Grow Your Small Business With Zero Risks

small business merch

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!

spreadshop merch shop

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.

custom 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Attach your file to the form. Possible file formats are jpg, png, gif, bmp, eps, ai cdr, svg, psd or pdf.
  3. Go to your shopping basket and place your order.
  4. After 3-5 workdays you will receive the finished graphic design file via e-mail.

brand awareness

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.

promote your business

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: 100% Cotton T-Shirts

sell 100% cotton t-shirts

Eco-friendly merch is more important than ever. What you decide to wear has 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.

what does 100% cotton mean

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 is eco-friendly.

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.

environmentally conscious merch

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 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 wardrobe staple

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.

They maintain their shape, color, and texture for much longer periods.

Proper care can extend the lifespan of 100% cotton t-shirts. Simple practices like washing in cold water, using gentle detergents and avoiding excessive heat. Turning shirts inside out before washing can help protect prints from fading.

By following these care guidelines, cotton t-shirts can continue to look and feel great, even after years of regular use.

sell custom merch

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.

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.

Custom T-shirts: Designs That Sell in 2024

make t-shirt designs

It’s easy to make T-shirts and other merch with a FREE Spreadshop. But what about coming up with your own original T-shirt designs?

We know how overwhelming is can be to market your passion to an audience, especially in a crowded market. T-shirt designs in 2024 are all about connecting with your niche and expressing who you are. Keep it stylistic with clean line art, or go bold with big font and phrases.

Check out what Spreadshop shop owners are selling in 2024 to give you inspo for your designs!

t-shirt design

 Let it Blossom, Let it Grow

Plant moms (and papas) are the pet parents of a new generation. According to Garden Pals, 7 in 10 millennials refer to themselves as a plant parent. That’s even more reason to turn this hobby into a bonafide side hustle!

There are so many different routes (get it) that you can go with this design trend.

We recommend using puns and on-trend phrases to your advantage if you want to up your merch game. We personally love this “Drown That Hoe” design from the shop, Plants With Krystal. These kind of designs are universal and are sure to resonate with plant lovers everywhere.

Selling custom apparel and accessories is also a great way to raise awareness for a cause that’s close to your heart. Cayla started the Greater Orlando Plant Swap as a way for plant people to get together and help give old plants a new life. Merch helped empower her to build a brand and fuel her business.

Logos make for a classic T-shirt design and shouldn’t be overlooked when it comes to building your merch line. If you don’t have one, look for local artists or use design tools like Canva to create your own logo and other designs.

custom apparel

Back to Basics

Putting T-shirt designs on the back of your tees is a sure fire way to stand out from other sellers. Customers can get tired of the same old, same old. This design placement offers a more subtle and stylish way to design your merch. It’s also a great tactic to appeal to an audience that’s looking for more when it comes to their apparel and what they allow into their wardrobe.

TomoTees is a great example of a shop that knows how to create merch for their audience. Their streamlined logo works well no matter where you place it.  Some cat/animals lovers might not want to purchase a T-shirt with a big graphic of a cat on it. Aesthetically-pleasing logos and standout graphics make for great designs on the front and back of tees.

PRO TIP: Take some time to consider what your audience or followers would want before you start designing. Run a poll on your Instagram or Facebook accounts. Ask them if they would wear THIS or THAT. Going straight to the source will help you identify what designs are more likely to sell and save you time in the long run.

t-shirt design idea

Words Have Power

Sometimes the best way to get your messages across is to just say it like it is. Bold text T-shirt designs have become increasingly popular in recent years and are an easy way to make a statement with your merch.

We’ve seen shop owners take on this trend different, some are more literal than others. The idea of listing out niche words or phrases is fun, just like Victoria Marie Designs did for crafters with her T-shirt design. If you know your audience, you are aware of what kind of topics and ideas will resonate most with them.

You can’t go wrong with generic phrases, either. We’re really tired of living through historic times, too.

sell t-shirts

Let Me Tell You ‘Bout My Best Friend

Anyone’s pet can be a superstar when you make your own T-shirts. Your pet’s cute. You know it, and your familiy, friends, and followers know it. But how can you use that to your advantage when it comes to your T-shirt designs?

