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PerkUp’s Customization Methods: From Embroidery to Screen Printing
PerkUp’s Customization Methods: From Embroidery to Screen Printing
PerkUp’s Customization Methods: From Embroidery to Screen Printing
Explore the customization methods that PerkUp offers, from embroidery and screen printing to engraving and foil print, for high-quality, on-brand swag and gifts.
Explore the customization methods that PerkUp offers, from embroidery and screen printing to engraving and foil print, for high-quality, on-brand swag and gifts.
Explore the customization methods that PerkUp offers, from embroidery and screen printing to engraving and foil print, for high-quality, on-brand swag and gifts.
Nov 4, 2025
•
10
min read
As a swag management and corporate gifting platform, PerkUp offers a wide range of customization options designed to help you create swag and gifts that align with your brand identity. Every item, from apparel and accessories to drinkware and tech, can be decorated with specific methods that bring your brand logos and designs to life.
That said, here’s a comprehensive list of all the customization/decoration methods that PerkUp offers for swag and gifts.
What customization options does PerkUp offer?
Appliqué Embroidery
Appliqué embroidery layers cut pieces of fabric onto a base material, which are then secured and outlined with stitching. This method creates contrast and a tactile finish that stands out more than standard embroidery. It’s commonly used on hoodies, varsity jackets, and thicker apparel where bold branding is required.
Debossing presses a design into a material, creating a recessed effect. Using heat and pressure, this method indents logos, text, or patterns into surfaces like leather, paper, or packaging. Unlike embossing, which raises the design, debossing creates depth without adding ink or color, which is ideal for a clean, premium aesthetic.
Direct to Film (DTF) printing uses a printer to apply designs onto a special film, which is then transferred onto fabric using heat and adhesive. This technique can produce vibrant, detailed images and is commonly used for apparel, bags, and hats. It’s a flexible choice that works on a wide range of fabric types, including darker materials, with minimal setup time.
Direct to Garment (DTG) printing applies ink directly onto fabric using an inkjet printer. This allows for intricate, full-color designs with gradients and photographic details. It’s best suited for small-batch apparel printing where high resolution and soft-to-touch finishes are essential.
Embossing raises the design outward from the material using heat and pressure. This technique creates a three-dimensional effect without relying on ink, giving the product a tactile, elevated look. Commonly used on packaging, leather, or fabric, embossing enhances brand perception through craftsmanship and subtle texture.
Embroidery uses colored threads to stitch logos and patterns onto fabric. The technique produces textured designs that remain durable and vibrant even after repeated use. It’s a timeless option for apparel such as polos, jackets, hats, and bags, adding a high-end, professional finish to every piece. The process can be done by machine or by hand.
Engraving permanently etches a logo or design into hard surfaces such as metal, wood, glass, or acrylic. The process removes a small layer of material, creating a precise and durable imprint that won’t fade or peel. You’ll see this technique often used on pens, tumblers, and tech accessories where long-lasting branding is key.
Foil Print
Foil printing uses heat to apply a metallic foil onto the fabric or surface, which then produces a reflective, mirror-like logo. The result is eye-catching, making it popular for limited-edition apparel, premium event merchandise, and holiday-themed swag. Foil prints work especially well on darker fabrics where contrast matters.
Glass Etching
Glass etching uses abrasion or chemicals to create a frosted, matte design on glass surfaces. The result is subtle and permanent, and this method makes it ideal for drinkware like wine glasses and mugs. Unlike printing, etched designs will never peel, scratch off, or fade.
A heat seal patch is an embroidered or printed patch that’s bonded to fabric using heat and pressure. Its special adhesive activates under high temperature, ensuring a secure attachment without sewing. The result is a polished, durable look commonly used on uniforms, hats, and outerwear. Some may also add stitching for extra reinforcement on frequently used items.
Heat transfer printing applies a pre-printed design onto fabric using a heat press. When exposed to heat, the adhesive activates and bonds the design to the surface, producing a smooth, vibrant finish. This method is ideal for small runs and designs with bright, detailed colors.
