7 Custom Team Apparel Mistakes: Late Orders, Art and Proofs

Most problems with custom team apparel are avoidable, and they usually start before anything is printed or stitched. Here are seven mistakes teams, clubs and organizations make, with the fix for each.

1. Starting without a final roster and sizes

Fix: collect names, sizes and quantities before you ask for a quote, and note any special requests such as youth sizes. Try a sample garment first so everyone knows how the sizes run.

2. Overcomplicated artwork

Too many colors, tiny text and thin lines are harder to reproduce, whether the method is printing or stitching.

Fix: simplify the design, use bold shapes, and let the studio advise on the right version for each garment. The graphic arts team can clean up or redraw a logo.

3. Sending a low-resolution file

A logo saved from a website or a social post is usually too small to reproduce sharply.

Fix: send vector artwork (AI, EPS or PDF) where you have it, or the largest original you can find. See the artwork guidelines for accepted files.

4. Ordering too close to the event

Custom work needs artwork approval and production time, so a tight deadline limits your options.

Fix: work backward from the date you need the gear, ask the studio about timing for your specific order, and mention the deadline when you request a quote.

5. Using the wrong decoration method

A detailed, many-color graphic and a small left-chest logo are not the same job.

Fix: choose the method per design and garment, and ask the studio to recommend one. See the screen printing and embroidery page, and for caps read embroidery vs heat transfers for hats.

6. Skipping the proof

A spelling mistake or wrong color caught after production is expensive.

Fix: review every digital mockup carefully, checking spelling, colors, sizes and placement, and approve it only when everything is right.

7. Picking garment and ink or thread colors that fight each other

Dark designs on dark garments, or thin thread on busy fabric, can disappear.

Fix: choose the garment color with the design in mind, and ask for a mockup on the actual color you plan to order.

A simple checklist

Roster and sizes confirmed
Final, vector artwork ready
Method chosen for each garment
Date needed shared with the studio
Mockup checked and approved

Running a store instead of collecting orders by hand? Read 10 things to know about team apparel stores, or contact the studio to start your order.

7 Custom Team Apparel Mistakes and How to Fix Them