Photos of your pet just aren’t enough if you want them to be treated like a proper pet influencer. Cute illustrations and graphics are really where it’s at; they’re always the best-selling designs for pet-based merch shops. If you’re not a designer and want to create some high-quality illustrations of your pet, one of our in-house designers can fulfill your design request within 3-5 workdays.

There’s also services like Fiverr where you can pick from hundreds of unique artists to fulfill design requests. It’s well worth it to pay $20 or $30 for a design that’s quality and will sell. If you don’t want to go that route, catch phrases or tag lines are popular designs within this niche.

This category was one of the biggest sellers for merch last year, and we don’t see that trend slowing down. See how other shop owners are turning their pets into influencers with custom apparel.

t-shirt design

The Great Outdoors

Now that it’s finally almost summer, it’s time to get outside and soak up the sun. And why not do it while wearing some custom T-shirts?

T-shirt design options are endless when it come to this niche since there are so many different subsections of interest. Certain people are into hiking, or camping, or kayaking. Each of these hobbies has their own different language and different types of graphics you can use to your advantage.

One of our favorite outdoor shops is Junkyard Fox. They’ve curated a merch line that’s unique and authentic to their YouTube channel. They use their logo, of course, but it’s T-shirt designs like this “Coffee by the Campfire” one you can get on tees and more that stands out.

At the end of the day, you can’t make a bunch of random T-shirt designs and expect them to sell (no matter how good they are). You need to find a niche or hobby that resonates with you and makes designing T-shirts and other merch easy. Having that passion is going to drive you to succeed.

We hope looking at these best-selling T-shirt designs for 2024 inspired you.

Ready to start selling your own custom T-shirts? Open your shop for FREE!

How 2 Cats Built a Profitable Merch Shop

how to make money as a content creator

Hey there, I’m Derek, the owner of @melon.n.finn. I’ve been a content creator for roughly two years now. My channels revolve around funny moments regarding my two cats, Melon and Finn, who love to smell, dance, and be silly goofballs.

Let me tell you, being a content creator is a fulfilling, but an incredibly time consuming career. Content creation isn’t just about making funny videos for a cheap laugh—it’s about building a community and bringing positivity into the world. Making money as a content creator is simply a fruitful byproduct of the community you develop around you.

That’s where the power of merch comes in. It’s not only a way to get a little extra cash, but a way to strengthen your bonds with your fans. In this blog, I’ll dive deeper into the world of merch, some strategies I use to sell my merch, and some of my personal experiences to help you unlock its full potential.

the power of merch

Why Merch Matters:

Merch serves as more than just a revenue stream; it’s a dynamic tool that enhances the content creation experience. Each design defines a piece of your channel, capturing iconic moments from your journey and enabling fans to carry a piece of your journey with them. Whether it’s a catchy slogan like “Melon be Smellin’”, an iconic cosplay moment, or your company’s logo – merch brings your content to life.

But don’t get it twisted, merch is much more than branding your content.

Merch can help define a sense of belonging amongst your audience, transforming casual viewers into loyal super fans. When your fans wear your merch, they don’t just show support; they become ambassadors for YOU! They spread your content to new users who may have never found you otherwise. It’s this sense of connection that makes merch an incredible asset in your creator toolkit.

Merch also makes your content physically tangible. In other words, it breaks the fourth wall and offers your fans a physical copy of their favorite moments. This connection creates a deeper sense of engagement and loyalty from your audience. It also provides your fans a physical reminder of you. This is crucial for platforms like TikTok where followers don’t always turn into consistent viewers.

Your merch is a form of self-expression for both yourself and your fans alike. Your designs showcase your unique style and personality. Your fans show their support and enjoyment while sporting some cool gear! This currency of expression can also allow your fans to feel a sense of belonging. There is nothing more heartwarming and awesome than meeting your fans in public and seeing them rocking your merch!

In summary, merch is so important for creators like us, who not only want some extra cash to invest in our content (or more cat treats), but it also lets us offer something physical to our viewers. It’s comparable to a baseball fan wearing their favorite team’s jersey or even a super fan wearing their favorite band tee they got from a concert. Merch is an awesome way to connect you with people who love watching your content!

make merch with spreadshop

Getting Started with Merch:

Making merch has never been easier! Especially with incredibly optimized platforms like Spreadshop.

