Frequently Asked Questions
Top 10 most asked questions
How can Merchandise Essentials help me?
Merchandise Essentials helps you design, develop and produce clothing and accessories. We are apparel architects, because just like an architect, we make developing custom made apparel easy, lucrative and more creative for our clients.
What are your references?
Foo Fighters, Duvel, Big Green Egg & YouTube are some of our references. Check out our references page to know more about our clients and how they used merchandise in an effective way.
Is your production ethically and ecologically responsible?
Yes, we only use durable materials that are ethically and ecologically produced. This is the case for our textile and for our production methods.
Are you more expensive than a printing company?
Price-quality wise, we are the cheapest. We do more than production. We are a full-service partner that helps every client to grow, we advice in consulting and logistics. We listen to the targets of the client, we develop and create the collection, we advise the trends according to the season and we can make the designs.
What is a collection day?
Together with our team of experts, you’ll sort out the styles, colors & designs for your next clothing collection. At the end of the day, every detail is figured out & we’re ready to start production. You can find more information here.
Can you help me to make a design?
Yes, we have designers who can make the design you want. Further information can be found on our design service.
How do I deliver my designs?
You can deliver your designs as a vector file (.eps/.ai) or 300 dpi. Of course we also offer a vectorization service for people who don’t have this type of files.
What is the average production time?
The production time depends on your order. There is an average production time of 15 working days for standard orders. Learn more about our production times. In case you desire a scheduled delivery date, you can send an email to service@merchandise-essentials.com.
In which countries do you deliver?
We deliver worldwide. Delivery time and cost depends on the country of destination.
Where is your production located?
We have partners spread across Europe. We choose our production on behalf of their expertise and their norms to produce ethically and ecologically. The decades of experience of our production partners and our customer oriented approach and service offers incredible value to you as a customer.
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About us
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Our products
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Our services
How can Merchandise Essentials help me?
Merchandise Essentials helps you design, develop and produce clothing and accessories. We are apparel architects, because just like an architect, we make developing custom made apparel easy, lucrative and more creative for our clients.
Are you more expensive than a printing company?
Price-quality wise, we are the cheapest. We do more than production. We are a full-service partner that helps every client to grow, we advice in consulting and logistics. We listen to the targets of the client, we develop and create the collection, we advise the trends according to the season and we can make the designs.
Are you the cheapest?
We offer the cheapest price if you look at price-quality. We highly value an honest and transparent pricing. Besides, we focus on continuous improvement and creating value for our clients.
What are your references?
Foo Fighters, Duvel, Big Green Egg & YouTube are some of our references. Check out our references page to know more about our clients and how they used merchandise in an effective way.
What makes you so different from a printing company?
We are a full service merchandise company. We guide our clients personally and think along with them how merchandise can help them reach their goals. The clothing we produce is only a small part of our service.
What are your core values?
Premium (Quality)
Continuous Improvement
Long Term
More Than Merch
Great People & Atmosphere
What's your mission?
We make sure that developing custom made apparel is easy and lucrative for our clients.
Where is your production located?
We have partners spread across Europe. We choose our production on behalf of their expertise and their norms to produce ethically and ecologically. The decades of experience of our production partners and our customer oriented approach and service offers incredible value to you as a customer.
What's your brand promise?
We are the only merchandise company that actually cares about your goals.
What is apparel merchandising?
Apparel Merchandising is mostly clothes, headwear or accessories. People only wear clothing or accessories if they love it, if they believe your brand story. That’s where apparel merchandising is about.
What is it that you do exactly? Do you have your own brand?
No, we help people who want to start their own brand. We guide them to reach their goals.
Is it possible to start the production process before the payment is done?
No, we can only reserve and order your products after your payment. It’s important to pay fast, that way we can guarantee the products you ordered. In case of questions or difficulties, don’t hesitate to contact us.
In which countries do you deliver?
We deliver worldwide. Delivery time and cost depends on the country of destination.
How long does it take before I receive my order?
The delivery time depends on your order. There is an average production time of 15 working days for standard orders. Learn more about the production time. In case you desire a scheduled delivery date, you can send an email to service@merchandise-essentials.com.
Is your production ethically and ecologically responsible?
Yes, we only use durable materials that are ethically and ecologically produced. This is the case for our textile and for our production methods.
Can I order snapbacks?
Yes, we produce the authentic snapbacks with your design and custom sticker. Send us an e-mail to info@merchandise-essentials.com for the pricing and more information. You can also take a look at our custom Snapbacks page.
What's a raglan T-Shirt?
