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Custom Apparel Startups

Custom Apparel Startups

Von: Custom Apparel Startups
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 The Custom Apparel Startups podcast was started simply because we love both the apparel decorating business and the idea that almost anyone, with a small investment and a little dedication, cannot only start their own business but thrive! Our goal in starting CAS is to help educate apparel entrepreneurs about the business of the business, something often overlooked by people with an idea and a budget, but no business plan or experience behind them. We’ll be talking with the biggest names in the apparel decorating about things that are interesting and useful for all of you. Below are just a few topics we’ll be covering: Marketing Ideas Finance and Taxes Social Media eCommerce and Shopping Cart Software Pricing your work Managing inventory Equipment and Software UsesCopyright 2018 ColDesi, Inc. Management & Leadership Ökonomie
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  • Episode 203 - How to Compete in a Crowded DTF Market

    Episode 203 - How to Compete in a Crowded DTF Market
    Aug 15 2025
    Episode 203 - How to Compete in a Crowded DTF MarketIntro: The Shop Struggle
    • DTF is booming and more businesses are jumping in.
      • DTF is much easier than older methods like screen printing.
      • Barrier to entry is lower with 'production friendly' equipment under $15k.
      • Full-Digital Apparel that looks, feels and washes great is 'easy' to make.
    • If you're feeling squeezed on price, overwhelmed by competition, or stuck on how to grow this episode is for you.
    Why It Feels Crowded
    • Custom t-shirt businesses are more common than even just a decade ago.
    • People have a 'friend' or 'cousin' with a cricut.
    • Customer expectations are all over the place a "Why is this shirt $30 when the guy down the street sells it for $15?".
    • Social media makes everyone look busy, even if they aren't making money.
    The Good News
    • Just because everyone's cousin makes shirts, doesnt mean they are good at it.
    • Most 'side-hustlers' give up or cannot deliver.
    • The business isnt 'easy' so YOU putting in the work will be around when others won't.
    • The barrier to entry to be profitable is still high enough that its not for everyone.
    • You can still produce a high-quality custom logo apparel for the same price or cheaper than stores sell blank apparel.
    Avoid Common Traps
    • Racing to the bottom on price.
      • You will NEVER be the cheapest. "There is hardly anything in this world that some man cannot make a little worse and sell a little cheaper."
    • Undercharging because they don't know how to break down costs and margins.
      • Know your numbers!
      • Consider other costs - website, accounting software, credit card fees.
    • No Systems in place to make sure your business runs well
      • No workflows
      • No pricing structure
      • No Schedules
      • No delegation
      • No CRM
    • Trying to do it all: artwork, printing, packaging, selling - without delegation or efficiency.
    Competing the Smart Way
    • Find Your Differentiator: Custom designs? Rush jobs? Better garments? Customer service? Find 1-3 core differentiators and talk about them all the time.
    • Find Your Niche What is your ideal customer or product? Push towards that and spend less time trying to compete beyond.
    • Charge What You're Worth: Because of the above, you can (and should) charge more than others.
    • Tighten Production: Tips to streamline (pre-press setups, batching jobs, designated work zones).
      • Less mistakes
      • Faster delivery
      • Less waste
    • Customer Experience
      • Personal delivery
      • Handwritten thank yous
      • Reorder reminders
      • Birthday / Anniversary
    Growing in a Crowded Space
    • Don't be Amazon / Walmart You can't beat the lowest price, but you can offer the best experience / quality.
      • People will want to buy from YOU / Your Business... because you are not the big business.
    • Get Referrals Working
      • Script for asking for referrals
      • Remind people again
      • Give/Get program
    • Leverage What You Already Have
      • Upsells / bundled product
    • Be the best on the block
      • You would be surprised on how many people havent truly mastered their craft, be a master. Experiment, practice, play, learn.
    • Invest in an Efficiency (repeat): Set goals for single efficiencies you can invest in (even if it's small.)
      • Additional heat presses
      • Accounting software
      • CRM
      • Ecom Store
    Final Thoughts: There's Still Room!
    • You don't need to be the best at everything, just the most dialed-in for your customers.
    • Think efficient and excellent, not big and chaotic.
      • You don't need to be the master of an entire catalog of products, just be fantastic at a handful.
    • If you are struggling to compete with lower priced competitors, consider changing how to are getting your business or what you sell.
      • Only offer premium quality apparel
      • Look for a niche or type of customer that is going to be less price concerned.
      • Purchase apparel from the 'cheap' competition to see how you can offer a better product (and sell against that.)