Heat Transfer Vinyl
Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) involves cutting designs from colored vinyl sheets and bonding them to fabric using heat and pressure. This method is ideal for simple logos, bold shapes, or limited colors. Commonly used for jerseys and other apparel, this method is great when sharp edges and solid colors are needed.
Lamination involves applying a thin, transparent film over a printed surface to enhance protection, gloss, and color vibrancy. It’s widely used for notebooks, journals, and insert cards to improve durability and prevent fading or scuffing over time. This method can also be applied to certain fabrics.
Laser engraving
Laser engraving uses a focused laser beam to burn or etch designs into hard materials, which then creates a crisp, permanent imprint. It’s commonly used on metal tumblers, stainless steel drinkware, pens, and even wooden accessories. The finish is precise and highly resistant to wear.
Metallic Printing
Metallic printing applies specialized metallic ink that shimmers under light, producing a polished, dimensional look without the reflectiveness of foil. This method is best used for logos or artwork that require a subtle shine with a premium feel. Ideal for notebooks and cards.
Pad printing transfers ink from a silicone pad onto irregular or curved surfaces. It’s ideal for products like pens, mugs, or tech gadgets that can’t be easily printed on using flat methods. This technique ensures sharp, consistent branding even on small or uneven items.
Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh stencil to create bold, long-lasting designs. It’s a cost-effective option for large quantities of apparel or tote bags. Known for durability and color vibrancy, it’s one of the most popular and recognizable customization techniques used worldwide.
Sewn-on labels are fabric tags stitched directly onto apparel or accessories. They’re used to showcase brand logos, care details, or size information. Because they’re attached with thread instead of adhesive, sewn-on labels maintain their quality and legibility even after extended use and frequent washing.
Sublimation printing uses heat and pressure to convert ink into gas, bonding the dye directly into polyester fabrics or coated materials. This process allows for full-color, edge-to-edge printing that won’t crack, peel, or fade. It’s the go-to choice for high-resolution designs on apparel, mugs, or lanyards.
Wood Etching
Wood etching burns a logo or pattern directly into wooden surfaces using heat or laser technology. The result has a natural, rustic, and textured appearance that pairs well with eco-friendly branding. It’s commonly seen on wooden coasters, gift boxes, and accessories.
Any Customization Method is Possible with PerkUp
If you have any other customization method in mind, PerkUp can do that for you, too! That’s because with PerkUp, any design or customization is possible. We work with vetted suppliers who offer a wide range of customization capabilities, allowing us to match the right method to your material and brand aesthetic.
Which customization method works for which items?
If you’re wondering what kind of customization method is best for which swag item, then check out the table below.
Item Type | Compatible Customization Methods |
|---|---|
T-shirts, Hoodies, Sweatshirts | Screen Printing, DTG, DTF, Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Transfer Printing, HTV, Sublimation (polyester) |
Hats (caps, beanies, bucket hats) | Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Seal Patch, Sewn-on Labels, HTV |
Jackets & Outerwear | Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Seal Patch, Sewn-on Labels, Screen Printing |
Tote Bags & Fabric Accessories | Screen Printing, DTG, DTF, Embroidery, HTV, Heat Transfer |
Drinkware (tumblers, mugs, bottles) | Laser Engraving, Pad Printing, Glass Etching |
Tech accessories (cables, power banks, phone cases) | Pad Printing, UV Printing, Laser Engraving |
Notebooks, Journals, Packaging | Debossing, Embossing, Metallic Printing, Foil Print, Lamination |
Wooden Gifts & Boxes | Wood Etching, Laser Engraving |
PerkUp, Your #1 Global Swag Partner for Customization
Every customized item goes through a detailed process. It starts with mock-ups of the design, which then undergo pre-production approval before third-party quality checks are performed. All of these are done to ensure your branding is executed with precision. This kind of production workflow is also built to eliminate guesswork and deliver consistent results on every order.
Because PerkUp brings design, customization, and logistics together in one platform, you’ll also benefit from a seamless workflow and expert guidance at every step. Our in-house design agency and Customer Success Managers collaborate with you to recommend the most effective decoration methods and logo placements based on your material, budget, timeline, and brand. From there, production is carried out by our vetted partners, supported by local and global warehouse networks to reduce transit times and environmental impact.
