Looking for custom t-shirts, handcrafted gifts, or party treats in Memphis? You don't need to turn to big-box chains. The city is packed with small, locally-owned shops that pour personality into every order. I've rounded up five standout businesses that
The Memphis Local-Made Scene
Memphis has always been a city of makers. From its music roots to its barbecue culture, the local economy thrives on small businesses that offer something you can't get from a national retailer. In the custom apparel and gift space, shops like these compete on relationships, not just products. They know your name, remember your last order, and treat every job like it matters. That's the difference between a print-on-demand drop and a handshake deal. If you value quality, speed, and a personal touch, these are the shops you want on speed dial.
How I Ranked These Shops
I evaluated each business on four factors: product range (do they cover t-shirts, gifts, treats?), personalization options (how much can you customize?), community focus (are they locally rooted?), and value (pricing and minimums). The goal was to find shops that mirror the hands-on, made-to-order ethos of R&D Special Creations while offering distinct specialties.
Here's a quick look at the five shops that made the cut. Each one brings something unique to the Memphis market.
| Provider | Best For | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| The Shirt Place | Full-service custom apparel and promotional products | Custom quote-based; no published prices online |
| Think Threads | Low-minimum custom screen printing and embroidery | Custom quote-based; pricing varies by shirt style, quantity, ink colors, and print locations |
| Feelin' Memphis | Memphis-themed gifts and local art | Not explicitly listed; typical gift shop pricing for souvenirs and local art |
| R&D Special Creations LLC | Custom t-shirts and party treats in one place | Custom quote-based; contact for details |
| Shotwell Candy Co. | Handmade gourmet caramel and toffee gifts | Gift boxes $15-$50 range; party packs ~$40-$60; free shipping over $75 |
Detailed Reviews of Each Shop
#1 The Shirt Place
A screenshot of The Shirt Place website.
The Shirt Place has been a Memphis staple since 2011, offering screen printing, DTF transfers, embroidery, graphic design, promotional products, and banners. They're a small, locally-owned shop with a strong focus on customer service — directly comparable to R&D's custom apparel and personalized service model. Their wide range of services means you can get everything from a single embroidered hat to a full run of event shirts. According to their Yelp profile, they've built a loyal following by treating every order like it's their only one. If you need a reliable print shop with years of experience, start here.
Shop Comparison:
- Pro: Established reputation and wide service range
- Con: No online pricing; requires inquiry
- Pricing: Custom quote-based; no published prices online
#2 Think Threads
A screenshot of the Think Threads website.
Think Threads is a Memphis-based custom screen printing and embroidery shop with a low minimum of 24 pieces. They offer t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and embroidered apparel, emphasizing quality work, reasonable pricing, and reliable deadlines. This is the same hands-on, small-shop ethos as R&D Special Creations. Their website highlights a straightforward ordering process and a commitment to getting your order right the first time. If you need a moderate quantity of custom apparel without breaking the bank, Think Threads is a solid choice.
Shop Comparison:
- Pro: Low minimum of 24 pieces makes it accessible for small groups
- Con: Minimum may still be too high for single-item orders
- Pricing: Custom quote-based; pricing varies by shirt style, quantity, ink colors, and print locations
#3 Feelin' Memphis
A screenshot of the Feelin' Memphis website.
Feelin' Memphis is a brick-and-mortar gift shop in Memphis' South Main Arts District. They sell souvenirs, custom t-shirts, local art (paintings, prints, pottery), seasonings, teas, home decor, and clothing. This shop overlaps with R&D's retail/handcrafted goods and local community focus. It's the perfect place to browse for a unique Memphis-themed gift or a custom shirt that celebrates the city. Their curated selection of local artists' work sets them apart from typical souvenir shops. If you want to support local makers and find something truly Memphis, Feelin' Memphis delivers.
Shop Comparison:
- Pro: Curated selection of local art and handmade goods
- Con: Limited custom apparel options compared to dedicated print shops
- Pricing: Not explicitly listed; typical gift shop pricing for souvenirs and local art
#4 R&D Special Creations LLC
A screenshot of the R&D Special Creations LLC website.
R&D Special Creations LLC is a Memphis-based shop that creates custom t-shirts, handcrafted items, and party treats. They emphasize personalized service and local community engagement, positioning themselves as a small, hands-on retailer of unique, made-to-order goods. Whether you need a custom shirt for a family reunion or a batch of party favors, they work with you one-on-one to get it right. Their blend of apparel and edible gifts makes them a one-stop shop for events. It's the kind of place where the owner might hand-deliver your order if you're nearby.
Shop Comparison:
- Pro: Combines apparel, handcrafted goods, and treats under one roof
- Con: Limited online presence; best to call or visit
- Pricing: Custom quote-based; contact for details
#5 Shotwell Candy Co.
A screenshot of the Shotwell Candy Co. website.
Shotwell Candy Co. is a Memphis-based handmade gourmet caramel and toffee company founded in 2012. They offer custom gift boxes, party packs, favor bags, and corporate gifts. Their small-batch, handcrafted production directly overlaps with R&D's party treats and custom gift offerings. If you need edible party favors or a sweet corporate gift, Shotwell Candy Co. is the go-to. Their pricing is transparent, with gift boxes ranging from $15 to $50 and party packs around $40-$60. Free shipping over $75 makes it easy to order for events.
Shop Comparison:
- Pro: Transparent pricing and free shipping threshold
- Con: No custom apparel; strictly food gifts
- Pricing: Gift boxes $15-$50 range; party packs ~$40-$60; free shipping over $75
How to Choose the Right Memphis Shop for Your Needs
Start by defining what you need. If it's custom t-shirts with no minimums and a personal touch, R&D Special Creations or The Shirt Place are your best bets. For low-quantity screen printing, Think Threads offers a low minimum. If you're after a gift that screams Memphis, Feelin' Memphis has the local art and souvenirs. And for edible treats, Shotwell Candy Co. is unmatched. Consider turnaround time, budget, and whether you want a one-stop shop or a specialist. Most of these shops are happy to chat on the phone to discuss your project.
Automating Your Custom Order Workflow
While these shops are hands-on, you can streamline your ordering process. Start by gathering your design files and quantities. Use a shared folder or email to send specs. Many shops offer online quote forms. For repeat orders, set up a template with your logo and preferred shirt styles. If you're ordering party treats, Shotwell Candy Co. has an easy online ordering system. For apparel, call ahead to confirm turnaround. A little prep goes a long way in getting your order done quickly.
The Bottom Line on Memphis' Custom Shops
Memphis is lucky to have such a vibrant community of small shops dedicated to custom apparel, handcrafted goods, and party treats. Whether you choose R&D Special Creations for its all-in-one convenience, The Shirt Place for its experience, or Shotwell Candy Co. for its sweets, you're supporting local makers who care about quality. The next time you need a custom order, skip the big online printers and give one of these Memphis shops a try. You'll get a better product and a better experience.