How PTAs can use apparel and promo goods to raise money…

School PTAs are always looking for creative and effective ways to raise money for programs, activities, and events. While bake sales and car washes have their place, custom apparel and promotional goods have become one of the most reliable and long-lasting fundraising strategies. Here’s how PTAs can make the most of them.

Spirit Wear That Everyone Loves

Custom t-shirts, hoodies, and hats with your school’s mascot or logo are always in demand. Families love showing their school pride, and these items often become staples in wardrobes. With the right design, spirit wear can:

• Generate excitement among students and parents.

• Create a unified, school-spirited look at events.

• Provide steady revenue when sold year-round.

Beyond T-Shirts: Promo Goods That Work

In addition to apparel, PTAs can raise money with everyday promotional goods:

• Water Bottles & Tumblers – Practical items that parents and kids use daily.

• Tote Bags & Backpacks – Perfect for sports, after-school activities, and events.

• Blankets & Chairs – Great for supporting outdoor sports teams.

• Magnets, Stickers & Decals – Low-cost items that sell quickly.

These items make excellent add-ons to apparel sales and can be tailored for seasonal fundraisers.

Online Stores Make It Easy

One of the biggest challenges for PTAs is handling orders and inventory. That’s where online school stores come in. With a managed web store:

• Parents can shop at their convenience.

• PTAs avoid the headache of collecting order forms and money.

• Orders are produced on-demand or in batches, saving time and storage space.

• Fundraising is ongoing — not limited to one or two sales per year.

Tips for Success

• Keep designs fresh – Rotate styles and graphics to keep families engaged.

• Bundle items – Offer packages (shirt + hat + water bottle) to boost sales.

• Promote events – Use special runs of apparel for concerts, tournaments, or field days.

• Celebrate milestones – Create “graduating class” apparel for 5th, 8th, or 12th graders.

Final Takeaway

Custom apparel and promotional goods aren’t just merchandise — they’re powerful fundraising tools that build school spirit and community pride. By setting up an organized store and offering items families actually want, PTAs can create a steady, reliable revenue stream that supports students year after year.

Contact us today to learn how we can help your PTA set up a school store, design spirit wear, and maximize fundraising through custom apparel and promo products.