Merch requests usually begin as design requests through Tally. Due to the need to need to coordinate with external entities, there are additional considerations that are not needed for other requests.
Gather complete details about the merch, such as:
Once the design is finalized, sourcing quotes from different printers, considering factors like price, quality, and delivery timelines.
Take print and clothing quality into account. Our aim with clothing quality is 100% cotton (or as close as possible). Regarding print quality, choose a printer that you have worked with before who evidenced high quality printing. If this is not possible, the Art Director should be consulted to determine the highest print quality.
The printer will provide you a mock-up of the design on the actual merchandise. Send it to the design team and the requester, gathering feedback, and making any final adjustments. Sometimes the client or designer will want to see the design on a different style or color of clothing/sticker. Communicate with the printer about any such requests.
Once a printer has been selected, address any questions they might have and make design adjustments if necessary.
Sometimes the printer will let you know that something cannot be done, such as a design color not being available or not looking right on the selected clothing item. Bring this information to the client and designer and revise the design if necessary.
Confirm the final design, production details, and delivery arrangements with the printer.
Keep track to make sure the production of the product remains on course and coordinate distribution.
The current process consists of paying the printer personally and getting reimbursed. This process is subject to change.