Private labeling — putting your own brand label on blank apparel — is the fastest way to launch a clothing line without manufacturing garments from scratch. This guide covers how relabeling works and how to make blanks look like your own brand.
What is private labeling?
Private labeling means buying quality blank garments (tees, hoodies, hats) and adding your own brand label in place of, or alongside, the manufacturer’s tag. The garment becomes “yours” from the customer’s perspective.
Step 1: Remove or cover the existing tag
Most blanks come with a manufacturer neck label. You can:
- Remove it and sew in your own woven label, or
- Go tagless by removing the tag and applying a heat-transfer tagless print with your logo and care info.
Many blank brands now sell “tear-away” tags designed to be removed cleanly for relabeling.
Step 2: Add your brand label
- Woven neck label — the premium, durable choice; see woven labels.
- Printed label — great for soft, detailed care + brand info; see printed labels.
- Tagless heat transfer — modern, no fabric tag; logo and care printed inside the neck.
Step 3: Stay compliant
Even on relabeled blanks, your label must carry the legally required information — fiber content, country of origin, your identity (name or RN), and care instructions. See our clothing label requirements guide.
Step 4: Finish the brand experience
Add hang tags, branded patches, or packaging to complete the look. Consistent branding across labels and tags is what turns blanks into a real brand — see our clothing brand labeling checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to relabel blank clothing?
Yes, relabeling blanks is common and legal — but your new label must still carry the required fiber, origin, identity, and care information.
Should I sew in a label or go tagless?
Both work. Woven labels feel premium; tagless heat transfers are soft and modern. Many brands offer both depending on the garment.
Can you print care info for tagless tees?
Yes — tagless transfers can include your logo, size, fiber content, and care symbols in one print.
Start private labeling
Tell us your garments and branding and we will recommend the best relabeling approach. Request a free quote or design your label online.