By pairing craftsmanship with operational efficiency and choosing responsible suppliers, eco-friendly inks, and local sourcing whenever possible, PerkUp ensures your swag reflects both your brand and your values. In every project, our mission is simple: deliver customized swag that looks exceptional and serves a real purpose for the people who receive it.
Request a demo to see how PerkUp delivers!
As a swag management and corporate gifting platform, PerkUp offers a wide range of customization options designed to help you create swag and gifts that align with your brand identity. Every item, from apparel and accessories to drinkware and tech, can be decorated with specific methods that bring your brand logos and designs to life.
That said, here’s a comprehensive list of all the customization/decoration methods that PerkUp offers for swag and gifts.
What customization options does PerkUp offer?
Appliqué Embroidery
Appliqué embroidery layers cut pieces of fabric onto a base material, which are then secured and outlined with stitching. This method creates contrast and a tactile finish that stands out more than standard embroidery. It’s commonly used on hoodies, varsity jackets, and thicker apparel where bold branding is required.
Debossing presses a design into a material, creating a recessed effect. Using heat and pressure, this method indents logos, text, or patterns into surfaces like leather, paper, or packaging. Unlike embossing, which raises the design, debossing creates depth without adding ink or color, which is ideal for a clean, premium aesthetic.
Direct to Film (DTF) printing uses a printer to apply designs onto a special film, which is then transferred onto fabric using heat and adhesive. This technique can produce vibrant, detailed images and is commonly used for apparel, bags, and hats. It’s a flexible choice that works on a wide range of fabric types, including darker materials, with minimal setup time.
Direct to Garment (DTG) printing applies ink directly onto fabric using an inkjet printer. This allows for intricate, full-color designs with gradients and photographic details. It’s best suited for small-batch apparel printing where high resolution and soft-to-touch finishes are essential.
Embossing raises the design outward from the material using heat and pressure. This technique creates a three-dimensional effect without relying on ink, giving the product a tactile, elevated look. Commonly used on packaging, leather, or fabric, embossing enhances brand perception through craftsmanship and subtle texture.
Embroidery uses colored threads to stitch logos and patterns onto fabric. The technique produces textured designs that remain durable and vibrant even after repeated use. It’s a timeless option for apparel such as polos, jackets, hats, and bags, adding a high-end, professional finish to every piece. The process can be done by machine or by hand.
Engraving permanently etches a logo or design into hard surfaces such as metal, wood, glass, or acrylic. The process removes a small layer of material, creating a precise and durable imprint that won’t fade or peel. You’ll see this technique often used on pens, tumblers, and tech accessories where long-lasting branding is key.
Foil Print
Foil printing uses heat to apply a metallic foil onto the fabric or surface, which then produces a reflective, mirror-like logo. The result is eye-catching, making it popular for limited-edition apparel, premium event merchandise, and holiday-themed swag. Foil prints work especially well on darker fabrics where contrast matters.
Glass Etching
Glass etching uses abrasion or chemicals to create a frosted, matte design on glass surfaces. The result is subtle and permanent, and this method makes it ideal for drinkware like wine glasses and mugs. Unlike printing, etched designs will never peel, scratch off, or fade.
A heat seal patch is an embroidered or printed patch that’s bonded to fabric using heat and pressure. Its special adhesive activates under high temperature, ensuring a secure attachment without sewing. The result is a polished, durable look commonly used on uniforms, hats, and outerwear. Some may also add stitching for extra reinforcement on frequently used items.
Heat transfer printing applies a pre-printed design onto fabric using a heat press. When exposed to heat, the adhesive activates and bonds the design to the surface, producing a smooth, vibrant finish. This method is ideal for small runs and designs with bright, detailed colors.
Heat Transfer Vinyl
Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) involves cutting designs from colored vinyl sheets and bonding them to fabric using heat and pressure. This method is ideal for simple logos, bold shapes, or limited colors. Commonly used for jerseys and other apparel, this method is great when sharp edges and solid colors are needed.
