T shirts are an essential part of our wardrobes no matter where we live at. In the eyes of entrepreneurs, this particular product checks all the right boxes. It has universal appeal, is cheap to source for and fairly easy to customise. It is no wonder new entrepreneurs who have just ventured into the world of business, often choose t shirt printing to be their stepping stone in Singapore .

This is, however, easier said than done. As you are reading this article, there may already be someone at this very second who is thinking about starting a t shirt business. The existing printing industry, as it is, is one that has grown to become immensely competitive.

If your goal is to be the cream of the crop, you will definitely need to stand out from the crowd. As daunting as that may sound, this article aims to calm your nerves and provide you with all the necessary information that you may need to kickstart your t shirt printing business in Singapore. Here are 5 steps that you may wish to take note of.

1. Finding A Niche For Your T Shirt Business

As an entrepreneur who is looking to start a successful t shirt business, knowing how to find a niche will be very useful to you. Narrowing your target market does not mean you are excluding people who do not fit into your criteria. Rather, it means focusing your marketing dollars and brand message to a more specific group that is likely to buy from you than other markets. You simply can’t please everyone.

Given how competitive the existing industry is, the only way for you to let your voice be heard is by creating a store that is truly unique. This is achievable when your brand or products are significantly different from what is currently offered to the market. Take your time to do your research, brainstorm and look for ideas. Your chances of success will be even higher than your competitors.

2. Designing And Validating Your T Shirt Designs

As with finding a niche target market, your own t shirt designs are also critical to creating a unique identity. A custom t shirt that is uniquely design is obviously going to sell more than one that is boring to look at. Be creative with great designs that only your store offers.

Do not be afraid of thinking out of the box, just because something hasn’t been done before does not mean it is not worth the try. Laying the foundation with powerful products can give a huge boost to your brand image.

If you are not confident with your own ability, you can contact local designers or friends who specialise in this field. Online freelance platforms such as Fiverr and Upwork are also useful in helping you create your t shirt designs.

Once you are satisfied with a few of the designs, it is time to put them to the test. It is almost impossible to judge if a design is going to sell just by looking at it with your own pair of eyes. Seek validation from others and be ready to receive feedback for improvements which can be beneficial to your product in the long run.

Alternatively, you may also want to post your design on forums or discussion platforms for netizens to judge. If they like what they see, you may already have your first batch of potential customers.

3. Sourcing For T shirt Material

Now that the ground work is done, you will need to source for your products. High quality t shirts will make for a superior customer experience that can help you beat your competitors. T shirt materials that shrink in size or fade after a few wears are going to build a bad reputation for you.

Therefore, even if you are a small company, source for the highest quality product that you can afford. For instant, if you are sourcing for customised cotton t shirt, do explore on different thickness and brands before settling on one. Remember, at this point, we are still working on building your brand image. You will need to stand out in any way that you can.

4. Printing Your Designs

As the name of the business implies, the printing element is essential to the success of your store. Engage a trustable and knowledgeable t shirt printing company is the key. Nobody wants to wear a custom t shirt with a printed design that cracks or peels after a few washes. Your customers will instantly lose their trust in you if you are not able to fulfil your primary role as a t shirt printing store.

Granted, there are different printing methods that are suited for particular designs to print. It is your duty and responsibility to learn and understand which print method works best for a design. For instant to understand the difference between the 2 most common print method – screen printing vs digital printing.

5. Promoting & Start Selling!

Now that you are all set up for business, there is only one last thing to do – PROMOTE. This is the part where you will have the most fun at. Be creative, loud and bold. Social media exists for reasons beyond uploading your latest profile photo of you holding a glass of wine celebrating 2019.

Create your own website and multiple accounts over different social media platforms and reach out to the masses with your ready products. It is never too late to start your t shirt printing business in Singapore today.