The sweatshirt has become one of the most iconic garments in contemporary fashion. From a simple sportswear item to a luxury statement piece, the hoodie has conquered catwalks and wardrobes around the world. If you are thinking of launching a brand or a dedicated line, the production of customised sweatshirts is probably at the forefront of your mind.
But how do you go from the idea to the finished product? How much does it cost? What are the customisation techniques? And how do you choose the right manufacturing partner?
I am Corrado Manenti, founder of Be A Designer. In this article, I will guide you through everything you need to know about production of customised sweatshirts: from printing techniques to costs, from fabric types to available production options.
If this is the first article you're reading, welcome to Be A Designer: the home of emerging designers. Here you'll find practical information to help you turn your passion for fashion into a real business.
Why Sweatshirts Are Perfect for Starting a Brand
It is no coincidence that many emerging brands start with sweatshirts. That is why they are an ideal product:
- Universality: everyone likes them, regardless of age, gender and style
- Attractive margins: good ratio between production cost and selling price
- Ease of customisation: suitable for printing, embroidery, patches
- Extended seasonality: they are sold practically all year round
- Accessible production: lower minimum order quantities compared to other items
- Brand building: perfect for building identity and community
Options for Producing Customised Sweatshirts
There is no single way to produce customised sweatshirts. Depending on your budget, quantities and desired level of customisation, you can choose from several options.
If you are just starting out, start with the white label to test the market and validate your idea. Once you have gathered feedback and orders, you can move on to semi-custom or fully custom production with greater confidence.
Customisation Techniques: Which One to Choose
Once you have chosen the production method, you must decide how to customise your sweatshirts. Each technique has specific advantages and disadvantages.
Screen printing
The classic technique: ink pushed through a matrix onto fabric. Vivid colours, excellent resistance, ideal for large volumes.
Digital Printing (DTG)
Direct printing on fabric like an inkjet printer. Perfect for complex designs, photos, and shades. No set-up costs.
Embroidery
Thread sewn directly onto the fabric. Premium, three-dimensional appearance, extremely durable. Ideal for logos and lettering.
Transfer / Vinyl
Material cut and heat-sealed onto fabric. Special effects possible (metallic, glitter, flocked). Fast and versatile.
⚠️ Warning: The printing technique affects the unit cost. For small quantities, DTG is often more cost-effective. For large volumes (100+ pieces), screen printing becomes more economical.
Fabrics for Sweatshirts: Which One to Choose
The quality of the fabric makes the difference between a sweatshirt that lasts one season and one that your customers will love for years.
Cotton 100%
Breathable, soft, natural. Excellent for comfort and sustainability.
Cotton-Polyester
Balanced mix (65/35 or 50/50). More resistant, retains its shape.
French terry
Lightweight, internal loops. Ideal for mid-seasons.
Fleece
Fleece lining, very warm. Perfect for winter.
Organic Cotton
GOTS certified, eco-friendly. Sustainable positioning.
Recycled Polyester
From PET bottles. Sustainable, high-performance.
Weight: How Much Does a Quality Sweatshirt Weigh?
| Weight | Perception | Ideal for | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250–280 g/m² | Light | Layering, indoors | Spring/Autumn |
| 280–320 g/m² | Average (standard) | Daily use | All year round |
| 320–380 g/m² | Heavy (premium) | Quality brands | Autumn/Winter |
| 380–450+ g/m² | Extras (luxury) | Premium streetwear | Winter |
For a brand that wants to position itself on quality, focus on 320-380 g/m². It is the range that immediately conveys a sense of premium quality to the touch.
The Costs of Producing Personalised Sweatshirts
Let's get to the fundamental question: How much does it cost to produce customised sweatshirts?
| Quantity | White Label + Printing | Semi-Custom | Fully Customised |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20–50 pieces | €25 - €40 each | Not available | Not available |
| 50-100 pieces | €20 - €35 each | €35 - €50 each | Not available |
| 100–200 pieces | €18 - €28 each | €28 - €40 each | €40 - €60 each |
| 200–500 pieces | €15 - €22 each | €22 - €32 each | €30 - €45 each |
| 500+ pieces | €12 - €18 each | €18 - €25 each | €22 - €35 each |
How Much Should You Sell Sweatshirts For?
To calculate the selling price, apply a multiplier of 3-4x on production costs:
- Production cost €25 → Selling price €75-100
- Production cost €35 → Selling price €105-140
- Production cost €50 → Selling price €150-200
For a comprehensive overview of costs, read our article on how much does it cost to create a clothing brand.
The Production Process: Step by Step
Concept and Design
Fabric Selection
Sample
Approval
Production
Delivery
Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Error #1: Saving on Fabric
A cheap sweatshirt looks and feels cheap. Invest in fabric quality: that is what differentiates a premium product from a mediocre one.
❌ Error #2: Ordering Too Much on First Order
Start with small quantities, Test the market, then scale up. It is better to sell out and reorder than to be left with unsold stock.
❌ Error #3: Underestimating Time
Production takes time: 2-3 weeks for white label, 8-12 for custom. Plan ahead.
❌ Error #4: Not Considering All Costs
In addition to production, there are: shipping, packaging, labels, and setup costs. Make a comprehensive budget.
❌ Error #5: Ignore Labels
Labels (composition, washing instructions, brand) are required by law. Always include them.
✓ The good news: Sweatshirts are a product with excellent margins and consistent demand. With the right planning, they can be the perfect foundation for launching your brand.
How Be A Designer Can Help You
Be A Designer offers a comprehensive service for the creation of sweatshirt and clothing lines, from concept to delivery. We have a network of tried and tested suppliers and can guide you in making the best choice for your budget.
Read also: how to create a clothing brand e contract manufacturing for small quantities.
👕 Want to create your own line of sweatshirts?
Book a free consultation. We will evaluate your project together and guide you towards the best production solution.
Book your free consultation →Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Sweatshirt Production
Conclusion
La production of customised sweatshirts It is a real opportunity for those who want to enter the world of fashion with a beloved, versatile product that offers good profit margins.
If you would like to learn more, in my book "Do you also want to be a designer?" you will find the complete method for creating collections and brands. And in "The Designer's Journey" I will guide you step by step from the first sketch to the launch.
Ready to create your own customised sweatshirts?
Book a free consultation with me. We will analyse your project together.
Book your consultation now →Good luck!
Corrado Manenti
Founder of Be A Designer
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