There’s nothing quite as heart-melting as a baby wearing a custom onesie. But for creative entrepreneurs, Etsy sellers, and small businesses, these tiny garments offer more than just cuteness—they’re an opportunity to make meaningful keepsakes, build a brand, and create items parents will treasure forever.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about designing, creating, and selling custom baby onesies—whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow your babywear brand.
Why Custom Baby Onesies Are a Big Deal
Emotional Value That Lasts
Custom baby onesies often become sentimental keepsakes. Whether it’s a funny quote, a name, or a birth date, these garments hold memories. Customers love giving and receiving them as gifts for baby showers, newborn photo shoots, or holidays.
Boosting Brand Visibility
If you run a business, adding your custom baby designs to platforms like Etsy or your own shop can help build awareness and loyalty. New parents love sharing cute outfits on social media—hello, free marketing!
Spreading a Message
You can print safety reminders, milestones, or funny slogans on your custom onesies. For example, messages like “Back is Best” or “Don’t forget to burp me!” can be both useful and hilarious.
How to Design the Perfect Custom Baby Onesie
Start With a Vision
Think about your target audience. Are you creating funny onesies for trendy parents? Sentimental gifts for grandparents? Matching family sets? Your designs should reflect your niche.
Design Tips for Custom Baby Apparel
Here are some creative ideas to help your custom onesies stand out:
- Imprint styles: Start simple with one-color designs or go bold with full-color sublimation prints.
- Color options: Pick onesie colors that complement your design or match seasonal trends.
- Cute quotes: Sayings like “Milk Drunk,” “Mommy’s Little MVP,” or “Handpicked for Earth by My Sibling in Heaven” are always popular.
- Graphics and logos: Add icons, baby animals, or even your Etsy shop branding.
Choosing the Right Fabric & Fit
Baby-Approved Fabrics
When designing custom baby onesies, always prioritize softness and safety:
- 100% Cotton: Gentle and breathable—great for everyday use.
- Cotton-Poly Blends: Soft with added durability for active little ones.
- Tri-blend: Lightweight and trendy for boutique-style onesies.
Sizes Matter
Onesies typically range from newborn to 24 months. Knowing the age range of your customers’ babies will help you stock and design smarter.
Our Favorite Blanks for Custom Baby Onesies
Looking for high-quality blank onesies to customize? These are top picks for screen printing, embroidery, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), or sublimation:
- The Laughing Giraffe® Poly-Cotton Luxe Bodysuit
- The Laughing Giraffe® 100% Cotton Short Sleeve Bodysuit
- Rabbit Skins® Infant Long Sleeve Bodysuit
- BELLA+CANVAS® Infant Tri-Blend Bodysuit
- Rabbit Skins® Baby Rib Bodysuit
- Gerber® Long Sleeve Onesies® Brand
These blanks offer the perfect base for your personalized babywear business.
How to Market Your Custom Baby Onesies
Once your products are ready, it’s time to show the world!
Social Media
Post cute baby pics, behind-the-scenes reels, and customer shout-outs. Instagram and Pinterest are perfect platforms for visual baby products.
Email Marketing
Send out newsletters with gift ideas, discount codes, or new arrivals. Target expecting parents, grandparents, and baby shower shoppers.
Partner Locally
Connect with pediatric clinics, baby boutiques, or hospitals to offer branded onesies or donation programs. Giving back builds trust and brand loyalty.
Ready to Start Selling Custom Baby Onesies?
Whether you’re crafting for fun, selling on Etsy, or launching a full babywear brand, custom baby onesies offer an adorable way to connect with families and grow your creative business.
Start with quality blanks, get creative with your designs, and make sure your product is baby-safe and parent-approved. With a little effort and a lot of love, your custom creations will be making memories (and sales) in no time.