Custom Merch Inspiration: 10 Items We LOVE

Aug 26, 2024

Educational

A collage image of multiple different custom merch items including apparel, accessories, drinkware, and more. All products are pictured against a yellow background.

Introduction

Crafting custom merch that connects with your audience can be tough, but the right inspiration makes a big difference. Whether you aim to boost your brand or create something memorable, these 10 standout items are sure to spark ideas for your next project.

A front and back image of a custom green Varsity Jacket photographed against a green background.

Images Courtesy of A24

1. Custom Varsity Jacket - Maxine Minx Varsity Jacket from A24

Why We Love It: Varsity jackets are classic, and the Maxine Minx Varsity Jacket shows how to elevate a simple design. This item also demonstrates how custom merch that is movie themed can be a hit. Consider custom jackets that tell your brand’s story. If you’re short on time, use pre-designed jackets and add custom embroidery.

An image of a custom red Supreme Toyo Steel Toolbox. There is a view of the toolbox shut and then another view of it open to the right. The toolbox is pictured against a pink background.

Images Courtesy of Toyo and Supreme

2. Custom Merch Packaging - Supreme Toyo Steel T-320 Toolbox

Why We Love It: Supreme’s toolbox turns a practical item into a statement piece. Customizing functional products like toolboxes not only makes them stylish but also useful, appealing to a wider audience. This approach can create luxurious, reusable packaging that reduces waste.

An image of two custom Electronica woven blankets next to one another. Behind the two blankets is an up close image of the material.

Images Courtesy of 100% Electronica

3. Custom Blankets - 100% Electronica Woven Blanket

Why We Love It: The 100% Electronica blanket combines comfort with nostalgic design. A well-designed blanket makes a cozy and unexpected merch item. Add unique patterns or logos to evoke warmth and belonging. Using album art is a great way for fans to showcase their favorite musicians.

A front and back image of a custom white tee shirt that has a Grateful Dead Attics of My Life graphic. The shirt is pictured against a pink background.

Images Courtesy of Grateful Dead and Online Ceramics

4. Custom Tee Shirt - Grateful Dead Attics of My Life White Tee by Online Ceramics

Why We Love It: This t-shirt by Online Ceramics highlights simple yet impactful design. Online Ceramics excels in collaborations, offering a model for successful merch. Custom tees remain a staple and can deliver strong messages or memories with the right graphics.

An collage image of Baggu recycled bags. To the left shows a green branded bag and a white branded bag next to one another. To the right is two woman carrying the bags.

Images Courtesy of MoMA and Baggu

5. MoMA Baggu Recycled Nylon Tote Bag

Why We Love It: The Baggu tote from MoMA is both sustainable and stylish. Custom totes made from recycled materials promote eco-friendliness and offer a functional product. Co-branding with name-brand products can also attract a broader audience.

An image of three custom Brain Dead Illustrated bandana's photographed against a yellow background.

Images Courtesy of Brain Dead

6. Custom Bandanas - Brain Dead Illustrated Bandana

Why We Love It: Bandanas are versatile and stylish, and Brain Dead’s designs are playful and eye-catching. Custom bandanas are practical and fashionable, perfect for festivals or casual wear. They’re also cost-effective for giveaways.

An image of three pairs of custom NYT Hothead socks. To the left shows the three socks laid out. To the right shows the three socks in their packaging. The socks are pictured against a blue background.

Images Courtesy of New York Times

7. Custom Socks - NYT Hothead Socks

Why We Love It: The New York Times socks show that even small items can make a big impact. Custom socks are a fun, wearable way to showcase your brand’s personality with colorful or quirky designs.

An image of two different custom skateboard deck sets photographed next to one another. Both deck sets feature artwork from famous artists. The decks are pictured against a green background.

Images Courtesy of MoMA

8. Custom Skateboard Decks - Custom Skateboard Triptychs from The MoMA Store

Why We Love It: Skateboard triptychs blend art with utility, turning everyday items into creative expressions. Custom skateboards, especially with striking artwork, appeal to both art lovers and skaters. Use them as art pieces or for actual skating.

An image of a custom blue Sling Bag that features a pink flower design throughout the entire bag. The crescent shaped bag is pictured against a pink background.

Images Courtesy of Boygenius and Baggu

9. Custom Sling Bag - Boygenius x Baggu Crescent Bag

Why We Love It: The Boygenius and Baggu collaboration shows how partnerships can elevate products. Trendy shapes like the crescent make custom bags both stylish and functional.

An image of three different custom water bottles pictured against a yellow background.

Images Courtesy of REI

10. Custom Water Bottles - REI Co-op Nalgene Sustain Water Bottle

Why We Love It: Nalgene water bottles are known for durability and practicality. This eco-friendly version by REI Co-op, made from recycled materials, features a modern design. Custom water bottles are great for promoting your brand and sustainability. Consider fun illustrations or trendy “sticker” designs.

Conclusion

Custom merch offers endless possibilities for creativity. The key is to find products that not only align with your brand but also resonate with your audience. Whether you’re inspired by the practicality of a toolbox or the artistry of a skateboard, these 10 items are a great starting point for your next custom project. Get creative, and think outside the box, and your merch will not just be products—it’ll be an experience.

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