Custom Apparel & Promotional Products Knowledge Base

Knowledge Base & Ordering Policies

Custom Apparel & Promotional Products — Answered

A complete reference for ordering custom apparel, branded workwear, embroidery, screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, pad printing, drinkware, bags, and promotional products from Black Dog Apparel in Calgary, Alberta.

130 answered questions across 13 topics

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Browse, search, and skim — every common question is here

Use the topic index below to jump to the section you need, or start scrolling. Every answer is written from real Calgary, Alberta, and Western Canadian buying experience. If something is missing, send a quick message through the Contact page and we will get you a real answer.

Topic

Ordering Policies

The canonical rules of how Black Dog Apparel orders work — minimums, setup fees, files, samples, production time, shipping, and reorders. Sales, customers, and our team all reference this section.

What is the order minimum at Black Dog Apparel?

Minimum order is 12 pieces for embroidery and 12 pieces for screen printing. We do not sell single pieces of custom-decorated apparel. The 12-piece minimum can be a mix of sizes within the same product and decoration.

Do setup fees apply to every order?

Yes. Screen printing setup fees apply to every order, including reorders, because screens are made fresh per project. Embroidery is the one exception — once a logo is digitized into an embroidery file, that file belongs to your account and is reused on every reorder of the same artwork at no additional digitizing fee.

Are repeat orders cheaper because the artwork is on file?

Embroidery reorders skip the digitizing fee because the embroidery file is reused. Screen printing, sublimation, heat transfer, laser etching, and pad printing reorders still require their per-method setup fees because films, screens, and tooling are project-specific. The work moves faster on a repeat — but the setup costs do not disappear.

What artwork file formats does Black Dog Apparel need?

For screen printing, heat transfers, sublimation, laser etching, and pad printing we need .ai or .eps vector files. For embroidery we need .dst or .emb digitized files. JPEG and PNG files can be sent in but will need to be converted to vector (for printing methods) or digitized to .dst/.emb (for embroidery), and that conversion is a one-time extra charge.

What if I only have a JPEG, PNG, or social media logo?

We can still work with it — the file just has to be converted first. Vector conversion (for screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, or pad printing) and digitizing to .dst or .emb (for embroidery) are billed as a one-time art fee, and the converted file stays on your account for every future order.

What is the standard production time?

Standard production time at Black Dog Apparel is three weeks from approved artwork and confirmed order. Rush production is available for an additional fee — the fastest turnaround we can offer is one week, also at a rush fee. Always tell us your deadline first so we can recommend the right path.

Do you offer pickup or delivery from your location?

No. Black Dog Apparel does not offer pickup. All orders ship to one address per order. We work with major Canadian carriers and the shipping cost is included in the quote.

Do you offer drop shipping to individual employees, customers, or addresses?

No. We do not split shipments to individual recipients. Every order ships in bulk to one address — typically the company HQ, the shop, or the event location.

Can I buy a blank sample to check sizing or fabric?

Blank samples can be borrowed for fitting and feel, but they cannot be purchased blank — they belong to our sample inventory and need to be returned. For embroidery orders, we can produce a sew-out (your logo stitched onto a piece of fabric) so you can see exactly how the embroidery will look before the run starts. We do not produce sample runs for screen printing.

Do you offer discounts for non-profits, animal shelters, or charities?

Yes. Black Dog Apparel offers preferential pricing for registered non-profits, animal rescues and shelters, and community fundraisers. The discount scales with order size — the larger the run, the better the per-piece. Mention the use case in your quote request and we will apply it from the first quote.

Do you store inventory or run fulfillment for ongoing programs?

No. We do not warehouse pre-decorated inventory and we do not pick-and-pack individual orders for ongoing programs. Production is per-order, on demand, in bulk, shipping to one address.

Can you ship onboarding kits directly to new hires as they join?

No. We can absolutely build employee welcome kits, but the entire batch ships in bulk to your company in a single shipment — not assembled on demand and shipped to individual new-hire homes. Most clients keep a stock of kits on hand and hand them out internally.

Do you offer DTF (direct-to-film) printing?

