case study:
Merch co.
services: t-shirt design, branding
software: illustrator, photoshop
Industry: fashion, retail
Merch Co., based in Devon, want to find the best restaurants, pubs, cafés, and venues to immortalise with fun, exciting, and memorable designs. These designs are then used on merchandise to advertise these iconic places as well as give their customers the perfect way of remembering their time there. I was tasked with designing the range of t-shirts and hoodies for each venue in a variety of styles.
the design
I was asked to create designs of each venue that would fit perfectly with the vibe of the place. Whether it was a pub, ferry, or restaurant, my illustrations had to capture the essence of the place and tell it’s story. I had to imagine that each shirt would be worn by a loyal customer of the venue, and that they would want it to perfectly represent their favourite place. For most of the venues I designed an illustration showing off the building and scenery. This is what most locals would recognise and treasure. I went for a hand drawn look to give it that local, handmade feel. This style also works on different colours of t-shirts and can be used as a stand alone piece of artwork. For some of the venues I was able to visit them in person to take photos as reference in Teignmouth and Shaldon, while others I had to work with images from their websites.
Sometimes a drawing of the venue itself was not needed, so I represented these different places with symbols and graphics that fit perfectly with the image they wish to represent. Whether they are known for their location, their live music, or their decor, I was able to capture the essential elements of each venue to make an iconic design their customers would love.
branding design
Merch Co. also asked me to create a design that summed up their business to use on clothing labels and across social media. The whole ethos of the company is celebrating memorable venues across the UK and allowing their customers and fans to celebrate them too. The idea I went with for the branding included the classic pin point you see on a map. Each place featured on the website is a destination that people want to visit, so why not include that symbol within the logo. A star was also included to represent the often 5 star service that these places provide.
the application
I provided all my designs in a print ready format which allowed Merch Co. to easily put them on the t-shirts and hoodies that they wanted. The company work alongside the venues to create a t-shirt design they really love, and the feedback has been great from many of these businesses. All items are available on their website and each venue encourages their regulars to purchase the items from the site.
I also helped create mockup images that show off the designs at their best. These included the Across the Teign collection, the Clipper Cafe, and the Tors Inn pub. They were also used to show the client venues what their personal customised shirts would look like in the flesh!
final thoughts
It’s been a pleasure to work alongside Merch Co. to help their ideas come to life. I’m a big proponent of keeping things local, so it was especially nice to help these venues to advertise and celebrate their place in the community. It’s been really enjoyable to design these t-shirts and to learn more about these great places. Keep an eye out for more designs on Merch Co. because we might just be designing your local pub, restaurant, café, or venue next!