5 Best Paid Apps for Custom Apparel Design

India's custom apparel industry is booming, and quality design tools are key to standing out. While free apps are common, paid tools provide advanced features like high-resolution exports, professional templates, and precise editing options. Here are five top apps for creating professional apparel designs:

• Procreate: Best for hand-drawn graphics on iPad; ₹999 (one-time).
• Adobe Photoshop Express: Great for photo editing; freemium with in-app purchases.
• Placeit: Ideal for mockups and templates; ₹1,250/month or ₹7,500/year.
• Canva Pro: Easy-to-use templates; ₹499/month or ₹3,999/year.
• Affinity Designer: Advanced vector tools for iPad; ₹1,999 (one-time).

Quick Comparison

Choose based on your design needs, budget, and preferred platform. These tools help create high-quality apparel designs for personal or business use.

Best Apps for Clothes Design

1. Procreate

Procreate is a standout tool for digital illustration, widely embraced by professional designers who specialise in custom apparel graphics. Designed exclusively for the iPad, this app transforms your tablet into a complete digital art studio. Whether you're designing t-shirts, hoodies, or other custom apparel, Procreate offers the tools to bring your ideas to life.

Customisation Options

Procreate comes loaded with a vast array of tools that give designers the freedom to create. With hundreds of brushes available - ranging from realistic pencils and markers to textured brushes that mimic fabric and paint effects - the app caters to a variety of artistic styles. What's more, you can even create your own custom brushes to develop a signature look.

The app's layering system is a game-changer for apparel design. It allows you to separate elements like text, graphics, and backgrounds into individual layers. This makes it easy to tweak colours, reposition elements, or experiment with variations of your design. Advanced features like selection tools and blending modes help you create polished, professional-level artwork that looks fantastic on clothing.

While Procreate doesn’t include built-in templates, its flexibility more than makes up for it. You can import garment mockups and design directly on them, giving you full creative control over your project. This approach ensures you're not restricted by pre-set templates and can tailor every detail to your vision.

Platform Compatibility

Procreate is exclusively available for iOS devices, specifically the iPad and iPhone. The iPad version stands out as the most feature-rich, making it the preferred choice for professional work. However, this exclusivity means Android users won't have access to the app, which could be a drawback for some. For those with an iPad, Procreate offers seamless performance and takes full advantage of the Apple Pencil's precision for intricate designs.

Pricing

Procreate operates on a one-time purchase model, priced at approximately ₹999 on the Indian App Store. This makes it a budget-friendly option compared to subscription-based apps, as you pay once and own the app outright. With no recurring fees, it’s particularly appealing to freelance designers and small businesses aiming to keep costs in check while still accessing high-quality design tools.

Export Quality

When it comes to exporting, Procreate supports high-resolution formats like PNG, JPEG, PSD, and TIFF. The ability to export layered PSD files is especially useful for collaborating with vendors or making adjustments later. For apparel printing, it’s recommended to set your canvas at 300 DPI to ensure your designs look sharp and vibrant on fabric. Procreate also handles large canvas sizes effortlessly, making it ideal for anything from small logos to oversized prints for hoodies or tees.

With a 4.7/5 rating on the App Store from over 2,60,000 users, Procreate has earned widespread acclaim for its professional tools, intuitive interface, and excellent value for money^[1]. Many Indian designers and entrepreneurs have embraced Procreate to craft unique, hand-drawn graphics that help their custom apparel stand out in a competitive market.

2. Adobe Photoshop Express

Adobe Photoshop Express brings the power of professional-grade editing right to your mobile device, making it a great choice for custom apparel design. Unlike Procreate's focus on freehand illustrations, this app excels at refining and enhancing existing images, staying true to Adobe's reputation for quality.

Customisation Options

When it comes to editing tools, Adobe Photoshop Express doesn’t disappoint. It offers precise selection tools, healing options, and advanced colour correction to help you fine-tune your designs. You’ll also find a variety of filters and effects to make your graphics pop. Want to go a step further? The app supports text overlays, collage creation, and custom effects, while border and frame options add a polished, professional finish to your work.

