

Water-based screen printing takes a lot of training to perfect. And we mean A LOT. 

Due to the colors reacting differently with different fabrics or maybe just not cooperating, becoming an expert in this printing style is basically a necessity before you begin doing it. 

Don’t worry, you can leave this process to the screen printing experts at Scrappy Apparel. We’re here to help with your water-based screen printing needs.

What About Plastisol Inks?

Plastisol inks are a type of ink used for printing designs on garments. They are made from PVC resin and plasticizers, which gives them a thick, viscous consistency. Plastisol inks are commonly used in screen printing because they can be printed on a variety of fabrics.

Similarly to water-based inks, plastisol is widely used and is a popular ink choice for custom apparel. They’re kind of like the Batman and Superman of the custom apparel world. They each have their own superpowers, and they’re constantly compared to each other.

How Does Water-Based Screen Printing Compare to Plastisol?

Between water-based and plastisol ink, who wins? Let’s put these two inks in the octagon and watch them fight to the death. Maybe not to the death, but let’s see how they compare to one another.

Round 1: How the Print Feels

As we mentioned before, water-based screen printing leaves little to no hand behind with their prints. They’re lightweight and feel like there’s nothing even printed.

What about plastisol? Well, since plastisol is solid and thick, it does leave behind a heavier hand due to the fact that the ink sits on the fabric, unlike water-based inks that seep into it. 

Round Winner: Water-Based

Round 2: How Accurate Can the Color Really Be?

It’s round two. Who will win the color accuracy test? To refresh your memory, water-based inks seep into the fabric so the color tends to vary slightly due to this.

Plastisol, on the other hand, is able to accurately match any Pantone color no questions asked. To add to this, plastisol will accurately match the color on any type of fabric, while water-based inks will do best on just cotton and typically only white or light-colored cotton. 

Round Winner: Plastisol

Round 3: Putting Breathability to the Test

How well does the moisture come through with these two inks? Water-based inks are lightweight and seep into the fabric, allowing a good amount of breathability.

Due to its thickness, plastisol tends to clog up the gaps between the fibers of the shirt, creating one large surface of the ink. This thick surface will create a lack of breathability that simply doesn’t compare to the lightweight feel of a water-based print.

Round Winner: Water-Based

Round 4: Vibrancy of Colors of the Print 

We talked about accuracy. Now, let’s battle vibrancy.

Water-based inks are suspended in water, leading to colors that are bright, but not the brightest.

They also seep into the fabric, creating a tiny bit of vibrancy loss. Plastisol, on the other hand, will create vibrant hues on any fabric color.

While water-based colors do a great job of being vibrant on white or light-colored shirts, plastisol just does vibrancy better all around.

Round Winner: Plastisol

Round 5: How Versatile Can They Be?

Versatility is an important factor when choosing a type of ink. As we said, water-based screen printing performs best on 100% cotton, On top of that, the cotton must be either white or light-colored for the inks to show up well.

Plastisol can succeed on a variety of different fabrics, though. 100% cotton or blended textiles are great choices for plastisol inks. Plus, they succeed on any color fabric. Plastisol brings all the fun. 

Winner: Plastisol

Round 6: Earth Friendly Inks

This one is a bit of a complicated round to win. Although we did say that water-based screen printing is the better, more eco-friendly choice, it isn’t a completely harm-free option.

While water-based inks contain some harmful ingredients, plastisol inks just happen to contain more. So, even though it’s only by a tiny bit, water-based inks are the more eco-friendly choice. 

Winner: Water-based

Water-Based Screen Printing or Screen Printing With Plastisol Ink? 

It’s about a fair match between these two well-known inks. We can happily declare a tie in this battle because they’re both winners. As a custom apparel company, we enjoy working with both of these inks.

Honestly, both do great work. It all depends on the results you’re going for. If you’re looking for something airy and lightweight, choose water-based screen printing in your next custom apparel order. This is a great option for a company that works outdoors (Ex. a roof repair company) that requires shirts to allow moisture to travel.

If you want complete vibrancy and accurate colors, we recommend plastisol. This is the perfect choice if your company logo has a lot of colors that need to be directly matched onto the print. 

Why Choose Scrappy Apparel for Your Water-Based Screen Printing Project?

Here are some rapid-fire facts about why Scrappy Apparel is the best choice:

1. We are a 100% online solution for your custom apparel needs.

No more trips back and forth from your local print shop. We’ll ship your order right to your doorstep.

2. We offer free shipping on all orders.

You mean the world to us, so consider the shipping free.

3. Our turnaround is quick, and we always deliver orders on time.

We have some of the speediest turnaround times in the industry, and we are committed to delivering on our promises. Deadlines are just as important to us as they are to you.

4. We offer a wide range of services, including multiple printing techniques and private labeling.

We’re a one-stop shop for all your custom apparel needs. We offer screen printing, sublimation, custom embroidery, and more. We can also help you with private labeling and other branding needs.

5. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have about our products or services.

We’re here to help! Our team is available to answer all your burning Qs.

If we can give you one choice without any competition, it’s us. Scrappy Apparel will be the best custom apparel company you’ll ever work with and not only do we say it, but all of our customers say it, too.

Will you be the next Scrappy Success Story?

free quote


nostalgia marketing

What is Nostalgia Marketing and How Can You Use it to Sell Apparel?

Posted on

Do you ever scroll through social media and see something that reminds you of your childhood? Are you engulfed by a wave of memories that take you back to a better time when life was just a bit simpler? That, my friends, is nostalgia.

Now, do you ever watch TV and see one of those commercials that show your favorite Backstreet Boys hit or better yet, your favorite childhood game? That is what we call some kick-ass nostalgia marketing.

As each generation gets older, they become more inclined to get that little heart pull every time they see something that reminds them of their past.

Whether it’s a show, a song, or a movie, using nostalgia as a marketing tactic is a pretty genius way of creating that emotional connection between people and objects. I mean, who wouldn’t be more attentive to a brand that reminds them of their childhood?

Today, we’re going to take a trip down memory lane and talk about how you can use nostalgia marketing to sell more apparel.


But How Exactly Do Brands Use Nostalgia as a Marketing Tactic?

Nostalgia marketing is the strategic use of nostalgic images, themes, and references to connect with an audience on an emotional level. This strategy taps into sentimental feelings to create a strong connection with a product or brand.

When done right, nostalgia marketing will transport your customers back to a simpler time. It can also help create a sense of community and connection with other people who share the same positive memories.

There are also cases of younger generations feeling nostalgic towards times like the 70s and 80s—even though they weren’t alive to experience those generations firsthand.

Sometimes, youngsters connect those times to special people, such as their parents or even their grandparents. It’s essential to keep in mind that nostalgia marketing can be effective for everyone, regardless of age. The key is to nail down your target audience, messaging, and the symbols you plan to use to create the feeling of nostalgia.

