The best logo position depends on how the clothing will be used. A small left-chest logo makes sense for everyday staff uniforms; a larger back design helps people identify team members from behind; and a central front print can turn an ordinary T-shirt into fan merchandise. Before approving an order, look at the artwork on the actual garment—not just as a logo floating on a blank page.
Left-chest logos: subtle and versatile
A left-chest logo is a familiar choice for branded polo shirts, work T-shirts and hoodies. It keeps the garment understated and leaves space for a larger back print if needed. Fine lettering may become unreadable when reduced, so consider a simplified version of your logo if it contains long taglines or intricate detail.
Ask to see the proposed dimensions on the smallest garment size in your order. A placement that looks balanced on an XXL polo can look oversized on a small one.
Central front printing: make the artwork the feature
A large front print suits band merchandise, event shirts and clothing-brand designs. Start with the print's actual dimensions and the garment's cut. A design positioned too low might disappear when someone tucks the shirt in; a design too high may crowd the neckline. Check the mock-up against the particular blank you will buy, such as the Gildan Heavy T-Shirt.
Back prints: visibility and storytelling
Back prints are useful for event crews, hospitality teams and bands. A large logo can be recognised from a distance, while a tour design may incorporate multiple dates and venues. On a hoodie, the hood can cover the upper portion of the artwork when resting down. Always check placement with the hood as it will actually be worn.
What about sleeve logos?
A sleeve works for initials, a compact icon, an event sponsor or a smaller secondary mark. Its printable space is more limited, and seams and folds make placement important. A chest logo plus a sleeve logo usually counts as two decoration locations: make sure that is reflected in the product selection or quotation.
Should you print or embroider the logo?
Embroidery can give smaller logos a textured, durable finish on appropriate garments. Printing can reproduce larger illustrations and multi-colour designs without the physical build-up of stitches. The choice depends on garment fabric, artwork complexity, desired appearance and your budget. A detailed photographic print is not automatically suitable for embroidery, while tiny printed text can be difficult to read.
Five checks before you approve the artwork
- Scale: Is the design readable at the actual intended print size?
- Position: Is it centred and balanced on the garment rather than only on a flat template?
- Contrast: Does it stand out on every garment colour you have selected?
- Construction: Are hoods, pockets, seams and zips out of the way?
- Scope: Does the quote cover every required print or embroidery location?
Frequently asked questions
Where should a logo go on a work polo?
Left chest is a sensible starting point. Choose a back print as well when staff need to be visible or identifiable from behind.
Can I use the same artwork size for every garment?
Sometimes, but not always. Garment size, fit and the available decoration area may require different placement.
Is a sleeve logo an extra print position?
Generally yes. Confirm the number of positions on the listing or quotation before ordering.
Compare our polo shirts, T-shirts and hoodies. For a custom brief, email RAW Merchandise your artwork, quantities and preferred positions.
Choose the garment and placement together
Browse workwear and uniforms, or discuss a retail range through our creative business merchandise service. Send us your logo and garment shortlist so we can quote for the decoration positions you need.