Platform Compatibility

The app works seamlessly across both iOS and Android devices. Plus, its integration with Adobe Creative Cloud lets you switch between devices without losing a beat.

Pricing

Adobe Photoshop Express follows a freemium model, giving you access to basic features for free while offering premium tools as in-app purchases.

Export Quality

When it’s time to finalise your design, the app allows you to export high-resolution files in JPEG, PNG, or PDF formats, ensuring your creations look flawless on fabric.

3. Placeit

Placeit is all about creating mockups and customisable templates, especially for apparel design. Unlike apps like Procreate or Photoshop Express, which focus on freehand illustration and image editing, Placeit simplifies the process of design visualisation. Instead of starting from scratch, you can see how your designs look on actual apparel through realistic mockups. Plus, it offers a range of ready-made templates that you can tweak to suit your brand's identity.

Customisation Options

The platform shines with its extensive library of apparel mockups and design templates. There are thousands of mockups showcasing various poses and settings, making it easy to find something that fits your needs. Using smart object technology, Placeit automatically applies your designs to mockups, complete with realistic shadows, wrinkles, and fabric textures. The template editor is intuitive, allowing you to tweak fonts, colours, and graphic elements without needing any advanced design know-how.

Want to personalise further? You can adjust colours, add text, upload your own graphics, and even modify background settings to align with your brand's aesthetic.

Platform Compatibility

Placeit operates as a web-based platform, which means you can access it through any browser on a desktop, tablet, or mobile device. While it doesn’t have dedicated apps for iOS or Android, its responsive web interface works seamlessly across devices, making it easy to create designs wherever you are.

Pricing

Placeit follows a subscription model priced at approximately ₹1,250 per month or ₹7,500 per year. For individual purchases, mockups are priced around ₹665, templates at ₹247, and video templates at about ₹832. As Bogdan Rancea, Founder and Lead Curator at ecomm.design, explains:

"Placeit offers one of the most straightforward pricing models in the design tool space - with just one main paid plan that gives you full access to everything." ^[2]

The annual plan is more economical, breaking down to roughly ₹625 per month.

"If you're building ecommerce stores or working in ecommerce design, Placeit is one of the most cost-effective tools available." ^[2]

Export Quality

Placeit delivers high-resolution exports suitable for both digital and print use. Mockups can be exported at resolutions up to 4000x4000 pixels, ensuring crisp, professional-quality results whether you’re designing for online stores or physical products. The platform supports PNG and JPEG formats, with PNG exports offering transparent backgrounds - perfect for integrating your designs into marketing materials or other projects.

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4. Canva Pro

Canva Pro is a popular choice for designing custom apparel, thanks to its straightforward drag-and-drop interface. You can easily add text, shapes, icons, and even upload your own images, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. While it offers a wide range of fonts, colours, and icons, it might not be the best fit for highly detailed or complex designs^[3]. This mix of simplicity and functionality makes it a practical option for many.

Pricing

One standout feature for Indian users is Canva Pro's local pricing. The platform adjusts its rates based on the country's currency and purchasing power, offering a noticeable discount in India^[4]. Currently, you can subscribe to Canva Pro for ₹499 per month per user or ₹3,999 annually. If you opt for the yearly plan, it averages out to about ₹333 per month - a significant saving compared to international rates^[4].

Export Quality

When it comes to exporting, Canva supports PNG and PDF formats. However, the resolution is relatively low, which might not be ideal for large-scale or highly detailed prints^[3]. Keep this in mind if you're planning to create designs for bigger projects.

5. Affinity Designer

Affinity Designer takes your design game to the next level with its precise vector tools and advanced image editing capabilities, all packed into a mobile-friendly app.

This vector graphics app brings desktop-level design features to mobile devices, making it an excellent choice for creating detailed logos, illustrations, and custom apparel graphics. If precision is your priority, this app has you covered.

Customisation Options

Affinity Designer offers a powerful suite of professional tools. From the pen tool for crafting custom shapes to precise node editing and seamless layer management, every feature is built for accuracy. The app's dual workspace lets you switch between vector and raster modes effortlessly, with support for multiple artboards. Whether you're designing a single logo or an entire apparel collection, this flexibility ensures your work is ready for any size or printing method. Plus, it’s tailored for iOS devices, making it smooth and efficient to use.