However, it’s important to note that nostalgia marketing is not about simply regurgitating old advertising campaigns or rehashing past successes. To be effective, nostalgia marketing must be carefully crafted and relevant to today’s consumers.


What Does Nostalgia Look Like for the Apparel Industry?

What better way to evoke positive emotions than with some good ol’ fashioned apparel?

Clothing is one of the most personal things we own. Many times, our favorite t-shirts hold memories and feelings of their own. That’s why using apparel in nostalgia marketing can be so effective.

When people see clothing that reminds them of their youth, it can trigger many happy memories.

Maybe it’s the shirt you wore on your first date or the varsity jacket you had in high school.

Nostalgia can transport you back to a simpler time when you didn’t have to worry about bills, work, or any of the other stresses of adulthood.


How You Can Leverage the Power of the Past for Your Brand

Incorporating nostalgic elements into your custom apparel can create a feeling of warmth and familiarity that your customers will love. This can be a great selling point. Here are a few tips on successfully using nostalgia marketing in your custom apparel business.

Use Vintage-Inspired Prints

A great way to add a touch of nostalgia to your custom apparel is by using vintage-inspired prints. Whether you go for classic paisley or retro floral, incorporating vintage prints into your designs will give them a nostalgic feel.

Stick To Old-School Fonts

Old-school fonts can also help to create a sense of nostalgia. Here are a few of our recommendations for each generation:

*When you decide on a font, make sure you acquire the correct license to use it for your custom apparel. Licenses vary—so read the fine print.

darth vader

Use Old Slogans To Your Advantage

Another great way to evoke nostalgia in custom apparel is to use nostalgic slogans. (Ex. “Kowabunga” or even “I am your father.”)

color choice

Pay Attention To Color Choice

When it comes to a nostalgic vibe, muted colors are always a good choice. Think about soft pinks, powder blues, and lemon yellows. These gentle hues will help to create a feeling of nostalgia.

If you’re targeting baby boomers, you could use colors and patterns that were popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Or if you’re targeting millennials, you could use colors and patterns that were popular in the 1980s and 1990s. Little details go a long way when you’re aiming to create a nostalgic feeling.

Washed Out Prints

Whenever you see someone on the street with an old-school band shirt, the print is typically washed out. When the shirt is made, the print has been created that way on purpose. That washed out design gives the shirt a vintage feeling, making it perfect for nostalgia marketing.

burnout

Burnout is a form of specialty screen printing that effectively creates a vintage look. (See above)

Discharge screen printing is also an excellent technique for giving your designs a distressed appearance. A vintage look and a soft hand feel make the perfect combination for creating a feeling of nostalgia with your custom apparel.


Ready to Give Your Next Custom Apparel Order a Blast From the Past?

If you’re looking to get custom apparel that evokes that nostalgic feeling, planning is vital. Think about which memory you want to tap into. Also, think about how you’ll successfully pull off creating that emotional connection. Will it be through color, print, or creating a washed out, vintage look?

Finally, you will need the right custom apparel partner. You want to work with an expert manufacturer who will listen to you and get to know your goals for the project.

You’ll also want to make sure you have the opportunity to review pre-production layouts before your order goes into production so you can make sure your order will turn out perfectly.

That’s where Scrappy comes in. We’ll listen to your wants, needs, and deepest desires. We’ll respect your creative ideas and make sure every detail of your project aligns with what you’re looking for.

Our Brand Building Process (BBP) is the proprietary system we use to make sure we:

  • Provide the best recommendations for your project
  • Confirm that all details are correct before putting your order into production
  • Deliver your order to your doorstep for free—on time, every single time

Let’s Give Your Next Apparel Order a Touch of Nostalgia!

free quote


custom screen printing

How Custom Screen Printing Became a Brand Building Strategy

Posted on

A team, a fundraiser, a group event—what do all of these typically have in common?

They get matching t-shirts for everyone. When you’re participating in a group activity, it’s much cooler when everyone has the same shirt. It fosters a sense of pride and team spirit.

Now, if a matching t-shirt can bring more pride and spirit into, let’s say, a weekend kickball league, why wouldn’t this also apply to the corporate world? Spoiler alert: it does.

Custom screen printing is a cost-effective method for printing hundreds or thousands of shirts for teams to wear. There are lots of screen printing companies out there, including local print shops.

Although local print shops can produce 50 or 100 garments, they may not have the bandwidth to produce larger numbers of screen printed shirts in a few weeks. That’s where an online, enterprise-level solution like Scrappy Apparel comes in. (More on that later.)

Custom screen printed shirts are beneficial for teams of all kinds, including businesses. Let’s dive deeper into the whos, whats, whys, hows, and everything in between.

What Does Custom Screen Printing Mean?

Custom screen printing is the process of using a stencil to print designs or logos onto fabric. The stencil is placed on top of the fabric and ink is applied to the stencil, which passes through the openings in the stencil and onto the fabric below. Screen printing is often used for basic t-shirts, but it can be used on hoodies, long-sleeve t-shirts, etc. Let your imagination roam free with what you can custom screen print.

Custom screen printing can also produce unique garment designs. Although traditional screen printing methods work best with only a few colors, you can tweak the process to work more effectively for designs with many colors or lots of intricate details. For example, simulated process screen printing is fantastic for photorealistic artwork.

Screen printing is also cost-effective for printing large orders because the cost per shirt goes down as the quantity goes up.

With custom screen printing, you can create a one-of-a-kind shirt that will turn heads. If you’re working with a custom apparel partner that is up to speed on the latest trends and techniques, you can add specialty screen printing options like liquid gold and silver inks, glow-in-the-dark inks, puff, reflective, or burnout.

(You probably know this by now, but the manufacturing partner you work with will have a significant impact on the way your t-shirts turn out. Choose wisely!)

What’s the History Behind Custom Screen Printing?

The history of custom screen printing is a fascinating one. It dates back to the early days of human civilization (during the Song Dynasty from 960–1279 AD, to be exact) when people first began using rudimentary stencils to decorate their clothing. Over time, this simple technique became more and more refined, culminating in the sophisticated prints we see today.

Custom screen printing has come a long way since its humble beginnings. What started as a simple process of stenciling designs onto fabric has evolved into a complex and nuanced art form. Today, custom screen printing can create everything from t-shirts to tapestries. The possibilities are (nearly) endless.

Why Should You Add Corporate Apparel To Your Business?

In the corporate world, it’s crucial to create a sense of teamwork within your business. Sure, happy hours and team events are great for team building.

But imagine giving your team some awesome shirts they’re excited to wear to work or out on the town? When your employees rep your business everywhere they go, that’s a real sign they’re proud of their team.

Here are just a few reasons why corporate apparel is a smart investment:

Company T-Shirts Are Free Advertising

Custom screen-printed shirts are a fantastic way to promote your business. Every time someone asks about that sharp-looking shirt your employee is wearing, they’re getting free advertising for your business. And if you hand out shirts at events or trade shows, you’re sure to make a lasting impression on potential customers.

Screen-Printed Shirts Up Your Professionalism

In today’s world, first impressions are everything. When you’re meeting with a potential client or customer, you want to look as professional as possible. Adding custom screen-printed shirts to your business wardrobe will show that you’re a credible and successful company.

Plus, when your employees are all wearing matching shirts, it creates a sense of unity and shows that you’re a well-organized team. There’s no doubt that custom screen-printed shirts can make your business look more polished and professional.

Custom Shirts Encourage Employee Engagement

When your employees feel like they’re part of a team, they’re more likely to be engaged in their work. And what better way to promote a sense of teamwork than by giving your employees custom shirts they can wear with pride?

How Can Businesses Benefit From Custom Screen Printed Shirts?

Now, we wouldn’t be telling you about custom apparel for your business if it wouldn’t benefit your company.

There are tons of ways that your corporation and team can become bigger and better with custom screen printed t-shirts.

Let’s discuss some of the benefits of custom screen printed business shirts for you and your team:

Build A Sense of Pride For the Company

Think of it like this. When you love a soccer team, you rep their cool shirts at family gatherings, grocery stores, and even someone’s baby shower. Wouldn’t you want your team repping your company like that? Hell yeah you would.

Customized t-shirts can help create a unified look for employees or customers. They get people more involved and connected not only with each other, but with the company’s core values.

When your team feels connected to your values and mission, they’ll be much more likely to work hard and stay loyal to the company. Investing in custom shirts will build pride for your team and turn them into raving fans of the business.

Encourage Employee Interaction and Socializing

When you’re out and about, it can be easy to spot someone wearing one of your company’s custom shirts. This will encourage employees to socialize with each other outside of work.

It also opens up the opportunity for some casual conversation about work. This can help build relationships and foster a sense of community among employees.

Stand Out From the Competition

In today’s competitive business world, it’s more important than ever to make your company stand out. Custom screen-printed shirts will do just that.

When potential clients or customers see your employees wearing matching shirts, they’ll be impressed by your professionalism and unity. This could be the deciding factor in whether or not they choose to do business with you.

Also, if your business has “friendly” competitions against other companies, wouldn’t you want your team to stand out with the coolest shirts? Of course you would, because that would give you an extra edge.

More Bang For Your Buck

Like we mentioned before, screen printing is cost-effective. Compared to other forms of advertising, custom shirts are a pretty inexpensive way to promote your business. And, unlike other forms of advertising, custom shirts can be worn over and over again.

Plus, the more you order, the cheaper each shirt will be. So, if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to promote your business, custom screen-printed shirts are the way to go.

Custom Shirts Make Great Gifts

Whether you’re looking to reward employees for a job well done or thank customers for their loyalty, custom shirts make great gifts. They’re also a thoughtful way to show appreciation during the holidays.

Your employees and customers will be thrilled to receive a shirt with your company’s logo on it—and they’ll be even more excited to wear it.

How Can Companies Create the Best Custom Apparel?

Now that we’ve convinced you, let’s talk about how to make a shirt your employees will actually love.

When it comes to creating your shirts, you’re going to need a stellar design that people will want to actually wear. Here are a few tips for creating your apparel design:

Use a Design That is On-Brand

The design should be reflective of your company’s style and values. It should also be something that people will want to wear outside of work. After all, you want people to be proud to represent your company!

Stick to a Few Colors

Too many colors will make your design look busy and unprofessional. Stick to two or three colors that complement each other well.

Traditional screen printing works best with designs that have fewer colors. However, if your design has lots of colors, speak with our team and we will provide our expert recommendations for your project to ensure it turns out the way you want it to.

Use Your Logo Strategically

For starters, make sure your logo has a clear and visible placement on the design.

Since this shirt will represent your company, you’ll want to make sure that people can quickly see who you are.  No one wants to stop and stare at a shirt for 5 minutes just to figure out which company it’s for—although we want to help you create a design so fire that people can’t look away from it.

Create Your Design in a Vector Format

Vector files are created with mathematical equations instead of pixels. This means that they can be scaled to any size without losing quality—which is essential for printed designs.

If you want your design to look good on a shirt (or anywhere else, for that matter), you need to create it in a vector format (AI or EPS). We recommend creating your vector file in Adobe Illustrator.

For more info, out our free guide on artwork preparation tips for custom apparel.

Follow Your Brand Guidelines

This is important for keeping up a consistent look for your brand. People should be able to see your shirt and quickly recognize it as yours.

Make Sure the Shirt is Comfortable

The shirt should be comfortable to wear. No one wants to be stuck in an itchy shirt all day!

Always Prioritize Quality

It’s better to spend a little extra to have high quality shirts that will last rather than a bunch of cheap shirts that will fall apart. You want your company to be known for having high quality products, so make sure your custom apparel is no different!

Now, you didn’t think Scrappy would leave you by yourself when it comes to making shirts your employees will love, did you? We’ve created this free guide on how to make your employees proud to wear your brand.

Why is Scrappy Apparel the Right Choice For My Custom Apparel Needs?

You’ve got your mind made up about creating custom company shirts. Now, it’s time to pick a custom apparel company to make you the best damn shirts you’ve ever seen. That’s where we come in.

Scrappy Apparel is the Best Screen Printing Company Because We:

1. Produce high-quality, soft-to-the-touch prints that will last wash after wash.

2. Source luxury-level materials to screen print on. Read about our Peruvian Pima Cotton.

3. Offer an extensive pre-production layout review process so you can be sure you love your shirts before you even see them!

4. Offer free shipping, folding, and poly bagging for all orders (because we love you!)

5. Have a team of rockstar Scrappy sales reps who will answer your questions and guide you through each step of the ordering process

6. Provide exceptional customer service to everyone we work with

7. Offer private labeling options for brands that are ready to scale to infinity and beyond

8. Can manufacture 10,000+ shirts without breaking a sweat

9. Deliver all orders with superhuman speed and accuracy. (But seriously, your order will never, ever arrive late.)

10. Have over 16 years of experience in the custom apparel industry, so you know you’re in good hands.

When it comes to creating custom company shirts, Scrappy Apparel is the right choice for you. We’ll make sure you’re 100% satisfied with your order before it even ships.