No. Black Dog Apparel does not offer DTF printing. Our production methods are embroidery, screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, and pad printing. We will recommend the best fit for your artwork, garment, and quantity.

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Quotes & Pricing

How quotes work, what drives the per-unit price, and how to get an accurate number quickly.

How do I get a quote for custom apparel or promotional products?

Use the Request a Quote page or the Contact form. Tell us the product type, quantity (12 piece minimum), decoration method, your logo file, and the deadline. Most quotes come back the same business day, often within a couple of hours during business hours.

How long does it take to get a quote back?

Most apparel and promotional product quotes are returned the same business day, and almost always within 24 hours. Quotes for unusual items, very large quantities, or products we have to source from a specific supplier can take 1 to 2 business days.

How is custom apparel pricing calculated?

Per-unit price is built from the blank garment cost, the decoration method, the size or stitch count of the design, the quantity tier, setup fees, and shipping. Larger quantities, simpler artwork, and standard placements all bring the per-unit price down.

Why does the same shirt cost different amounts at different quantities?

Decoration has fixed setup costs (screens, digitizing, color separations, films, tooling) that get spread across more pieces as quantity goes up. Suppliers also tier blank pricing by case quantity, so 12 hoodies and 144 hoodies often have very different per-unit costs.

Are setup fees one-time or per order?

Setup fees apply per order for screen printing, sublimation, heat transfer, laser etching, and pad printing — films, screens, and tooling are made fresh for each run. Embroidery is the exception: digitizing is a one-time fee per logo, and the embroidery file is reused on every future reorder of the same artwork at no extra digitizing cost.

Do you offer discounts for non-profits, animal rescues, schools, or large bulk orders?

Yes. Registered non-profits, animal rescues and shelters, schools, charities, and recurring large corporate programs all qualify for preferential pricing. Discounts scale with order size — the larger the run, the deeper the discount. Mention the use case in your quote request so we can apply it from the start.

Can I see pricing without talking to someone first?

Some standard items have public pricing on the product pages, but anything with custom decoration needs a quote because the variables (logo size, color count, quantity, garment, decoration method) shift the math significantly. The quote form is fast and there is no obligation to order.

What information should I include with my quote request?

Product type or category, quantity (12 piece minimum), decoration method preference if you have one, the logo file (.ai/.eps for printing methods, .dst/.emb for embroidery, or a high-res image we can convert), the deadline, and the size breakdown if you already know it. The more you share up front, the more accurate the first quote.

Do you charge for digital mockups or proofs?

Standard digital mockups are included with every quote at no extra cost. Heavy redesign work or repeated revisions beyond a couple of rounds can incur an art fee, but we always tell you before charging anything.

Will you match a competitor's quote?

When the comparison is genuinely apples-to-apples (same garment brand, same decoration method, same quantity, same color count), we will absolutely take a look at competing quotes and sharpen our pricing. We will also flag it if the comparison is not actually equivalent.

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Order Minimums & Quantities

How small you can go, how flexible mixed orders are, and what changes when quantity scales.

What is the minimum order quantity for custom apparel?

Black Dog Apparel runs a 12-piece minimum on both embroidery and screen printing. We do not sell single pieces of custom-decorated apparel. The 12 can be mixed sizes within the same product and decoration.

What is the minimum quantity for embroidery?

12 pieces. Mixed sizes within the same product and decoration count toward the minimum. Once your logo is digitized to a .dst or .emb file, the file stays on your account and reorders of the same artwork skip the digitizing fee.

What is the minimum quantity for screen printing?

12 pieces. Screen printing setup fees apply to every screen-printed order, including reorders, because screens and films are made fresh per run. We do not run sample/test pieces for screen printing — production starts at 12.

What is the minimum for sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, or pad printing?

12 pieces matches our standard apparel minimum for these methods as well. Promotional products with non-apparel substrates (pens, drinkware, hard goods) have item-specific minimums that vary by supplier — we confirm those on the quote.

What is the minimum for promotional products?

Hard goods minimums vary widely by product. Pens and stickers often start in the hundreds, drinkware and bags often start at 24 to 48, premium gift items vary. Quote the specific item and we will confirm the real minimum on the spot.

Can I order just one or two pieces of custom apparel?

