BOTTOM LINE UP FRONT: When it comes to printing custom branded merchandise, it's easy to ask the same humdrum questions during order creation. Use these five questions to truly tap into what your customer wants in their custom printed merchandise order.
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You've probably heard that phrase dozens of times, maybe more depending on how often you visit your favorite drive-thru fast-food chain. You pick a numbered item off the menu, tell the person at the intercom what you want, and move ahead to pick up your food. Aside from the occasional special request (extra pickles, no lettuce, etc.), there's generally no real customization involved. It's a relatively formulaic setup for a reason. It's designed to move people in and out quickly.
Now let's think about your business. Custom printed merchandise isn't the same line of work as running a fast-food drive-thru. But you're both in the business of getting a customer what they want. And you're both striving to do it in a reasonable amount of time relative to the product the customer's paying for.
But here's where things get very different. When someone orders a burger at the drive-thru, they're picking it off a pre-configured menu, and most items are already standardized.
When you're building an order for your customers, it's a lot more intricate You might have some standard procedures for how you print different types of fabrics or substrates. Still, every customer coming through your doors or contacting you online needs that hoodie, tote bag, keychains, or koozie for a specific application.
Depending on the type of shop you run, there are probably a few standard items on your order form. Usually, your 'need-to-knows' are:
These are all humdrum requirements, but what if you could add some more exciting questions to the mix and truly connect with your customers? It requires more conversation with the customer and, yes, more of a time commitment. But if you think of it as an investment to build better designs and retain customers, it's worth it.
Let's take a look at five questions to ask your customers that elevate you from 'order-taker' to 'merch maker.' Combine these with InkSoft's powerful tools for managing job proposals, and you'll have a powerhouse at your fingertips.
This isn't the most exciting question to ask your customers, but you need to be comfortable asking it. Suppose your client is a small charity with a very limited or no marketing budget. In that case, setting them up with an elaborate design isn't realistic. Even if you have rates listed on your order form and website, it's still essential to determine how much your customer can pay for their design.
Why do you need to know their budget at the early stage of the ordering process? Because it'll help you narrow down what kinds of designs to provide them. They may need artwork that requires bright colors, heavy detail, and print sizes for larger objects. In that case, you'll want to make sure they have a realistic expectation of what they can ask of you.
The good news is that even if your customer has a minimal budget, you can still build designs without spending too much money on labor hours or struggling with complicated screen-printing software. With InkSoft's online art approvals feature, you'll be able to send over mockups quickly and make changes without a lot of extra back-and-forth.
It might seem awkward to ask a customer how much they can afford before you've even set up the order. But it's in the best interest of both parties. For your client, they can plan ahead so that when it comes time for invoicing, they already have the money set aside to compensate you for your work. And on the shop's side, you have a clearer picture of the scope of work you're willing to do for the customer based on your costs and their budget.
You might think there's an obvious answer, but don't assume you know what your customer's looking for. For example, maybe one of your latest customers is the local credit union who needs branded corporate apparel for their staff. But, they're trying to revamp their image to attract younger bankers and come up with something more modern since most of their team is 20-30 somethings. The logo or design you help them come up with will be drastically different from the chain bank that simply wants a reprint of their logo they've been using for 15 years.
Finding out your client's target audience will also help narrow down what elements will be useful in their design. If your customer is a paving company and offers landscaping services, use creative ways to combine these elements in the artwork. Or, you can use an easy-to-read font, to create a catchy tagline, like 'Smith's Paving and Landscaping.'
Target audience details also help narrow down color choices for designs. If you're creating a design for a daycare center, you most likely go for brighter, vibrant colors that target kids and their parents. Conversely, suppose you're working with a more conservative client like someone targeting the real estate market. In that case, you'll stick with uniform, flat, and formal colors that convey professionalism.
Once you know the target market for your client's customers, you'll have the core idea of what kind of colors, fonts, and images to use for the design. The other part of this question is understanding HOW the customer plans to reach their target market. This question helps you determine the types of products you'll offer for their custom printed merchandise.
