These days, we see how branded merchandise has taken over. Whether you are a startup or an influencer, branded merchandise is very important as it increases a brand’s visibility, builds customer loyalty and connects with your audience to build your brand and business as a branded merchandise for business. In this blog, we will see how to create branded merchandise with custom printing.

What Is Branded Merchandise?

 You might have seen special t-shirts and hoodies that can only be bought from one startup or a YouTuber; that is what we call merchandise. Branded merchandise is a special piece of clothing or a statement piece by a YouTuber, influencer, celebrity, or brand which represents only that person or that business. 

Why Branded Merchandise Matters? 

So, branded merchandise is more than just a logo on a t-shirt or a hoodie; it is something that will represent your business or brand. Here is why branded merchandise matters the most; 

• Brand recognition: consistent branding makes your business more apparent than others. 
• Customer loyalty: When customers see free or exclusive merchandise, it builds a sense of loyalty within them. They feel a sense of belonging, and it makes them feel special. 
• Marketing reach: Your branded merchandise acts like a marketing message everywhere you go. 
• Professional image: Branded merchandise gives your brand a more professional and polished look as compared to others. 

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Personalised Business Stationery

How To Create Branded Merchandise? 

According to the latest research, in 2024 the global custom printing and t-shirt printing market was valued at 5.16 billion, and it is expected to grow by 11.5% by 2030. The massive rise of the custom merch aligns with the growing demand for branded and customised apparel, and that communicates a brand’s or a celebrity’s interests or beliefs. Here is how you can create branded merchandise: 

Step 1: Define Your Brand Message

When going for branded merchandise, the first thing that you should do is know your brand. Imagine your branded merchandise not aligning with your brand’s identity; that would look so uneven and out of place. Think about your audience, your brand identity, your mission and how smoothly you are going to incorporate the brand into your merchandise. 

Step 2: Select Your Products

The next step is to select your products. Many people go for t-shirts and apparel; however, there are many other things and products that you can try. Here are some of the popular options that you can go for; 

• Hoodies 
• Cups and mugs 
• Water bottles 
• Tote bags 
• Notebooks and pens 
• Stickers and stationery items 
• Hats and beanies 

Step 3: Design to Make a Difference 

When designing, make sure that you are designing to make a difference. Make it different and use your colours wisely. Here are some of the things that you need to keep in mind when you are trying to design your branded merchandise: Look for competitors around you, and then see what your audience wants. Here is what you can do to make your design look different: 

• Use your logo in high resolution. 
• Stick to your brand colours and fonts 
• Make sure that your design fits on all surfaces and sizes 
• Don’t make your design full of clutter, and make it simple 
• Ensure that the message is clear and concise 

Step 4: Pick a Printing Method 

Once you have picked your products and design, the next step is the execution step, where you have to select the printing technique. There are many custom printing options; for example, here are a few: 

• Screen printing: ideal for large batches of apparel 
• Direct to garment (DTG): great for complex designs and intricate patterns 
• Embroidery: best for intricate designs and hats, polos and premium items
• Sublimation printing: best for mugs and stationery items 
• Heat transfer vinyl (HTV): affordable for simple and short-run items. 

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Types of Printing

Step 5: Market your Merchandise 

The next step is marketing and selling your branded merchandise into the market. There are many ways to market your products. The best thing about branded merchandise is that since you are selling it as an exclusive item, it means that your brand or business is already established, which makes it even easier for you to sell your products. 

Wrapping Up

In the end, having branded merchandise with custom printing is an effective way to boost your sales and visibility by choosing the right products that align with your brand, and choosing a printing technique that aligns with your product, then you will come up with a branded merchandise that will truly stand out. So invest in branded merchandise today to win your customers’ loyalty and increase brand awareness of your brand that your audience will love and use!

FAQs:

1. What is branded merchandise?

Branded merchandise refers to products like apparel, mugs, stationery, or accessories that feature a company’s logo, slogan, or identity to promote brand awareness and loyalty.

2. Why is branded merchandise important for businesses?

Branded merchandise helps increase visibility, improve customer retention, and gives your business a professional look, acting as a walking advertisement.

3. What products can be used for branded merchandise?

Popular products include t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, tote bags, notebooks, pens, stickers, water bottles, and hats.

4. Which printing method is best for branded merchandise?

It depends on the product and design. Common methods include screen printing, DTG (Direct-to-Garment), embroidery, sublimation, and heat transfer vinyl.