    Challenge: What's one thing you can fix in your pricing or workflow this week?
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    47 Min.
  • Episode 202 - Choosing the Right DTF Printer

    Episode 202 - Choosing the Right DTF Printer
    Jul 8 2025
    In this episode we're diving deep into one of the most important decisions in DTF printing: choosing the right DTF printer. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up a serious production setup, the gear you choose can make or break your workflow, quality, and profits. We'll break down the different printer types and talk about the real-world usage of each.We're also sharing insider tips on what to avoid, and what else you'll need beyond just the printer to actually succeed with DTF.At the end of the episode we have specific advice tailored for beginners looking to start smart, and pros aiming to optimize or expand.Understanding Printer Types and Key Features Print Width OptionsLetter / A3 Sheet (12-13")Small format sheets for basic transfers12"Ideal entry into roll-to-roll printing24 - 30"Faster production for professional setupsInk SystemsBulk Ink SystemsLower ink costsRequires maintenance knowledgeCartridge SystemsMore reliable for light to medium useHigher cost per printWhite Ink CirculationPrevents settling and clogging in pro setupsIntegrated vs. Modular SetupsAll-in-One PrintersIncludes printer, shaker, oven in one unitSeparate ComponentsGreater flexibility for upgrades and maintenanceBudget Considerations Entry-Level SetupsDesktop Printer + Manual ShakerPros: Low upfront cost, real DTF transfers possibleCons: 10+ minutes per transfer, inconsistent quality, no white ink circulationVerdict: Not recommended for production-focused businesses.Mid-Tier OptionsA3 Size Sheet PrintersPros: Compact size, low costCons: Slow production, not automatedCompact Roll-to-Roll SystemsPros: Automated, less manual labor, better consistencyCons: Higher investment, learning curveVerdict: Roll-to-roll is generally the winner at this tier.Pro-Grade Options24"+ Wide Format PrintersPros: White ink circulation, fully automated, designed for production and ROICons: Highest investment, requires significant space and powerVerdict: Bigger and faster is almost always better for serious DTF operations.Essential Additional EquipmentHeat press(es)Powder extractor or filtration systemEmergency kit for clogs and maintenanceStartup consumables and suppliesReliability and Maintenance Daily UpkeepFollow manufacturer guidelinesMaintain temperature: 60°F – 80°FMaintain humidity: 50% – 70%Keep a dust-free environmentCommon Failure PointsPrintheads: Especially with white ink; discuss preventative maintenance with your vendorPowder Adhesive Curing: Adjust time and temp based on weather and materialWhere to Buy and What to Avoid Choosing VendorsTrusted brands with proven track recordsWho supports you post-purchase?Key Questions to AskHow long have you been in business?What is the warranty?How many printers/customers do you have?Can I see a sample print?Can we do a live or virtual demo?Evaluating Test PrintsFeel and stretch testsWash testsFeedback from existing customers or focus groupsFor BeginnersLook for simplicity, strong support, and learning resourcesAvoid shiny object syndrome; focus on reliabilityStarter kits and bundles can help but verify qualityRemember: It's better to over-invest in equipment than under-invest.For ProsBuy based on current production plus growth goalsDon't expect to abandon other print technologies immediatelySet client expectations if changing print methodsEducate clients on color differences between spot and process printingUpsell expanded color options to lock in clientsTrain staff thoroughly for day-to-day operational changesChoosing the right DTF printer setup comes down to understanding your production goals, budget, and willingness to maintain the equipment properly. Whether you're starting with an entry-level setup to learn the process or investing in a full pro-grade system to drive your business forward, focus on reliability, vendor support, and scalability. The right choice will save you time, reduce frustration, and allow you to confidently produce high-quality transfers for your customers. Be sure to check out ColDesi.com and learn more about how Direct to Film printing can help your business thrive.
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    57 Min.
  • Episode 201 - Grow Your Business with Direct Mail - Featuring Taylor

    Episode 201 - Grow Your Business with Direct Mail - Featuring Taylor
    Feb 18 2025

    In this episode of the Custom Apparel Startups Podcast, host Marc Vila is joined by Michael Palme and Austin Gordon from Taylor to discuss how direct mail can be a game-changer for custom apparel, sign, and promotional product businesses. While digital marketing gets a lot of attention, direct mail remains a powerful and underutilized tool for targeting new customers, retaining existing clients, and cutting through the clutter of online ads.

    Michael and Austin break down how direct mail works, how to effectively use data to reach the right audience, and how you can integrate it with digital advertising for even greater results. Whether you’re a startup looking to establish your brand or an established business aiming for the next level, this episode will give you practical strategies to expand your reach and increase sales.

    Topics Covered in This Episode:
    ✅ Why direct mail still works in a digital world
    ✅ How to use data to target the perfect audience for your business
    ✅ The cost of direct mail—how much should you budget?
    ✅ How to track results and measure ROI
    ✅ The best types of mail pieces for apparel and sign businesses
    ✅ Combining direct mail with digital ads for maximum impact
    ✅ How to start a direct mail campaign—step-by-step guide
    ✅ Common mistakes to avoid when using direct mail marketing

    Listen now and learn how to use direct mail to take your business to the next level!

    📩 Have questions or want to connect? email us at marketing@coldesi.com.
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    53 Min.
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