Are they printing large banners, floor decals for a retail store, or large window hangings? Or, are they printing their design on smaller goods like pens, keychains, and coffee mugs? Maybe you're creating a design that's intended for smaller surfaces. You probably also have customers who want to print on every piece of custom printed merchandise available to reach their target audience, from T-shirts to socks, mousepads, and tote bags. Whatever types of products they want to print their designs on, you can use tools like InkSoft's Online Designer to let customers choose what they want and easily build previews of what their artwork will look like on each product.
How your customer chooses to target their audience also gives you the chance to offer them e-commerce and web-to-print options. With InkSoft Stores, you can help them set up a mobile-friendly, easy-to-update online store where they can sell merch to their end customers.
This question can overwhelm your customers, so it's usually a good idea to set some limitations. Tell them to send you 5-6 examples of some of their favorite branded designs.
All bets are off with this one, so let your customers have some fun. They can choose well-known designs from their favorite brands, foods, or companies. Or, maybe they have a picture they snapped of a cool sign they saw when they were traveling in Europe.
Obviously, you don't want to copy another business's logo. But this process helps give you a literal picture of what kind of designs your customer likes. In most cases, you'll probably notice a pattern with their favorites. So, perhaps they'll send you multiple examples of simple black and white graphics with block text or vibrant images with bright colors and playful fonts.
If you're able to find out what kinds of designs resonate with them, you'll better understand what to create for your customer. There's even a chance one of the logos or designs they share with you might be from one of their competitors.
And that leads us to our next question.
As a successful printer, you know this question well. Your customers should too. You're not an expert in every industry your clients work in, so they need to provide you with this information.
Like your customer's favorite designs, ask them to send you links to their competitor's website or social media page. From there, you'll be able to understand better the competitive landscape they're doing business in. And, you'll have a better idea of how their competitors' designs click with customers.
Without spending too much time on their websites or looking at the designs, are you able to understand what the competition's offerings are? If the answer is 'yes,' consider these elements when you're helping your client build their order.
The main idea behind this question is to determine how your client wants to grow in their industry''do they want to follow the example of other successful businesses and do something that's trending? Or, do they want to set themselves apart with something that's on-brand but unique?
Maybe your client wants to reach more customers with a streamlined e-commerce game. Chat with them about how combining great artwork with an excellent online store can be a great strategy.
Sometimes your client may come to the table with some ideas for their design already in mind. In that case, you can narrow down options before even doing the 'deep-dive' with the five questions we just discussed.
If you decide to ask this question, here are some items you can have them check off the list.
What are some things you don't want in your design when it comes to:
Narrowing down the choices speeds things up for you as a printer. Plus, you'll know better how to match design recommendations with the products your customers want them printed on.
Like we mentioned earlier, asking your customers these open-ended questions will take some extra time. It'll feel like extra work. But it'll make you stronger as a business since you'll go into a job knowing all the things your client wants and doesn't want out of their order.
You'll also be able to take that information from your customers and combine it with two powerful tools; your skills as a printer and all the resources built into InkSoft.
Want to get a closer look at how InkSoft can help you master your customers' orders? Book a 15-minute virtual tour with us so we can show you how to master your e-commerce game.
Who doesn't love shopping? It's an activity we all enjoy, and of course, no shopping spree is complete without the perfect companion'our shopping bags! Having a reliable shopping bag on hand is a lifesaver for those of us who are always ready to shop. That's why most of us keep one tucked in our purse as a backup or stashed somewhere easily accessible, whether it's in the car, on a bike, or at home.
But what if we could add a touch of fashion to our daily routine by personalizing these practical bags to meet more than just our everyday needs? Imagine turning your shopping trips into a stylish experience! In the rest of this article, we've put together an inspiring guide for custom shopping bags to help you elevate your look. We've also handpicked standout pieces from Tote Bag Factory's unique personalized tote bags bulk to give you even more ideas.
