The Perfect Match: Your Guide to Samples and Color Selection at Print-View
, by Murat Ayata, 6 min reading time
Explore Print-View's comprehensive guide to samples and color selection for branded apparel. Learn about our most popular colors including navy, charcoal, burgundy, and forest green, plus expert tips for perfect color matching and embroidery thread pairings.
Choosing the right colors for your branded apparel is one of the most important decisions in your decoration project. At Print-View, we understand that color isn't just aesthetic—it's a critical part of your brand identity, team unity, and professional image.
That's why we offer comprehensive sample programs and color guides to ensure your vision translates perfectly from concept to finished product.
Why Samples Matter
Before committing to a full production run, seeing and feeling the actual product makes all the difference. Our sample program allows you to:
- Evaluate fabric quality and weight in person
- Test color accuracy against your brand standards
- Assess embroidery or print quality on the actual material
- Confirm sizing and fit for your team
- Make confident decisions backed by tangible examples
Our Most Popular Color Selections
Over the years, we've worked with hundreds of brands and identified the colors that consistently deliver professional, versatile results. Here are some of our most requested options:
Navy Blue - The Corporate Classic
Navy remains the gold standard for professional apparel, and for good reason. This deep, rich blue conveys authority and trustworthiness while hiding minor stains better than lighter colors. Our navy works beautifully with embroidery in white, silver, gold, or red thread.
Best for: Corporate polo shirts, executive apparel, financial services, healthcare uniforms
Popular thread pairings: White, metallic silver, gold
Charcoal Gray - Modern Sophistication
Charcoal has become increasingly popular for brands seeking a contemporary, upscale look. This versatile neutral provides excellent contrast for both light and dark embroidery threads and photographs beautifully for marketing materials.
Best for: Tech companies, creative agencies, athletic wear, modern workwear
Popular thread pairings: Bright white, electric blue, neon accents
Black - Bold and Timeless
Black apparel makes a statement. It's sleek, professional, and provides the ultimate canvas for vibrant embroidery colors to pop. Our premium black fabrics resist fading wash after wash, maintaining that crisp, professional appearance.
Best for: Event staff, hospitality, retail teams, premium brands
Popular thread pairings: Metallic gold, bright red, white, neon colors
Burgundy/Maroon - Rich and Distinctive
For brands wanting to stand out from the sea of navy and black, burgundy offers a sophisticated alternative. This deep red tone conveys confidence and energy while remaining professional and polished.
Best for: Educational institutions, hospitality groups, wine industry, upscale retail
Popular thread pairings: Gold, cream, white, navy
Forest Green - Natural Authority
Forest green has seen a resurgence as brands embrace earth tones and sustainability messaging. This rich, deep green works exceptionally well for outdoor brands, environmental organizations, and companies with natural product lines.
Best for: Outdoor brands, landscaping companies, environmental organizations, golf courses
Popular thread pairings: Tan, white, gold, yellow
White - Clean and Classic
White apparel projects cleanliness, precision, and professionalism. While it requires more maintenance, premium white fabrics with quality embroidery create an unmistakably polished look perfect for medical, culinary, and luxury service industries.
Best for: Medical professionals, culinary teams, spa services, yacht clubs
Popular thread pairings: Navy, black, red, any bold color
Heather Gray - Casual Versatility
Heather gray offers a softer, more approachable alternative to solid colors. The subtle texture hides wear better than solid white while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic. It's become a favorite for tech startups and creative teams.
Best for: Casual corporate environments, tech companies, promotional merchandise
Popular thread pairings: Navy, black, bright accent colors
True Red - Energy and Impact
Red makes a bold statement and commands attention. Whether used as a primary color or accent, red apparel creates memorable brand moments and energizes teams. Our true red maintains vibrancy through countless washes.
Best for: Sports teams, emergency services, retail promotions, event staff
Popular thread pairings: White, black, gold, silver
Understanding Our Color Matching Process
Color accuracy is critical for brand consistency. Here's how we ensure perfect matches:
1. Pantone Matching System (PMS)
We use industry-standard Pantone references to match your brand colors precisely. Provide us with your PMS codes, and we'll translate them accurately to thread and fabric selections.
2. Physical Samples
We provide embroidered samples on your chosen fabric color so you can see exactly how thread colors interact with the base material. Colors can appear different on navy versus white, so we test before production.
3. Digital Mockups
Our design team creates digital renderings showing your logo in various color combinations, helping you visualize options before ordering physical samples.
4. Thread Color Libraries
We maintain extensive thread libraries with hundreds of colors, including standard, metallic, and specialty options. Our team can show you thread cards during consultation to explore possibilities.
How to Order Samples
Getting started with samples is simple:
- Contact our team with your project details and brand color specifications
- Select your preferred garment styles and fabric colors from our catalog
- Provide your logo and any specific embroidery or print requirements
- Receive your samples within 7-10 business days
- Review and approve or request adjustments before full production
Sample costs are often credited toward your final order, making it a risk-free way to ensure perfection.
Color Combination Tips from Our Experts
High Contrast Works Best
For maximum visibility and professional appearance, choose thread colors that contrast strongly with your fabric. White on navy, gold on burgundy, or black on heather gray all create crisp, readable logos.
Consider Your Environment
Will your team work outdoors where dirt is common? Darker colors like navy, charcoal, or black hide stains better. Indoor office environments can embrace lighter colors like white or heather gray.
Think About Photography
If your team will be photographed for marketing materials, certain colors photograph better than others. Navy, charcoal, and black provide professional backdrops that make faces and logos pop.
Brand Consistency Across Items
If you're ordering multiple product types (polos, caps, bags, towels), ensure your color selections are available across all items for a cohesive branded look.
Seasonal Considerations
Lighter colors like white and heather gray are popular for summer events, while deeper tones like burgundy and forest green work well for fall and winter programs.
Beyond Basic Colors: Specialty Options
Looking for something unique? We offer specialty options including:
- Metallic threads - Gold, silver, and copper for premium, eye-catching embroidery
- Neon colors - High-visibility options for safety apparel and athletic wear
- Two-tone fabrics - Heathers, melange, and color-blocked options
- Custom dye matching - For brands with unique proprietary colors
- Reflective elements - Safety-focused decoration for visibility
Ready to See Your Colors Come to Life?
The best way to ensure your branded apparel exceeds expectations is to start with samples. Our color guides and sample program take the guesswork out of decoration decisions, giving you confidence before production begins.
Contact Print-View today to request your sample kit. Our decorator solutions team will work with you to select the perfect color combinations that represent your brand with precision and professionalism.
Let's create something beautiful together. Your perfect color match is just a sample away.
