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No Design Experience? No Problem! Create Merch Like a Pro

It doesn’t take a four-year degree to make merch that’s true to you and your passions! DID YOU KNOW: You can create awesome merch with zero design experience!

Plenty of easy-to-use design tools are available to help you create your custom merch designs. Use them you to develop your niche design style and have fun brainstorming ideas that best suit you and your brand.

If you don’t have the creative brain power to come up with merch designs, it might be worth it to hire someone! Ask your family and friends if they know anyone with design experience. Or go it alone and seek out a designer with a stacked portfolio that suits your needs.

Learn more about why you don’t need to be a professional designer to create quality, custom merch!

FREE Design Options That Are Easy to Use

Design tools like Adobe can be such a pain to figure out; even the pros have problems. It goes to show you don’t need fancy design software to make standout merch designs. We personally think tools like Canva can fulfill any and all your design needs.

Canva has lots of ready-made graphics and text options for making special designs. Find designs that suit your niche simply by typing keywords into the search bar, like “gaming”, “retro” or “dance”. These specific, niche designs will look great on all kinds of merch: stickers, water bottles, totes. An easy design like this will help to elevate the overall look of your shop.

And it’s easy to upload any designs you make in Canva directly into your Spreadshop. Download them as a transparent or solid background and in whatever dimensions you please.

Canva also lets you upload any brand colors you have to help you create designs that create a cohesive look. Use their brand kit tool to unlock this customization factor. This makes it easy to tweak designs that appeal to your overall aesthetic.

When using text in your designs, it’s important to show movement or offer some form of self-expression. You can easily curve your text or arrange it in different shapes. These simple tweaks will heighten your merch designs instantly.

Phone a Friend

If you don’t want to use design tools, ask family and friends if they know someone that has design experience. A young designer or college student would be the perfect person to satisfy your needs and complete your vision.

“Merch designer” is a title that looks great on a resume. You can make it known you’re looking for someone by posting on relevant Facebook groups for local artists or graphic designers. Or do it the old fashioned way: put up posters on bulletin boards around your community. Seek out local colleges and libraries.

This can also be a great learning experience for your merch line. You’ll be able to collaborate with someone who knows how to design. And they can help you decipher what does/doesn’t work for your merch designs!

Seek Out A Professional

If you need a designer with more experience, look into a service like Fiverr. They have thousands of designers ready to fulfill your requests. Type in “t-shirt design” or “merch design” into the search bar and you’ll find plenty of designers with different specialties. You can narrow it down from there.

Try to be specific with what you want. Maybe you just need a logo for your business. Are you looking for a bundle of similar graphics? This will make it easier to find a designer that meets your needs.

Also helpful to see what work they’ve already previously created. You’ll know immediately whether their style resonates with you or not. And cost shouldn’t be an issue since a lot of designers have affordable rates.

Our design service has a team of in-house designers ready to fulfill your requests. They can bring your ideas to life for a flat fee of $19.99.

Get your design in 4 easy steps:

Fill in the form below and let us know a) where you want to use the design, and b) what you want it to look like.
Attach your file to the form. Possible file formats are jpg, png, gif, bmp, eps, ai cdr, svg, psd or pdf.
Go to your shopping basket and place your order.
After 3-5 workdays you will receive the finished graphic design file via e-mail.

Stick to Your Niche

Your merch line is nothing without a niche, which could truly be anything: women’s sports, camping, stargazing, etc. Your niche provides you with focus and allows you to fully engage with your target audience. This way, you won’t have to worry about making merch designs that appeal to everybody.

We’ve seen plenty of shop owners showcase their niche with simple merch designs. Mila the Chi is a great example. Mila is a chihuahua with a voice and flair all her own. Her merch is cute and captures the persona that people get from her content.

Use insider phrases or terms in your merch designs, it’s a great way to capitalize on your niche. Your audience will appreciate the specificity of your merch and be proud to wear it. You’ll be creating custom apparel and accessories that people in your niche can’t find anywhere else. And you must not be a professional designer to achieve that.

Now it’s time to start designing your merch! Open your own Spreadshop for FREE today.

How to Create and Sell Merch Without Feeling Like a Sellout

how to create merch without being a sellout

We know the idea of selling products like merch to your followers might seem cringey, but it shouldn’t. As a content creator, there’s a way to make and sell your own merch without feeling like a sellout.

Spreadshop offers a unique experience for you to showcase your creativity while still making money. And we’re all about promoting shop owners’ passions and obscure, niche interests. At the end of the day, passion-fueled merch will help you connect with your community (not drive them away!).