No. We do not sell single pieces. The minimum is 12 across embroidery and screen printing — that is where the math on setup fees, files, and production time actually works for both us and the buyer.

Is there a maximum quantity you can produce?

There is no hard ceiling. We routinely run orders into the thousands of pieces and can scale further by coordinating production timing.

Do quantity breaks apply across mixed sizes and colors?

Yes. Quantity tiers are based on total pieces with the same decoration, so mixing sizes and even garment colors usually qualifies for the same tier. Mixing different garment styles or completely different decorations can split the order into separate quantity calculations.

Can I add to an order after it is placed?

If production has not started, additions are usually fine and may even improve your quantity tier. Once printing or stitching has begun, additions become a separate run with separate setup, so it is worth confirming the full quantity before approving the proof.

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Decoration Methods

The decoration methods Black Dog Apparel offers — embroidery, screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, and pad printing — and what each is best for.

What decoration methods does Black Dog Apparel offer?

Embroidery, screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, and pad printing. We do not offer DTF (direct-to-film) or DTG (direct-to-garment). For each project we recommend the right method based on the garment, artwork, quantity, and use.

What is the difference between embroidery and screen printing?

Embroidery stitches thread directly into the fabric for a textured, premium finish that holds up well on polos, hats, jackets, and workwear. Screen printing pushes ink through a stencil onto fabric for bold, flat graphics that work great on tees, hoodies, and event apparel.

When should I choose embroidery over printing?

Choose embroidery for left-chest logos on polos and jackets, hat fronts, premium workwear, executive apparel, and anywhere you want a textured upscale look. Avoid embroidery for very small text, photo-realistic art, oversized full-back designs, or super-thin athletic fabrics.

What is screen printing and how does it work?

Screen printing uses a mesh stencil per ink color to lay down ink onto a garment one color at a time. It produces vibrant, opaque, durable graphics and is cost-effective for bold designs in larger quantities, especially on hoodies and tees. Screen setup fees apply on every screen-printed order including reorders.

What is sublimation printing and what fabrics work best?

Sublimation infuses dye directly into the fibers of polyester or poly-blend fabrics using heat. The result is permanent, soft to the touch, and ideal for athletic jerseys, all-over prints, and performance wear. It does not work on cotton or dark fabrics.

What are heat transfers used for?

Heat transfers press a printed design onto a garment with heat and pressure. We use them for names, numbers on team jerseys, individual personalization across a group, and decoration on technical fabrics where screen printing is harder. Heat transfers need .ai or .eps artwork.

What is laser etching and what is it used for?

Laser etching uses a focused laser to burn a permanent mark into metal drinkware, wood, leather, glass, and certain plastics. It is the right choice for premium tumblers, awards, plaques, executive gifts, and any item where the finish should never fade or peel. Laser etching needs .ai or .eps artwork.

What is pad printing and what is it used for?

Pad printing transfers ink from an etched plate to a curved or irregular surface using a silicone pad. It is the standard method for branding pens, golf balls, lighters, electronics, and small hard goods where flat decoration methods cannot reach. Pad printing needs .ai or .eps artwork.

Do you offer DTF (direct-to-film) printing?

No. Black Dog Apparel does not offer DTF. Our methods are embroidery, screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, and pad printing. If your project would normally use DTF, we will recommend the closest fit from what we produce.

Do you offer DTG (direct-to-garment) printing?

No. We do not offer DTG. For full-color photo-style artwork on apparel, sublimation (on polyester) or heat transfers are the closest options we offer.

How many ink colors can be screen printed at once?

Most screen-printing presses handle up to 6 to 8 spot colors comfortably. More colors are possible but increase setup cost and complexity. For full-color photo-realistic designs, sublimation (on polyester) is often a better fit than stacking many spot color screens.

How many embroidery thread colors can I use?

Embroidery can handle a wide range of thread colors in one design — typically up to 15 — without changing the price significantly. The cost driver is total stitch count, not color count.

What is the largest decoration size you can produce?

Standard left-chest logos are about 3.5 to 4 inches wide. Full-back screen prints are typically around 12 inches wide on adult sizes. Sublimation can do all-over designs on polyester. We size each design to the garment so it looks right at every size.

