Every item has an imprint areaThe imprint area is the space where the decorating is done on an item. This location varies from product to product. For instance, the imprint area of a pen is on the barrel, whereas the imprint area of a tote bag is across the front.
The imprint size will varyThe size of the design printed depends on the dimensions of the imprint area. To demonstrate how this works, let's stick with pens and tote bags as an example:
As you can see, the imprint area on the tote bag is significantly larger than the imprint area on the pen. This makes sense when you think about it. Tote bags are a lot larger than pens, so as a result, the imprint can be larger as well.
Find the Imprint AreaBefore you order custom items, you should know how big the design will be and where it will be printed. Use this guide to find the imprint area of the some of the most popular promotional products!
T-Shirt Imprint AreaThe sky is the limit when it comes to printing on t-shirts. The imprint can dominate the entire front or back. It can also be found across the chest, across the back, on the pocket, or on the sleeves. Ultimately, it depends on which shirts you're ordering.
Koozie Imprint AreaFor custom koozies, your imprint will be either on the front, back, or bottom. You can also order koozies with the design printed in all 3 locations!
Hat Imprint AreaThere are many types of hats, and they're all different when it comes to the imprint area. Most of the time, the imprint will be across the front, but that's not always the case. For instances, some beanies are customized on the cuffed area.
Drinkware Imprint AreaCustom mugs, plastic cups, wine glasses, and tumblers have either a single or double imprint. This means they will be decorated on one side or both depending on the product you choose.
Hand Sanitizer Imprint AreaYour design is usually printed on a custom label that fits around the hand sanitizer bottle. These printed labels are also used for promotional lip balm and sunscreen.
Post-It Note Imprint AreaYou get a lot of bang for your buck when you order custom sticky notes. The imprint is added to each piece of paper, so people will see your design every time they jot down a new memo!
Sunglasses Imprint AreaIf you want to be practical, look for custom sunglasses with the imprint on the arms. Would you rather be funky and bold? Try sunglasses with the imprint on the lens!
Blanket Imprint AreaYou'll really get the bang for your buck with custom blankets! The imprint can either be small and tucked into the corner, or large enough to take up the entire front.
Umbrella Imprint AreaPicture the parts of an umbrella. Custom umbrellas wouldn't be the same without the rain-shielding canopy. Your design is printed on one panel of this canopy.
Headphones Imprint AreaAre you ordering headphones or earbuds? Headphones have the imprint on the back of the rounded ear pads. Earbuds, on the other hand, are housed in a case that's printed with the design.
Business Cards Imprint AreaBusiness cards are about 3.5 inches x 2 inches. Your name, logo, website, and/or contact information are printed on the front, taking up all the space from the top to the bottom.
Keep in mind, you can't change an item's imprint area. Luckily, most imprints are on the front and large enough to be easily seen.
Pro Tip: Some items include a free imprint in 1 location, while others have the design printed in multiple spots. Be sure to check the digital mockup of your item, so you know exactly what to expect when you receive your order.
Every item also has an imprint colorAn imprint color is the color used in the customization. Usually, you only get one imprint color included in the cost, but there are exceptions if you order an embroidered item or one that's customized using dye sublimation (full color printing).Embroidered items come with multiple thread colors, while full color printing makes it possible for you to print a photo or colorful ad. Look into either option if a colorful design is important to you.
List of Imprint MethodsThe imprint doesn't just appear on your custom items by magic! Factories need to use different imprint methods to get the job done. Learn more about these processes below!
Screen PrintingInk is pressed through a screen onto the item. New screens are used for each ink color, so this printing process usually comes with 1 free color.
Full Color PrintingA digital printer is used to create the design on the item. Unlimited ink colors are included in the cost, making this a great option if you want to print a colorful logo or photo.
Pad PrintingA stamp covered in ink is pressed onto the item, creating your design. This printing process usually comes with 1 free color.
Heat TransferHeat passes through special paper, sealing the imprint onto the item. This imprint process usually comes with one free color for the decoration.
Emboss/DebossThe imprint is pressed into the item (deboss) or raised to create a 3D effect (emboss). No ink is used, resulting in a design that lasts longer.
Laser EngravingA laser permanently etches the imprint into the item. No ink is used, resulting in a design that lasts longer.
EmbroideryThe imprint is stitched onto a fabric item such as a sweatshirt or blanket. Multiple thread colors are usually included in the cost.
Foil StampMetallic foils are used to create the imprint. No ink is used, resulting in a design that lasts longer.
Offset PrintingThe design is created using water or oil-based inks. This imprint method is commonly used to customize pieces of candy.
You don't have to pay for the imprintYou do not have to pay for an imprint if you're ordering from a promotional products website, but you may have to pay a setup charge. This fee covers the cost of running the machines that decorate your items.
Please note: There may be extra charges for an imprint in certain situations. This includes:Extra imprint colors for screen printed items (usually only 1 color is included)Printing in multiple locations on an item (if it's not already included)An assortment of product colors with different ink colorsSetup charges (depending on the item)Remember, you're not alone when placing your order, even if it's online. Be sure to ask your dedicated rep plenty of questions about imprint areas, colors, and methods.
The Bottom LineIt's not like you order custom items all the time. Maybe you're getting wedding favors or you need promotional swag for a trade show or convention. Either way, knowing about imprints helps you make a more informed decision.
Alyssa Mertesamertes@qualitylogoproducts.com866-312-5646 x 277Alyssa is the Lead Copywriter at Quality Logo Products. As a promo expert, she's uncovered the world's first custom tote bag, interviewed the guy behind rock band AC/DC's logo, and had a piece published by the Advertising Specialty Institute, a leader in the promotional products industry.