Standard Production Time

Timing matters when it comes to custom apparel. Preparing for a trade show, outfitting a sports team before the season starts, or getting branded gear ready for a company event? Knowing your standard production time upfront makes planning significantly easier. 

At Artik, production timelines are straightforward. Keep in mind that all orders require both final artwork proof approval and a 50% to 100% deposit before production begins. Factoring this into your planning timeline avoids unnecessary delays.

Standard Production Time by Product Category

Production timelines vary depending on the product type, decoration method, and stock availability. Check the product description on the relevant product page for the most accurate estimate on any specific item. The figures below are general guidelines to help with initial planning.

The standard production window is approximately two working weeks from the date of artwork approval and payment for screen-printing and embroidery orders. This applies to the majority of apparel products in the catalog.

• T-Shirts & Apparel

Approximately 2 working weeks, depending on stock availability. This covers the bulk of standard custom apparel orders, including t-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, and similar items. High-demand periods or low stock on specific styles may affect this window, so ordering early is always a good idea.

• Sports Uniforms

Basic sports uniform styles follow the standard 2-working-week timeline, subject to stock availability. Sublimation printing or fully custom button jerseys require a longer lead time of 3 to 5 weeks, depending on the current production schedule. Teams ordering ahead of a new season should plan accordingly.

• Headwear

Hats, toques, and screen-printed bandanas are generally ready within approximately 2 working weeks, depending on stock availability. 

• Totes & Bags

Standard production for totes and bags is approximately 2 working weeks, subject to stock levels on the chosen style.

• Drinkware

Mugs, bottles, and glassware typically take approximately 2 working weeks. Orders featuring more than one colour in the design may require a longer lead time, so keep this in mind when submitting multi-colour artwork. Paper cups and plastic cups have a slightly longer window of 15 to 20 business days.

• Socks

Custom socks require an estimated 7 to 8 weeks from order confirmation. If socks are part of a larger team uniform order, this category should be factored into the overall timeline first.

• Paper Products

Most paper products are ready within approximately 2 working weeks. Post-it notepads are an exception, with an estimated lead time of 2 to 3 weeks.

• Pens

Custom pens follow the standard timeline of approximately 2 working weeks, depending on stock availability.

• Banners & Tablecloths

Banners and single-colour print tablecloths are generally completed within approximately 2 working weeks.

• Lapel Pins

Lapel pins require an estimated 4 to 6 weeks. An express production line is available for orders with tighter deadlines — ask our team about this option when placing your inquiry.

• Promotional Items

Lead times for custom-printed promotional items vary by product. Artik carries an extensive promotional product catalog, and timelines vary by category. Check individual product pages or contact us directly for an accurate estimate on specific items.

Order Early, Arrive on Time

Production timelines exist to set realistic expectations, not create stress. Artik's Toronto-based team moves efficiently through orders, and the production windows listed here reflect standard processing under normal conditions. Placing your order as early as possible gives everyone the best chance of a smooth, on-time delivery.

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Rush orders may be available depending on current capacity and product type. Reach out to discuss options if you're working with a tight window.

Get your order in early and let us take it from there.