Happy reading'and happy shopping!
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Wondering what you can do with your fabulous custom shopping bag? Let's dive into the features and versatile uses of this multi-purpose accessory!
First and foremost, most custom bags are made from materials that are perfect for easy, affordable, and long-lasting personalization. During production, factors like fabric quality, ergonomic design, and material availability are carefully considered. Manufacturers often prioritize health and hygiene standards, opting for cotton or polyester-based materials. These fabrics are not only budget-friendly but also ideal for printing designs or making modifications that stand the test of time.
Since the primary purpose of your bag will be shopping, durability should be your top priority. Be sure to check for tightly stitched seams, sturdy handles, and preferably thick, long-lasting materials. When selecting your custom shopping bag, keep these features in mind to ensure it meets your expectations!
We've welcomed with excitement and fabulous fashion ideas! Now it's time to browse through refreshed collections and catalogs to pick out products that match this year's trends.
Luckily, the best feature of custom shopping bags is their personalizable nature'meaning no matter which bag you choose, you can redesign it to suit your unique style from top to bottom.
Taking a quick look at 's fashion highlights, we see that the bohemian vibe is taking center stage, with a focus on minimalistic and oversized pieces. This makes wide-mouthed, slouchy bags and practical everyday designs the must-haves of the season.
Once you've picked your favorite style, let's explore how you can customize both the interior and exterior with inspiration from the examples in our catalog!
While may be the year of oversized pieces, medium-sized bags remain an absolute essential for every bag lover. Thanks to their practicality and ability to fit just about anywhere, a medium-sized tote bag can effortlessly accompany you during shopping trips and meet your daily needs.
Our Color Handle Custom Logo Canvas Tote Bag stands out with its sturdy build, long-lasting durability, and vibrant, thick handles. But that's not all'it also invites you to make it uniquely yours with custom logos or emblems! Long phrases or motto-inspired designs are, of course, welcome, but a sleek logo is often the perfect way to showcase your signature style.
Running a business? Looking for the ultimate promotional gift for your team? Look no further! A versatile tote bag featuring your company's logo is the ideal way to combine functionality with branding.
Made from 100% tightly woven cotton, these signature custom tote bags with logo are built to be your number-one shopping companions for years to come!
Tote Bag Factory Tip: When designing your logo, consider matching the colors to the handles for a cohesive and eye-catching look. Need help? Our in-house designers are ready to assist you with personalized design solutions!
Are you someone who loves staying active, is passionate about sports, or simply leads a busy, on-the-go lifestyle? If so, fitness and movement are likely woven into every part of your day'including errands like shopping. But what if you want to keep your sporty vibe intact while staying stylish and practical? We recommend trying our drawstring bags!
Thick straps are often preferred for shopping bags because they evenly distribute weight, but don't let the corded design of drawstring bags intimidate you! Designed for everyday use, these bags are known for their reinforced stitching and durable bases, making these custom shopping bags reusable. The tightly woven drawstring cords are built to match the functionality of thicker straps, offering comfort and reliability.
With an easy-to-use drawstring closure, these bags also keep your items and personal belongings secure'perfect for busy lifestyles. Just like any canvas tote bag, our drawstring bags can be customized through printing, allowing you to add logos, images, or artwork to their 100% cotton surface.
Tote Bag Factory Tip: To add a more personal touch, consider wrapping a thin decorative cord around the bag handles in colors that complement the body of the bag. If you prefer minimalist designs or small illustrations instead of bold logos, this added detail can bring extra flair and vibrancy to your bag!
Small in Size, Big on Function'Meet the Ultimate Space-Saving Hero! For practical users looking to save space without sacrificing style, Tote Bag Factory's mini tote bag is here to save the day! Think of it as your pocket-sized hero. With just a 6-inch surface area, this compact tote is perfect for mini shopping trips'and why not use it as a gift bag, too? Ideal for packaging books, keychains, socks, wallets, and other small gifts, it's a bag that can double as a thoughtful present itself.
