Merch questionnaire
Questions with a reason behind them.
01 — Essentials
Let’s start with the big picture
A few basics give your designer the context behind the work.
- What would you like us to call this project? *
- What is the name of the business, organization, or event? *
- In your own words, what are we making? *
It is completely fine if you do not know the exact design terms.
- Why does this project need to exist right now? *
- What is the most important thing this design should accomplish? *
02 — People & message
Who should this connect with?
The clearer the audience and message, the more intentional the design can be.
- Who do you most want this design to reach? *
Describe real people if you can: what matters to them, where they are, or what they already know.
- What information absolutely must be included? *
Names, dates, prices, contact details, legal copy, calls to action, or anything else that cannot be left out.
03 — Visual direction
Which direction feels closest?
These are signals, not strict instructions. Your designer will use them to understand your taste.
- Which type of lettering feels closest to what you imagine?
A quick type note: These examples show broad styles, not final font choices. Pick the one that feels closest—or let your designer decide.
- Which overall energy feels more appropriate?
- Should it feel more polished or more handmade?
04 — Files & references
What can you share with your designer?
Existing assets, examples, and background can make the first design round more focused.
- Do you have logos, photos, copy, or other files to share?
You can add several files, each up to 10 MB.
- Are there any references or examples you want your designer to see?
Links are welcome. Tell us what you like—or dislike—about each one.
- Anything else that would be useful to know?
05 — Usage
What are we putting the design on?
Tell us about the items, colors, and placement you have in mind.
- What item or items are being produced? *
- Where should the design go, and about how large do you picture it? *
For example: small on the left chest, across the front, on a sleeve, or centered on a sticker. Exact production measurements are not needed.
- What color or colors do you expect the items themselves to be?
06 — Production
What is already known about production?
Share the plan as you know it. Your designer will confirm technical details with the vendor.
- Has a production method already been chosen?If known
Choose only what a vendor or producer has already confirmed. You are not being asked to select a production method.
You only need to know the intended use: If a vendor has already chosen how the design will be added to the item, share what they told you. You do not need to know the technical limits; your designer will confirm them with the producer.
- Are these items being produced, or are you still exploring the idea? *
- About how many do you expect to make?
A rough estimate is enough.
- Has a merchandise vendor or producer already been selected? If so, who is it?If known
You do not need to choose a vendor to complete this brief.
- If your vendor sent production requirements in an email or message, you can paste them here.If known
Pass along their wording as-is—you do not need to interpret it.
- If your vendor sent a template, spec sheet, or production requirements, you can upload them here.If known
Pass along the original files as-is. Your designer will interpret the technical details.
07 — Timing & approval
When does this need to happen?
A clear deadline and decision-maker help everyone plan the work.
- When does the finished design need to be ready? *
- Who gives the final approval? *