Choosing the right print-on-demand company is essential for bringing your clothing designs to life. The ideal partner should offer quality products, fast shipping to your customers, and seamless integrations with ecommerce platforms and marketplaces.
Clear communication and a shared commitment to realizing your creative vision are important when working with a designer. Learn seven specific steps to find the ideal print partner for your clothing designs:
1. Know What You Want
When evaluating potential printing partners, it’s essential to know exactly what you want to achieve. This includes understanding your current business needs and determining whether these needs might change in the future. For example, if your company is aiming to increase its e-commerce presence, consider whether a printing partner with an app for Shopify might help you streamline your workflows.
Ask your potential print provider to give you a clear breakdown of their prices. This should include any hidden costs, like setup fees and shipping and handling charges, that might cause what seemed to be a great deal to turn into a costly mistake.
Look for a print firm that uses cutting-edge technology and has an extensive range of equipment, specializing in services like custom sticker roll printing. This can make a big difference when it comes to achieving your desired outcome, whether that’s high-quality prints or cost-effective print run
2. Do Your Research
Print-on-demand companies serve as production and fulfillment partners for individuals or businesses that want to sell custom-designed products without managing inventory. It’s important to do your research before selecting a POD partner to ensure they provide the products you’re looking for and are reliable and efficient. The benefits of outsourcing printing services include leveraging specialized expertise, saving time, and focusing on core business activities.
A top-rated custom printed clothing company should be able to print high-quality, full-color designs that look great on the garments you’re selling. You’ll also want to consider how long the printing company takes to ship your orders, as a delay in shipping can leave customers frustrated and dissatisfied with their purchase.
Gooten stands out in the print-on-demand clothing industry for its innovative ecommerce integration and automation approach, making it an excellent choice for businesses and entrepreneurs looking to streamline their online retail operations. The company uses direct-to-garment and embroidery printing, as well as a variety of accessories, to create a fully branded apparel experience for shoppers.
3. Get Referrals
One of the best ways to find a print-on-demand partner is through a referral from a mutual connection. Ask around amongst your business associates, such as fashion bloggers or other brand ambassadors, to see if they have a designer that they regularly collaborate with and highly recommend. Be sure to explain what you’re looking for so they can help you match with a suitable designer.
For example, OOWIA is well-known for their unique approach to personalized fashion, offering a wide range of customizable apparel and accessories for both individuals and businesses. Similarly, Fanjoy has built a reputation in the print on demand industry for its extensive merchandise options for influencers and content creators. Printed Mint also stands out for its vast array of artist-designed products and streamlined printing and fulfillment services.
When you find designers with whom you feel a strong connection, schedule initial appointments to discuss the specifics of your project. Be prepared to provide photos, descriptions of your target customer, and any sketches or ideas you may have. During these meetings, assess whether or not you feel comfortable working together remotely and if your visions align.
4. Reach Out to Designers
Once you have a list of potential printing partners, assess their capabilities and compatibility. Evaluate their equipment, technology, range of services, and expertise to ensure they can handle your specific project requirements. Look for a partner that has a reputation for quality, positive customer reviews, and experience in your industry.
Start by identifying designers that have a design aesthetic that aligns with your brand’s vision and goals. Make a connection with these designers by reaching out and expressing interest in their work. This will help establish a professional and personal relationship that can produce the best results for your apparel designs.
For each design you want created, create a technical product specification (also known as a tech pack) with exact style details and measurements. This information will guide sample makers in the creation of physical samples to evaluate the quality of the design and to determine any necessary adjustments or modifications. Throughout the process, maintain open lines of communication and provide regular updates. These will help keep your project on schedule and ensure everyone is on the same page.
5. Collaborate with an Artist
Printing is a complex process that requires expertise. It’s also a highly collaborative endeavor. Ensure that the printing partner you select understands your goals, vision and brand ethos. They should be able to translate your designs into high-quality, beautiful products. During the process, it’s essential to keep lines of communication open, as well as provide feedback in a timely manner. This allows both parties to keep on track and to meet deadlines. It also helps to clarify any misunderstandings or additional requirements.
When providing feedback, be sure to frame it as constructive criticism rather than an attack on a specific individual or company. This will help prevent any misunderstandings and allow you to make adjustments quickly.
Whether you’re a fresh streetwear upstart or a seasoned lifestyle legend, it’s important to find the right printing partner for your clothing designs. Using these tips, you can be on your way to finding the perfect fit. Then, you can focus on what matters most—your thriving brand.