Ready to order your dream t-shirts? Let’s get this party started:

free quote


capitalize on trends

How to Capitalize on Custom Apparel Trends

Posted on

The U.S. eCommerce fashion industry has a projected market volume of approx. $305 billion by 2025, and you know what one of the driving factors of that growth is? Trends—which often develop from the influence of celebrities, bloggers, influencers, and social media. But this is good news for your business. You can learn how to sell more apparel by capitalizing on custom apparel trends.

Trends can bring in tons of business from people wanting to be… well, trendy.

Trends are fickle—they come and go. Since they don’t last for long, it’s important for businesses, marketing professionals, and even fashion designers to pay close attention to trends.

By understanding what’s trending, you can predict what might be popular in the future. You’ll become a clairvoyant for the apparel industry (which will give you a serious competitive advantage).


what is a trend

What is a Trend?

A trend is a pattern that is emerging in the market. It can be a new product, a change in consumer behavior, or even a new way of doing business. It can also simply be a meme, a sound, a celebrity, or even a dance. 

If we’re honest, some trends are meaningful, and others are just a bit, uh, special (like everyone’s Shrek obsession and even that Andrew Tate guy).


How Can I Use Trends in My Apparel Business?

Custom apparel trends often follow other trends. As people become interested in one trend, they often start to look for similar things. 

For example, if someone starts wearing a certain type of clothing because it’s in style, they may start to pay attention to other related trends. 

By spotting and predicting trends, you can stock your inventory with graphics and designs that will fly off the shelves.


Fashion Trend Life Cycles

Just as people go through different stages in their lives, so do trends. To understand how a trend progresses, it’s important to know about a trend’s life cycle.

A trend’s life cycle consists of four main stages: birth, growth, maturity, and decline.

1. Birth:

This is the stage in which a trend is born. It’s the earliest stage of a trend’s life cycle, often characterized by low awareness and adoption. If you can identify these trends early on, so you can develop new garments to sell during the growth stage. (This is ideal!)

2. Growth:

A trend begins to gain traction in this stage. Awareness and adoption of the trend increase and spread. If you noticed the trend in the birth stage, you’ll get high traffic in this stage. If not, it is crucial to act quickly once a trend is in the growth stage to capitalize on it.

3. Maturity:

Now, the trend is widely accepted across consumer markets. It has reached its peak in this stage. You should have already purchased inventory for the trend at this point because your business will be booming in the maturity stage.

4. Decline:

This is the stage in which a trend starts to lose popularity. Awareness and adoption decrease, and the trend starts to fade away. Some trends eventually deteriorate so much that they never return, or we see trends come back decades later. (We’re going to talk all about that in next week’s email, so stay tuned!)

By understanding the stages of a trend’s life cycle, businesses can develop strategies for riding the wave of a trend and capitalizing on its popularity.


So, How Can You Identify Custom Apparel Trends?

We recommend keeping an eye on your competitors to see what they’re doing, using social media listening tools, and paying attention to what your customers are asking for.

Next, we’ll share a couple of tools and strategies you can use to identify trends online:


google trends

Google Trends

Google Trends is a public web facility based on Google Search that shows how often particular terms are searched relative to the total search volume across various regions of the world.

Google Trends also allows users to compare the relative popularity (based on data from Google) of multiple related topics over time.

For example, if you look up “custom apparel” on Google Trends, you can see any related topic or query associated with this term.

You can start to connect the dots to what people are looking for and how your brand can be the answer to their search.

Google Trends helps you gain insight into customer behavior and preferences. This is a great way to notice trends in their beginning stages.


Social Media Trends

Social media trends are important to businesses for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they provide valuable insights into consumers’ interests.

This information can inform marketing and product development decisions, especially in the apparel business.

If you’re a savvy brand looking to stay ahead of the curve, then it’s important to know how to identify apparel trends on social media. Here are a few tips:

Pay Attention to Fashion Bloggers and Influencers

These people are always on the cutting edge of fashion. If you see them wearing something new, it could become a trend soon.

Keep an Eye on Celebrities

Celebrities are often trendsetters. If you see someone famous wearing a certain style of clothing, it may become popular.

Monitor Fashion-Related Hashtags

Hashtags are a great way to see what people are talking about. If you’re looking for new trends, pay attention to popular fashion hashtags on social media. On Instagram, you can follow specific hashtags so the top posts within that hashtag appear in your feed.


Custom Apparel Trends Come and Go, But Quality Never Goes Out of Style.

That’s why Scrappy Apparel is the best choice for your custom apparel project.

Whether you’re manufacturing apparel for your team or your clothing line, we will offer you luxury-level materials, high-grade inks, and a variety of cutting-edge garment patterns for you to choose from.

BTW, we’re not your average print shop. We’re a 100% online solution. You can complete the entire ordering process from home.

And if you opt for our private labeling and cut & sew manufacturing programs, you can take ownership of your custom apparel and make it truly custom.

Let us be your brand-building partners. We’re ready to get started when you are!

free quote


ordering t-shirts in bulk

The Benefits of Ordering T-Shirts in Bulk for Screen Printing

Posted on

Have you ever noticed that Costco and BJ’s Wholesale stores sell most, if not all, of their items in bulk?

Have you also noticed that their bulk items are priced better than buying the same number of products one by one? This same concept applies in the custom apparel industry. Let’s talk about the power of buying t-shirts in bulk for screen printing!

Forget about the hassle of reordering your custom apparel t-shirts and say hello to one large order that solves all your custom apparel problems. Ordering custom apparel t-shirts in bulk can benefit your business by providing you with more inventory, less stress, and better savings.

These are three essentials you need when running a large business. We know this is the best deal you can get when it comes to ordering custom t-shirts and limiting any financial stress.

Let’s talk about why bulk is better, the specific benefits that come with ordering in bulk, and some extras you receive when you order with Scrappy Apparel. We want you to be stress-free because that’s the Scrappy way.

To Order in Bulk or to Not Order in Bulk… That is the Question.

Whether you’re looking to outfit your entire team or just want to stock up on some stylish swag, ordering t-shirts in bulk is always a good idea.

Not only will you save money on the cost per shirt, but you’ll also get the added benefit of having a few extras on hand in case of spills, accidents, rips, or new additions to your team. If that isn’t enough to get you excited, let us remind you of the time you’ll save with a bulk order. Totally amazing, right? After all, time is something we all need more of.

So, why does ordering in bulk come at a lower price than ordering individually? Well, in terms of custom apparel, there are two things you need to keep in mind: price per unit and total cost.

The price per unit is the cost of each individual shirt, while the total cost is the cost of all the t-shirts in the bundle. When you order t-shirts in bulk for screen printing, you’re able to get a lower price per unit when you buy more t-shirts at once.

When you don’t order in bulk, you get stuck in the endless cycle of placing another order, paying the not-discounted price again, and waiting for the t-shirts to arrive.