Can I have decoration on multiple locations of the same garment?

Yes — common combos include left chest plus full back, sleeve hits, hat fronts plus side accents, or front plus back. Each additional location is its own decoration setup and adds per-piece cost, but multi-location decoration is one of the cleanest ways to scale a brand presence.

Are some decoration methods better on dark vs light fabrics?

Screen printing on dark garments often needs an underbase white layer for ink colors to show, which adds a screen and a small cost. Sublimation does not work on dark fabrics or cotton. Embroidery thread color is independent of garment color since it sits on top of the fabric.

Which decoration method is most durable for workwear?

Embroidery is essentially permanent and is the strongest choice for heavy workwear, hi-vis, and outerwear that will see industrial laundering. Screen printed plastisol inks are also very durable on cotton and blends. We avoid heat transfers on harsh-use workwear when budget allows.

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Artwork & File Requirements

File types we need, what happens when you only have a JPEG or PNG, brand color matching, proofs, and what to do if you do not have a logo yet.

What artwork files does Black Dog Apparel need?

For screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, and pad printing we need .ai or .eps vector files. For embroidery we need a digitized .dst or .emb file. JPEG and PNG files can be sent in but will need to be converted before production.

What if my logo is only a JPEG or PNG?

JPEG and PNG files have to be converted before production. For printing methods (screen print, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, pad printing) the file is converted to vector and saved as .ai or .eps. For embroidery, the file is digitized into a .dst or .emb file. Both conversions are billed as a one-time art fee, and the converted file stays on your account so future reorders skip the conversion.

Why does conversion cost extra?

JPEG and PNG files are pixel-based — they cannot be cleanly translated into the cutter paths, screens, or stitch instructions that production equipment needs. Vector conversion (.ai or .eps) and embroidery digitizing (.dst or .emb) are real production work and are billed once per logo. After that, the converted file is yours and is reused on every reorder.

Is the converted file ours to keep?

Yes. The .ai/.eps vector and the .dst/.emb embroidery file we produce from your raw artwork stay on your account and are reused on every reorder of that logo. Embroidery especially benefits from this — once digitized, you never pay the digitizing fee again on the same artwork.

Why is vector artwork preferred?

Vector artwork is built from mathematical curves rather than pixels, so it scales to any size without getting fuzzy. Screen-print color separations, sublimation files, heat transfers, laser etching paths, and pad printing plates all produce the cleanest output from vector source files.

Can you recreate or vectorize my logo if I only have a low-res image?

Yes. We vectorize logos from JPEG, PNG, screenshots, or printed scans as a one-time art service. Cleanup work, redrawing, or full re-creation is quoted up front as an art fee. The resulting vector file stays on your account for future orders.

How do I match exact brand colors (Pantone / PMS)?

For screen printing we can mix custom Pantone (PMS) inks for an exact match, with a small per-color fee. For embroidery, thread colors are matched to the closest available thread shade. For sublimation, color matching is built into the print file. Send your Pantone references with the quote.

Can you match thread colors for embroidery?

Yes — embroidery thread comes in hundreds of colors and we match to the closest shades. For brand-critical color matching, send us your Pantone references and we will confirm the thread color before digitizing.

Will I see a digital proof before production?

Always. Every order gets a digital mockup showing logo placement, size, color match, and the garment. Production does not start until you sign off. Quick proof approval is the single biggest thing you can do to keep your timeline on track.

Do you charge for artwork edits or proof revisions?

A reasonable number of revisions is included with every order. If a job needs heavy redesign, repeated rounds, or completely new artwork, we will quote that art time separately and tell you up front.

What if I do not have a logo yet?

Mention it in the quote request and we can point you to a designer, work from a rough concept, or provide quick brand mark options. A clean vector logo file pays back forever in faster, cleaner orders.

Who owns the artwork — me or you?

You own your artwork. We archive the digitized embroidery files (.dst/.emb) and the production files (.ai/.eps screens, sublimation files, laser paths, pad print plates) for your reorders, but the underlying logo and brand identity remain yours.

