How to Brief a Designer for Custom Merch in Kenya (2026 Guide) — Design Yangu
Not sure how to explain your merch idea to a designer? This guide shows you exactly what to include in a design brief — colours, logos, text, size — so you get perfect results first time.
The most common reason a merch order doesn't come out right isn't a bad designer — it's a bad brief. When you tell a designer 'make it look nice and professional', you're asking them to read your mind. What looks nice to you might look completely different to them. A good design brief is specific, clear, and complete. It's the single most important thing you can do to ensure you love your final product.
The six elements of a good design brief for custom merch: (1) Your logo or text — upload your actual logo file (PNG with transparent background, minimum 500px wide), or write out exactly what text you want and in what order. (2) Colours — don't say 'green and white'. Say 'dark forest green (#1A4A2E) and white'. If you have a Pantone number from your brand guidelines, include it. (3) Placement — where on the garment? Centre chest, left chest, back upper, sleeve? (4) Size and quantity — how many pieces? Which sizes? What's the size breakdown? (5) Reference examples — link to 3 images that show the vibe you're going for. Pinterest boards work. (6) Deadline — when do you need the finished product, and work backwards 7 working days for production plus delivery time.
On Design Yangu, you can either upload a complete design (ready to print) or submit a brief and work with a designer. For the brief route, go to designyangu.com, select your product, and fill in the brief form with all six elements above. A designer will send you a proof within 24 hours. You approve or request changes — unlimited revisions until you're happy. Then pay via M-Pesa and your order goes to print. Use code EASTER100 for KES 100 off your first order. The best brief gets the best result. Jipange vizuri — pata matokeo mazuri. 🎨🇰🇪