We think it’s safe for us to assume that as a high executive, team owner, organization leader, etc., you have more important tasks on your plate than reordering t-shirts every few months.

If you know you’ll need the shirts, your best bet is to order them in one batch. Of course, you will need a trustworthy custom apparel partner to make your screen printing dreams come true. (More on that later.)

japanese t-shirt

Let’s Bulk Up on Benefits

At the end of the day, we want to make sure you learn why bulk is better, but we also want you to believe it! Here are just a few of the wins you’ll get when you order t-shirts in bulk for screen printing (cause there are a lot of Ws and basically no Ls): 

Keep More Money in Your Pockets.

When you’re running a business, every dollar counts. 

One of the biggest benefits of ordering t-shirts in bulk for screen printing is that you’ll save money. When you order t-shirts in smaller quantities, you’ll end up paying more per shirt. Who wants to spend more money on fewer items? No one.

Buying t-shirts in bulk can often be cheaper than buying them individually, and you’ll end up with more t-shirts ready to go for all your needs. Plus, if you order them from the right place, you can often get bulk discounts that make the deal even sweeter. That’s the power of saving with bulk orders.

At Scrappy Apparel, we offer price breaks at different numbers of shirts. For example, if you order 10,000 shirts, your cost per shirt will be drastically lower than if you only ordered 100.

Want details? Grab your free quote and we will get back to you with an estimate within 24 business hours.

More T-shirts, Fewer Problems

Another great benefit of ordering t-shirts in bulk is that you’ll end up with more t-shirts! Kind of obvious, isn’t it?

Well, this is perfect if you need a lot of t-shirts for an event or if you just want to have a few extra on hand. With bulk orders, you can be sure that you’ll have enough t-shirts to meet your needs. More t-shirts = less reordering. That’s a big win!

Here’s a scenario for you:

Let’s say you sell t-shirts through your e-commerce store. As we know, e-commerce sales can fluctuate. You want to be prepared if your brand goes viral on social media or your sales skyrocket one month. Generally, if customers are ready to buy, you want to have inventory on hand (unless you are building demand through scarcity).

Ordering t-shirts in bulk for screen printing will help you ensure you have the inventory you need when your brand becomes a massive success.

screen printed t-shirt

Imperfections are Nonexistent

When you order your custom designs in bulk, you increase your chances of getting the same perfect shirt throughout the whole order. Since bulk orders are produced at once, all of your t-shirts will be nearly identical throughout the entire order, limiting imperfections. 

Imagine ordering some t-shirts and then having to order a few more because there weren’t enough. You risk the chance of the t-shirts looking different, even in the slightest. 

When it comes to ordering in bulk with Scrappy, we send you pre-production layouts to make sure that everything is perfect before we manufacture your order. Our Brand Building Process (BBP) ensures that your order will turn out exactly how you imagined it would. No misprints. No missed details. No mistakes. We don’t skimp on quality!

Time is Money, People!

When you order t-shirts in bulk, you’ll save time too! As we know, time is money.

Ordering in small quantities can be time-consuming, especially if you’re trying to find the right shirt for each person. Every time you order, you have to pay again. You’ll also likely have to go through the entire ordering and approval process again. It’s not as simple as reordering the same batch of t-shirts in a few clicks.

Not only are you losing time, but you’re also losing money, and that’s a lose-lose. When you order in bulk, all you have to do is choose the t-shirt’s style and color and then place your order. It’s quick and easy, and there is no need to repeat it!

Fast and Free Shipping

We can’t speak for other companies, but when it comes to Scrappy Apparel (the best custom apparel company), you are guaranteed free shipping–every time. Your bulk order gets sent to your doorstep quickly and free of charge!

Deadlines are important to us (and if you’re running a business, we assume they are crucial for you too). That’s why we never miss deadlines. You can count on your order arriving at your doorstep on time, every single time.

If you’ve worked with custom apparel companies before, you may have heard excuse after excuse as to why your order won’t arrive on time. With us, you’ll never have to worry about that because your satisfaction is our top priority. Our turnaround times are 100% accurate, and you can count on your order to arrive by the delivery date.

Scrappy Apparel’s Fulfillment Services

Now that you’ve seen why ordering t-shirts in bulk is your best choice, we want to make your dream bulk order a reality with our amazing fulfillment services!

We work with a lot of the leading eCommerce fulfillment provider, to offer you full-service fulfillment: picking, packing, shipping, and storing your products.

If you have an eCommerce store, you may not want to worry about managing inventory and shipping products yourself. You can count on our team and partner to fulfill your customers’ orders with speed, accuracy, and utmost care.

Here’s the breakdown of what we can offer you:

1. You Can Focus on Your Business, Not on Inventory Management.

Managing inventory is hard work. It’s time-consuming, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be expensive, too. When you use our fulfillment services, you can free up your time and money to focus on what you’re good at: running your business.

Your products will be stored in a safe, temperature-controlled environment, and our team will handle all the picking, packing, and shipping. After all, you have a brand to build! Stay in your zone of genius while we handle the fulfillment logistics for you.

2. You’ll Save Time and Money on Shipping and Delivery.

If you pack and ship every order yourself, it can take a lot of time (and money). With our fulfillment services, we’ll handle all of the packaging and shipping for you so you don’t have to worry about each individual shipping expense. We’ll even deliver the orders to your customers’ doorsteps. This means that you can focus on other aspects of your business, and leave the fulfillment to us.

Our delivery services are fast, reliable, and affordable. We’ll make sure that your customers receive their orders on time, every time. Plus, our services are scalable, so you can easily adjust as your business grows.

3. You Can Scale Your Business Easily with a Fulfillment Service.

Do you have your eyes set on enterprise-level goals? If you want to achieve big things with your small business, you need a fulfillment solution that can grow with you.

Scalability is key when you’re looking for a third-party logistics (3PL) provider. You need to partner with a company that has the resources and infrastructure in place to support your future growth.

Our fulfillment services are the perfect solution for businesses looking to scale. We have a world-class fulfillment center that is equipped to handle any volume of orders. Whether you’re shipping a few orders a week or a few thousand orders a day, we can handle it.

Plus, our fulfillment services are backed by our team of experts. Our team is here to help you every step of the way. We’ll work with you to ensure that your orders are fulfilled accurately and on time, every time.

4. You Can Spend More Time on What Matters Most in Your Business.

When you outsource your fulfillment to Scrappy Apparel, you can focus on the more important tasks in your business. That might mean spending more time on product development, marketing, or sales. It could also mean that you have more time to spend with your family and friends (because work-life balance matters too!)