I have never been known to be the most artistic person, nor have I ever made merch before I started working with Spreadshop. So, getting started seemed incredibly intimidating. However, Spreadshop’s user-friendly interface and expert support made the process surprisingly straightforward. Their team of designers and knowledgeable reps guided me through every step of the process.

They helped me brainstorm some ideas for my first merch designs, drew them up, picked products to place them on, and even designed my webpage. With their help, I was able to get my Spreadshop open in no time at all!

The golden key to getting started on your first design is to figure out how your audience most easily recognizes you. In other words, what makes you and your content unique? Did you come up with an iconic series like “Melon be Smellin’”? Are there any viral videos your fans can easily associate you with? Do you have any catchy phrases or relatable characters you play? Asking and answering questions like these can help you brainstorm designs that your fans will adore.

Now that you have a few designs, it’s time to figure out what products you want to place them onto. Spreadshop has hundreds of different options to choose from. It’s key that you do not pick too many products or product options (colors) as this will overwhelm your fans. Make sure to only pick the ones that you like and think your fans would like the most. Remember, your merch is a direct reflection of you, so take your time to think all of these things through.

Finally, it’s time to promote your merch. This might sound simple, but it can be a bit tricky without sounding too salesy. My advice is to avoid a dedicated video about your new merch unless that is something your fans would enjoy. Personally, my fans had a mixed reaction when I tried this. I would suggest subtly promoting your merch by wearing it in your videos or only making it a portion of a video as to avoid overselling yourself. Another suggestion would be to always keep your Linktree (or other landing page of links) up-to-date with the current Spreadshop promotions and to post stories about big holiday sales. 

With all of this in mind, you can turn your content career into a legit business and with enough hard work and dedication, your full-time gig.

tiktok content

Building a Successful Merch Strategy:

Now that you have some products and a strong promotion, it’s time to think about strategy. It’s not a typical first thought for many new creators getting into merch, but there are some serious considerations you need to make to avoid peaking too early into your merch game.

Developing merch is far more than just slapping a few designs onto a t-shirt and calling it a day. It requires balance between quality and affordability. The worst thing you can do is overcharge for a crummy T-Shirt that doesn’t last more than 3 washing cycles. You really have to think about what you would want if YOU were to buy your product. For me, this means I want every one of my fans to have the opportunity to afford at least one high-quality product within my shop.

Remember, your merch is NOT designed to be a cash grab, it’s supposed to be a way for your fans to support and endorse you. This means keeping your merch accessible to all your fans while keeping the quality of your product high. Pricing out your fans is a sure way to not only make yourself look bad, but a way to lose your most loyal fans. No one wants to feel inferior when they are looking to support you.

Maximizing Revenue Opportunities:

Your main goal when pricing merch should not be to squeeze every single penny from each item. Rather, you should strategize for the quantity of sales you generate.

Personally, I find that pricing smaller items competitively keeps all your merch accessible, but can also encourage your fans to make impulse purchases for larger items. Additionally, I run all of Spreadshop’s promotions (e.g., 20% off all items) to create excitement among my fans while making my merch even more accessible. These tactics not only drive sales, but also reward my most loyal supporters.

Ultimately, your main focus should not revolve around the profit of each item you sell.  Rather you should focus on how to keep your merch accessible and allow more of your fans to support you.  The monetary gains should only be treated as icing on the cake.

Case Studies and Success Stories:

To see how I have utilized Spreadshop and promoted my merch, check out these TikToks I made:

When we revealed our first merch designs.

My favorite promotion yet.

These videos offer a glimpse into the creative process behind my designs, as well as the response of my fans. This also shows that not all promotional videos need to be salesy, but instead should be authentic and true to you. By sharing my stories, I hope to inspire other content creators to explore the potential of Spreadshop and make meaningful relationships with their audience.:

But remember, merch is not just about making money, it’s about building a community. Whether you’re a vetted creator or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to explore the possibilities of merch. So why wait? Open your Spreadshop today and start building your community today!