You don’t need to use flimsy trends to market your merch – anyone can do that. People will support your content and buy your merch when you’re authentic and make designs that speak to them. Here are some tips to help you create and sell your merch without “selling out”!

Talking to Your Audience

You shouldn’t feel like you have to sell your merch to everyone – that’s not an efficient or effective marketing strategy. You need to think about your audience: their interests, their needs. Keep that in mind when picking out your products and making designs.

When you create products your followers love, you’re not a sellout.

Power in Your Niche

Selling your merch feels natural when you have a niche. This can help you define your audience and their interests. At Spreadshop, we have hundreds of shops devoted to their own unique niches. You might not have heard of some of the niches – magnet fishing, bushcraft survival – but they have their own devoted followings.

Having a niche can provide shop owners with a clear sense of direction and purpose. By defining a specific niche for your merch, you can avoid feeling lost or overwhelmed in the marketplace. Understand your target audience and their needs. This will help you customize your products and marketing strategies to better serve them.

Make “Add to Cart” Easy

Think about what kind of merch your audience would love and appreciate in their everyday lives. This could include products like mugs, stickers, classic T-shirts. When your merch serves a purpose or fulfills a need, it feels more valuable and doesn’t require a sales pitch.

When designing your merch and social media posts, it’s crucial to connect with an audience who understands your point of view. This connection allows for a deeper level of understanding and appreciation for your content.

Celebrate Your Community

Make your merch a celebration of your community. Highlight follower contributions, share customer stories, and create designs that honor the space you’ve created with them. This sense of community strengthens the bond between you and your audience and makes your merch feel like a collective achievement.

Connect with your target audience and design based on their interests and your brand’s identity. This will help you avoid feeling like you are just trying to make a sale. Your merch will become a natural and valued part of your connection with your followers, enhancing their loyalty and support.

Talking to your target audience allows you to have meaningful conversations without being money-motivated. It’s as simple as a t-shirt; to start with.

Marketing Made Personal

You don’t need to create a fancy sales pitch to sell your merch. The key is to be genuine and relatable.

If you have a dedicated following – no matter how substantial in size – there’s got to be a reason. Think about how you would talk to a friend about your products and designs. People are more likely to be drawn to your merch if they see that you truly believe in it. That excitement becomes palpable.

So, ditch the elaborate sales pitch and focus on building genuine connections with your customers. By promoting your merch in a friendly and authentic way, you’ll not only attract more buyers, but you’ll also build a loyal customer base who appreciate your honesty and passion for what you do.

Tell a Story

Story-telling is a great marketing tactic. Instead of just posting a link to your merch shop and telling your followers to go click it, share the story behind your merch.

Why did you create a particular design? What inspired you? Maybe it’s a favorite quote, a meaningful graphic, or from a collaboration with another creator.

When your audience understands the story and effort behind your merchandise, they are more likely to emotionally connect with it. That connection turns into purchases they can feel good about.

Engage with Your Followers

Create an experience for your followers with your merch marketing. Use polls, Q&A sessions, or live streams to get your audience involved.

Ask for their feedback on designs, colors, or products. This not only makes them feel valued but also provides you with valuable feedback. When people see that their input matters, they’re more invested in the final product.

Offer Limited Editions or Exclusives

Create a sense of exclusivity and urgency by offering limited edition items or special promotional offers. This makes your merch feel more special and desirable. Just make sure not to overdo it – scarcity should enhance the value, not feel like a pressure tactic.

At Spreadshop, we run exclusive promos every month, like FREE SHIPPING and 25% off, that you can use to encourage purchases.

Make Designs That Resonate

Having great designs is key to generating merch sales. You want designs that you’re proud of and will speak to your audience.

But how can you interpret your niche into your merch shop without selling out?

1. Use Feedback From Your Followers

Listen to your audience. Conduct polls, surveys, or ask for direct feedback through social media. Pay attention to what they like and dislike about your current content and any existing merch. This will give you insights into their preferences and help guide your design choices.

2. Use Relevant Symbols and Phrases

Integrate symbols, phrases, or inside jokes that are meaningful to your community. These elements can create a sense of belonging and make your merch feel special. For example, a catchphrase you use often or something that frequently appears in your content makes for a perfect design.

3. Keep It Simple

Simple, clean designs can have the most impact. Avoid overcrowding your designs with too many elements. Focus on clarity and readability. A well-executed, minimalist design is more appealing than a complex one.

