Print Branding – Product Research Guide

Looking for the perfect item? Start with creative brainstorming, then identify your ideal product(s) through focused product research.

When it comes to finding that perfect item, there are many ways to approach the process. Most clients start out with some general brainstorming to come up with product ideas. Then they will either search the catalogs below to see what’s available, or they will contact Steve to ask for specific product recommendations.

Whether you prefer to browse specific products on your end, or simply give your ideas to Steve to get a short list of curated recommendations, there’s no right or wrong way to approach any given order. That being said, it’s important to keep your timeline in mind.

Due to COVID-19, supply chain issues, and labor shortages there are more products than usual on backorder or with delayed production times. That being said, fortunately, there are plenty of products still available and with normal lead times. The key is to start planning your orders as early as possible, in order to maximize your chance of getting what you want and having it delivered on time. Please view the Timeline & Planning page for more information.

Below is a list of catalogs that you can browse anytime, whether you are a current, former, or potential new client. The Swag Search Engine at the top is Steve’s master database, which includes over 95% of his suppliers and their available products. This is generally the best place to start if you are conducting product research independently. However, please note that you will need to contact Steve to confirm pricing, availability, and ultimately to place your orders.

Steve has also included some of his preferred supplier catalogs below, so that you may browse their catalogs in their native environment. There are many more individual supplier catalogs available to view; Steve can provide you with additional catalog links upon request based on the type(s) of item(s) you are looking for.

Online Catalogs

Swag Search Engine (500,000+ Items)
S.MICHAEL Creative Branding (Master DB) – https://swag.smichael.com/

Apparel & Bags
SS Activewear – https://www.ssactivewear.com/
SanMar – https://www.sanmar.com/
AlphaBroder – https://alphabroder.com/

Drinkware
ETS Express – https://etsexpress.com/pg_home/
American Accents – https://www.americanaccents.com/

Office Supplies
Koozie Group – https://kooziegroup.com/
3M – https://promote.3m.com/
4over – https://trade.4over.com/

Promotional Items
Hit Promo – https://www.hitpromo.net/
Leeds – https://www.pcna.com/leeds/en-us
Evans Mfg – https://evans-mfg.com/
Gemline – https://gemline.com/
Bel Promo – https://belpromo.com/
Bullet – https://www.pcna.com/bullet/en-us
Journal Books – https://www.journalbooks.com/
PCNA – https://www.pcna.com/en-us
Innovation Line – http://www.innovation-line.com/

Events & Shows
WS Display – http://www.wsdisplay.com/

Ready to discover what's possible for you?

Get in touch w/Steve to start planning your next order: