How to Design Custom Merch Without Being a Designer
Published by: Siobhan Ingram
Date: 05-12-2025
Bad news: You don't have to be a graphic designer to make custom merch that people adore.
Better news: With a few genius hacks (and some help from pros like FCE), you can bring your brand to life on the t-shirts you sport that feels as great as it looks.
Here's how to design custom merch—without worrying about the design itself.
1. Keep It Simple (Seriously, Simpler Than You Think)
The simpler you are with your merch, the better.
A clear graphic, bold text, or a clean logo is a heck of a lot better than a long-winded design that fades out on a hat or shirt.
Pro Tip: Ask yourself, Would I still know what this is from five feet away? If the answer's no, simplify it.
2. Pick Colors That Pop (But Don't Overwhelm)
Only use 1–3 core colors. Not only does it make your clothing look pro, but it keeps printing costs low.
If you're not sure what colors to use, use your brand colors or classic pairings like navy + white or black + gold.
Pro tip: You'll be best friends with high-contrast color pairings. Consider light on dark t-shirts, or bold on lighter shades.
3. Value Wearability Over Everything
Ask yourself: Would I actually wear this outside of a work event or fundraiser?
The best merch doesn't just sell it—it becomes part of someone's everyday style. Choose soft clothes, flattering fits, and designs that don't scream "I was forced to wear this."
Pro Tip: At FCE, we always say merch should feel like your favorite weekend hoodie, not a walking advertisement
4. Use Templates or Trusted Help
You don't need to start from scratch! Use template shirt designs, font pairings, or talk to a custom merch partner (hey, that's us ????) who can guide you through it.
Even with a rough napkin drawing, a good team can make it into merch magic.
Pro Tip: Bring what you got—sketches, screenshots, ideas. We'll tweak it for you so your merch is professional-looking without the headache.
Final Thoughts: You Bring the Vision, We Bring It to Life
You already know your brand inside and out. You don't need to be a designer—you just need to know the story you want to tell.
The right crew (like FCE) can turn your vision into custom clothing that creates pride, loyalty, and real brand power.
Because at the end of the day, it's not necessarily about what's on the merch.
It's about what it signifies to the individuals who wear it.