Lexington, Ky. – September 30, 2026 -- Businesses ordering custom apparel should first define how the garments will be used before selecting materials, sizing, or decoration methods, according to guidance published by HelloNation featuring Printing Expert Adam Norsworthy of Minuteman Press in Lexington, KY.
Intended use determines material and durability requirements for uniforms
Employee uniforms require comfort and durability suited to the work environment, with outdoor roles facing different demands than office or restaurant settings. Temperature exposure, movement, dirt, and washing frequency all factor into material selection among cotton, polyester, blends, and performance fabrics.
Event shirts and promotional giveaways demand separate sizing and quantity strategies
Event shirts are selected based on event length and expected conditions to identify employees, volunteers, or participants at conferences and fundraisers. Promotional giveaways aimed at customers or attendees instead prioritize quantity, sizing variety, cost, and broad usefulness for larger distribution runs.
Sizing variance across brands requires businesses to plan quantity beyond current headcount
Because measurements differ among garment brands and styles, businesses are advised to review sizing charts before finalizing orders. Quantity planning should account for current recipients as well as future employees or replacement stock.
Artwork and decoration method must be evaluated together, not separately
Fine details and small lettering can reproduce differently on fabric than on paper, making logo placement, artwork size, and color contrast critical considerations. Screen printing, embroidery, and other decoration methods each carry distinct requirements tied to fabric type, quantity, and color count.
Production deadlines shape which apparel and decoration options remain feasible
Garment availability, artwork approval, decoration timelines, and shipping all affect whether an order can meet a specific delivery date. Providing a clear deadline upfront gives apparel providers the information needed to evaluate viable production options.
The guidance concludes that supplying complete project details -- intended use, sizing, quantity, artwork, decoration method, and deadline -- at the outset allows apparel providers to narrow choices and deliver more informed recommendations.