Frequently Asked Questions
What services do we offer?
We offer custom embroidery, DTF printing, UV DTF, textured UV DTF, laser engraving, sublimation, permanent vinyl, temporary vinyl, apparel decoration, custom gifts, decals, tumblers, hats, patches, and business promotional products..
We help individuals, businesses, teams, schools, and organizations create high-quality custom products for branding, events, gifts, uniforms, and everyday use.
How do I request a quote?
You can request a quote by contacting El La Vie Shops through our contact page, email, or quote request form. Please include the product you are interested in, quantity, design details, preferred decoration method, and any artwork or logo files you already have available.
Once we review your request, we will provide pricing, production options, and an estimated turnaround time. For custom orders, a proof may be sent for approval before production begins.
Do you have a minimum order?
Many products have no minimum order quantity. Contact us for details on bulk pricing.
How long does production take?
Production time depends on the type of product, quantity, design complexity, material availability, and decoration method being used. Most custom orders are completed within a few business days to two weeks after artwork approval and payment are received. This would also depend on product availabilty as we do not store products
Larger orders, specialty items, embroidery digitizing, custom design work, or bulk business projects may require additional time. We will provide an estimated turnaround time when your quote is prepared.
Do you offer rush orders?
Rush orders may be available depending on the product, quantity, artwork readiness, material availability, and current production schedule. If you need an order completed by a specific date, please let us know when requesting your quote.
Additional rush fees may apply for expedited production. We will review your deadline and let you know if we can accommodate your request before the order is started.
Can I provide my own artwork?
Yes, you can provide your own artwork, logo, design, or image for your custom order. For the best results, we recommend sending high-quality files such as vector artwork, PNG files with transparent backgrounds, PDF files, or high-resolution images.
If your artwork needs adjustments, cleanup, resizing, or conversion before production, we will let you know before starting your order. Additional artwork or design setup fees may apply depending on the amount of work required.
What file types do you accept?
We accept a variety of artwork file types, including PNG, JPG, PDF, SVG, AI, EPS, and PSD files. For the best results, we recommend vector files such as SVG, AI, EPS, or PDF because they can be resized without losing quality.
For DTF, UV DTF, sublimation, and vinyl projects, high-resolution PNG files with transparent backgrounds are also preferred. For embroidery, clean logo files or vector artwork work best for digitizing.
If you are unsure whether your file will work, send it to us and we will review it before production begins.
Will I receive a proof before production?
Yes, for most custom orders, we will provide a digital proof for your review before production begins. The proof allows you to check the design, spelling, layout, colors, placement, and overall appearance before your item is made.
Production will not begin until the proof is approved. Please review your proof carefully, because changes requested after approval may require additional time or fees.
Do you offer bulk pricing?
Yes, bulk pricing may be available for larger orders depending on the product, quantity, decoration method, artwork setup, and production requirements. Bulk pricing is commonly available for custom apparel, hats, patches, tumblers, decals, business branding items, and promotional products.
To receive the most accurate bulk pricing, please send us your product type, quantity, artwork, and any special details. We will review your request and provide pricing options based on your project.
Can I bring my own items?
Customer-supplied items may be accepted depending on the product, material, size, condition, and decoration method requested. Before production begins, we will review the item to make sure it is suitable for embroidery, DTF, UV DTF, laser engraving, sublimation, or vinyl application.
Please note that customer-supplied items are decorated at the customer’s risk. Some materials may not react as expected during production, and we cannot guarantee replacement of items that were not purchased through El La Vie Shops. Additional customer-supplied items maybe needed if decorated items are used for testing purposes and backups.
What is the difference between DTF and Sublimation?
DTF printing and sublimation are both full-color decoration methods, but they work differently and are best for different products. DTF printing creates a transfer that is heat pressed onto the surface of the garment, making it a great choice for cotton, polyester, blends, dark shirts, light shirts, hoodies, and apparel.
Sublimation uses heat to permanently infuse ink into specially coated products or polyester fabrics. It creates a smooth, vibrant design with no raised feel, but it works best on light-colored polyester garments and sublimation-coated items such as mugs, tumblers, mouse pads, coasters, and photo gifts.
In general, DTF is best for apparel and fabric versatility, while sublimation is best for photo-quality designs on compatible coated products and light polyester materials.
What is the difference betwen UV DTF and textured UV DTF?
UV DTF and textured UV DTF are both full-color transfer methods designed for hard surfaces such as glass, acrylic, metal, plastic, wood, tumblers, bottles, and promotional products. Standard UV DTF creates a smooth, durable, vibrant decal-style finish that is great for logos, designs, labels, and custom product decoration.
Textured UV DTF adds a raised, dimensional feel to the design. This gives the artwork extra depth and a premium tactile finish that customers can see and feel. It is a great option for luxury branding, specialty gifts, premium drinkware, packaging, and designs where you want a more high-end appearance.
In general, UV DTF is best for clean, vibrant hard-surface decoration, while textured UV DTF is best when you want a raised, premium, dimensional look.
What is the difference between Permanent and Temporary vinyl?
Permanent vinyl is designed for long-term use and has a stronger adhesive that holds up well on smooth surfaces such as glass, metal, plastic, vehicles, storefront windows, signs, tumblers, and outdoor items. It is a good choice when you want the design to stay in place for an extended period of time.
Temporary vinyl is designed for short-term use and easier removal. It is ideal for seasonal promotions, events, wall graphics, window displays, holiday décor, temporary signage, and projects that may need to be changed or removed later.
In general, permanent vinyl is best for durable, long-lasting applications, while temporary vinyl is best for short-term graphics that need flexibility and easier removal.
How do I care for custom apparel?
To help your custom apparel last longer, wash garments inside out in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid bleach, harsh chemicals, and fabric softeners, as they may affect the decoration or fabric.
Tumble dry on low heat or hang dry when possible. Do not iron directly over embroidery, DTF prints, vinyl, or other decorated areas. If ironing is needed, turn the garment inside out or place a protective cloth over the design.
Do you ship orders?
Yes, shipping may be available for many custom orders. Shipping options and costs depend on the product type, order size, weight, destination, and carrier availability.
Local pickup may also be available for customers near our area. Once your order is complete, we will provide pickup or shipping details so you know when and how your order will be delivered.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept common payment methods for custom orders, including major credit cards, debit cards, and other approved digital payment options. Accepted payment methods may vary depending on the order type, invoice method, and checkout process.
Payment is typically required before production begins. For custom orders, your quote or invoice will include payment instructions and any required deposit information.