If you aren't careful, printed uniforms can be an unnecessarily expensive way of customising work clothing. But if you choose the right print technique, it is easy to get real value for money. 

Make sure you've considered these points to ensure both longevity and satisfaction with your new printed uniforms: 

  • Will you be ordering uniform in bulk or on an as-and-when-needed basis?
  • Does your proposed uniform include various colours?
  • Are you completely happy with your branding and confident it won't change?
  • Are you willing to pay more initially for higher quality, longer lasting print methods?

If you're dubious over any of the above, embroidered uniform may be an alternative for you business.

Curious to know more? Read on. 

Avoid Short Runs of Printed Uniforms (If Possible)

One of the most common mistakes made with printed uniform is assuming that replacing it only when it is necessary is best.

Whilst this will result in smaller value orders in the here-and-now, it will only lead to more costs in the long run. At XAMAX®, the more items included in each of your orders, the lower the price.

If you find yourself needing to replace uniforms for particular employees, consider doing a bulk order to cover any future replacement needs among your workforce whilst bringing the print-per-unit cost lower.

Whilst it may cost more up-front to implement, it will get the most value out of your uniform print order. 

Keep Your Colours To A Minimum If Screen Printing

It's easy to get carried away with printing uniforms to make them stand out.

An often-overlooked factor is that more colors and intricate designs lead to higher screen printing costs. Expenses rise fast due to the time it takes to create and apply the design. Each colour requires a new screen to be made, designs require specialist separation techniques (which can be expensive) etc etc

While it may seem feasible to pay an extra £1 per item to include more colors, once that is applied over 250 units of uniforms, for example, it contributes to hundreds of pounds on top of the standard printing cost.

Other digital printing methods or embroidery might be a better options to look into if you need to incorporate a wide range of colours - but still need to remain budget friendly.

Be Confident On Your Branding

Whilst we are on the topic of design, it is important to be confident in your proposed branding/design for as long as you need the uniform for.  

Try to avoid frequently changing your company's imagery on your printed uniforms as not only will it mean continuous re-prints and re-orders but it will also harm your brand recognition.  

If you are known to rebrand often (something common for the leisure and retail sector), consider to printing the bare minimum to uniform garments, such as the company name and slogan, to get the most longevity out of your uniform items and bring the cost-per-wear even lower.

Different materials need different print techniques or even embroidery only, so bear that in mind.

Printed Uniform Garment Type

It's vital that the garment you're choosing to print on can clearly display the printed message, especially if it's an elaborate or intricate design. Certain fabrics, weaves, and colors are better suited to particular print techniques, and some are simply not suitable at all.

As an example, pique polo shirts are unsuitable for printing but perfect for embroidery due to the wide weave of the material - but most cotton t-shirts suit all types of customisation technique so the method you use will be led by lifespan of the garment and the colours involved.

Speak to your XAMAX® account manager to make sure you are using the right techniques for the garments you require - there is a lot to consider.

Ask for Advice On Branding Your Uniforms for Print

One of the fundamental things any business owner can do to get the most value from their printed uniforms, is involving your employees.

Don't be afraid or disregard the opportunity to ask your employees what they would be comfortable wearing. You may find that bigger designs can make employees less open to wearing it on their commute to/from work or in their free time, therefore minimising exposure and contributing to a much higher printing cost due to the space covered.

Here is some advice on how to include staff in the process and make sure they are happy with your order. 

Make Double Sure Your Print Technique Is The Right Option

Whilst you may have reached the stage where printing seems the most viable option, it is not uncommon for buyer's to make a last-minute switch to an embroidery ahead of their uniform order.  

Embroidery is a viable option for those looking for a more long-lasting yet detailed finish, and are willing to be flexible with their budget. Embroidery may come at a **higher cost per unit to apply, but is repaid in the longevity and detail that comes with it.

**Editor's Note: Not at XAMAX®! Our standard online prices for decoration are the same regardless of technique used (some T+C may apply)

While print can apply a wider colour palette or an exact match, embroidery can cover the majority of colours covered by print, all while integrating additional decals into the uniform, contributing to a stronger garment and longer lifespan.