The most common scheduling mistake we see is counting only production time. Printing is fast; everything around it is where timelines slip. Mapping the full sequence up front removes almost all of the stress from an event apparel order.
Stage 1: Quote And Art (1-4 Days)
Getting a number is instant with our online calculator. Finalizing artwork is the variable. If you arrive with print-ready vector files, this stage is a single day. If we are creating a design from scratch or rebuilding a low-resolution logo, budget three to four days including your review time.
Approval delays live here too. Decide in advance who signs off, so a mockup does not sit in an inbox over a weekend.
Stage 2: Garment Sourcing (2-5 Days)
We order blanks from regional distributors, and most common styles arrive quickly. Specialty garments, unusual colors, extended sizes, and seasonal shortages can extend this. Popular hoodie colors in November are a classic example.
Flexibility on garment brand helps enormously when a specific style is backordered.
Stage 3: Production (24 Hours)
Once apparel is in house and your order, artwork, and print details are approved, production runs on a 24-hour clock — screen making, press setup, printing, curing, quality checks, folding, and boxing all happen within 24 hours.
That 24-hour turnaround is guaranteed or we don't get paid. Sending print-ready artwork early and confirming garment availability protects that clock.
- 24-hour production begins once order, artwork, and garments are ready
- Turnaround is guaranteed or we don't get paid
- Early artwork approval keeps the 24-hour clock running
Build In A Buffer Week
Whatever your date, target having shirts in hand one week early. That buffer absorbs a backordered garment or an extra art revision without turning into a crisis, and it gives you time to distribute before the event rather than during it.
Reorders Are Faster
Because we keep your art, separations, and specs on file, reorders skip the art stage entirely. If you know you will need a second run, tell us up front and we can often source garments for both at once.
The Takeaway
Plan three to four weeks, aim to receive one week early, and rush pricing becomes something you never need.