When you choose this mini tote as your gift bag, its variety of color options and customizable prints allow you to create something truly unique and personal. Just like our other canvas bags, the Mini Custom Tote Bag can be personalized with your own logo or artwork for that extra special touch.
Tote Bag Factory Tip: Mini bags can also serve as extra pockets or compartments for larger totes. Simply attach one to the inside or outside of your big bag in a matching color or design. Opt for thick-thread stitching to create a patchwork effect and transform your tote into a multi-functional masterpiece!
And now, let's talk about one of the most popular trends of 'oversized bags! Thanks to their size and volume, oversized bags often become the most eye-catching part of any outfit. That's why every detail'from patterns and visuals to colors and shapes'stands out like a magnified billboard on these bags. This makes it essential to be more thoughtful when designing them.
The larger surface area of these bags not only makes printing easier but also offers more options for visual and design creativity. However, we advise against getting carried away and covering every inch of the bag with patterns or graphics! In this year's fashion scene, where simplicity and practicality take center stage, retro and bohemian-inspired designs, embroideries, and patterns are highly recommended.
Especially with structured, boxy stitching styles dominating this category, the bag's shape already makes a bold statement. Adding too many modifications could overshadow its elegant appeal. Instead, go for simple designs that complement the bag's natural tones. Earthy colors like brown and green create ideal combinations that highlight the size and sophistication of the bag without overcomplicating the look.
Additionally, if you are asking if personalized tote bags are suitable for teachers or school events, yes, the personalized tote bags are perfect for teachers and school events, offering a practical and stylish way to carry books, supplies, and materials. They can also be customized with school logos, colors, or event themes, making them great giveaways for students, staff, or attendees.
Tote Bag Factory's suggestion: For gusseted bags, pair a plain body with patterned handles'or patterned bodies with plain handles'to stay aligned with this year's fashion trends. When it comes to printing, opt for subtle patterns and minimalist embroidery rather than oversized visuals or loud logos. Keep the natural aesthetic intact while making a stylish impression!
In this article, we explored how to turn shopping into fashion and fashion into shopping, while highlighting the trends of and discovering ways to personalize our bags. Remember, every tote bag is designed with versatility in mind'so don't limit its use to just carrying groceries. Think beyond! Your tote bag can double as a daily essential, a gift item, or even creative gift packaging.
As this year's fashion trends suggest, don't shy away from simplicity. Instead of overwhelming patterns, opt for visuals or natural designs that make a statement with subtle elegance. Once you've chosen your bag and added your personal touch, leave the rest to the magic hands of Tote Bag Factory designers to bring your vision to life!
What is the process for ordering personalized tote bags in bulk?
To order personalized tote bags in bulk from Tote Bag Factory, select your preferred bag style, upload your custom design or logo, and specify order details like quantity and colors on their website. After confirming your design proof, complete payment, and the company will handle printing and shipping.
Can I design my custom tote bags to match my brand colors and logo?
Yes, you can design custom tote bags to match your brand colors and logo by selecting from a variety of bag styles, colors, and printing options offered by Tote Bag Factory. Simply upload your logo and specify your color preferences during the customization process.
What industries or events are ideal for using custom promotional bags?
Custom promotional bags are ideal for industries such as retail, hospitality, education, and healthcare, as well as events like trade shows, corporate giveaways, weddings, and conferences. They offer practical branding solutions that increase visibility while providing functional value to recipients.
How does bulk ordering custom tote bags reduce costs for businesses?
Bulk ordering custom tote bags reduces costs for businesses by offering lower prices per unit due to economies of scale, making it more affordable to produce larger quantities. It also minimizes shipping costs and ensures a steady supply of promotional materials for marketing campaigns.
What is the typical turnaround time for creating and delivering custom shopping bags?
The typical turnaround time for creating and delivering custom shopping bags is usually between 7 to 14 business days, depending on the complexity of the design and order volume. Shipping time is additional, based on the chosen delivery method and destination.