Branding Methods for Promotional Products: The Complete Guide
When it comes to promotional products, the branding method you choose is just as important as the product itself. Whether you’re ordering pens, polos, mugs, or stubby holders, the way your logo is applied determines how effective your merchandise will be in promoting your brand.
In this guide, we’ll explore every branding technique available for promotional products, explaining how each is executed, where it works best, and what factors to consider when making your choice.
How it’s done:Pad printing involves transferring ink from an etched printing plate (called a cliché) onto the surface of a product using a silicone pad. The pad picks up ink from the plate and presses it onto the item, wrapping slightly around curves and edges. It’s commonly used for products with small print areas or unusual shapes, like pens, keyrings, and drinkware.
Best for: Pens, plastic drink bottles, keyrings, small giveaways.
Advantages: Cost-effective, crisp detail, can print on curved surfaces.
Limitations: Limited to spot colours. Not suitable for photographic images.
Screen Printing
How it’s done:Screen printing uses a fine mesh stencil (the “screen”) with certain areas blocked off. Ink is then pushed through the mesh with a squeegee, leaving the design imprinted on the product. Each colour requires its own screen, making it ideal for bold logos with few colours.
Best for: Tote bags, T-shirts, hoodies, flat promotional items.
Advantages: Durable, bold colours, cost-effective for larger runs.
Limitations: Best for solid logos, not detailed graphics.
Full Colour Digital Printing
How it’s done:This method uses advanced inkjet technology to apply ink directly onto the surface of a product. The artwork is prepared digitally, and the machine sprays tiny droplets of ink in precise patterns to reproduce the design. A UV light often cures the ink instantly, ensuring it adheres well.
Best for: Notebooks, power banks, flat drinkware, products with detailed artwork.
Advantages: Unlimited colours, gradients, and photo-quality results.
Limitations: Works best on flat or slightly curved surfaces.
Digital Transfers
How it’s done:Artwork is first printed onto a special transfer film using digital printers. The film is then heat-pressed onto the product, which transfers the ink from the film into the material. This method works especially well for complex, multicoloured designs that would be difficult to achieve with traditional screen printing.
Best for: Caps, umbrellas, uniforms, satchels.
Advantages: Handles multicolour designs and gradients.
Limitations: Less durable than embroidery or screen printing on apparel.
Supacolour Transfers
How it’s done:Supacolour is a modern version of transfer printing. The artwork is digitally printed onto a transfer sheet using specialised equipment that captures vibrant colours and fine details. This transfer is then applied to the fabric with heat and pressure, bonding securely into the fibres while remaining flexible.
Best for: T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, branded uniforms.
Advantages: Bright, detailed, flexible, and long-lasting.
Limitations: Mostly for fabric; not used on hard surfaces.
Sublimation Printing
How it’s done:Sublimation uses heat to turn special inks into a gas, which then penetrates the surface of polyester fabrics or polymer-coated items (like mugs). The ink becomes part of the material rather than sitting on top, resulting in a permanent, vibrant design that won’t crack or peel.
Best for: Stubby holders, sportswear, polyester caps, mugs.
Limitations: Works only on polyester fabrics or polymer-coated items; not suitable for cotton.
Engraving
How it’s done:A laser or rotary tool removes a thin layer of the product’s surface to permanently mark the design. Laser engraving is the most common method today, as it allows incredible precision and can be used on a wide range of metals, woods, and plastics. The end result is a subtle, premium finish.
Best for: Metal pens, stainless steel drink bottles, tools, corporate gifts.
Advantages: Elegant, long-lasting, high perceived value.
Limitations: One-colour metallic finish only.
Embossing
How it’s done:Embossing uses a custom-made metal die and high pressure to push the design up from beneath the material, creating a raised effect. Heat is often added to help mould the shape, especially in leather or PU products.
Best for: Notebooks, compendiums, gift boxes.
Advantages: Tactile, sophisticated, long-lasting.
Limitations: Limited to flat surfaces.
Debossing
How it’s done:Debossing is the reverse of embossing. Instead of raising the design, the die presses down into the surface to create an indented logo. It’s especially effective on soft materials like leather, where the impression holds permanently.
Best for: Compendiums, leather portfolios, packaging.
Advantages: Professional and subtle, durable finish.
Limitations: Best for soft, pliable materials.
Embroidery
How it’s done:Embroidery uses a computer-controlled machine to stitch the design directly onto fabric. The design is digitised first (converted into a stitching file), then stitched using coloured threads. Multiple thread colours can be used, and the end result is raised and textured.
Limitations: Small text and intricate logos may not reproduce well.
Etching
How it’s done:Etching typically uses a laser or abrasive method to remove part of the surface of glass or crystal, creating a frosted design. On awards or drinkware, this results in an elegant matte finish that is permanent and scratch-resistant.
Best for: Awards, wine glasses, corporate gifts.
Advantages: Elegant, premium, permanent.
Limitations: Single-colour frosted look only.
Imitation Etching
How it’s done:Instead of physically removing part of the material, imitation etching uses a frosted ink that is screen-printed or digitally applied to mimic the look of genuine etched glass. It is quicker and more affordable, but the effect is purely surface-based.
Best for: Glassware, drink bottles, glossy surfaces.
Advantages: Cost-effective, stylish effect.
Limitations: Less durable than real etching.
Foil Printing
How it’s done:Foil printing (also called hot stamping) involves heating metallic or coloured foil and pressing it into the surface of the product using a die. The heat and pressure bond the foil to the surface, leaving a reflective, eye-catching imprint.
Best for: Diaries, notebooks, premium packaging.
Advantages: Luxurious, eye-catching, perfect for gifts.
Limitations: Limited to metallic and foil colours; not suitable for items that see heavy use.
Choosing the Right Branding Method
The right branding method depends on:
Material: Polyester for sublimation, metal for engraving, fabric for embroidery.
Durability: Engraving and embroidery last longest; transfers and digital printing are better for short-term campaigns.
Budget: Screen printing and pad printing are cost-effective; embossing and engraving carry higher setup costs.
At PromotionsOnly, we offer every branding method available in Australia. Whether you’re looking for engraved metal pens for corporate gifts, embroidered polos for staff uniforms, or sublimated stubby holders for an event giveaway, our team can recommend the perfect branding solution to suit your logo, product, and budget.