4. Focus on Quality

Quality is key. At Spreadshop, we invest in high-quality materials and printing techniques. Your audience will appreciate well-made products that look good and last long. Quality merch reflects positively on your brand and can lead to repeat customers.

If you’re still having trouble coming up with designs, consult a designer from our Design Service. One of our in-house designers will help you bring your vision to life within 3-5 workdays.

Selling merch doesn’t make you a sellout! If anything, it only strengthens the connection between you and your audience.

Want to create and sell your own merch? Open your own Spreadshop for FREE today!

How-to: Legal information on the Olympic & Paralympic Games and UEFA EURO 2024

Major sporting events are the perfect occasion for your designs. Read more to find out what you need to bear in mind in terms of trademark law. Read more

Make Merch: The FREE Solution to Scale Your Small Business

Merch allows you to grow your small business without taking on any risk, while still reaping all the financial benefits. And merch is more than just T-Shirts. Selling merch can help your small business make a positive impact in your community and beyond.

With Spreadshop, you can customize 250+ products with your designs at NO COST. Ever. You earn from every item you sell and can connect directly with potential supporters and partners.

In short, merch can have a big impact on your small business. It’s simple to use for marketing and promotions, and it helps you create buzz for your brand on your own terms.

Learn more about how to start selling merch for your small business and the many benefits!

Why Spreadshop?

Making merch with Spreadshop is a hassle-free process thanks to our print on demand business model. We print, ship, and fulfill all orders for you! It doesn’t cost a thing to use our service – no start-up fees ever. And you don’t have to worry about housing inventory or fitting order fulfillment into your busy schedule.

We do everything in-house and on an on-demand basis which means you won’t generate excess waste with your merch. The process of making and selling merch has never been easier.

How it works:

Set up your FREE shop and upload unlimited designs.
Customize 250+ products: T-shirts, hoodies, caps, stickers, etc.
Sell merch and earn from every sale.
The rest is on us: Printing, packaging, shipment, and payment.

Spreadshop takes care of all the heavy-lifting so you can focus on the fun stuff; like customizing your shop! Personalize your shop with your logo, brand colors, and imagery that highlights the goal/mission of your small business. Experiment with different designs and the way you customize your products.

And you don’t have to be a professional designer to make standout small business merch.

Making Your Merch Designs

You might not realize it, but you already have some great designs in your back pocket that you can use to make your merch.

Logos and brand graphics are great for merch designs. They look good on any merch: T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and more. These are easy designs to promote your brand.

If you wish to infuse some more personality into your merch designs, you’ve got to think outside the box. Think about sayings or relevant quotes that tie into your message. Or come up with a unique symbol that can represent your brand.

Canva is a great tool for creating designs, especially if you’re not an experienced designer. They have a FREE version with an extensive library of graphics and fonts to help you create unique designs.

Willing to pay a little extra for something more professional? Our design service will take your ideas and bring them to life for a flat rate fee of $19.99.

Get your design in 4 easy steps:

Fill in the form below and let us know a) where you want to use the design, and b) what you want it to look like.
Attach your file to the form. Possible file formats are jpg, png, gif, bmp, eps, ai cdr, svg, psd or pdf.
Go to your shopping basket and place your order.
After 3-5 workdays you will receive the finished graphic design file via e-mail.

Build Brand Awareness

One of the best perks of merch: the ability to raise awareness. Having people out in the world wearing your merch – now talk about a walking billboard for your business. You can officially wave goodbye to hefty marketing budgets and ad campaigns. And you don’t have to be an established business to start building your brand.

Merch makes it easier for people to recognize your brand and form a connection. When someone wears your merch, there’s an opportunity to have meaningful conversations and connections. All it takes is someone to ask, “What’s that on your shirt?”, or, “Where’d you get that water bottle?”, to bring awareness to your business.

More than building your brand, merch helps to solidify your small business. People will view you as a trusted source because of it. It gives credibility to your business and shows you care enough to spread your message even further.

Merch helps create a consistent brand image, making you more attractive to customers and partners. At the end of the day, it’s about sharing your story and spreading your message in a visible and tangible way.

A Great Promotional Tool

If you’re looking for new ways to promote your business, merch is an efficient marketing strategy. Something extra, like merch, can make an impact across your social channels and within your community.

Running a merch giveaway is an easy way to generate interest in your business. Ask people to follow you. Invite them to join an email list. Offer a promo code for a contest to win free merchandise.