Sell Stickers: Small, But Mighty Merch

sell your stickers

If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to make money with merch, stickers are the product for you.

Selling custom stickers allows you to increase your visibility and connect with your followers, friends, and family in a personal way. Best of all: stickers are a low-cost option for anyone that wants to support you without breaking the bank!

They’re a multipurpose merch item: personalize a laptop, jazz up a journal, accessorize your reusable water battle. The list is really endless.

Stickers can turn any brand message or niche interest into a piece of art that people can take with them wherever they go. In this blog we’ll talk about why stickers make great merch and how they can resonate with your audience, and Gen Z, with the right designs.

versatile sticker merch

Stickers: An Accessible Entry Point for Supporters

Stickers stand out as a fantastic small-ticket item in any merchandising lineup. They’re a low-cost option for fans and customers who want to show their support without a hefty financial commitment. Stickers appeal to a broad audience that doesn’t want to spend money on T-Shirts, hoodies, etc.

Affordable Merch for Everyone

The affordability of stickers is a key advantage. Producing them is inexpensive, and you can sell them at a price point that almost everyone can afford. This makes them an excellent product for new customers who are just beginning to engage with you, but aren’t ready to make larger purchases. It allows them to support their favorite creators, bands, or brands without paying a hefty price.

High Margin Potential

Despite their low cost to customers, stickers can still provide a healthy profit margin for sellers. Because they are cheap to produce, even selling them at a low price can yield great returns. This high margin potential makes them a lucrative addition to any merch shop.

Repeat Customers

Stickers are also an easy way to encourage repeat purchases. Some customers may not want to purchase additional clothing items. Consider offering a variety of designs to cater to different preferences. This can lead to increased sales frequency and enhanced customer engagement with the brand.

Unique Marketing Tool

Stickers are a powerful marketing tool. Each sticker placed on a laptop, water bottle, or car acts as a mini billboard, spreading brand awareness everywhere it goes. This kind of organic marketing is invaluable and comes at a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising methods.

personalized stickers

The Versatility of Stickers in Merchandising

Stickers are more than just decorations. They are a powerful marketing tool that can boost your brand’s visibility and appeal. This makes them a perfect choice for any merchandising strategy, adapting seamlessly to various promotional needs and customer preferences.

Out in the World

Stickers can be posted to almost any surface, which makes them ideal for personalizing items like laptops, smartphones, car bumpers, and water bottles. This adaptability allows your brand to remain visible in numerous settings, from office desks to outdoor adventures.

They’re also a creative merch item. They allow customers to be creative and express their identity, which spreads your brand’s reach every time they are used.

Fit for a Giveaway

Stickers are an excellent item for event or social giveaways. They are small, easy to distribute, and often kept and used by recipients, ensuring ongoing exposure for your brand. Creatively designed stickers can enhance product packaging, making unboxing an exciting experience that customers are eager to share on social media. This not only boosts customer engagement but also leverages user-generated content (UGC) to attract a broader audience.

Cost-Effective Advertising

Finally, stickers are a cost-effective form of advertising. Compared to other merchandising options, they are inexpensive to produce yet offer lasting promotional benefits. A well-placed sticker on a high-traffic item like a laptop or car can generate countless impressions over its lifetime, all for a fraction of the cost of traditional advertising spaces.

gen z stickers

Stickers and Gen Z

Gen Z, known for their love of personalization and self-expression, love stickers. They value authenticity and individuality, and stickers provide a unique avenue for them to showcase their identities and interests in a visual and very public way.

A Canvas for Self-Expression

Stickers allow Gen Z consumers to customize their personal items, such as laptops, smartphones, and notebooks, transforming everyday objects into personal statements. This act of personalization isn’t just about decoration—it’s a form of self-expression and a way for individuals to connect with like-minded peers, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Eco-conscious and Budget-friendly

Gen Z is also distinguished by their environmental awareness and budget-conscious nature. Stickers, especially those made from sustainable materials, appeal to their preference for eco-friendly products. Additionally, stickers offer an affordable way for Gen Z to support and promote their favorite brands and causes without a significant financial commitment.

