A custom cycling jersey can give a cyclist a professional look.
With so many cycling clothing companies taking on custom work, it's easier than ever to design a one-of-a-kind cycling jersey. Most suppliers have in-house designers and a streamlined process, so cyclists don't need to have fully developed jersey ideas to begin. Minimum orders (often at least 10) make custom jerseys an appropriate option for a team of racers, a group of friends who ride for exercise or an energetic cyclist who wants to make sure there's always a clean jersey on hand.
Instructions
1. Research online designers/suppliers of custom cycling jerseys. If you have a few favorite biking clothing brands, visit their websites to find out if they offer custom or semi-custom jerseys. Most companies need about six weeks to produce finalized custom designs, so plan in advance.
2. Select a company to make your custom cycling shirt.
3. Choose the type of jersey and fabric you want. Remember the season you're dressing for (long sleeve or short?) and take a look at the supplier's seasonal options. Consider front zipper lengths (half-way or all the way down), pocket depth and locations and the material's wickability (ability to pull sweat away from the skin).
4. Choose the jersey's colors. The supplier's design department will likely have hundreds of color combination suggestions; if you have time, ask them to send you samples to make sure the colors are the same as what you see on the computer. If its catalog doesn't include the colors you want, ask them to match some samples (which you'll have to mail to them). Most companies have one price point for two colors, another for three colors and a third price point for four or more colors.
5. Choose your artwork and font style. As with colors, the company's design department can help you execute your ideas if you can't draw them freehand or make a computer file of your work using design software. If you're lacking in ideas, most companies have catalogs of basic artwork they can customize for you. Keep the font consistent on all parts of the jersey for a straightforward design.
6. Choose artwork and word placement (i.e. team name, slogans). Work with the company's designers to come up with the best overall layout unless you already have concrete ideas. The main artwork is usually put on the front or back of the jersey, or both. Across the shoulders and chest are the two most noticeable places for words (i.e. team name); down the side panels or long sleeves are the second most prominent spots. Neckbands and armbands are a good place to print something small, like a personal good luck phrase.
7. Authorize the final design once you're happy with it. The manufacturing of finalized custom design work will oblige you to pay a non-refundable deposit of anywhere from 50 to 100 percent of the total. Most company's have a minimum order of 10 jerseys.
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