At Spreadshop, we run exclusive promos every month to incentivize your followers and supporters to buy your merch. Advertise these promos in your latest newsletter and on your socials to help raise money and support your small business.

Merch can also make a great impact when attending local conferences or gatherings. It can leave a lasting impression on whoever passes by your table and invite conversations. If you have a storefront, carve out a section in your space where you can proudly display your merch. This is an opportunity to make the traditional business-customer relationship more personal.

Merch is an attractive opportunity to small businesses on multiple levels. You can brand your business, connect with partners and customers, and make a positive impact in your local community.

And Spreadshop gives you all the tools you need to success in the merch game. Start to scale your business and earn with merch when you open your FREE Spreadshop!

Eco-Friendly Merch: The Benefits of 100% Cotton T-Shirts

Being environmentally consciousness of the clothes you wear is more important than ever. What you decide to wear does have an impact on the planet, like it or not.

This has created a growing demand for sustainable clothing options. One standout material in the realm of eco-friendly fashion: 100% cotton.

Renowned for its natural, biodegradable properties and unmatched comfort, 100% cotton t-shirts offer a multitude of benefits that make them a smart choice for both the environmentally conscious and the fashion-savvy.

In this blog, we’ll explore the numerous advantages of incorporating 100% cotton t-shirts into your wardrobe, from their positive environmental impact to their health and comfort benefits. Join us on a journey to discover why 100% cotton t-shirts are a cornerstone of sustainable fashion.

100% Cotton: Defined

When you see the label “100% cotton” on a t-shirt, it means that it’s made entirely from natural cotton fibers, with no synthetic blends or additives. But what does that mean for you and other consumers?

1. Pure and Natural: 100% cotton fabric is composed entirely of fibers derived from the cotton plant. This means it’s free from synthetic elements like polyester, nylon, or spandex. The fabric retains the natural benefits and properties of the cotton fibers.

2. Biodegradable and Sustainable: Cotton is a renewable resource that, when grown organically, can have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic materials. 100% cotton is biodegradable, which means it decomposes naturally without releasing harmful substances into the environment. This makes it a more sustainable choice.

3. Comfort and Breathability: One of the most celebrated qualities of 100% cotton is its comfort. Cotton fibers are naturally soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. This makes 100% cotton t-shirts ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Cotton is breathable and helps regulate body temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter.

4. Durability and Longevity: 100% cotton t-shirts are known for their durability. When properly cared for, they can withstand numerous washes without losing their shape or comfort. This longevity means you won’t need to bring new clothes into your closet as often.

5. Versatility and Style: Cotton comes in a variety of fabrics, from lightweight and airy to thick and sturdy. This means 100% cotton t-shirts can be styled for any occasion, whether you’re dressing up for a night out or opting for a casual, everyday look.

Environmental Benefits of 100% Cotton

Choosing 100% cotton t-shirts over synthetic alternatives has numerous environmental benefits. Cotton is a natural fiber grown from the earth, not made in a lab. This is why it has many benefits. This fundamental difference sets the stage for cotton’s lower environmental impact.

Cotton farming, especially when done organically, tends to have a reduced ecological footprint. Organic cotton farming avoids the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can be harmful to the environment. Instead, it relies on natural methods and sustainable farming practices that promote soil health. This means fewer chemicals leaching into the soil and waterways, which benefits surrounding ecosystems and communities.

Additionally, cotton is a biodegradable material. Unlike synthetic fibers like polyester – which can take hundreds of years to decompose – cotton breaks down naturally over time. This significantly reduces the amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills. By choosing 100% cotton, you are helping to reduce the volume of persistent waste that clogs up landfills and harms the environment.

The production of cotton also has the potential to be more energy-efficient than synthetic fabric production. Synthetic fibers come from petroleum and need energy-intensive processes that increase carbon emissions. In contrast, the process of growing and harvesting cotton, particularly when done sustainably, can be less energy-intensive and more environmentally friendly.

Cotton’s natural properties allow it to be produced and processed with fewer harmful chemicals and dyes, especially when compared to synthetic fabrics. This reduces the chemical runoff that can pollute water sources and harm aquatic life. Sustainable cotton production often includes practices such as crop rotation and reduced tillage, which help maintain soil fertility and reduce erosion.

By wearing 100% cotton t-shirts, you are making a choice that supports a healthier planet. The environmental benefits of cotton extend from the fields where it is grown to the closets where it is worn, making it a cornerstone of eco-friendly fashion.

