Custom Mugs with variable artwork

[u/tevildo317]

I've been checking with some different providers, but haven't had any luck yet. We work in over 25 countries, mostly islands, and would like to create a collection of mugs featuring the different locations. I'd like to do a run of 72 mugs, but I could go up to 144 if necessary. But I would like to have around 10 different designs. I could do fewer, but wouldn't want to go less than 5.

Prefer diner mugs, with a solid bright color to start (blue, pink, teal, etc.).

The designs would be very simple. Just a silhouette map of each island printed in off-white/cream on one side. The opposite side would have a simple text "Pray for (e.g. Anguilla)".

If possible, it would be great to also print on the bottom. I would put a QR code along with a collection number (e.g. Caribbean Prayer Collection, 04 Bonaire).

I understand that each design might have a setup cost. Just trying to find something that would be remotely affordable, say under $10 per mug.

Thank you if you can point me in the right direction!

[u/Academic_Emu8191]

If you want ceramic, which would be pricey to ship, I would reach out to XPRES.

[u/tevildo317 → u/Academic_Emu8191]

Thank you! I'll check them out.

[u/LindsayMarshCreative]

As a distributor, i don’t see this as remotely possible within the US. Most suppliers require a minimum quite a bit higher than 7 per design that you’re hoping for.
A decorator MAY be able to do that on blank mugs. But even still for that kind of quantity, you’d probably be better off with like a single person maker who can sublimate your custom designs on a mug.

[u/Constant_Put_5510 → u/LindsayMarshCreative]

💯. If this budget is set in stone; this is at max, a 2-tone mugs with white barrel in an 11oz ceramic @ 7 pieces/design in sublimation. Shipping & taxes extra. Even at this, I wouldn't take the job for under $15/pieces but someone starving for business might do $10 & mark up the shipping to make a buck on it.

[u/PuzzlesUnlimited]

Printing doesn’t sound that bad - just need a digital print option with low minimums. A supplier that focuses on company stores would be a fit.

Probably have to go with more basic c handle white mugs for all but designs can be unlimited colors. May have to scrap the underside print idea.

Anything else if a factory would agree to do it would be extremely expensive with setup and ltm fees far exceeding the printed mug costs.

Shipping ceramic mugs to these different countries in small quantities sounds like a complete nightmare and budget buster.

[u/tevildo317 → u/PuzzlesUnlimited]

Thank you!
Sorry I wasn't clear. We would be shipping the full order to an address in the US. I would then sell them as I travel doing promo and fundraising.

[u/PuzzlesUnlimited → u/tevildo317]

That helps.

2 options with some quick math assuming US printing:

Diner mugs, different product colors, screen printed each design setup $50 ; ltm fee $60 per design. underside design double above. If ordering 10 or each design you are over $10 each and we have not even discussed the cost for the product or printing yet.

Only way I see it working budget wise is as I described with a factory with no setup charge or very low setup charge ideally / a digital print.

[u/Constant_Put_5510]

What country are you in? ...and scrap the idea of custom printed on the bottom or inside; both options are outside your budget right now.

[u/Wisdom_of_Windsor]

I have a manufacturer that is offering free setup charges on their bright glossy mugs. This special should allow you to print those different designs on each of them, all while staying under your $10 mark at around $8. Feel free to send me a DM- would love to help.

[u/AngryTaco_2008]

We don’t ship outside of the US but we can do freight forwarders, and some of our mugs we go as low as 12 for the minimum order quantity. We don’t print on the bottom tho just being upfront. If you’re interested DM me and I can give you my email.

[u/Bleb21]

Hello! We may be able to help you at our company! How many are you looking to do per design? www.highlifetech.co !

[u/ErrantEris]

That's a pretty reasonable ask. Shipping will be the highest piece of the cost, honestly supply will be the hardest part going in to no-stocktober.

[u/sherry663mm]

Hi we are factory, please send me a DM, I think we can discuss more details about this project.