Thinking of starting a t-shirt company?
It seems key to realise that designing a t-shirt is more than just drawing a design on a blank canvas. There can be restrictions, as there are with any art, but for the most part you have the freedom to create stunning designs. What some entrepreneurs fail to realise is that slapping some ink on a shirt and attempting to create a kick ass website doesn't add up to a solid business plan and future interest and sales. It’s only a fraction of what it takes to start and run a clothing line.
Rule #1: Think!
Probably the most important and most obvious is to THINK. Inspiration can be easy, but can also be detrimental. Your over flowing Inspiration can cause rash or spur-of-the-moment decisions. You will need to let things soak in, but on the other hand, don’t doubt yourself. There is a fine line and only your individuality and experience will help you draw the line.
Rule #2: Planning Is Key
It is extremely important as a BRAND to gain attention, some Brands find attention through luck and other platforms that aren't always available to the everybody. That is not saying that you shouldn't expect great thing just baby steps will get you there in the end.
This is why planning is so essential from day one, always be prepared to take notes and document write down absolutely everything. Your business plan is critical there are now many online resources which can help you along the way. It is not obvious how your Brand will perform not on day one or ever which is why a Solid Plan, Objectives. Goals and a PLAN so important so start with this now.
Rule #3: The Brand
What is your BRAND? it's your logo, this will define you in the market place. Your colours and style are important. Are you a Fresh, Chic, Edgy maybe you are all 3 which is fine as long as it's telling who you are.
Luckily you haven't got to be a legend of graphic design to start your own T-Shirt Brand. But a small word of advice is to learn the basics which will help you to understand limitations and potential pit falls.
Rule #4: Funding
Save some money to get you started, if you’re putting it on a credit cards, try to make sure you 0% APR and keep track of everything it will make your life easier over time.
Start with a business bank account and keep track of your money In & Out. Keep all statements, receipts from your orders, etc. Stock take everything Tee's, packaging right down to stamps. EVERYTHING.
Rule #5: Start Small
Creating your own BRAND is about establishing a following. To gain a following, you have to have your own style and identity. Don't try to use someone else's design, mimic or copycat it will not work in the long run. Try to stick with a few initial designs to start.
Try to build a following by getting people excited about your company and brand, try starting by using all that hard work you put into the BRAND by putting out a logo shirt. A key is to get people to engage with your product and become fans. These people need to be your army and shout from the roof tops. Start small put out a couple of designs and a logo shirt this will also help keep your costs down.
Rule #6: Find The Best PRINTER.
We need say no more on this http://www.embroidered-printed-clothing.co.uk/ start as you mean to go on with the Gillette of Printers (The Best A Man Can Get) or woman ;-) you remember the advert.
T-Shirt Printer
When it comes to screen printing find a solid company that you can work with but also that can work with you.
Rule #7: Money. NOT The Same As Working Capital.
It is impossible to build a successful business without giving it the required amount of time. When you rush to make money or subsidise your income it just doesn't work.
There are ways to cut costs you will find what works for you individually but I like swing tags which double as a business card, again you will need to do some research.
Rule #8: Websites Should Be User Friendly & Functional.
Initially your website doesn't have to be all singing all dancing, however it does need to be capable of doing what you need to give your customers an enjoyable shopping experience. All it really needs is to show off your products and your brand. Just make sure it works and is a true representation of who you are.
- The Homepage: A few vibrant images, links to your products & your social media links, etc are a good starting point.
- About your Brand/Company: Sometimes appears on the homepage or a separate link
- Gallery: Beautiful images of your product.
- Shop: This is a matter of opinion there are so many e-commerce solutions in the market, you will get what you either pay for or represents the effort you put in.
- FAQ and policies: FAQ always seem popular, you have seen them before and your policies, delivery, privacy etc
- Contact: A way for your customer to make contact.
In this day and age Facebook business page and a Twitter account are essential to reach a mass audience.
So let's recap make your website usable and fun, no need for O.T.T. and show a true representation of yourself.
Rule #9: Be Fresh
Be unique and original, don't be cheesy as a Brand and be who you are, try not to chase a trend or something that has already been done.
BE FRESH. Be the Brand to start the trend and once you master that run with it your success is only round the corner.
Rule #10: Enjoy
Just as important as all the other points raised is to enjoy yourself.
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This information has been taken from the web and experience of others we have used this as an interesting information baseline for starting your own T-Shirt Company.
