What is the difference between the Stedman Classic T-Shirt and the Active 140 T-Shirt
The Stedman Classic T-Shirt is a 185gsm cotton crew neck built for everyday wear and standard decoration methods like screen printing. The Active 140 is a lighter performance fabric designed for movement, making it better suited to sporting clubs, fitness groups and outdoor events. The Classic tee handles embroidery well on thicker sections, while the Active 140 is more commonly paired with heat transfer decoration that flexes with the fabric. Both are available across men's, women's and kids' cuts.
What is the difference between the Stedman polo range and the classic tee range for corporate use
Stedman polo shirts use a structured piqué weave that gives a more formal, client-facing finish compared to the relaxed look of a classic tee. Polos are popular with real estate teams, hospitality staff and account managers who need branded apparel that reads as professional without a full button-up shirt. Classic tees work well for internal teams, warehouse roles and casual branded merchandise. Both ranges take embroidery and screen printing, though embroidery sits particularly well on the polo chest because the woven fabric gives the stitches a firm base.
How do the Stedman recycled apparel styles differ from the standard cotton range
Stedman's recycled range uses fabric made from post-consumer recycled fibres, which gives the garments a slightly different hand feel compared to standard cotton styles. The recycled hoodies and sweatshirts are popular with sustainability-focused brands and charities looking to align their merchandise with environmental values. Standard cotton styles in the Stedman range offer a broader colour range and tend to be more budget-friendly. Both ranges accept screen printing and heat transfer decoration. If your campaign has a sustainability story to tell, the recycled range adds an authentic supporting detail.
Can Stedman hoodies and sweatshirts be embroidered as well as screen printed
Yes, most Stedman hoodies and sweatshirts accept both embroidery and screen printing depending on placement and design complexity. Embroidery works well on the chest, sleeve and hood panel areas where the fabric has enough structure to hold the stitching firmly. Screen printing is a strong choice for large back prints or multi-colour designs where the visual impact of a full-colour graphic matters. Heat transfer is also an option for stretch or lightweight styles in the range. Our team will recommend the most suitable method based on your artwork and intended use.
What branding methods work on Stedman activewear and performance styles
Stedman activewear and performance garments, including the Active 140 range and seamless styles, are best decorated using heat transfer or sublimation methods. These techniques flex with the fabric during movement, so the decoration doesn't crack or peel during regular sporting use. Screen printing can work on some performance styles where the weave is stable enough, but heat transfer is the standard choice for stretch garments. Embroidery is generally not recommended on lightweight performance fabrics as the backing can affect comfort and movement. We'll confirm the right method during quoting.
Are Stedman kids styles available with the same decoration options as adult styles
Stedman kids styles, including the Kids Classic T-Shirt Organic and Kids Active 140 Raglan T-Shirt, accept screen printing and heat transfer decoration in the same way as adult garments. Artwork is scaled to suit the smaller chest area, and our team adjusts placement guides to keep logos proportional on kids' sizing. This makes it practical for schools, junior sporting clubs and community day packs to order across full size runs without changing decoration methods between adult and kids styles. Minimum order quantities apply and can be confirmed during quoting.
How long does a decorated Stedman clothing order typically take
Most decorated Stedman orders are completed within two to three weeks from the date your digital proof is approved, subject to stock availability and order volume. Screen printed and heat transfer orders often move through production at a similar pace. Embroidered orders can take slightly longer depending on stitch count and quantity. If you have a firm event date or campaign deadline, it's worth getting your order placed at least four weeks in advance to allow for artwork finalisation, proof approval and production. Call 1300 85 50 35 to check current lead times before placing your order.
What is the minimum order quantity for Stedman branded apparel
Minimum order quantities for Stedman branded clothing typically start at around 25 to 50 units for stock items, though this can vary depending on the decoration method and style selected. This is a general guide rather than a fixed rule across all styles. Embroidery and screen printing setups each carry their own cost structure that can affect the minimum that makes financial sense for your order. If you're ordering a smaller quantity for a pilot program or staff welcome pack, call us on 1300 85 50 35 and we'll confirm what's achievable for your brief.