Lamination involves applying a thin, transparent film over a printed surface to enhance protection, gloss, and color vibrancy. It’s widely used for notebooks, journals, and insert cards to improve durability and prevent fading or scuffing over time. This method can also be applied to certain fabrics.
Laser engraving
Laser engraving uses a focused laser beam to burn or etch designs into hard materials, which then creates a crisp, permanent imprint. It’s commonly used on metal tumblers, stainless steel drinkware, pens, and even wooden accessories. The finish is precise and highly resistant to wear.
Metallic Printing
Metallic printing applies specialized metallic ink that shimmers under light, producing a polished, dimensional look without the reflectiveness of foil. This method is best used for logos or artwork that require a subtle shine with a premium feel. Ideal for notebooks and cards.
Pad printing transfers ink from a silicone pad onto irregular or curved surfaces. It’s ideal for products like pens, mugs, or tech gadgets that can’t be easily printed on using flat methods. This technique ensures sharp, consistent branding even on small or uneven items.
Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh stencil to create bold, long-lasting designs. It’s a cost-effective option for large quantities of apparel or tote bags. Known for durability and color vibrancy, it’s one of the most popular and recognizable customization techniques used worldwide.
Sewn-on labels are fabric tags stitched directly onto apparel or accessories. They’re used to showcase brand logos, care details, or size information. Because they’re attached with thread instead of adhesive, sewn-on labels maintain their quality and legibility even after extended use and frequent washing.
Sublimation printing uses heat and pressure to convert ink into gas, bonding the dye directly into polyester fabrics or coated materials. This process allows for full-color, edge-to-edge printing that won’t crack, peel, or fade. It’s the go-to choice for high-resolution designs on apparel, mugs, or lanyards.
Wood Etching
Wood etching burns a logo or pattern directly into wooden surfaces using heat or laser technology. The result has a natural, rustic, and textured appearance that pairs well with eco-friendly branding. It’s commonly seen on wooden coasters, gift boxes, and accessories.
Any Customization Method is Possible with PerkUp
If you have any other customization method in mind, PerkUp can do that for you, too! That’s because with PerkUp, any design or customization is possible. We work with vetted suppliers who offer a wide range of customization capabilities, allowing us to match the right method to your material and brand aesthetic.
Which customization method works for which items?
If you’re wondering what kind of customization method is best for which swag item, then check out the table below.
Item Type | Compatible Customization Methods |
|---|---|
T-shirts, Hoodies, Sweatshirts | Screen Printing, DTG, DTF, Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Transfer Printing, HTV, Sublimation (polyester) |
Hats (caps, beanies, bucket hats) | Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Seal Patch, Sewn-on Labels, HTV |
Jackets & Outerwear | Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Seal Patch, Sewn-on Labels, Screen Printing |
Tote Bags & Fabric Accessories | Screen Printing, DTG, DTF, Embroidery, HTV, Heat Transfer |
Drinkware (tumblers, mugs, bottles) | Laser Engraving, Pad Printing, Glass Etching |
Tech accessories (cables, power banks, phone cases) | Pad Printing, UV Printing, Laser Engraving |
Notebooks, Journals, Packaging | Debossing, Embossing, Metallic Printing, Foil Print, Lamination |
Wooden Gifts & Boxes | Wood Etching, Laser Engraving |
PerkUp, Your #1 Global Swag Partner for Customization
Every customized item goes through a detailed process. It starts with mock-ups of the design, which then undergo pre-production approval before third-party quality checks are performed. All of these are done to ensure your branding is executed with precision. This kind of production workflow is also built to eliminate guesswork and deliver consistent results on every order.
Because PerkUp brings design, customization, and logistics together in one platform, you’ll also benefit from a seamless workflow and expert guidance at every step. Our in-house design agency and Customer Success Managers collaborate with you to recommend the most effective decoration methods and logo placements based on your material, budget, timeline, and brand. From there, production is carried out by our vetted partners, supported by local and global warehouse networks to reduce transit times and environmental impact.