Platform Compatibility

Designed specifically for iOS, Affinity Designer is available for the iPad. It’s optimised to work with the Apple Pencil, giving you a natural and intuitive drawing experience for intricate designs.

Pricing

Affinity Designer is available for a one-time payment of ₹1,999 on the iPad. This lifetime access eliminates the need for monthly subscriptions, making it a budget-friendly choice for designers who want professional-grade tools without recurring costs.

Export Quality

When it comes to exporting, Affinity Designer doesn’t disappoint. It supports high-resolution exports in multiple formats, including PNG, JPEG, PDF, SVG, and EPS, ensuring your designs meet a variety of printing needs. Its vector exports maintain scalability, so your designs look sharp on everything from small logos to large prints. Additionally, the app supports CMYK colour profiles, ensuring your colours transition seamlessly from screen to fabric.

App Comparison Table

Here's a quick comparison of some popular apps, their platforms, and pricing details:

Conclusion

Choosing the right paid app comes down to your specific needs, skill level, and budget. It's also important to think about export standards and the devices you work with. Look for apps that offer print-ready quality and are compatible with your preferred devices.

For professional designers handling detailed projects, advanced tools like Adobe Photoshop Express or Affinity Designer are excellent options. These apps provide powerful features but may require more time to learn and come with higher price tags. On the other hand, if you're a beginner or someone who values quick, easy-to-use solutions, platforms like Canva Pro or Placeit offer fantastic template-based designs at more affordable rates.

If you're looking for a browser-based alternative, Custprint stands out as a practical choice tailored to the Indian market. Custprint's 'Create it' tool allows you to design personalised apparel online without needing to download an app. You can add text, images, logos, or clip art directly through your browser. With no minimum order requirements, clear pricing in Indian Rupees, and a simple four-step process from design to doorstep delivery, it’s a convenient option for both individuals and businesses aiming to create custom apparel effortlessly.

Ultimately, the best tool is the one that aligns with your workflow, technical know-how, and financial plan. Whether you go for a premium mobile app or an online platform, focus on solutions that integrate smoothly into your design process. These tools are essential for achieving high-quality, professional results in today’s competitive custom apparel market.

FAQs

What should I look for in a paid app for designing custom apparel?

When choosing a paid app for custom apparel design, prioritise user-friendliness, design tools, and affordability. Look for an app that's simple to navigate, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned designer, and packed with features like ready-to-use templates, text customisation options, and the ability to upload images - everything you need to craft eye-catching designs.

Another key factor is how well the app works with manufacturing or printing services. A seamless integration can save you time and effort in turning your designs into actual products. Finally, take a close look at the pricing. Make sure it fits your budget while offering solid features that justify the cost.

What export quality and file formats do top paid apps for custom apparel design offer?

Top-tier paid apps for custom apparel design come equipped with high-resolution export capabilities, ensuring your designs meet professional standards. They support popular file formats like PNG, JPEG, SVG, PDF, AI, and EPS, catering to both print and digital needs. For scalable designs, vector formats like AI and EPS are perfect, while raster formats such as PNG and JPEG work well for digital previews.

These apps also include export settings tailored for screen printing, digital printing, and embroidery, making it easier to match specific production methods. Some even support specialised formats like DXF and OBJ, which streamline integration with advanced manufacturing workflows.

Why would a designer choose one-time purchase apps like Procreate or Affinity Designer instead of subscription-based ones like Canva Pro?

Designers often gravitate towards one-time purchase apps like Procreate or Affinity Designer because they come with a straightforward advantage: pay once and own it forever. There’s no need to worry about recurring subscription fees, which can add up over time. For those who don’t need constant updates or access to the latest features, this can translate into significant savings in the long run.

Another perk? These apps typically work offline. This makes them a dependable choice in areas where internet connectivity can be spotty. For many users, the combination of affordability and ease of use makes one-time purchase apps a more appealing alternative to subscription-based options.