5. You Can Improve Customer Satisfaction.

Outsourcing your fulfillment to Scrappy Apparel can also improve customer satisfaction. That’s because we are committed to providing the best possible experience for your customers. If there are any issues with an order, we will work quickly to resolve them. We’re on your side!

Our Fulfillment Partner

Scrappy Apparel works with tons of fulfillment companies that provide end-to-end order fulfillment services that are second to none. They have a team of experts who are passionate about products being delivered on time and in perfect condition. They are comprehensive and understand the importance of customer satisfaction, going above and beyond to make sure you’re happy with our service. Sounds like the perfect fit for us, right?

Services Include:

  • e-Commerce fulfillment
  • Subscription & batch fulfillment 
  • Physical media
  • Kitting and assembly
  • And more!

Ordering T-shirts in Bulk for Screen Printing is the Best Choice

Whether you want to save time, money, stress, or all of the above, ordering in bulk is the right answer! Don’t fail yourself and your pockets, order your next set of amazing custom t-shirts in bulk for you and the whole gang. 

When you’re ready, click below to get your free estimate. On top of bulk savings, we give you free estimates. We know. We’re just the best!

Ready to place your bulk screen printing order?

free quote


sms marketing tips

SMS Marketing Tips from the Best Custom T-Shirt Company

Posted on

Imagine this: you get a notification on your phone. It’s a text from the best custom t-shirt company.

You get excited. You open the message to see an awesome promotion you just can’t miss out on. You open the website, get your estimate, and BAM—just like that, you made a purchase.

SMS marketing campaigns have a 98% open rate. If visibility is your goal, SMS is your best bet.

In this digital era, people have their phones glued to their hands. Even the slightest ding attracts their attention, so why not use it to benefit your business?

SMS is uncharted territory for many brands. While email marketing is a red ocean filled with lots of competition, think of SMS as a blue ocean with a world of opportunity to “WOW” your target customers.

Are you intrigued yet? Let’s go over what SMS marketing is, why you should use it, and some best practices:


What is SMS marketing?

SMS marketing (a.k.a. short message service marketing) is the process of texting your customers promotions or news straight to their phone numbers.

SMS marketing allows you to be in direct communication with your customers using a brief, yet straightforward message that they’ll actually look at and read. This gives you a better chance of getting a sale if your SMS campaign is effective.


why sms marketing

Why should you use SMS marketing?

Here are a few reasons:

SMS marketing is immediate.

This is helpful if you need to communicate urgent information to your customers, such as sales or special promotions.

Your customers will receive your message as soon as you send it, which means they are more likely to read it and buy one of your t-shirts. It’s also easier to access than an email, which may get lost in a crowded inbox.

There’s a reason why SMS is so popular for abandoned cart campaigns and other ecommerce messages—text messages just work.

SMS is personal.

Text messages have a personal feel that emails cannot match. Texting is like talking to a friend, whereas email can be more formal.

Personal is good, especially when it comes to marketing your custom apparel. You want your target customers to trust you. SMS can help you build that trust.

SMS is affordable.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to reach your target audience.

There are no design or layout costs, and you don’t need to worry about print or postage. You can also automate your SMS campaigns, which saves you time and money.

SMS is a great way to share announcements or news.

Whether it be a new promotion, new product launch, or customer anniversaries, SMS allows you to announce the news in a quick and easy way.

You can also use SMS to remind your customers when certain sales are ending. This creates a sense of urgency and encourages them to take action.

SMS is measurable.

If measuring success is important to your business, SMS marketing is for you. You can track how many people open and click on your links, which helps you to gauge the effectiveness of your campaigns. Hell yeah.


Best practices for SMS marketing

Now that we’ve gone over the basics of SMS marketing, let’s go over some best practices to make sure your campaigns are successful:

Get permission first.

Before you start sending out mass texts, you need to get permission from your contacts first. This means adding an opt-in keyword to your marketing materials, such as “Text JOIN to 12345 to get exclusive offers.”

You should also make it easy for people to opt-out of your SMS campaigns. Add an opt-out keyword, such as “Text STOP to 12345 to stop receiving messages.”

Not only is this best practice, but it’s also the law. Businesses must obtain consent before sending marketing messages to customers.

Keep your messages short and sweet.

Since SMS messages are limited to 160 characters, it’s important to keep your messages short and sweet. Stick to the point and use simple language that your audience will understand.

Avoid using abbreviations or jargon because they can confuse some people. And always proofread your messages before you hit send!

Make sure your offer is valuable.

Your SMS campaigns will be more successful if you offer your contacts something valuable, such as a discount, free shipping, or early access to a new product.

Your offer needs to be relevant to your audience and it should be something that they would actually want. Otherwise, you’re just wasting their time.

Run an abandoned cart campaign.

Abandoned cart campaigns are one of the most effective ways to use SMS marketing. You can send a text message to customers who have abandoned their shopping cart, which reminds them to finish their purchase.

Add a call-to-action (CTA).

If you’re going to send out a message, make sure there’s a strong CTA. Tell your customers what you want them to do. (That’s the only way they’ll know.)

Test your campaign before you send it to your customers.

So, you’ve set up your SMS campaign, drafted out your message, and now you’re ready to send.

Hold your horses! Test the message with your own number first to make sure everything works.

We don’t want any spelling mistakes, dead-end links, or other SMS mishaps, do we?


 

customer

Ready to text your customers?

SMS marketing is a great way to reach out to your customers and promote your business. Just make sure to follow the best practices and you’ll be on your way to success!

And before we forget, did we mention we’re the best t-shirt printing company? If you need custom shirts for your business or e-commerce store, we’re the ones to call.

Scrappy Apparel is a bulk manufacturer of custom apparel. We offer luxury-quality products at pocket-friendly prices. We fold each shirt, polybag it, and ship it to your doorstep for free! And with our private labeling services, you can take true ownership of your custom apparel.

If you’re ready to work with the best t-shirt printing company on your custom apparel project, you know what to do next:

free quote


cheap t-shirt printing

Why Cheap T-Shirt Printing Can Be a Trap

Posted on

Are you searching for custom t-shirts that don’t burn a hole in your pocket? Well, you’ve come to the right place, as usual. Although we know you’re always searching for cheap t-shirt printing options, we’re here to teach you why spending just a bit more will be better in the long run. Trust us–we have the expertise to steer you in the right direction.

Why cheap t-shirts are well, you guessed it, cheap.

We know a low price tag can be extremely eye-catching, but will the quality of the shirt match your expectations? Sure, a cheap t-shirt might be enticing, but what happens after you wash it once? It turns into a baby tee and some of us did not sign up for this look.

So, why is cheap t-shirt printing just not it? First and foremost, cheap t-shirts are often made from lower-quality materials because–you guessed it–they’re cheaper to get. That means your t-shirt is more likely to fade or shrink after a few washes. Unfortunately, your cheaply made band t-shirt will be a dim-colored shirt after two washes. 