By pairing craftsmanship with operational efficiency and choosing responsible suppliers, eco-friendly inks, and local sourcing whenever possible, PerkUp ensures your swag reflects both your brand and your values. In every project, our mission is simple: deliver customized swag that looks exceptional and serves a real purpose for the people who receive it.
Request a demo to see how PerkUp delivers!
As a swag management and corporate gifting platform, PerkUp offers a wide range of customization options designed to help you create swag and gifts that align with your brand identity. Every item, from apparel and accessories to drinkware and tech, can be decorated with specific methods that bring your brand logos and designs to life.
That said, here’s a comprehensive list of all the customization/decoration methods that PerkUp offers for swag and gifts.
What customization options does PerkUp offer?
Appliqué Embroidery
Appliqué embroidery layers cut pieces of fabric onto a base material, which are then secured and outlined with stitching. This method creates contrast and a tactile finish that stands out more than standard embroidery. It’s commonly used on hoodies, varsity jackets, and thicker apparel where bold branding is required.
Debossing presses a design into a material, creating a recessed effect. Using heat and pressure, this method indents logos, text, or patterns into surfaces like leather, paper, or packaging. Unlike embossing, which raises the design, debossing creates depth without adding ink or color, which is ideal for a clean, premium aesthetic.
Direct to Film (DTF) printing uses a printer to apply designs onto a special film, which is then transferred onto fabric using heat and adhesive. This technique can produce vibrant, detailed images and is commonly used for apparel, bags, and hats. It’s a flexible choice that works on a wide range of fabric types, including darker materials, with minimal setup time.
Direct to Garment (DTG) printing applies ink directly onto fabric using an inkjet printer. This allows for intricate, full-color designs with gradients and photographic details. It’s best suited for small-batch apparel printing where high resolution and soft-to-touch finishes are essential.
Embossing raises the design outward from the material using heat and pressure. This technique creates a three-dimensional effect without relying on ink, giving the product a tactile, elevated look. Commonly used on packaging, leather, or fabric, embossing enhances brand perception through craftsmanship and subtle texture.
Embroidery uses colored threads to stitch logos and patterns onto fabric. The technique produces textured designs that remain durable and vibrant even after repeated use. It’s a timeless option for apparel such as polos, jackets, hats, and bags, adding a high-end, professional finish to every piece. The process can be done by machine or by hand.
Engraving permanently etches a logo or design into hard surfaces such as metal, wood, glass, or acrylic. The process removes a small layer of material, creating a precise and durable imprint that won’t fade or peel. You’ll see this technique often used on pens, tumblers, and tech accessories where long-lasting branding is key.
Foil Print
Foil printing uses heat to apply a metallic foil onto the fabric or surface, which then produces a reflective, mirror-like logo. The result is eye-catching, making it popular for limited-edition apparel, premium event merchandise, and holiday-themed swag. Foil prints work especially well on darker fabrics where contrast matters.
Glass Etching
Glass etching uses abrasion or chemicals to create a frosted, matte design on glass surfaces. The result is subtle and permanent, and this method makes it ideal for drinkware like wine glasses and mugs. Unlike printing, etched designs will never peel, scratch off, or fade.
A heat seal patch is an embroidered or printed patch that’s bonded to fabric using heat and pressure. Its special adhesive activates under high temperature, ensuring a secure attachment without sewing. The result is a polished, durable look commonly used on uniforms, hats, and outerwear. Some may also add stitching for extra reinforcement on frequently used items.
Heat transfer printing applies a pre-printed design onto fabric using a heat press. When exposed to heat, the adhesive activates and bonds the design to the surface, producing a smooth, vibrant finish. This method is ideal for small runs and designs with bright, detailed colors.
Heat Transfer Vinyl
Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) involves cutting designs from colored vinyl sheets and bonding them to fabric using heat and pressure. This method is ideal for simple logos, bold shapes, or limited colors. Commonly used for jerseys and other apparel, this method is great when sharp edges and solid colors are needed.
Lamination involves applying a thin, transparent film over a printed surface to enhance protection, gloss, and color vibrancy. It’s widely used for notebooks, journals, and insert cards to improve durability and prevent fading or scuffing over time. This method can also be applied to certain fabrics.
