By Olivier, project manager at Flare Custom · Updated June 2026. The digital proof (BAT) shows the exact look of your jersey. But some clubs want to go further: to see and touch a real piece before equipping the whole squad. It is possible — here is how, with Flare Custom, a European brand of custom sportswear made in Bulgaria (EU).
To remove any last doubts: to judge how the colours really look on the fabric, the cut, the comfort and the quality of the sublimation, in real conditions. It is especially useful for a large order, an ambitious new design, or when several people need to approve.
Since we produce from a single piece, the prototype is simply a first item made from your approved design. You receive it, you test it, and you launch the full run with complete confidence. That is the advantage of flexible, nearby production: no need for large volumes to get a real sample.
The prototype is charged at the single-piece unit price. And you get it back if you then order the full run in the same design: from 10 pieces, 50% of the prototype price is refunded; from 100 pieces, it is refunded in full (100%). The refund applies to the prototype price (excluding the design fee and shipping) and is credited on the production order that follows. In other words: on a team order the prototype costs you next to nothing — and nothing at all from 100 pieces. The exact terms are stated on your quote. See pricing.
For most orders, the digital proof is more than enough: it locks in the artwork, the text, the colours and the positions. The physical prototype is a reassurance "extra", not a requirement. If your project is simple and your file is clean, the proof does the job. If it is ambitious or involves a large budget, the prototype can be worth it.
Once the prototype is approved, we start production of the run (2 to 4 weeks after approval, or express), then ship with tracking. You can reorder in the same design at any time, from a single piece. See lead times et kitting out your club: the guide.
From idea to jersey made in Europe — from 1 piece. You approve a proof before production.
