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Promotional Product Materials & Compatible Print Methods

Promo merch comes in a wide variety of materials. Select a material to see compatible decorating options. Availability varies by product and artwork.

Fabric

About the Material

Textiles used across totes, tees, polos, outerwear, and soft goods—flat areas allow many decoration types.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Screen Printing: Bold, durable spot-color prints. Examples: tees, totes, hoodies.
  • Embroidery / 3D Puff: Premium, textured look with dimensional options. Examples: hats, polos, jackets.
  • Heat Transfer: Fine detail/gradients; great for short runs and personalization.
  • Sublimation: All-over or photo-quality prints on compatible fabrics. Examples: coolies, event tents, flags, towels, jerseys.
  • Appliqué / Patches: Woven/embroidered/leather/rubber patches for retail finish. Examples: hats, bags, scarves.

Tips & Notes

Choose lighter inks on dark garments for contrast; follow care instructions for longevity.

Glass

About the Material

Rigid, non-porous surface common in drinkware and jars; curved profiles vary by shape.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Laser Engraving: Frosted, permanent mark with a premium feel.
  • Screen Print (Ceramic/Glass Inks): Durable spot colors; often kiln-cured.
  • Sublimation: Full-color prints on select shapes/surfaces (some ceramics).

Tips & Notes

Dishwasher durability depends on ink and curing; verify finish requirements.

Plastic

About the Material

Lightweight polymers from styrene to PP/PET; adhesion varies by resin and surface treatment.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Pad Printing: Ideal for small areas/curves. Examples: pens, gadgets.
  • Screen Printing: Bold logos on flat or simple curves. Examples: stadium cups, styrene drinkware.
  • UV Digital: Full-color/variable data on compatible plastics. Examples: select cups, styrene drinkware.
  • Hot Stamping (Foil): Metallic or flat accents on certain plastics. Examples: hotel key chains, discs.

Tips & Notes

Flame/corona treatment can improve adhesion; confirm resin compatibility.

Metal

About the Material

Aluminum, steel, and coated metals for signs, drinkware, and accessories.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Laser Engraving: Precise, permanent marks. Examples: copper-coated mugs, stainless cups, straws.
  • Screen Print: Spot colors on flat/simple curves. Examples: metal signs, certain drinkware, lunch boxes.
  • UV Digital: Full-color prints on compatible coated metals. Examples: signs, drinkware.
  • Embossing: Raised lettering/patterns. Example: tacker signs.
  • Debossing: Recessed lettering/patterns. Examples: key chains, ornaments; enamel fills for pins/charms.

Tips & Notes

Powder coat/anodize affect contrast and method choice—test first.

Wood

About the Material

Natural grain and porosity vary by species; rustic to premium looks possible.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Laser Engraving / Burn: Natural, permanent marks. Example: taster flights.
  • UV Digital: Full-color prints while retaining grain. Examples: wall games, openers, signs.
  • Deboss / Brand: Pressed impressions on soft woods/leathers. Example: coasters.
  • Screen / Pad Print: Spot-color logos on flatter areas. Examples: games, signs, flights.

Tips & Notes

Clear coats/oils can deepen contrast and protect the mark.

Vinyl

About the Material

Flexible films for decals, wraps, and labels with a range of adhesives/finishes.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Full-Color Digital: Photo-quality decals, labels, wraps. Examples: decals, lunch boxes, coolers.
  • Screen-Printed Vinyl: High-opacity spot colors. Examples: stickers/decals.
  • Die-Cut / Kiss-Cut: Custom shapes with weeded edges.
  • Lamination / Special Finishes: Matte, gloss, textures for durability.
  • Injection Molding: Raised lettering/patterns for 3D mats and tags. Examples: bar mats, keychains, coasters.

Tips & Notes

Outdoor exposure and substrate determine adhesive and laminate selection.

Pulpboard

About the Material

Dense, absorbent paperboard used for coasters, neckers, and inserts.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Full-Color CMYK (Offset/Digital): Photo-quality graphics for coasters/inserts.
  • Spot Color (PMS): Crisp brand colors with high opacity on light stocks.
  • Foil Stamp: Metallic accents for premium branding.
  • Emboss / Deboss: Tactile raised or recessed effects.

Tips & Notes

Pulpboard is porous—coatings/varnishes improve rub resistance and color pop.

Silicone

About the Material

Flexible, non-porous elastomer used for bands and accessories; standard inks won’t adhere.

Recommended Decoration Methods

  • Pad Print (Silicone Ink): Formulated for silicone surfaces; flexible and durable.
  • Screen Print (Silicone Ink): Larger marks with silicone-specific systems.
  • Emboss / Deboss: Raised or recessed molded logos for a permanent effect.

Tips & Notes

Use silicone inks or molded marks; standard inks won’t bond reliably.

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Grandstand is your trusted partner for custom promotional products!

We specialize in high-quality branded merchandise that helps your business stand out and stay top of mind. From pens, coasters, and tote bags to keychains, stickers, and event giveaways, our promotional products combine creative design with expert printing to make a lasting impression. Whether you’re growing brand awareness, thanking customers, or gearing up for your next trade show, Grandstand delivers the custom merch that connects people to your brand in a meaningful way. Learn More About Us

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