Custom Gym Apparel: How 12Labours CrossFit Built Their Summer Collection

Every great apparel collection starts with a vision, and the latest summer drop from 12Labours CrossFit is no exception. Custom gym apparel has become essential for building strong fitness brands and creating community identity.

We've been working with this Annapolis and Columbia based fitness community for years, and each project brings something fresh to the table. This time around, they wanted to create a seasonal collection that would capture the energy of summer while staying true to their brand identity. The excitement was real when they approached us about launching a pre-order campaign for their warm weather lineup. They had everything mapped out, from the colors that would pop in the Maryland sun to the exact vibe they wanted their members to feel when wearing these pieces.

The Vision Behind the Season

12Labours came to us with designs that were already locked and loaded. Clean lines, straightforward graphics, and that perfect balance between athletic and casual that their community loves. Their approach was smart too, starting with pre-orders to gauge interest before committing to full production. At the start of their project, they always search for screen printers in Philly and in Maryland but time and time again, they'd always come back to us for the quality that we provide. That said, our collaboration brought a seasonal theme that wasn't just about looking good during workouts. These pieces needed to transition from the gym to the beach, from morning coffee runs to evening hangouts, making standout custom gym apparel in a crowded market.

When Sourcing Gets Interesting

Sometimes the best laid plans hit a snag, and that's exactly what happened with the Classic LA Apparel Garment Dyed Crewneck T-Shirt (1301GD) where we had some stock issues and we had to get creative. That's where our experience came in and we gave them something with higher quality. A garment-dyed aesthetic was non-negotiable for the brand since it delivers that soft, broken-in feel customers love.

We presented alternatives that would maintain the vibe they were after. The AS Colour Crop Flow T-Shirts and the Classic AS Colour Muscle Tank both offered similar characteristics with that crucial vintage wash. Sometimes these curveballs lead to even better solutions than the original plan.

Interested in sourcing garments for your next custom printed shirt project? Look through our custom apparel today and browse through our collection of high-quality garments perfect for your needs.

The Final Lineup Takes Shape

After some back and forth, the collection came together beautifully:

• Next Level CVC Shirts in Gray with their signature summer lion logo

• AS COLOUR Classic Tees in Celadon with a subtle light blue logo

• Shakawear Adult Max Heavyweight T-Shirts in Chalky Mint sporting navy and light purple branding

Each piece told its own story while contributing to the cohesive summer narrative. The color palette worked perfectly with those Maryland summer vibes, from morning CrossFit sessions to afternoon adventures.

The Art of Screen Printing

Screen printing was the obvious choice for this project. With designs featuring just one or two solid colors, this method delivered exactly what they needed: crisp, clean prints that would hold up to countless workouts and washes. The technique enhanced the bold, straightforward aesthetic they were going for.

Cost efficiency meets quality when you match the right printing method to the design. These weren't complex, multi-colored graphics that needed digital printing. They were bold statements that screen printing could execute perfectly, giving members apparel that looks as good after fifty wears as it did on day one.

Why Collaboration Just Worked for Them

Working with a client who knows what they want changes everything. 12Labours brought clear vision and pre-approved designs to the table, which meant we could focus on bringing their ideas to life rather than endless revisions. Years of partnership meant we already understood their brand voice and what their community responds to.

This kind of relationship streamlines everything from initial quotes to final delivery. Communication flowed naturally, proofing went smoothly, and everyone stayed on the same page throughout the process. That's what makes great gym merchandise: when every party involved understands the assignment. Have a design already? You can contact us and get in touch with our real designers for a mockup.

Summer Drop Success

The feedback was immediate and overwhelmingly positive. Members loved the pre-order launch, and the excitement around the collection proved that understanding your audience pays off. Each piece reflected both the heritage of 12Labours CrossFit and the fresh energy of summer.

The collection wasn't just about new merchandise. It was about giving their community something to connect over, pieces that represented their shared values and summer adventures ahead. When clothing becomes part of a lifestyle rather than just something to wear, you've created something special.

Looking Forward

This summer drop is just one chapter in an ongoing story. Future seasonal collections are already in discussion, with ideas flowing for what comes next. The success of this project shows what happens when brand identity, quality materials, and thoughtful execution come together.

Ready to create your own custom gym apparel collection? Whether you're launching a seasonal drop or building your brand from scratch, or if you just want custom t-shirts. Tee Vision Printing has the expertise and passion to bring your vision to life. From sourcing the perfect garments to delivering prints that last, we're here to make your apparel dreams reality.

Let's create something amazing together.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

1. How do you design a standout custom apparel collection?

Designing standout custom apparel starts with a strong concept, cohesive color palette, and attention to detail in graphics and fabric choice. The 12Labours Summer Drop came to life by combining bold streetwear aesthetics with seasonal themes, ensuring each piece feels intentional and wearable.

2. What goes into creating a limited-edition clothing drop?

A limited-edition clothing drop involves concept development, graphic design, selecting print methods like screen printing or DTG, choosing quality blanks, and planning a strategic release. Each step ensures the final product feels exclusive and aligned with the brand's identity.

3. Why is branding important in custom apparel design?

Branding sets your apparel apart in a crowded market. From logo placement to packaging, consistent branding builds recognition and loyalty. The 12Labours Summer Drop showcases how a clear brand story can elevate a collection from simple clothing to a lifestyle statement.

4. How can small clothing brands create professional-quality apparel?

Small clothing brands can achieve professional results by partnering with experienced screen printers, investing in quality blank garments, and focusing on unique designs that resonate with their target audience. Working with a custom apparel printer helps bring creative visions to life without needing in-house production.