Let’s get one thing straight: not all merch rules are real.
At Star Gift Alliance, we hear the same merch myths over and over. And while we love a good urban legend, it’s time to set the record straight. Whether you’re planning your first VIP drop or trying to outfit a tour crew without losing your mind (or your budget), we’re here to help you cut through the noise.
So grab your Sharpies, your spreadsheets, and your skepticism. We’re busting some merch myths.
Myth #1: You need to order 1,000 units to get started.
False.
Yes, ordering in bulk brings the price down. But if you only need one, we can make that happen.
We’ve done single-piece embroidery. Is it more expensive? Sure. But it’s doable and sometimes, that’s what matters. Minimums exist, but there’s usually a way around them. Just ask. We’ll shoot you straight.
Myth #2: DTG is always cheaper than other print methods.
Not always.
Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing works great for full-color designs and small runs. But if you’re ordering a big batch of tees with a simple logo? Screen printing might be more cost-effective and look even better.
Bonus myth: That slight texture you feel on DTG prints? That’s the pre-treat. Totally normal, and it disappears after a wash.
Myth #3: You can send us your logo in any file type.
We wish.
Not all files are created equal. That .jpg you pulled off your desktop isn’t going to cut it for high-quality printing.
We need vector files…think .AI, .EPS, or properly built PDFs. Just renaming a file won’t work (and we will know).
Need help? We can convert your art properly. And yes, we’ll explain what digitizing, hooping, and stitch counts actually mean.
Myth #4: Swag and Merch are the same thing.
Definitely not.
Swag = Stuff We All Get. Branded giveaways. Crew gear. Event freebies.
Merch = The stuff that sells. Retail-quality. Fashion-forward. Collectible.
Understanding the difference changes everything. From your budget to your materials to your design strategy. One’s a thank-you. The other is a revenue stream. And yes, we’ll help you plan both.
Myth #5: You have to ship everything yourself.
Please don’t.
Kitting, fulfillment, individual drop-shipping…we do it all. If your idea of “shipping” involves wrestling with a pile of branded hoodies and 300 mailing labels, stop right there.
We’ll warehouse it, pack it, label it, and get it where it needs to go, whether it’s across the country or across the pond.
Myth #6: All promo items are junk.
Only if you order junk.
You can absolutely give out thoughtful, functional, stylish swag that doesn’t end up in the hotel trash can. (We’re literally built for that.)
Think: custom jackets, embroidered hats, engraved water bottles, kits with purpose, packaging that tells a story.
We don’t do throwaway. And neither should you.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Believe Everything You Hear
In a world full of bad advice, outdated assumptions, and people who still use the word “gross” when ordering t-shirts (that’s 144, by the way), consider us your no-nonsense merch partner.
Got a question? Ask. Got a weird idea? We’re listening. Think your budget is too small or timeline too tight? Try us.
We’re not here to follow the rules. We’re here to make merch that actually works.
Let’s bust a few more myths together.
