Creating SWAG
Thanks to our extensive experience and deep knowledge in creating and designing swag, we’ve collaborated with the community to develop an in-depth guide that will assist you on your journey!
Creating SWAG with the Japanese writing system? View the Japan Edition
SWAG includes, but is not limited to:
- Patches
- Buttons
- Key Chains
- Stickers
- 3D Art
- And more! Get inspiration from the swag trackers.
Best Practices for SWAG
- Before creating any swag, it’s essential to obtain approval from the artist or licensee. Failing to do so could lead to legal issues/complaints!
- Search engines like Google offer advanced search options to find images with specific licenses, so you know which ones you can use or modify. Learn more.
- We suggest hiring an artist to ensure you have something truly original!
- SWAG (Stuff We All Get/Give) should be freely given out and not sold or traded. In today’s culture, there’s often an overlap between free items, tradable goods, and commercial merchandise.
- For those looking to trade during Celebration, visit the Collecting Track Room. Members will often meet here to trade swag.
- We have the SWAG CREW XCHANGE Group on Facebook and the SWC Discord server that can be used for trading.
- Other events during Celebration, like Multi-Club Trade Events or off-site gatherings, might also offer you the chance to trade.
- HAVE FUN!
Vendor Recommendations
Disclaimer: The SWAG CREW is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the vendors listed below. Vendors that are affiliated are indicated as such.
These suggestions come from the swag community, drawing on years of experience in creating and purchasing swag from various vendors. Have you had a positive experience with a vendor not mentioned here? Let us know!
This list is reviewed occasionally to ensure vendors listed are still operational.
Artist Recommendations
- Ivan Castillo – SWAGbassador Artist
- Eddie Armenteros (Iron Panda Studios) – SWAG ‘N’ BOWL Patch Artist
- Pete Hague
- Rick Alsop (LeftCoast Graphics)
- Aaron Waldron (Wanderlust Untapped)
- Kate Appleton
- Ariel Bradford
- David O’Neal
- Stephane Leonardi
- Timothy Arns (Dive Deep Designs)
- Josh Phillips (Pop Culture Fun)
If you don’t hear back from an artist, let us know. We’re here to help.
Can I get added to this list?
If you’re an artist passionate about supporting fellow swaggers by offering original artwork, so they don’t have to depend on Google images, and you’re open to providing your services at a community-friendly rate, we’d love to hear from you!
Please send us your website, Instagram, Facebook, or other contact details for consideration.
Who is participating?
Members of the SWAG Crew Facebook community will often have a “badge buddy” displayed under their regular convention badge. Non-members are welcomed to use the badge.
Remember: When you wear the SWAG CREW/TRADER Badge Buddy on your lanyard, you’re acting as an ambassador for the entire crew. Be respectful to others!
Others might use similar branding, often with bright colors and/or large text on items like backpacks, lanyards or even t-shirts!
Interested in a badge buddy? Watch for announcements to find out when they become available on here. If you miss the initial announcement and can’t get a badge buddy, the SWAG Crew provides an alternative design for you to print. Please remember not to modify the SWAG CREW logo.
Badge or no badge, we encourage everyone to share their swag with those you meet. Make someone’s day memorable—you never know, they might secretly have swag too!
What are the differences between the SWAG CREW and Trader badges?
The Trader badge indicates that you’re looking to exchange swag items, such as patch for patch. The SWAG CREW badge signifies that you’re involved in the regular distribution of swag. Possessing both badges means you’re engaged in trading specific swag items while also giving away other items.
Have any more questions? Check out the FAQ!