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Topic

Apparel Selection & Sizing

Apparel categories we carry, brand options, sizing guidance, and how to pick the right garment.

What types of custom apparel do you offer?

Hoodies, t-shirts, polos, button-downs, jackets, vests, fleeces, hats, beanies, toques, hi-vis safety apparel, workwear, performance and athletic wear, scrubs, kids and youth apparel, and more. If a major apparel brand makes it, we can almost certainly source it.

Can I order custom polos for my office staff?

Yes. Office polos are one of the most common orders we run — typically embroidered with a left-chest logo, sometimes with sleeve hits or back text. We will recommend brands and weights based on whether your team wears them daily or occasionally.

Do you do custom hoodies and fleece?

Yes. Pullover hoodies, zip hoodies, crewnecks, and fleece jackets are popular for crews, schools, and corporate teams. We carry options from budget-friendly through premium brands.

What hat styles can be embroidered?

Structured caps, unstructured dad hats, snapbacks, trucker hats, beanies, toques, bucket hats, and visors. Most styles take a left-front or center-front embroidered logo well, and we can do side or back hits as additional locations.

Do you carry hi-vis and safety apparel?

Yes. Hi-vis t-shirts, long sleeves, hoodies, vests, and outerwear in CSA Class 1, 2, and 3 ratings. We outfit construction crews, oilfield teams, traffic services, and industrial sites across Alberta.

Can I order custom workwear like coveralls and Carhartt?

Yes. Carhartt, Helly Hansen Workwear, FXR Workwear, Pioneer, and Tough Duck are all available. Branded coveralls, insulated bibs, work jackets, and FR (flame-resistant) options are common for trades and oilfield crews.

Do you do performance and athletic wear?

Yes. Moisture-wicking polos, athletic tees, pullovers, jerseys, hats, and team uniforms. Sublimation is often the right decoration method for performance fabrics since the design becomes part of the fabric itself.

How do I know what size to order — can I see size charts?

Every garment has a manufacturer size chart with chest, waist, length, and sleeve measurements. We send size charts with your quote, and for larger orders blank fitting samples can be borrowed (not purchased) so the team can confirm fit before approving the size breakdown.

Can I borrow a blank sample to check sizing or fabric?

Blank fitting samples can be borrowed from our sample inventory so your team can confirm fit, fabric weight, and feel before committing to a size breakdown. Samples must be returned — they cannot be purchased blank. For embroidery orders we can also produce a sew-out of your logo on a piece of fabric so you see the exact stitch result before the run starts. We do not run sample pieces for screen printing.

Can I buy a single blank piece without decoration?

No. We do not sell blanks. Blank samples can be borrowed for fitting and have to be returned.

What brands of blank apparel do you offer?

We have access to most major suppliers — Gildan, Bella+Canvas, Next Level, Champion, Carhartt, Helly Hansen, Under Armour, Nike, Adidas, Eddie Bauer, ATC, and many more. Tell us your style, budget, and use case and we will match the brand.

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Promotional Products & Hard Goods

Drinkware, bags, tech, office, awards, and the rest of the branded merch universe.

What promotional products can be branded?

Almost anything — drinkware, bags, tech accessories, office supplies, apparel, kitchen items, outdoor gear, awards, kits, food and drink, and hundreds of niche specialty items. If you can imagine it as branded merch, it almost certainly exists.

Can I get custom drinkware (tumblers, water bottles, mugs)?

Yes. Stainless tumblers, vacuum-insulated bottles, ceramic mugs, glass pints, plastic stadium cups, and travel cups can all be branded. Laser engraving and pad printing are the most common decoration methods for premium drinkware.

Do you offer custom bags and totes?

Yes. Cotton totes, non-woven totes, drawstring bags, backpacks, duffles, laptop bags, coolers, and conference bags. Decoration is usually screen printing, embroidery, or transfer depending on the bag material.

Do you offer branded tech products (chargers, USB drives, headphones)?

Yes. Power banks, wireless chargers, USB drives, Bluetooth speakers, earbuds, charging cables, webcam covers, and more. Tech items typically have lower minimums than apparel and make great trade-show or onboarding gifts.

Can you brand office supplies (notebooks, pens, journals)?

