Everything You Need to Know About Under-Brim Printing on Straw Hats

Under-brim printing refers to adding graphics, logos, or patterns to the underside of a straw hat brim. This decoration transforms a simple straw hat into something unique, whether it’s a straw hat with design under brim, a straw hat with flag under brim, or even a straw hat with American flag under brim for patriotic events. Some customers love bold styles like a green under brim hat, while others prefer a subtle straw hat with pattern under brim that matches their brand colors.

Printing Techniques for Straw Hat Brims

• Machine Digital Printing (Direct Transfer) – Advanced printers apply designs with eco-friendly inks, then heat presses bond them into the fabric. This process allows photo-quality graphics and smooth gradients, perfect for custom straw lifeguard hat orders.
• Sublimation Printing – Used for coated brims, the ink infuses directly into fibers, creating vibrant images that resist fading.

👉 Many premium orders also add UV protective coating, helping the design stay bright during long outdoor use.

Benefits of Under-Brim Printing

• Brand Visibility – Perfect for group photos, events, and outdoor promotions.
• Uniqueness – A straw hat under brim design adds a hidden but stylish surprise.
• Marketing Value – Great for resorts, festivals, and branded merchandise.
• Premium Look – A hat with designs under the bill feels higher-end compared to plain hats.

Matching Patches with Under-Brim Prints

A strong branding approach is to pair under-brim printing with patch customization. The patch background can match the under-brim design—for example, a wave design printed beneath the brim can also appear as the patch backdrop. This creates a cohesive look and makes your customizable straw hats stand out.

👉 For more details, see our guide:
Custom Patch Hats: Choosing the Right Patch Style

Popular Design Ideas

• Tropical or summer themes for sun straw hats
• Patriotic styles like USA straw hats with flag designs
• Bold graphics for big straw hats or men’s big straw hat collections
• Branded straw outdoor hats for resorts, breweries, and events
• Seasonal designs like harvest or Halloween patterns
• Handmade straw hats with matching patch and brim prints
• Corporate logos for mens straw sun hats used in giveaways

Fabric Colorfastness After Printing

A common concern is fading. With modern printing, a straw hat with print under brim is designed for strong colorfastness. Inks are tested against sunlight, moisture, and friction to ensure that your breathable straw hats hold vibrant colors after outdoor use.

Advanced methods like digital transfer and sublimation bond the ink into the fabric, making the designs resistant to peeling or cracking. Every batch goes through UV testing, wash resistance checks, and rub testing to guarantee durability.

Fabric Sun Protection (UPF Index)

High-quality straw outdoor hats don’t just look good—they also protect. Many printed brims are tested for UPF 50+, blocking up to 98% of harmful UV rays. Even after custom printing, the UPF level remains strong, and in some cases, the print layer adds an extra shield.

For more background on sun protection standards, see the Skin Cancer Foundation’s UPF Guide

Care and Durability Tips

• Wipe gently with a soft cloth; avoid scrubbing the underside.
• Do not leave hats under extreme heat for long periods.
• Store in a cool, dry place to extend life and color vibrancy.

Conclusion

An under brim straw hat is more than a trend—it’s a functional, customizable piece of branding. Whether you want hats with designs under the bill, patriotic USA straw hats, or stylish custom straw lifeguard hat options, under-brim printing gives your hats personality, visibility, and staying power.

👉 Ready to design your own straw hats with print under brim?
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