Additionally, cheap t-shirts tend to be less comfortable than their higher-priced counterparts. They could feel stiff or scratchy and never just right. Why would you spend money on an uncomfortable piece of fabric when you can spend a bit more and have an article of clothing worth wearing? Not to mention, an uncomfortable, faded, and shrunken shirt will most likely get donated or thrown out. Next thing you know, you’ll see your old shirt on #Thrifted TikTok.

Another downside to cheap t-shirts is they typically don’t fit as well as more expensive t-shirts. Cheap t-shirts are often mass-produced and don’t take into account different body shapes and sizes. As a result, you might end up with a t-shirt that is too big or too small, or that just doesn’t look quite right. Why pay a cheaper price tag just to look bad and feel confined? 

One more reason why cheap t-shirts just aren’t a vibe–cheap t-shirts might not be as stylish as more expensive t-shirts. They tend to be made from less fashionable materials and cuts. Maybe this doesn’t matter to you, but some people (including us), like to walk around looking “So Fresh, So Clean.” (Alexa, play Outkast)

So, you’re better off spending more money on a t-shirt that will help you make a good impression. As we said, better materials mean they’ll last longer, so you can keep these stylish items of clothing in your closet for as long as you want. 

quality t-shirt printing

What Scrappy Apparel can offer you

Now that cheap t-shirts are off the list, Scrappy comes into play. What can we offer you that sounds just as good? Well, we won’t offer you those very cheap deals, but we can offer you something better. Scrappy offers high-quality fabrics, bright colors, and amazing craftsmanship at a price that won’t break your pocket. If you’re not convinced, keep reading. 

We have some influential information coming your way that will 100% change your perspective. Quality over everything, people!

Ordering t-shirts in bulk for all over screen printing

When you order t-shirts in bulk with Scrappy Apparel, you get more than one win. Whether it be pricing, quality, or organization, ordering in bulk can really benefit multiple parts of your life (especially if you order with Scrappy Apparel). Let’s break down the benefits of ordering your custom t-shirts in bulk for all over screen printing. 

Save money– one of the most important benefits

That’s what started this all, right? Looking for an easy-on-the-pocket alternative to cheap t-shirt printing. Ordering in bulk with us helps you save money. Big bucks. 

When you order custom apparel in bulk, you’ll get a discounted price per item (or a price break). A price break is when you get a discount for purchasing a large quantity of something, like cool custom t-shirts. The more you buy, the bigger the discount, and that my friends, is the sweet sound of savings (cha-ching!).

This can be a great way to save money on your overall order. Scrappy Apparel has different minimum requirements for bulk orders with the all over screen printing minimum being 100 items. That means you and 99 other friends, colleagues, family members, or customers will have matching, quality t-shirts that’ll last. We think that’s a big win for us, you, and everyone else that gets a Scrappy Apparel t-shirt.

Maintain your inventory and stay organized

Are you planning for a big event and need enough t-shirts for everyone, even the indecisive ones that haven’t signed up yet? Are you making t-shirts for your office and need to keep in mind new employees getting added to the team? ​​When you order in bulk with Scrappy Apparel, you’ll have plenty of t-shirts to go around. 

Creating dope t-shirts with cool designs will not only entice your employees but will also encourage anyone around them to support your business or cause as well. Imagine this: every time someone wears one of your custom-made t-shirts, it’s essentially free advertising. Now, that’s a great investment if you ask us! 

Learn how to make custom apparel that your employees will be proud of wearing.

Now, creating t-shirts to represent and support your favorite sports team can be easy when you have a maintained inventory. When it comes to a sport like soccer, the best one in our opinion, it’s important to have quality merch that parents, siblings, and players will want. Keep in mind–new players will join the team, and with them, come new family members and supporters. This is an instance where ordering in bulk to maintain inventory is a huge win! Not to mention, you’re already winning with the price in itself.

Get what you want, exactly how you want it

When you order custom apparel in bulk, you have complete control over the consistency of the design, colors, and style of your gear. This means that you can create exactly the look you want without having to settle for something less.

Our Scrappy Apparel team of experts will always send you pre-layout designs to ensure everything is exactly where you want it to be! No need to lower your expectations for a mediocre design (that will fade after wearing it once) just because the shirt has a nice price tag.

When ordering in bulk, you can get amazing designs screen printed to perfection for you and your whole crew. If you’re looking for a truly customized look, ordering Scrappy Apparel in bulk is the way to go.

You’ll receive your custom bulk order faster than you can say supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

If excellent quality, competitive prices, and organized inventory aren’t enough to convince you to switch over to the bulk side, we’ll introduce you to one of our Scrappy superpowers: fast shipping.

After ordering in bulk, you’ll get your custom t-shirts straight to your doorstep in 15 to 20 days. That means you’ll get the perfect design with soft fabric and bright colors in 2 to 3 weeks. Isn’t that absolutely amazing?

You’re convinced, huh? Well, let’s make it better. Not only do your items get sent to your door, but they’re sent out free of cost. That’s right, FREE SHIPPING. So not only does ordering custom apparel in bulk save you money with a discounted price on your t-shirts, but you save even more with free shipping. 

Why we’re worth the price

Of course, we wouldn’t want you to pay more for t-shirts in bulk for all over screen printing without knowing why we’re a bit heavier on your pocket compared to cheap t-shirt printing. We will always be transparent with you and want to explain what makes our prices worth it. 

We have years of expertise 

We’ve got 16 years of experience to our name. That means we’ve had over a decade of learning the best practices for successfully printing custom apparel. Here at Scrappy Apparel, we pride ourselves on being experts in this matter and we also have many reliable client reviews that show their satisfaction with our work. You can say we’ve left a good foot “print” with the different people and businesses we have worked with in the past. 

We’ll always take the time to understand your specific needs and wants, and then use our extensive knowledge and experience to create the perfect piece of clothing for you. We’ll also be able to advise you on the best materials and construction methods to ensure that your garment looks and feels great! Not only do we want the best for you, but we will always give you our best. 

We work with the best factories and technology

Why are good machines essential to successful custom apparel? Well, for starters, they help ensure a high level of quality control. A high level of quality is the only level we ever match. Additionally, they can speed up the production process, which is essential when working with tight deadlines. As we mentioned before, we pride ourselves on quick and free shipping, so our machines allow our production process to be fast, clean, and spotless. 

Last, but not least, machines simply make the entire process more efficient and streamlined. In other words, good machines are the key to success when it comes to custom apparel. Our customer service team will guarantee perfection in your designs and our machines create the magic. 