Yes. Pens, notebooks, journals, padfolios, sticky notes, desk accessories, mouse pads, and calendars are all available in budget through premium tiers. Debossing on leather journals is a popular upscale finish.

Do you make event giveaways and trade show swag?

Absolutely. Trade-show kits, conference giveaways, lanyards, badge holders, branded apparel, and fast-turn promo items are a core part of what we do. Tell us the event date and headcount and we will build a kit that fits the budget.

Can you make custom corporate gift kits?

Yes. We assemble onboarding kits, client thank-you boxes, executive gift sets, holiday gifts, and milestone recognition packages — typically a curated mix of apparel, drinkware, tech, and office items in branded packaging.

Do you make custom awards and recognition items?

Yes. Crystal awards, acrylic plaques, engraved metal trophies, employee recognition gifts, and milestone items are available with laser engraving, color printing, or both.

Can promotional products be decorated with our logo and colors?

Yes. Most promo products accept a logo via pad printing, laser engraving, screen printing, embroidery, or full-color digital print depending on the item. Brand color matching is possible on most decoration methods.

Are food and drink promotional items available?

Yes. Branded chocolate, candy tins, cookies, coffee, tea, popcorn, and even custom snack boxes can be ordered with your logo on the packaging. Food items are popular for client gifts and holiday outreach.

Can you source eco-friendly or sustainable promo products?

Yes. Recycled-content totes, bamboo drinkware, RPET fabrics (recycled plastic bottles), wheat straw items, organic cotton tees, and sustainably sourced wood goods are widely available. Just ask for the eco-friendly options when quoting.

What are the minimums for promotional products?

Hard goods minimums vary widely. Pens often start in the hundreds, drinkware and bags often start at 24 to 48, premium gift items can sometimes go below 25. Quote any specific item and we will give you the real minimum on the spot.

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Turnaround & Production

How long things take, what speeds them up, and what slows them down.

How long does production take?

Standard production time is three weeks from approved artwork and confirmed order. That window covers all of our decoration methods — embroidery, screen printing, sublimation, heat transfers, laser etching, and pad printing. The production date is confirmed in writing on the quote.

Can you do rush orders?

Yes. Rush production is available for an additional rush fee. The fee depends on how compressed the timeline is, how many pieces, and how flexible the garment selection is.

What is the fastest turnaround you can do?

One week from approved artwork is the fastest production window we can offer, and it requires the rush fee. Anything faster than one week is not realistic for the production methods we run.

When does the production clock start?

The clock starts when the artwork is approved AND payment or PO is confirmed. Until both happen, the order sits in pre-production. Quick proof approval is the single biggest thing you can do to keep your timeline on track.

What can delay an order?

The most common delays are slow proof approvals, garment stockouts at the supplier, missing artwork or files that need conversion, and last-minute size or quantity changes. We flag any risk to your deadline as soon as we see it.

Can production be split across multiple delivery dates?

No. Each order ships in one shipment to one address. If you need pieces in waves, place separate orders timed to your schedule.

How can I track my order?

Once production is complete and the order ships, you receive tracking links by email. During production we proactively update you on key milestones and flag anything that affects the timeline.

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Shipping & Delivery

Where we ship, how shipping is priced, and the policies on pickup and drop-shipping.

Do you ship across Canada?

Yes. We ship to every Canadian province and territory using major carriers (UPS, FedEx, Canada Post, Purolator). Shipping cost is based on weight, dimensions, and destination, and is included in your quote.

Do you ship to the United States?

Yes. Cross-border shipping is available for most items. Customs paperwork, duties, and brokerage fees may apply depending on the goods and value. We will explain the landed cost before you confirm the order.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping is quoted live based on actual weight, box count, and destination. The number lands on your written quote so there are no surprises after production.

Do you offer pickup at your location?

No. Black Dog Apparel does not offer pickup. Every order ships to one address using a major carrier.

Can shipments be split to multiple addresses?

No. Each order ships in bulk to one address. If you need pieces at multiple offices or job sites, the cleanest path is one order per destination — or have us ship in bulk to a single address and your team handles the internal distribution.

Do you offer drop-shipping to individual employees, customers, or addresses?