Digital and Real-World Connectivity

For a generation that thrives online, stickers bridge the gap between digital expressions of self and real-world manifestations. They are often featured in social media posts, unboxing videos, and as part of the digital nomad lifestyle, further blending the digital and physical worlds that Gen Z navigates seamlessly.

Trend-Driven and Collectible

Finally, the trend-driven nature of Gen Z makes stickers an ideal merch item. With the rise of sticker collections and trading, they become not just a purchase but a part of a larger, shared experience. Brands can capitalize on this by releasing limited-edition stickers or collections tied to specific trends, pop culture moments, or social movements, resonating deeply with this demographic’s values and interests.

sticker design

Designing Stickers That Sell

Creating stickers that capture attention and become best-sellers involves understanding what designs resonate most with your target audience. Successful sticker designs often share several characteristics, from bold, clean visuals, to messages that spark emotion/affiliation.

Keep it Simple

The most effective sticker designs are usually simple and straightforward. A clean design with bold lines and vibrant colors stands out more, especially when stickers are often viewed from a distance or at a glance. These designs are not only more legible but also more memorable, allowing your brand to make a lasting impression.

Have Some Humor

Stickers that feature humorous, witty, or relatable phrases and imagery tend to engage more with customers. They evoke an emotional response that can create a personal connection with the customer. Humorous stickers often become conversation starters, which increases the sticker’s visibility and, by extension, your merch’s reach.

Tap into Nostalgia

Staying on top of current trends or tapping into nostalgia can make your stickers more appealing. Designs that reference popular culture, current memes, or retro themes often see a surge in popularity. For instance, incorporate elements from 90s pop culture to appeal to nostalgic older demographics and trend-focused younger audiences who embrace retro styles.

Make it Custom

Offering customizable or personalized stickers can also increase their appeal. Allowing customers to add their names, initials, or other personal touches makes the stickers more meaningful and more likely to be purchased and displayed.

Unique Artwork

Stickers that feature unique, artistic designs can attract customers looking for something different from mainstream options. These can include intricate illustrations, custom artwork, or designs that showcase artistic skills and creativity. Such stickers not only cater to general consumers but can also appeal to niche markets looking for specific artistic styles or themes.

Inspirational and Motivational

Inspirational and motivational stickers also perform well, especially if they convey positive messages that resonate broadly. Phrases that inspire or uplift, such as “You Got This” or “Choose Kindness,” can be powerful motivators that people enjoy incorporating into their everyday lives.

sizing your sticker designs

Making and Sizing Your Sticker Designs

Now that you know how important stickers are as merch, it’s time to make and sell them.

Spreadshop gives you all the tools you need to sell stickers and hundreds of other merch products. It’s easy to upload designs, customize your products, and market to your audience using exclusive promos and perks. But coming up with said merch designs is a totally different beast. Here are some resources and tools that are beginner-friendly:

FREE Design Tools

Canva is a super easy design tool to use and it’s FREE version has a ton of options for you to play around with. They have an extensive library or pre-graphics, photos, and fonts you can use to create original designs for your stickers. If you already have an established brand with a logo and specific fonts, you can upload them to the platform to use in your designs, as well.

If you’re looking for other design tools to use, here are the top 10 tools for e-commerce designers.

Spreadshirt Design Service

If you want to pay a little extra for something more professional, we recommend our Spreadshirt Graphics Service.

They can take a rough sketch or any general design ideas you have and turn it into something stellar for your shop. The graphics service will have your design prepared within 3-5 workdays. Make your dream graphic design a reality — 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’ll receive the finished design via email.

Best Size for Your Stickers

When you upload your designs to your Spreadshop, we recommend that they follow these guidelines for optimal print quality:

  • File formats: PNG, JPG, BMP or GIF
  • Size limit: max. 10 MB
  • Resolution: at least 1000 pixels on the shorter side, or min. 4000 pixels on the longer side
  • Design has no background

We hope these blog helped prepare you to start selling stickers and make money with this fun and versatile merch item. Stickers are a great merch item for people who don’t want to spend a lot, but still want to support you.

Launch your FREE Spreadshop today and start selling stickers and 250+ merch products!