A Staple in Your Wardrobe

One of the best reasons to buy and sell 100% cotton t-shirts: their durability and long lifespan. When it comes to everyday wear and tear, 100% cotton will last over time. It’s a worthwhile investment for any wardrobe.

Cotton fibers are inherently strong and durable, which contributes to the longevity of 100% cotton t-shirts. Unlike synthetic materials, which can degrade and lose their integrity after repeated use and washing, cotton fibers remain robust. This durability means that cotton t-shirts can withstand frequent laundering without significant deterioration. They maintain their shape, color, and texture for much longer periods.

The weave of cotton fabric also plays a crucial role in its durability. High-quality 100% cotton t-shirts are often crafted with tightly woven fibers that resist fraying and tearing. This tight weave not only enhances the shirt’s strength but also helps it retain its appearance and comfort through many cycles of wear and wash. Over time, cotton t-shirts develop a soft, worn-in feel without compromising the structure of the t-shirt.

Proper care can further extend the lifespan of 100% cotton t-shirts. Simple practices like washing in cold water, using gentle detergents, and avoiding excessive heat during drying help to prevent shrinkage and maintain the fabric’s quality. Turning shirts inside out before washing can help protect the outer surface from friction and fading. By following these care guidelines, cotton t-shirts can continue to look and feel great, even after years of regular use.

In comparison to synthetic fabrics like polyester, which can suffer from pilling, loss of elasticity, and a buildup of odors over time, 100% cotton t-shirts age gracefully. They resist pilling, a common issue with synthetic fibers where small balls of fiber form on the surface of the fabric. Cotton’s natural fibers also allow for better airflow and moisture absorption, reducing the accumulation of odors and maintaining a fresher feel.

The durability of 100% cotton t-shirts also makes them an environmentally friendly choice. Because they last longer, there is less need for frequent replacement, which reduces the overall consumption and waste of clothing. Investing in high-quality cotton t-shirts contributes to a more sustainable wardrobe.

Why 100% Cotton T-Shirts Are a Must-Have Merch Item

When it comes to selecting merch items for your shop, 100% cotton t-shirts are a versatile, popular, and high-quality option. Their inherent benefits make them an excellent choice for creating a lasting impression on your customers and ensuring your brand is at it’s best.

Since 100% cotton t-shirts are renowned for their comfort and breathability, this makes them a desirable item for customers who prioritize comfort in their clothing. The soft, natural fibers of cotton provide a pleasant feel against the skin, which works as a great marketing tool. Offering such comfortable merch can enhance customer satisfaction and increase the likelihood of repeat purchases.

In addition to comfort, the durability of 100% cotton t-shirts is a significant advantage. They’re made to last, withstanding regular wear and frequent washing without losing their shape or softness. This longevity means that customers will associate your brand with quality and reliability, as your merch will continue to look good and feel comfortable long after their initial purchase. This can lead to increased brand visibility, as durable items are worn more often and for longer periods.

The versatility of 100% cotton t-shirts is another compelling reason to include them in your merch lineup. They are suitable for a wide range of printing techniques, allowing for vibrant and long-lasting designs. Whether you’re showcasing your logo, a unique design, or a promotional message, cotton provides an excellent canvas that holds color well and maintains the integrity of the print. This flexibility makes it easy to create a variety of designs to appeal to different customer preferences.

100% cotton t-shirts align with the growing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. As more customers seek to make environmentally conscious purchasing decisions, offering cotton t-shirts can help position your shop as a responsible and forward-thinking brand. Highlighting the natural, biodegradable properties of cotton and its lower environmental impact compared to synthetic fabrics can attract eco-minded customers and enhance your shop’s reputation.

Stocking 100% cotton t-shirts also provides an opportunity for creative branding. Customization options are virtually limitless, allowing you to tailor designs to specific events, promotions, or seasonal themes. This adaptability ensures that your merchandise stays fresh and relevant, encouraging customers to return to your shop to see what’s new.

Incorporating 100% cotton t-shirts into your wardrobe and merch offerings presents numerous advantages, from their exceptional comfort and breathability to their environmental sustainability and durability. These t-shirts not only offer a pleasant wearing experience but also align with the growing demand for eco-friendly fashion.

By choosing 100% cotton, you support sustainable practices and enjoy a versatile, long-lasting garment that enhances both personal style and brand reputation. Make the conscious choice today and experience the myriad benefits that 100% cotton t-shirts bring to your everyday life and business.

Open your FREE Spreadshop and start selling 100% cotton t-shirts and more merch today.