No. We do not split shipments to individual recipients. Onboarding kits, staff apparel, and event swag all ship in bulk to one address — typically your HQ, the shop, or the event venue.

What shipping carriers do you use?

UPS, FedEx, Purolator, and Canada Post are the most common, chosen based on weight, destination, and timing. For larger pallet shipments we use freight carriers. We will use a specific carrier on request.

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Returns, Defects & Quality

What happens if something is wrong, how warranties work, and our quality control process.

Can I return custom-decorated apparel?

Custom-decorated apparel cannot be returned for size or buyer's remorse because the items are personalized and not resellable. That is why we send size charts, samples, and digital proofs before production — the goal is to catch sizing or design questions before anything gets decorated.

What happens if there is a defect with my order?

If the decoration is misprinted, the wrong garment is sent, the quantity is short, or the quality is below standard, we fix it. That can mean a reprint, a replacement, or a credit depending on the situation. Notify us within a reasonable window after delivery.

What is your quality control process?

Every order is inspected during and after production. We check decoration alignment, color match, garment condition, size counts, and quantity before packing. Any pieces that do not pass inspection are pulled and replaced.

What if a garment is the wrong size?

Sizes are produced based on the size breakdown you approve on the order. If we shipped the wrong size, we replace it. If the breakdown was approved but turned out to fit differently than expected, we can usually source replacement pieces and run them at standard pricing — sometimes faster if the artwork file is already on hand.

How do you handle artwork errors discovered after production?

If the error originated on our side (color, placement, or version different from the approved proof), we reprint at our cost. If the approved proof matches the produced item but the artwork itself had an issue, we work with you on the most cost-effective path forward.

Are products warrantied?

Garments carry the manufacturer's defect warranty, and decoration is guaranteed against premature failure under normal wear and care. Industrial laundering is supported on most decoration methods but always tell us up front if items will be commercially laundered.

What if some pieces are damaged in shipping?

Inspect deliveries promptly and let us know within a few business days if anything is damaged. We file claims with the carrier and replace the affected pieces.

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Reorders, Programs & Onboarding Kits

How reorders, recurring programs, and onboarding kits work at Black Dog Apparel — including what we do not do.

How do reorders work?

Reorders are simple — your artwork files (.dst/.emb embroidery files, .ai/.eps print files), garment specs, and proof history are archived on your account. Send us the quantity and any size adjustments and we will quote and produce it.

Do reorders skip the setup fees?

Embroidery reorders skip the digitizing fee — once your logo is digitized into a .dst or .emb file, that file is reused on every future embroidery order at no additional digitizing charge. Screen printing, sublimation, heat transfer, laser etching, and pad printing reorders still require their per-method setup fees because films, screens, and tooling are project-specific. The work moves faster on a repeat — but the setup costs do not disappear.

Do you keep my artwork files on hand?

Yes. Digitized embroidery files, vector print files, screen-print color separations, sublimation files, and approved mockups are archived for fast reorder. You do not have to resend the logo.

Can I set up a branded company store?

For teams that order regularly we can build a private branded online store where staff or members can order pre-approved apparel and merch with locked-in pricing. Note that orders placed through the store still ship in bulk per production run — we do not pick-and-pack individual orders.

What is a recurring uniform program?

A uniform program locks in approved garments, decoration specs, sizing, and per-piece pricing for ongoing orders. New hires, replacements, and seasonal restocks happen quickly without re-quoting. The minimum is still 12 pieces per run.

Can you do onboarding kits for new hires?

Yes — onboarding kits are one of our most popular projects. The kits ship in bulk to your company in a single shipment. We do not assemble and ship them out to individual new hires as they arrive. Most clients order a batch, store them internally with HR or the office manager, and hand them out as new staff start.

Can you ship onboarding kits to each new hire as they join?

No. The kits ship in bulk to your company. If you need on-demand individual shipping, you would need to handle that internally after the bulk delivery.

Can you store inventory for me?

No. We do not warehouse pre-decorated inventory. Production is on-demand per order in batches of 12 or more.

Do you offer fulfillment services for ongoing programs?

