Custom Woven Hem Tags
In the competitive world of apparel, the difference between a “basic t-shirt” and a “premium brand” often lies in the smallest details. If you’ve ever looked at a high-end streetwear brand or a boutique clothing line, you’ve likely noticed a small fabric label wrapped around the sleeve, the bottom hem, or the edge of a beanie.
These are Custom Woven Hem Tags, and they are one of the most cost-effective ways to make your clothing look professional, retail-ready, and high-quality.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about hem tags, from fold types to placement strategies.
What Are Custom Woven Hem Tags?
A hem tag is a small woven label designed to be sewn over the edge (or “hem”) of a garment. Unlike neck labels that stay hidden inside the shirt, hem tags are visible from the outside, serving as a constant “mini-billboard” for your brand logo.
Usually made from high-definition Damask polyester, these labels are soft to the skin but durable enough to withstand hundreds of washes without fading or fraying.
Why Your Clothing Brand Needs Hem Tags
Instant Brand Recognition
Hem tags provide a pop of branding that is visible even when someone isn’t looking at the main chest print. It signals to the customer that you’ve gone the extra mile in your production process.
“Retail-Ready” Look
If you plan on selling in boutiques or online marketplaces like Etsy or Shopify, hem tags give your garments a polished, finished look that separates “merch” from a “fashion line.”
Added Value
Small details allow you to command a higher price point. Customers perceive garments with custom labeling as having higher craftsmanship and value.
Choosing the Right Fold and Style
When ordering your custom tags, you’ll usually encounter two main options:
- Center Fold (Loop Fold): The most common style for hem tags. The label is folded in half, creating a loop. The raw edges are sewn into the seam or over the hem, leaving a finished fold visible.
- Manhattan Fold: Similar to a center fold, but with an extra fold at the top to hide the raw edges. This is ideal for labels being sewn onto the outside of a garment rather than into a seam.
- Flat Labels: These are sewn down on all four sides and are typically used for neck labels or “patch” style branding on the front of hoodies.
Popular Placements for Hem Tags
Where you place your tag can change the entire “vibe” of the garment:
- The Bottom Hem: The classic choice. Usually placed on the left side (from the wearer’s perspective) of t-shirts and hoodies.
- Sleeve Hem: Very popular in streetwear. It catches the eye when the wearer is moving or shaking hands.
- Beanie Cuffs: A must-have for headwear. The tag is sewn onto the edge of the cuff so that when it’s folded up, the logo is front and center.
- Pockets: Adding a small tag to the edge of a breast pocket adds a subtle, high-end touch.
- Hoodie Edges: Placing a tag on the edge of the hood or the kangaroo pocket is a great way to add branding to outerwear.
Technical Specifications to Consider
Before you send your design to a manufacturer, keep these tips in mind:
- Size Matters: The industry standard for a hem tag is usually 20mm x 20mm or 25mm x 25mm (when folded). Anything too large can become bulky and uncomfortable.
- Thread Density: Request Damask weaving. It uses thinner threads which allow for more detail in your logo and a softer feel against the skin.
- The “Seam Allowance”: Remember that about 3mm–5mm of the top of your label will be sewn into the garment. Make sure your logo isn’t too close to the top edge, or it might get cut off by the stitching!
How to Get Started
Ready to level up your brand? Most custom manufacturers (like those found on Etsy, Threadbird, or specialized label companies) allow for low minimum order quantities (MOQs), sometimes starting as low as 50 or 100 pieces.
Pro Tip: If you aren’t ready to sew them on during the manufacturing process, you can buy them in bulk and have a local tailor sew them onto your existing blanks!
CONTACT US
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