Understanding Decoration Methods for Branded & Promotional Products
When it comes to branded and promotional products, it’s not just about what item you choose — how your logo or message is applied can make a big difference to the overall look, feel, and impact. From bold, colourful prints to subtle, tactile finishes, there’s a range of decoration methods available to suit every style and surface.
Here’s a guide to the most popular decoration techniques used across promotional items, merchandise, uniforms, and corporate gifts — so you can choose the best method for your brand.
SCREEN PRINTING
BEST FOR: T-shirts, bags, notebooks, drink bottles
HOW IT WORKS: Screen printing uses a mesh screen to transfer ink onto a product’s surface in layers. Each colour in the design requires a separate screen.
PROS: ✔ Bright, vibrant colours ✔ Cost-effective for large quantities ✔ Long-lasting on fabric and smooth surfaces
CONSIDERATIONS: – Works best on flat surfaces
– Limited detail in multi-colour designs
PAD PRINTING
BEST FOR: Pens, keyrings, mugs, stress balls, tech accessories
HOW IT WORKS: A silicone pad transfers ink from a printing plate to the product, making it ideal for printing on curved or irregular surfaces.
PROS: ✔ Great for small or intricate products ✔ Multi-colour options available ✔ Works on uneven or curved items
CONSIDERATIONS: – Not as durable as engraving
– Limited print size
LASER ENGRAVING
BEST FOR: Metal drink bottles, pens, awards, tech gadgets
HOW IT WORKS: A laser beam precisely etches the design into the surface, creating a clean, professional finish.
PROS: ✔ High-end, premium appearance ✔ Permanent marking (won’t fade or scratch) ✔ Ideal for metal, glass, wood, and leather
CONSIDERATIONS: – No colour (natural material finish only)
– More expensive than print methods
DEBOSSING
BEST FOR: Leather notebooks, compendiums, diary covers
HOW IT WORKS: A metal die is pressed into the material to create a recessed design.
PROS: ✔ Stylish and subtle ✔ Adds a tactile, textured element ✔ Long-lasting and fade-free
CONSIDERATIONS: – Works best on leather and faux leather
– No colour unless combined with foil (see below)
EMBOSSING
BEST FOR: Packaging, folders, stationery
HOW IT WORKS: Similar to debossing, but the design is raised rather than recessed.
PROS: ✔ Elegant and professional look ✔ Adds depth and texture ✔ Can be combined with foil stamping
CONSIDERATIONS: – Limited to materials with thickness and flexibility
– Not suitable for fine detail
DIGITAL PRINTING / DIRECT TO PRODUCT PRINTING
BEST FOR: Full-colour logos, complex graphics, small runs
HOW IT WORKS: Uses advanced inkjet technology to print the image directly onto the product, similar to a desktop printer.
PROS: ✔ Full-colour, photo-quality prints ✔ No setup fees or screens ✔ Ideal for short runs and variable data
CONSIDERATIONS: – May not be as durable on high-contact items
– Works best on flat or slightly curved surfaces
SUBLIMATION
BET FOR: Polyester clothing, mugs, mousepads
HOW IT WORKS: Dye is turned into gas and embedded into the surface using heat and pressure, becoming part of the material.
PROS: ✔ High-definition, vibrant colour ✔ Won’t crack, peel, or fade ✔ Perfect for all-over or edge-to-edge prints
CONSIDERATIONS: – Requires polyester or poly-coated items
– Not suitable for dark-coloured surfaces
HEAT TRANSFER PRINTING
BEST FOR: Caps, bags, sportswear, custom uniforms
HOW IT WORKS: A design is printed onto a special film or transfer paper and then heat-pressed onto the product.
PROS ✔ Great for multi-colour or complex designs ✔ Suitable for small quantities ✔ Works on fabric and other materials
CONSIDERATIONS: – Can crack or peel over time
– Less breathable than screen print on garments
FOIL STAMPING
BEST FOR: Diaries, notebooks, packaging
HOW IT WORKS: Metallic or coloured foil is applied to a surface using heat and pressure, often combined with embossing or debossing.
PROS: ✔ Luxurious, high-end finish ✔ Reflective and eye-catching ✔ Great for premium branding
CONSIDERATIONS: – Not suitable for all materials
– One-colour only per foil application
FINAL THOUGHTS
Choosing the right decoration method depends on the product, the look you’re going for, and your budget. Whether you’re after bold and colourful or subtle and sophisticated, there’s a branding technique to suit every item and audience.
SUBLIMATION
