We get this question all the time:
“So… how much does custom merch cost?”
And the honest answer? It depends. (Yeah, worst answer ever. We hate it too.) But hang with us, because we’ll break it down.
The Basics: What Drives Cost?
1. The Item Itself.
A basic cotton tee costs less than a heavyweight hoodie. A classic cap costs less than a laser-engraved jacket. No surprises there.
2. Decoration Method.
Embroidery, screen print, deboss, emboss, and laser engraving each have their own setup, skill, and process. Embroidery costs more than a one-color screen print, but it also lasts forever and looks premium.
3. Quantity.
This one is big. Ordering 100 drops your per-item price compared to ordering the minimum 48. Volume matters.
4. Extras.
Want custom packaging, tags, or names embroidered on each piece? Looks awesome. Adds cost. Totally worth it.
The Investment Mindset
Here’s the deal: merch is marketing.
- That $5 scratchy shirt no one wears? Total waste.
- A hoodie that becomes your employee’s weekend uniform? Worth every penny.
The real ROI isn’t “what did this shirt cost?” It’s “how many times did someone wear it?” Every time they do, your brand gets seen. Free impressions. Walking billboards.
Why Quality Wins Every Time
Sure, you can find rock-bottom prices. But if the garment feels cheap, it ends up in the donation pile. Or worse, someone’s pajama drawer, never to be seen in daylight again.
Spend a little smarter on quality blanks and solid decoration:
- People wear it more often.
- Your brand looks intentional, not like a giveaway booth.
- It builds pride and culture, not eye-rolls.
Real Talk: What to Expect
We can’t drop an exact price here. But here’s what you can expect in 2025:
- Bulk saves money. 100 pieces beats 48 every time.
- Premium feels premium. Embroidered hoodies or engraved jackets cost more, but get way more love.
- Transparency rules. No hidden setup fees and no weird add-ons. We’ll tell you upfront.
- Flexible budgets work. Whether you have a few hundred or a few thousand, we can stretch it to make your merch worth it.
Final Word: It’s About Value, Not Just Price
The cost of custom merch in 2025 comes down to this: you get what you pay for.
Want the cheapest option? Sure, it exists.
Want gear that your team wears every week, that builds culture, and that markets your brand every time it leaves the house? That’s where we play.
Tell us your goals, your timeline, and your budget. We’ll map out options that hit all three. No guesswork. No surprises. Just merch that is actually worth making.
Because at the end of the day, a logo on a tee is not just fabric. It is identity, pride, and culture. And that part is priceless.