Custom Apparel: 7 Step Process From Idea to Delivery
What Is the Process for Ordering Custom Apparel?
Ordering custom apparel typically follows a structured process to ensure designs are approved, production is accurate, and delivery deadlines are met.
The standard process includes
-
- Submit project details and requirements
- Create and review design proofs
- Receive and approve an estimate
- Begin production after approval
- Complete production and quality checks
- Ship orders or fulfill individual deliveries
- Confirm delivery and gather feedback
Our 7-Step Awesomization Process
At Awesomized Tees, we follow a refined version of this process — built specifically for the realities of campus organizations, events, and multi-recipient orders.
1. Project Created
We receive your request via email, form, or spreadsheet. Requirements, timelines, and delivery method (bulk or individual fulfillment) are captured up front.
You’ll receive confirmation once your project is created and entered into our system.
2. Awesomization (Free Design & Review)
Our design team prepares concepts or production-ready artwork at no charge. Proofs are shared for approval, and revisions are made until you’re satisfied.
You’re notified when proofs are ready and whenever updates are made.
3. Estimate Issued
A clear, itemized estimate is provided covering garments, decoration, fulfillment, and shipping.
No hidden fees. No unnecessary upsells.
You’ll be notified when the estimate is issued and if any changes are required.
4. Invoice & Production Start
Once approved, the project moves into production. Printing, embroidery, and quality checks are managed end-to-end through trusted domestic partners.
We confirm when production begins and notify you of key milestones.
5. Production Complete
Finished items are inspected, counted, and prepared for fulfillment — whether that’s a single bulk shipment or hundreds of individual deliveries.
You’ll be notified when production is complete and ready for shipment.
6. Shipping & Fulfillment
Orders are shipped via consolidated freight or individual drop-shipments. Recipient data can be supplied by spreadsheet or collected securely by us.
Tracking information is shared as shipments are dispatched.
7. Delivered & Closed-Loop Improvement
Delivery is confirmed and the project is formally closed.
We follow up after delivery to confirm everything arrived as expected and capture feedback — which feeds directly into process improvements for future orders.
How Long Does the Custom Apparel Process Take?
Timelines vary depending on order size, design complexity, and fulfillment method.
Typical ranges:
- Design & approvals: 1–5 business days
- Production: 5–10 business days
- Shipping: 1–5 business days
For event-based orders, we plan backwards from your required in-hands date to protect critical deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to get started?
Basic details include quantity, garment type & color, design ideas (if available) & in-hands date. We’ll also need a phone number and email address for shipping.
How many design revisions are included?
Revisions are included at no additional cost until you’re satisfied with the final proof.
Can I make changes after approving the estimate?
Changes may be possible before production begins, but once production starts, adjustments are limited.
Do you offer individual shipping to recipients?
Yes. We can ship bulk orders or fulfill individual shipments using recipient data you provide or collect. For more information, see our fulfillment page.
How do I know the status of my order?
You’ll receive updates at each stage of the process, from project creation through delivery. Each email will tell you what needs to happen to progress to the next stage.