No. We do not run pick-and-pack or individual-order fulfillment. Every order is produced and shipped in bulk to one address. Programs work — but the shipping model is bulk to your company, not per-order to individual recipients.

Can I order the same items for events year over year?

Yes — event-based recurring orders are easy to set up. We keep last year's production specs on file and can rebuild the same kit annually with updated dates, designs, or quantities. Setup fees still apply on each new run for screen printing, sublimation, heat transfer, laser etching, and pad printing; embroidery reuses the digitized file.

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Industries & Use Cases

Custom apparel and promo products built around how specific Alberta industries actually work.

Do you supply custom apparel for construction crews?

Yes. Hi-vis tees, hoodies, vests, jackets, and headwear with embroidered or printed logos are core to our construction work. We outfit crews across Calgary, Edmonton, and rural Alberta on both single-project and ongoing program bases.

Do you outfit oilfield and trades workers?

Yes. FR-rated apparel, insulated coveralls, hi-vis layers, hoodies, hats, and branded base layers for oilfield, drilling, services, and trades crews. We understand the durability standards Alberta sites expect.

Do you do school spirit wear and team apparel?

Yes. School hoodies, tees, hats, sweatpants, jerseys, and grad apparel with custom decoration. Online ordering for parents and students can be set up via a branded store so the school does not handle individual orders.

Do you supply corporate uniforms and staff apparel?

Yes. Corporate polos, button-downs, jackets, and accessories with consistent decoration and sizing rules across multiple offices or locations. Recurring uniform programs are common for growing companies.

Can you provide branded apparel for events and trade shows?

Yes. Event tees, polos, hats, lanyards, bags, and giveaway items. Standard production is three weeks from approved artwork; rush production is available for an extra fee with one week as the fastest turnaround. Plan event apparel as early as possible.

Do you supply restaurants and food service uniforms?

Yes. Branded aprons, chef coats, server tees, button-downs, hats, and outerwear with logo embroidery or print. Durability under regular laundering is a key consideration for these orders.

Do you outfit healthcare and medical teams?

Yes. Branded scrubs, lab coats, polos, fleeces, and patient-facing apparel for clinics, dental offices, vet practices, and care facilities.

Can you do non-profit fundraiser apparel?

Absolutely. Fundraiser tees, hoodies, hats, and event swag for registered non-profits, animal rescues, shelters, schools, and community fundraisers. Preferential pricing applies and scales with order size — the larger the run, the deeper the discount. Branded online stores for fundraising drives can also be built.

Do you supply sports teams and clubs?

Yes. Team jerseys (sublimated or screen-printed), warm-ups, hoodies, hats, bag tags, and supporter merch for amateur, school, club, and corporate sports programs.

Can you do safety apparel for industrial work sites?

Yes. CSA-rated hi-vis Class 1, 2, and 3 garments, FR-rated layers, branded hard hats, safety vests, gloves, and accessories. Compliance details, reflective tape placement, and decoration that does not interfere with safety ratings are all part of our process.

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Payment, Tax & Accounts

How orders are paid for, deposits, business accounts, and Canadian tax handling.

What payment methods do you accept?

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Interac e-Transfer, EFT, and cheque. Larger orders and established business accounts can be invoiced on terms.

Do you offer net terms or invoicing for businesses?

Yes. Established business customers can apply for net terms (Net 15 or Net 30) after a credit check. New customers typically pay deposit upfront on the first order, then qualify for terms on subsequent orders.

Is GST/HST included in the quote?

Quotes show pre-tax pricing with applicable GST or HST itemized at checkout. For Alberta orders, GST is 5%. For shipments to other provinces, HST or PST is applied per provincial rules.

Do you require a deposit before production?

For new accounts and larger orders, a deposit is typical (often 50%) with the balance due before shipping. Smaller orders for established customers can usually be invoiced with payment on delivery or net terms.

Can I get a tax-exempt invoice for non-profits or government?

Registered charities, government bodies, and qualifying entities can submit tax-exemption documentation and receive tax-adjusted invoicing. Send your exemption details with the order.

How do I create a business account?

Just request a quote — we set up a business account on your first order. After that, reorders, ongoing programs, branded stores, and net terms are all available without re-onboarding.

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