FAQ's for USA made mugs

What is included in the base price of your mugs?

A one-color imprint on one side using our standard silk-screen method. For multiple colors, second side imprints, optional finishes, etc., please request a quote by sending us your artwork and pricing request.

Where are these mugs made?

We produce our mugs in California. A decal on the bottom of the mug shows it is made in the USA. The decal will eventually wash away after use. Your imprint will not.

How much inventory do you carry?

We do not carry any inventory. Every order is made from scratch using our proprietary molds. Each mug is made from clay and high fired at 2200 degrees to prepare the mug for glazing. The mug is then glazed in the color or colors of your choice, in gloss or matte and fired again at 2200 degrees for brilliance. Your imprint is then applied via a direct silk-screened imprint or decal application depending on your artwork and then kiln fired again. 

How do you decorate your mugs?

Our standard imprint methods are silk-screen and decal. We offer three add-on finishes including speckling, rim halos and a cloud finish. In addition, we offer 3D medallion printing, sand blast and color fill, flocking and glitter finishes. Inquire for details.

When do you use a decal instead of a direct silk-screen imprint?

Decals are used wherever tight registration, alignment or fine detail in art may fill in or close up. Decals add to the base price of the mug when required. Decals may require a white underlay on colored mugs, if white is needed an extra color imprint and an extra set-up will be added. Less than minimums are not available for Decals. Decal Orders are subject to an overrun or underrun of up to 10%.

What colors do you have?

26 standard matte and gloss colors plus six premium colors available at an extra charge.  We can custom match other PMS colors with a 500-piece minimum. Extra charges apply.You can create an unlimited number of color combinations by using an optional two-tone finish with one color on the outside and another color on the inside. Inquire for details.

If I like a mug but not the handle, can I get a different handle?

Yes. Because we make our mugs and handles from scratch, on certain mugs this can be done. Please inquire for more details.

What is your minimum order quantity?

We can do as few as 72 units of any of our mugs as if it is a one-color imprint. Orders of 2 colors or more require 144 units and for four-color process or 4-6 spot colors, the minimum is 288. For over 6 spot colors, the minimum is 500.

Are your mugs dishwasher safe? What about the microwave?

Our mugs are top rack dishwasher safe and microwave safe.  Because we print with organic inks, hand wash is recommended. If you need to use our mugs in a commercial dishwasher, we do offer high temperature safe inks for our mugs in all states other than California.

Can you do full color?

Yes, we can do four-color process printing. Please inquire for pricing and details.

Are your mugs lead free?

All of our mugs and printing meets the lead-free requirements of Proposition 65.  High temperature inks suitable for commercial dishwashers are not. We cannot ship mugs using high temperature inks in California.

    How long does production take?  

Production is approximately 4 weeks after approval of art proofs. Shipping time is extra.

Why can’t I make a virtual sample on your website of the mug I want in the color I want?

The “Create Virtual Sample” feature on our website only works with the mug in the color shown. We offer FREE virtual renderings of your artwork on the mug in the color(s) you would like. Simply send us your click the “Request Info” button and upload your artwork at the top right hand area of the website reading “Upload Artwork”next to the Cart button

Can I get a sample?

Yes. Please request samples through the “request info” button on each product page. Or, send us an email at sales@brightwise.com. There is no charge for samples when working on a specific project.