Fabrics that are oh, so soft

With us, you pay for what you get. Well actually, you pay a good price and get even better fabrics. We only offer our clients the best fabrics in the business and let me tell you, they’re damn soft. 

One of our special fabrics, called Pima cotton, comes straight from Peru and it is one of the softest fabrics you will ever feel. Pima cotton is often used in high-end apparel, bedding, and other textile products. Imagine owning a luxurious feeling custom apparel t-shirt at such a reasonable and good price. No need to imagine, you can get it done right now with us. 

We always listen to our customers when it comes to choosing fabrics for our products. Our fabrics are softer than soft, and they’re guaranteed to be fan favorites. How else do you think we’ve been able to stay successful for this long? Quality is key. 

Inks and colors so bright you’ll need sunglasses

You know that Krabby Patty secret formula that everyone wants to know about because it’s the base for burger excellence? We don’t make burgers, but our secret ink formula will leave you wanting to know all of our secrets. 

Our inks are vibrant, long-lasting, and definitely worth every penny. We also offer a variety of inks depending on what vibe you’re going for. Your designs and logos deserve to shine bright on any piece of clothing they’re printed on. We’re committed to providing the best colors for your custom orders and you’ll never get less from us. 

Is cheap t-shirt printing worth the savings?

Now that we’ve shown you why cheap t-shirt printing isn’t really all that worth it, we hope you understand why spending a few more bucks is better in the long run. Sure, cheaper prices can be nice, but think of your custom apparel as an investment in your wardrobe for the long term. Spend your hard-earned money on apparel that is worth it and will last you through all your events.

We’re ready to take on any project you might have! If you’re also ready, click below and get your free estimate for your custom t-shirts in bulk for all over screen printing. It’s worth it, we promise. 

free quote


custom screen print shirts

12 Mesmerizing Pantone Color Palettes for Custom Screen Print Shirts

Posted on

Are you endlessly searching for color inspo for your next order of custom screen print shirts?

Pantone color palettes will be your best friend in this situation. If you’re just as indecisive as we are, seeing tones that complement each other can really help get your creative juices flowing.

No matter how uninspired you may feel, there’s a big chance you’ll find some cool colors to get your heart racing. Don’t worry—we’ll help out with recommendations for each one.


What are Pantone colors?

So, what exactly is a Pantone color? Well, first of all, Pantone is a company that provides a universal system for matching colors. This system makes it easy for brands to keep colors consistent through every stage of creating a product, from ideation to manufacturing.

We use the Pantone Matching System to make sure we produce the exact colors our customers want for their custom apparel. 

Although Pantone colors used to be fairly popular on Tumblr with the aesthetic girl community (RIP), they do have a practical application in the custom apparel world. By choosing the right colors, you can create unique and stylish designs that are perfect for any occasion.

For example, there are summer and winter palettes to match the corresponding seasons. There are also palettes that are perfect for weddings or other formal events.


Pantone palette examples: Let’s get inspired!

Here are 12 examples of cool Pantone palettes to inspire your next order! There’s a bit of everything for everyone, so go right ahead and check out what we have in store for you.

pantone 1

We call this one “The Shades of Nature.” It’s an ode to the great outdoors, and it contains a good list of basic shades, too. 

Whether you’re completing a beach clean-up, a group hike, or any type of outdoor activity, this Pantone palette is the way to go. 

These colors are also cool for a van driving by the coast. (We’re trying to get your head in the right space for creativity.)

Pantone 2

This Pantone palette is “Don’t Stop Be-leafing.” 

The shades in this color combo are perfect for autumn. Whether it’s Halloween, Thanksgiving, or anything in between, these colors are the perfect choice for fall! These shades are also great base colors for your designs.

Pantone 3

We like to call this one “Olives in a Martini.” Who doesn’t love a good olive in a martini? 

These neutral greens and browns form a solid foundation for any design, and the white and beige work as evergreen colors.

Pantone 4

Probably our favorite Pantone palette—this one is called, “The Soccer Dude.

Of course, you didn’t expect us to leave out a classic jersey combo, did you? Soccer is our middle name. 

These red and neutral shades are great colors for any team event like a field day or sports day. 

These colors do not in any way represent our favorite team, by the way. Just had to throw that out there.

Pantone 5

For all our brands that empower women, this one’s for you. “Empowered Pinks” was created specifically for all the women who are working hard for what they want. 

These pastel pinks and purples are the perfect colors to bring out your bad witch energy.

Pantone 6

If you’ve got a coffee addiction, raise your hand. This Pantone palette is called “How Strong is My Coffee Today?” 

Whether you woke up with energy or your undereye bags need some serious TLC, coffee is always a good idea. 

This Pantone palette shows different shades of brown, and it would be the right choice for a coffee shop. We will take a double shot of espresso, please!

Pantone 7

This bright-colored Pantone palette is called “Summer of ‘09.” 

Why ‘09, you may ask? We don’t know. It just sounded cool. 

This mixture of blues, yellows, and oranges will match all the summer vibes. These shades are retro and fun! We also think these colors fit a gelato place serving delicious ice cream.

Pantone 8

A Stroll Through Central Park” is the name we have dedicated to our next Pantone palette.

Picture this: you’re in New York strolling through Central Park with a hotdog in hand and not a worry in the world. These colors remind us of the trees, the bikes, the shadows, the squirrels, and even the hotdog itself. Sign us up!

Pantone 10

At Scrappy, we’re chocolate lovers, so this next palette is called, “Scrappy and the Chocolate Factory.” 

Here, we’ve got tones of caramel, dark chocolate, pistachio, white chocolate, and milk chocolate. No matter what your preference is, we’ll have it ready for you. 

These colors make sense for neutral brands and are a good fit for something like The Boy Scouts.

Pantone 10

Alexa, queue “Under the Sea” by Sebastian the crab. 

With shades of blue and coral, this Pantone palette has full-on little mermaid vibes. It’s perfect for any shop by the coast! You can almost smell the ocean breeze just looking at this Pantone palette.

Pantone 11

In October, most companies wear pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so we’ve compiled an assortment of pinks to choose from for your custom screen print shirts. This palette, “Pink is Strong,” creates the perfect base for your shirts.

Pantone 12

To finish off strong, we’ve got “Greenery at Its Best.” Green has definitely been the color of the year, so how could we not dedicate a palette to its excellence? 

These greens fit any brand, but we see them matching well with healthy restaurants and smoothie shops.


So, you have the perfect palette. What’s next?

We truly hope that at least one, if not all, of the Pantone color palettes got your inspiration and creative juices flowing! 

Now, you can design the perfect custom screen print shirts for your needs. If it were up to us, we’d choose them all!

If you’re ready to begin your screen printing project with your perfectly curated Pantone palette, click the button below to get your free estimate and we’ll get the show on the road:

free quote