T H E B L O G

We do a lot of screen printing and custom orders at Screen Tek, but embroidery lights us up just as much! Folks often forget that embroidery is an art that dates back to the dawn of time. Hand embroidery was used for textiles and gifts, and it was not until centuries later that the high speed embroidery machines of today would continue to help the industry grow. If you haven’t…

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Do you groan at the phrase “New Year’s Resolution?” A lot of us do because we make resolutions that we know are not tangible or effective. We can all agree that it’s been a very long two years. Covid restrictions have affected small businesses in a multitude of ways, brick and mortar establishments had to get creative quickly, and people had to adjust to a whole set of new procedures…

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Cool Coffees and Terrific Teas! If everyone has survived the first phase of holiday shopping,” then we commend you! The hustle of the holidays is in full swing and we’re all about having an extra cuppa. Have you thought about using coffee or tea in your next promotion? We’ve got some ideas for you to give it a whirl! Maybe you don’t need a pair of brass knuckles to keep…

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Many shoppers are starting to get ready for the shopping frenzy by starting to chip away at the list early. Adobe finds that “out of stock” messages in October product searches are up 250% compared to the pre-pandemic month of January 2020, and they’re up 325% compared to October 2019. What this shows us is that people are beginning to feel the pressure to buy and to move on quickly if…

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In 2017, about 64.4 million Americans were volunteering. Volunteers make up such a large and impactful part of our country. Without them, many things would not get done. You, or someone you might know, might even volunteer at an animal shelter, school, or hospital. So, how do you thank these indispensable members of our community? With a thoughtful, branded thank you gift! Here are three of our personal favorites. Branded water bottles…

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The restaurant and brewery industries are starting to make a comeback after a long and challenging two years. Folks love visiting local eateries where they can not only enjoy good food, but have an experience as well.  The same goes for coffee roasters and coffee shops. Local establishments like this are now part of a city’s local pride and identity. Why not show off that pride with a logo bandana or…

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Do you know someone who works outdoors? You probably do! Over 47% of the US population has a job that is centered outside. Park rangers, construction workers, and municipal employees all fall under the category of an outdoor worker. Being outside in various degrees and types of weather means safety gear and warm, stylish apparel are appreciated and useful. The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting longer!…

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The temperatures are dropping soon, but that doesn’t mean that style has to be thrown to the wind (or snow!). Jackets and outerwear can make great promotional items and gifts for clients, customers, and employees alike. How to begin? Check out the trends and research them before you pick out styles (this post will help you do that) and learn what types of trends are timeless or just a fad…

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Color is part of what we do. We design graphics, logos, and a multitude of other products to help you get your name out in the open, but have you ever thought about what types of emotions and feelings color actually produce to those who view them? We all have a very specific emotion when we look at a painting or picture with a lot of dark colors. Just look…

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Most folks have a health and wellness goal in mind. Maybe you want to get stronger, start cooking more, or just get into a daily wellness routine. If you’re getting ready to welcome customers back into your business space, providing them with gifts that can be used regularly is key. Due to the pandemic, “One in four American respondents agreed their mental health has been impacted, while three in 10…

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We’ve all seen the “Made in the USA” tag on some of our favorite items. This year, using domestic supplies is going to be one of the best things you can do for your company and clients. Thankfully, the small business boom and the appreciation for locally made artisan items is still in full swing. Using products that are made in the USA shows your client base that you care….

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The last year and a half has shown us that remote workers and work from home employees still want and need to feel connected and valued. Remote workers learned to balance their every day duties with the needs of their families and loved ones all while managing to keep their job-related tasks under control. How can you thank your remote workers? How can you capitalize on the potential for virtual…

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So many businesses are working to rebuild their customer base this year. These 2021 Promo Trends After a long struggle of learning to adapt to a digital environment, now is a great time to start bringing folks back in the door. Make sure your promotional products stand out! These three 2021 trends are a must-have for any small business.  Branded Paper Soap We all washed our hands a lot more…

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Magnets are one of the most popular promotional products out there. Magnets are cost effective and easy to customize. Did you know that according to a survey done at Purdue University, a person opens a refrigerator 20 times a day? Incredible–for a few reasons: 1) We do a lot of snacking and eating, and 2) People can be viewing your business’s logo and contact information that many times in 24…

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Eco-friendly and sustainable businesses practices are not buzzwords. Business owners must be aware of their carbon footprint and their impact on the environment. It can feel overwhelming to revamp your business practices, but this handy guide will get you started on the right path! Did you know that 62% of executives consider a sustainability strategy necessary to be competitive today, and another 22% think it will be in the future?…

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Writing instruments are some of the most popular promotional products for many reasons. Placing your brand’s information on a pen or pencil guarantees more impressions and visibility. Writing instruments can be more than just pens though! If you’re worried about your pens and pencils getting stashed in a desk drawer step outside the pencil box and try these ideas on for size. Highlighters Highlights are excellent items for students and…

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The COVID-19 pandemic has had a tragic and drastic effect on our country, our way of life, and our loved ones and friends on multiple levels. Think about your circle. Have you checked in on your friends who are business owners? You might want to pick up the phone or send a friendly text! A Facebook report just published this month explains, “In the United States, 22 percent of small…

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The market has certainly changed for designers and decorators, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be left behind. All industries this year have taken on new challenges and dealt with unanswered questions. When will this end? When can we get back to normal? How does the pandemic affect our customers? In short, retail sales have dropped 16.4% as of last April. Stores were closed and e-commerce gained a new foothold in…

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The first quarter of 2021 is coming to a close which means many folks are heading back into the office. Employees of all ages and careers are having a myriad of emotions about returning back to work. Some folks are more than ready; some are reserved. However you’re feeling is 100% fine! Easing the transition back to the office can be made much smoother with some heartfelt, useful welcome-back gifts….

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Customers and clients are looking for niche-friendly methods to go greener! Technology allows promotional product companies to calculate their impact on the environment and encourage folks to hold on to their items just a bit longer. Sustainability is not just another buzzword! Customers want to know how your brand feels about going green and using ethical sourcing and materials. Consider this: most people only wear an article of clothing 3-4…

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With picnics, beach parties, and other summer functions, we often forget about protecting our eyes! Before you apply your sunblock and get ready to hit the surf, think about all of the creative options your business has when it comes to using sunglasses as a promotional item. With a variety of shapes, styles, and colors, the choices are truly endless. Not to mention, this accessory is great for kids and…

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Spring into a New Season On the East Coast we’re sick and tired of the snow. Cold weather, gray skies, and blustery days are getting old. We’re ready to begin sunny weather. With that being said, we’ve completed a seasonal product round-up to bring some color into your business. ‘Tis the season for getting outside! Stay hydrated with our hands free wrist water bottle. Water bottles are innovative and fun….

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