Episode 175 - What You Need to Start a Custom T-Shirt Business (besides a printer)

Custom Apparel Startups

Oftentimes when people are shopping to start their t-shirt, embroidery or other customization business, the mind is one track. Which machine do I buy? How to I get the best one? How to I get the best deal? How fast can I get it?

But after this decision, many are left with a 'what's next?' mindset, unsure where to go. Further, others get frustrated that there might be more money to invest because they didn't get it all with their machine (didn't want to overspend, or trying to stay within a payment budget.)

So what's next? What do you need to start a customization business (besides a printer)?

Accessories & Add-ons

• Finishing Sheets
• Heat Temp Probe for heat press
• Teflon Sheets
• Hat / Mug heat press
• Scissors, tweezers, knife
• Vinyl Remover
• temp / humidity (so important)

Business Set up

• State License
• EIN
• Tax certificates
• Accountant
• Attorney

Accounting / Invoice / Credit Cards

• A way to take credit cards - stripe, square, paypal, local merchant service provider
• Managing the money - quickbooks, freshbooks, etc
• Business Bank account
• Business credit card / debit card (checks)

A Plan

• What is your niche?
• Who will you sell to? (and a sales plan)
• How will you produce goods?
• How will you price?
• How will you deliver? (and follow up)
• What times / days will you work?
• A 'Plan B'
• Have a business email

Space

• A place to work (desk / computer)
• A place to produce (tables, heat press, machines, boxing)
• Storage (place to keep ink, paper, shirts, mugs) (keep in mind how much that can be)
• Power

Organization

• For all of the above!
• Organize your plan
• Organize your workspace (digital and physical)
• Organize your finances

Help

• This is simple, and not. But if you need help, who will help you?
• Assistant?
• Accounting
• Production
• Sales

Overall you need a lot more than just a printer or an embroidery machine. Some of it is going to be an upfront cost, others are going to be a monthly cost or a down the road cost. Either way, if you are investing upfront (especially financing) get all you need while you are working on budgeting/financing, and plan for costs that are today or down the road. Lastly, besides $$ you also need to be mentally and physically prepared to make it happen!