STOP WASTING MONEY!

3 Tips on buying Custom Apparel

from a shop owner of 15+ years.

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The worst feeling in the world is picking up your custom t-shirts (that weren't cheap...or maybe they were...) only to find that they are NOT what you expected. Makes for a bad day, or worse.

Over the years we’ve worked with a lot of customers who came to us after having a frustrating experience somewhere else. Crooked prints, poor communication, late orders, or shirts that just didn’t turn out the way they expected.

So if you’re getting ready to order custom apparel, here are THREE simple tips from someone who’s been in the screen printing business for 15+ years.

1. Cheaper does NOT always mean better.

Everyone wants a good deal. That’s normal.

But when it comes to custom apparel, the cheapest option isn’t always the best option.

Lower prices might mean the company has fewer resources invested in things like:

• Customer service

• Production quality

• Experienced staff

• Reliable equipment

And sometimes the result is a product that doesn’t meet your expectations.

Our shop may not always be the lowest quote someone receives, but we focus on providing excellent service, strong production standards, and years of experience to make sure customers get exactly what they’re looking for.

And in the unlikely scenario where we mess up (it can happen), we're going to work hard to resolve it quickly and efficiently for you every time.

At the end of the day, the same rule applies to shirts as it does to most things:

You get what you pay for.

2. Check Google Reviews

Before I choose any business in the service industry, I always check out their Google Reviews. One of the easiest ways to evaluate a print shop is to look at what other people are saying.

Reviews give you a quick picture of:

• How a company treats customers

• If orders are delivered on time

• The quality of the finished product

• How problems are handled if something goes wrong

We often meet customers who previously ordered shirts from someone printing out of a garage or someone running a small heat press setup at home.

There’s nothing wrong with people starting businesses, but reliability and experience can vary widely.

Reviews help you see who consistently delivers good results.

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3. Pay Attention to Communication

Before placing an order, try calling or emailing a few companies.

Notice how they respond. Notice how quickly they respond. Did they pick up the phone or call you back?

Are they friendly?

Do they answer questions clearly?

Do they respond quickly?

Communication early in the process is often a good indicator of what the rest of the experience will be like.

A company that is responsive and helpful from the beginning will usually carry that same attitude throughout the project.

And when you’re ordering custom apparel, that kind of communication makes the whole process much easier.

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Final Thoughts

Ordering custom shirts should be an exciting process, not a stressful one. You are proud of your logo and branding - don't cut corners on custom apparel.

By paying attention to price, reputation, and communication, you can find a company that delivers a product you’re proud to wear.

And when you find a shop that does great work and treats you well, you’ve probably found a partner you can count on for future projects too.

Best of luck to you and your apparel printing needs!

-Ben Thompson

Owner, Hometown Apparel

Ben Thompson has owned Hometown Apparel for 15+ years. His passion is to serve people well. His vehicle to do that is printing shirts. He and his team are committed to treating you and your project with exceptional care. He can be reached at ben@hometownoh.com