A raglan T-Shirt or a baseball shirt is recognizable by the sleeves which extend completely to the collar in one piece. Typically, the sleeves have a different color than the rest of the shirt. Learn more about raglan T-shirts.
What's a vector file?
A vector file is recognizable by the extension .eps or .ai, this type of file can be scaled unlimitedly (bigger/smaller) without compromising on quality. That’s why a vector file is perfect for prints. You can find more information about vector and dpi in the articles What is a vector file? and What is DPI?.
Can I order 1 piece?
For some products, you can order a sample. We work with the B2B market, so we are not the best solution to order 1 piece.
How many pieces do I have to order for labels to be available?
We can produce and sew in labels from 50 pieces.
Can we order hoodies in different colors than the ones on the website?
No, only the colors you find on the website are available.
Does the clothing you offer have an ethically responsible label?
Yes, we can always deliver that to you. All our products are ethically and ecologically responsible.
At what price can I sell my clothing?
That’s something you decide, but it depends on the segment in which you want to sell. Our partner, Storelaunchers, has worked out a masterclass (dutch) on this subject to guide you through this decision.
How does embroidery work?
First, a digital file is prepared which is translated into the number of stitches. The result is an embroidery card that says where every stitch has to come. Manual adjustments are done by an expert, then the embroidery starts. Learn more about how embroidery works.
What's the difference between a dad hat and a snapback?
The standard snapback has 6 panels, a wide, flat brim and an adjustable snap on the back. The dad hat is also a 6 panel cap, but has a loose fitting and a metal closure. Learn more about the difference between a dad hat and a snapback.
What's a crew neck?
Crew neck sweaters have a round neck. Not only sweaters, but also T-shirts with a round neck are called crew neck shirts. Learn more about crew neck sweaters.
What is an embroidery card?
An embroidery card translates a design into the embroidery stitches that are performed by the embroidery machine. This can always be reused once the design is translated into the embroidery card. Learn more about embroidery.
What is the minimum quantity for screen printing?
The minimum quantity for screen printing is 25 pieces, which means 25 prints. That can be 5 T-shirts, 10 sweaters and 10 hoodies with the same print. Learn more about screen printing.
What is the difference between a polyester label and a woven label?
A polyester label is sublimated in full colour and is perfect for detailed designs. Woven labels are in black and white and can be produced for less detailed or classic designs. Discover all the other differences.
Which sizes should I order?
The sizes you order depend on your target audience. In general, the following applies: the industry standard for women is 1XS, 2S, 2M, 1L; for men it’s 1S, 2M, 2L, 1XL. You can find some more information about this here. Learn more about the sizes you should order.
What's digital printing?
Digital printing is a recent printing technique where digital files are printed on textile. Discover how digital printing works.
What are pantone colors?
Pantone is a standard language to communicate about colors. Pantone colors are codes that represent a certain shade. Learn more about pantone colors.
How big can you embroider on a snapback?
The maximum embroidery size on a snapback is 5,5 cm high and 12 cm wide.
Do I need labels in my clothing?
That’s completely up to you. We advice you to produce and sew in custom labels if you want to empower your brand. There are many options: a necklabel, flaglabel, looplabel and a patch. A label is a must for clothing brands, but also for companies and events. People will only remember and recognize your clothing if there is a label.
What is organic cotton?
Organic cotton is the most skin friendly textile and has advantages both for your health and the environment. It’s produced and qualified based on a natural production process without artificial additives. Learn more about organic cotton.
How do I deliver my designs?
You can deliver your designs as a vector file (.eps/.ai) or 300 dpi. Of course we also offer a vectorization service for people who don’t have this type of files.
What's the difference between normal embroidery and 3D embroidery?
Normal (or flat) embroidery is a flat layer of embroidery on the textile or the cap. 3D embroidery is much thicker, which creates a 3D effect.
How can I start my own webshop?
You can start your own webshop with Storelaunchers, our partner. They can commercialize your brand and make sure that there is a revenue through a webshop. You can contact them on the e-mail address hello@storelaunchers.com.
What does 1 DTG cost?
The printing cost for 1 piece is 25 euro (both on white and colored textile). The printing cost decreases according to the number of ordered pieces.
What information is obligated on the care labels?
Washing instruction, fabric composition and country of origin must be mentioned on the care label.
What's the difference between woven, embroidered and sublimated patches?
Embroidery works with a needle and yarn. The design is stitched. In case of woven patches, threads are spread vertically on a loom, then horizontal threads are woven between them. With sublimated patches, the design is printed on the patch.
