Planning a local charity walk, fundraiser, or team-building event? Custom event shirts are more than just something to wear—they help unify your group, recognize your sponsors, and leave a lasting impression long after the event is over.
But let’s be honest: a lot of people get stuck at the same point…
“What do I even put on the shirt?”
If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. Here’s what to consider when designing custom apparel for your next charity or corporate event, even if you’re not sure where to start.
What Should Go on the Front of the Shirt
The front of the shirt is where people’s eyes land first, so you’ll want to make it count.
Key elements to include:
- The name of your event or organization
- The date or year (especially for annual events)
- A simple logo or bold graphic
- Optional: a memorable phrase like “Stronger Together” or “Run for Hope”
Pro tip: Keep it clean and high contrast. Designs that are too detailed can get lost in photos, especially from a distance.
What to Put on the Back of the Shirt
The back of the shirt is your best space for sponsor shout-outs and added info.
Make the most of the space:
- Sponsor logos, grouped by tier (Gold, Silver, Bronze)
- Website, hashtag, or QR code
- Optional: an area for participant names or team names
Collecting logos early (and in the right format) helps avoid last-minute delays. You’ll want high-resolution files for clear prints.
Need help laying it out?
Contact us and we can walk you through how to organize it for the best results.
How Many Shirts Should You Order
Getting quantities right helps you avoid last-minute panic—or unnecessary extras.
Here’s a good rule of thumb:
- Charity events: Order based on pre-registration, plus a handful of extras per size
- Corporate events: Try to get size info ahead of time. Round up on popular sizes like L and XL
- Volunteers: Use a separate shirt color so they’re easy to identify during the event
A size chart and early sign-up sheet can save you from a lot of guesswork later on.
Color and Fabric Tips That Work in Real Life
Beyond the design, color and fabric choices affect comfort, visibility, and how often people wear the shirts again.
What works best:
- Bright shirts with contrasting ink stand out in photos
- Moisture-wicking fabric for outdoor events
- Cotton/poly blends for all-day comfort
What to avoid:
- Light ink on white shirts—it often looks faded in real life
- Overly detailed designs that lose clarity on fabric
When in doubt, go bold and simple. It’s easier to read, easier to wear, and much more likely to get compliments.
Final Thoughts from Someone Who Sees These Shirts in Action
One thing is clear: the best event shirts are the ones that are intentional, readable, and designed with purpose.
Whether you’re planning a fundraiser in Gresham, a company retreat in Troutdale, or a volunteer-driven event in Sandy or Boring, I’m here to help you make your shirts a success.
Let’s make your next event one to remember—with custom gear your team will be proud to wear.
Reach out today to get started.