Why it’s Always T-time
As you go about your daily life, how often do you notice the messages printed on personalised t-shirts? When you are in a bar or restaurant for example, you’ll often remember the name or logo because it’s emblazoned across the chest of every person who serves you. Same in shops, sports or fitness clubs and the like.
You may not always be consciously aware of “receiving” these messages, but your sub-conscious stores the information it sees for future use. This might even affect your choice of venue the next time you’re going on a night out or the like.
A short but fascinating history of t-shirts
They were originally undergarments and thought to have been created when the one-piece long underwear called a union suit was cut into two. A version of t-shirts were supplied to US sailors during the 1898 Spanish-American war. They were soon the clothing of choice for workers in hot environments such as miners, stevedores at the docks and southern US farm workers. The name simply came from the outline of the garment.
T-shirts became ever more popular in the 1950s, especially after Marlon Brando wore one in A Streetcar Named Desire. Further fashions developed such as the “tall” (or long) style favoured by hip-hop fans. In the 1990s women often choose the cropped style which revealed the midriff. Another fashion choice is the layering of a short t-shirt worn over a long-sleeved version.
The many uses of personalised t-shirts
Whilst businesses use them for promotion and also to emphasise the idea of teams working together, there are also a wide range of other uses. It’s a great way to providing training gear for sports teams. Designing your own t-shirt is also a simple method of creating a fun identify if a bunch of you get together to form your own pub quiz, bowling, 5-a-side football or other team.
The fun element is highlighted when you see a group on a stag or hen night, or on a school or society trip. Equally, they can quickly be printed up for anniversary parties or even individually as a special birthday or Christmas gift.
How the process works
Once you choose a particular style or colour of t-shirt, the next decision is which method of customisation is best. Embroidery, where the artwork is applied using chain stitches, is both very stylish and thoroughly long lasting. If your design is very detailed, or you are needing a larger number, then professional screen printing might be your best option. There is also a third possibility called transfer printing, and this is useful where you are only looking for a small number of t-shirts to be produced. It’s also a terrific choice if you want to personalise each piece with individual names.
Your image is out there
There’s a fairly trite business phrase often used in training and motivation: “There’s no “i” in “team”.” This is, of course, true. But, whether for business or just fun, with personalised t-shirts there will be plenty of eyes on your team!
About the Author
George Christo has a passion for Customised t-shirts, work wear embroidery and teamwear – this is his job and his world. You can connect with him on Google+.