What's the minimum order quantity for labels for beanies?
Our team can produce and sew in labels starting from 50 pieces.
What's the difference between screen printing and embroidery?
With screen printing, your design is printed on the garment with ink. The price depends on the number of colors. This is the cheapest solution and is available from 25 pieces. With embroidery, your design is sewed. The embroidery price depends on the size of your design. You pay a fixed startup cost for the embroidery card, which can be reused multiple times.
What's the difference between flock print and puff print?
Flock print is a qualitative way of printing in which a layer of plastic is applied on the textile with a heat press. Puff print creates a 3D effect because of the ink that swells up when it dries. Puff is a type of screenprint.
How many types of sunglasses do you offer?
We offer 2 types of sunglasses: the Panareya and the Eyeveesa. Both are available in a variety of colors.
What's screen printing?
Screen printing works with a sieve on which a template is applied. Then, a layer of ink is applied through the sieve on the textile.
How is a sock decorated?
There are 2 options to decorate a sock: weaving or printing. We choose weaving which means that the design is woven into the sock. This decoration technique results in a qualitative and comfortable result.
What's the minimum order quantity for T-Shirts?
That depends on the decoration technique you prefer. Digital print is possible from 5 pieces, for screen print that’s 25 pieces. Basically, you can order a digital print sample from 1 piece.
Is 3D embroidery more expensive than normal embroidery?
There’s no price difference between normal and 3D embroidery on snapbacks and other caps. We do not recommend 3D embroidery on clothing.
Kan je caps zoals baseball caps, dad hats of snapbacks wassen?
We raden het af om je caps te wassen om de kwaliteit ervan te behouden. Je kan wel met een vochtige doek je cap schoonmaken.
What's the difference between a dad hat and a baseball cap?
A dad hat has 6 panels and a metal closure. The baseball cap has 5 panels and a velcro closure.
What are the best custom socks?
Qualitative ones. Our custom socks are woven from the highest quality yarns to guarantee a comfortable experience.
What's a snapback?
A snapback is a cap with 6 panels and a wide, flat brim. They have an adjustable snap on the back, which makes them one-size-fits-all. A real snapback is recognizable by its sticker.
What's the difference between a snapback and a fitted hat?
Fitted hats have a flat brim just like snapbacks, but they aren’t adjustable. The snapback has an adjustable snap on the back, which makes it one-size-fits-all.
Do you need to keep the sticker on the snapback?
The sticker is the essence of the snapback. You can recognize a snapback by the sticker. It would be a shame to remove it.
Is it possible to receive a price list of the products?
No, we do not have a price list of our products. Do not hesitate to let us know what products you’re interested in, then we can make a quote for you.
What T-shirts are available in XXL?
What is the best printing technique for my clothing?
The three most used and best known printing techniques are screen printing, digital printing and flex printing. With our experience and knowledge, it is not recommended to choose for flex printing. Furthermore, the choice depends on the ordered quantity and your design. Learn more about the best printing techniques.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes, we can ship worldwide.
Can I receive the digital samples without a watermark?
That’s possible, a cost of €35 per design will be added.
What is the average production time?
The production time depends on your order. There is an average production time of 15 working days for standard orders. Learn more about our production times. In case you desire a scheduled delivery date, you can send an email to service@merchandise-essentials.com.
What's the underlay for screen printing?
An underlay ensures that the print has a better color on textile that isn’t white. Without the underlay, it’s possible that the color of the textile is visible through the print.
Is it possible to deliver in a parcel shop?
Yes, that’s no problem at all.
Do you deliver in the US?
Yes, we deliver worldwide. The delivery time and cost depends on the country of destination.
Can you help me to make a design?
Yes, we have designers who can make the design you want. Further information can be found on our design service.
Can I receive a track-and-trace code to follow my order?
Normally the track-and-trace code is sent automatically to our customers. It’s possible that it ends up in your spam mail, so be sure to check that. Did you not receive a code or your code doesn’t work? Don’t hesitate to contact us at service@merchandise-essentials.com.
Can I buy 25 pieces but divide the production? First produce 10 pieces and later on the other 25 pieces?
That’s called dropshipping (print-on-demand). That’s something we don’t do, the 25 pieces have to be produced together.
How can I start a clothing brand from scratch?
We created an e-book that guides you through every phase. It is called Start your clothing brand.
Do you offer dropshipping (print-on-demand)?
No, we don’t do that. In order to offer a wide variety of premium quality products with many decoration techniques, we can’t produce one piece at a time.