Laser engraving
Laser engraving uses a focused laser beam to burn or etch designs into hard materials, which then creates a crisp, permanent imprint. It’s commonly used on metal tumblers, stainless steel drinkware, pens, and even wooden accessories. The finish is precise and highly resistant to wear.
Metallic Printing
Metallic printing applies specialized metallic ink that shimmers under light, producing a polished, dimensional look without the reflectiveness of foil. This method is best used for logos or artwork that require a subtle shine with a premium feel. Ideal for notebooks and cards.
Pad printing transfers ink from a silicone pad onto irregular or curved surfaces. It’s ideal for products like pens, mugs, or tech gadgets that can’t be easily printed on using flat methods. This technique ensures sharp, consistent branding even on small or uneven items.
Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh stencil to create bold, long-lasting designs. It’s a cost-effective option for large quantities of apparel or tote bags. Known for durability and color vibrancy, it’s one of the most popular and recognizable customization techniques used worldwide.
Sewn-on labels are fabric tags stitched directly onto apparel or accessories. They’re used to showcase brand logos, care details, or size information. Because they’re attached with thread instead of adhesive, sewn-on labels maintain their quality and legibility even after extended use and frequent washing.
Sublimation printing uses heat and pressure to convert ink into gas, bonding the dye directly into polyester fabrics or coated materials. This process allows for full-color, edge-to-edge printing that won’t crack, peel, or fade. It’s the go-to choice for high-resolution designs on apparel, mugs, or lanyards.
Wood Etching
Wood etching burns a logo or pattern directly into wooden surfaces using heat or laser technology. The result has a natural, rustic, and textured appearance that pairs well with eco-friendly branding. It’s commonly seen on wooden coasters, gift boxes, and accessories.
Any Customization Method is Possible with PerkUp
If you have any other customization method in mind, PerkUp can do that for you, too! That’s because with PerkUp, any design or customization is possible. We work with vetted suppliers who offer a wide range of customization capabilities, allowing us to match the right method to your material and brand aesthetic.
Which customization method works for which items?
If you’re wondering what kind of customization method is best for which swag item, then check out the table below.
Item Type | Compatible Customization Methods |
|---|---|
T-shirts, Hoodies, Sweatshirts | Screen Printing, DTG, DTF, Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Transfer Printing, HTV, Sublimation (polyester) |
Hats (caps, beanies, bucket hats) | Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Seal Patch, Sewn-on Labels, HTV |
Jackets & Outerwear | Embroidery, Appliqué Embroidery, Heat Seal Patch, Sewn-on Labels, Screen Printing |
Tote Bags & Fabric Accessories | Screen Printing, DTG, DTF, Embroidery, HTV, Heat Transfer |
Drinkware (tumblers, mugs, bottles) | Laser Engraving, Pad Printing, Glass Etching |
Tech accessories (cables, power banks, phone cases) | Pad Printing, UV Printing, Laser Engraving |
Notebooks, Journals, Packaging | Debossing, Embossing, Metallic Printing, Foil Print, Lamination |
Wooden Gifts & Boxes | Wood Etching, Laser Engraving |
PerkUp, Your #1 Global Swag Partner for Customization
Every customized item goes through a detailed process. It starts with mock-ups of the design, which then undergo pre-production approval before third-party quality checks are performed. All of these are done to ensure your branding is executed with precision. This kind of production workflow is also built to eliminate guesswork and deliver consistent results on every order.
Because PerkUp brings design, customization, and logistics together in one platform, you’ll also benefit from a seamless workflow and expert guidance at every step. Our in-house design agency and Customer Success Managers collaborate with you to recommend the most effective decoration methods and logo placements based on your material, budget, timeline, and brand. From there, production is carried out by our vetted partners, supported by local and global warehouse networks to reduce transit times and environmental impact.
By pairing craftsmanship with operational efficiency and choosing responsible suppliers, eco-friendly inks, and local sourcing whenever possible, PerkUp ensures your swag reflects both your brand and your values. In every project, our mission is simple: deliver customized swag that looks exceptional and serves a real purpose for the people who receive it.
Request a demo to see how PerkUp delivers!
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