How can I protect my clothing brand?
Surf to the trademark register from the BBIE and check if the name you chose is still available. If that’s the case, you can register your brand name. To do this, you submit an application at the BBIE (Benelux), EUIPO (Europe) or WIPO (world). Learn more about how to protect your clothing brand.
Is it possible to start the production process before the payment is done?
No, we can only reserve and order your products after your payment. It’s important to pay fast, that way we can guarantee the products you ordered. In case of questions or difficulties, don’t hesitate to contact us.
How big can you embroider on a snapback?
The maximum embroidery size on a snapback is 5,5 cm high and 12 cm wide.
In which countries do you deliver?
We deliver worldwide. Delivery time and cost depends on the country of destination.
How long does it take before I receive my order?
The delivery time depends on your order. There is an average production time of 15 working days for standard orders. Learn more about the production time. In case you desire a scheduled delivery date, you can send an email to service@merchandise-essentials.com.
When does the production of my order start?
The production of your order starts right after the payment. The preliminary work (settings, sieving, …) already starts the moment we get a confirmation of the quote. Learn more about our production process.
Do I need experience or a diploma to start my own fashion brand?
No, the only thing you need is a great deal of motivation and passion. You can learn more in our e-book Start your clothing brand.
In what countries are you active?
We work with fashion brands who are active in 15+ European countries. Our headquarter is localised in Belgium.
What should I take into account for a fast delivery and therefore prior an order?
As a customer you inform us about your deadline. Then we check with production if it’s possible to reach that deadline. For prior production and delivery, we charge a prior cost of 15% on the order.
Do you offer quality?
We only offer quality products. Without a good quality, you can’t use or sell your merchandise.
How do I sell my own clothes?
As a clothing brand, you can sell your merchandise via retail shops and a webshop. We advice you to contact Storelaunchers, they commercialize clothing brands and stimulate the sales. Check out the Storelaunchers website for more information. If you produced clothing for your company or event, there are also ways to sell it. Check out our knowledge center to know how you can sell your clothes, or send an e-mail to hello@merchandise-essentials.com to be guided personally.
What's the advantage of a collection day?
During a collection day you and your personal account manager make all digital examples and clear quotes. Your clothing collection is ready to conquer the world.
How can a company use merchandise to make profit?
Merchandise helps you to motivate your existing employees and attract potential employees. Also, it improves your marketing results and boosts your sales. Just think about Vedett Superett for example who has its own clothing brand.
What's your design service exactly?
Our graphic designers create your design for €150 / design. We make 2 designs, you pick out one. Then, there are 2 feedback moments, so we can adjust the design according to your wishes.
What is the difference between collection day and a normal meeting in the showroom?
A meeting is perfect to meet each other, we want to listen to your goals, we explain what we can do for you and you can be inspired in our showroom. During a collection day, we work out your entire collection. Afterwards, you go home with a clear image of your collection by means of digital simulations and clear quotes.
How do I write a business plan for my fashion business?
Your business plan is divided in several parts of information:
- Market analysis
- Brand story
- Product
- Marketing strategy
- Financial section
What strategies can be used in fashion marketing?
There are plenty of possibilities to deploy your marketing strategies. Read in our guide with 22 marketing techniques how to lift your clothing brand to a higher level.
How do I choose a good name for my clothing brand?
A good-sounding, memorable name that inspires people to buy your clothing is essentially. In the article How to name your clothing brand? you’ll find more tips and information for your clothing brand.
How to start a fashion brand without any knowledge about designing?
We create your design for only €150 / design. Learn more about our design service.
How many pieces of design do you need to start a clothing business?
It’s best to start with a minimum of designs. It’s good to launch 3 different designs: 1 basic, little design; 1 iconic design; 1 in your face, crazy design.
How do I make my fashion brand known online?
The article 22 marketing techniques describe how to make your brand know, both online and offline.
What's the best way to build a strong fan base?
A merchandise strategy is a must for your awareness and popularity.
What works in terms of music marketing?
Merchandise! That’s a must for your professional career as an artist. It creates awareness, boosts your sales numbers and lifts your career to a higher level.
What is a collection day?
Together with our team of experts, you’ll sort out the styles, colors & designs for your next clothing collection. At the end of the day, every detail is figured out & we’re ready to start production. You can find more information here.
Still not found what you’re looking for?
Contact our support team
If you can’t find your answers in our FAQ, you can always contact us by filling in the form or sending an email to info@merchandise-essentials.com.
We’ll answer your question within 24 hours.
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Birgit Merchandise Specialist -
