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How A Creator Monetized With Spreadshop

Hey, adventurers!

I want to share my journey of becoming a content creator with you and talk about the power of community. This story starts with my goal of getting a Silver Play Button on YouTube and ultimately ends with a new dream of building a fully sustainable homestead. But before we dive into the details, allow me to introduce myself.

My name is Tom Phan, a first generation, Vietnamese-American who lives in the suburbs of Minnesota. I’m a content creator on a mission to inspire others to embrace self-reliance and connect with nature. And my journey with Spreadshop? It’s been nothing short of extraordinary.

Starting in 2017 and for three long years, I poured my heart and soul into creating content on YouTube – for FREE with no monetization or paid opportunities. I was just hoping to make a dent in the digital landscape. But despite my best efforts, success remained far from reach. It wasn’t until TikTok entered the scene that I got my breakthrough.

Within just one year of using the platform, I discovered a newfound audience hungry for my unique blend of bushcraft wisdom and survival know-how with a twist of Asian-American influence. I grew my TikTok from 5,000 followers to over 200K followers in just a few months. I now have a whopping 3.7 million followers on TikTok and was finally able to achieve my goal of 100K subscribers in November of 2022, thus receiving the Silver Play Button from YouTube.

I was able to achieve the success I did on TikTok and YouTube thanks to the community I built with my merch.

And that’s where Spreadshop comes into play. Recognizing the potential of my brand and the passion behind my content, they took me under their wing as their first brand ambassador. For over four years now, we’ve been on this journey together! A journey fueled by creativity, collaboration, and a shared vision of a more sustainable future.

When they were running their video podcast – Quit Your Day Job – the Spreadshop team interviewed Daniel Batal as part of their first episode. That video was so incredibly inspiring that I went and purchased their Quit Your Day Job sweatshirt.

That was what really started my movement to quit my full time job and become a full-time content creator.

Next up, I found myself being interviewed on the podcast by the Spreadshop team. I had an excellent time chatting with them on the podcast. I finally quit my full time corporate job and became a full time content creator at the start of 2021 and it’s been a wild ride!

At the heart of my brand are two designs that have captured the imagination of my audience. The main Clueless Bushcraft Logo featuring the shed that’s featured in practically all my videos. And the iconic bear image with the words, “Survival is simple, Just don’t die.”

Much of my personal success in these social spaces have been due to a book called, “The 10X Rule” by Grant Cardone. It has been used like my bible for content creation and life in general. The goal: Set 10X goals and operate at 10X levels to reach the goals you want to achieve. If you don’t reach the 10X goal you set, at least you put in that work and usually you’ll land somewhere acceptable and that’s what happened to me with my content creator journey.

You see, my ultimate goal isn’t/wasn’t to sell merchandise, it was to build a community. Spreadshop merch allows me to easily do this with their platform and print-on-demand service.

That’s why I’m so passionate about creating content that not only entertains but educates and inspires others to embrace a more intentional way of living. And what better way to build a community than to create an amazing message and plaster it on merchandise that sends your message across the world?

Wouldn’t it be amazing to simply be grocery shopping and suddenly see someone from your community wearing your merch? I’ve had this happen several times. Once, I went fishing and saw a guy wearing the Clueless Bushcraft logo baseball tee and I had to stop and talk to him. We had an excellent time chatting and it was the first time I felt that what I was doing made a difference.

But my journey doesn’t end there. No, it’s just the beginning. My sights are set on a future where I can buy land, build a home, and establish a fully sustainable homestead.

And Spreadshop? They’re more than just a platform for selling merch. They’re partners in my mission, empowering me to turn my dreams into reality and connect with a global community of like-minded individuals who share my vision for a better, more sustainable world.

So, to all you aspiring content creators and nature enthusiasts out there, I have one message: never give up on your dreams. Embrace the journey, embrace the challenges, and most importantly, embrace the power of community.

Ready to join the adventure?

Start creating your own merchandise today with Spreadshop, and let’s build a brighter, more sustainable future together.

How to Sell T-Shirts Online For Free

Selling T-shirts online and making money has never been easier. Using print-on-demand services like Spreadshop, you can start a T-shirt business without any upfront fees or costs!

This blog will take you through how you can create an online T-shirt store for free. You will learn how to make products that interest your customers. Additionally, this blog will cover ways to promote your merchandise on social media and beyond.

Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or aiming to build a full-scale business, this guide will provide you with all the tools and strategies you need to get started.

Leveraging Print-on-Demand Services

Starting an online T-shirt business has never been easier, thanks to the revolutionary concept of print-on-demand (POD). This service allows you to sell custom T-shirts without the need to handle inventory or manage shipping. Here’s how you can take advantage of print-on-demand services to kickstart your business with minimal risk:

Understanding Print-on-Demand: Print-on-demand is an order fulfillment method where items are printed as soon as an order is made, often without order minimums. This means you can sell T-shirts without ever purchasing or storing inventory, significantly reducing the financial barriers to entry.

Selecting a POD Platform: Numerous POD platforms cater to budding entrepreneurs. A platform like Spreadshop allows you to integrate with other e-commerce services, sell hundreds of apparel and accessory options, and access to exclusive marketing features.

Cost Effective: With no upfront costs for production, the financial risk of starting a T-shirt business is dramatically lowered. You only pay for the production of the items after you have sold them, which means you can start your business even if you are on a tight budget.

Customization and Variety: POD services offer a range of customization options that allow you to create unique designs that resonate with your target market. You can offer a variety of products beyond T-shirts, such as hoodies, stickers, or hats, to expand your merchandise and attract more customers.

Using print-on-demand services not only simplifies the logistical aspects of running a T-shirt business but also provides a scalable, flexible solution that can grow with your business. By focusing on creating compelling designs and marketing your brand, you can build a profitable online store with little more than a great idea and a digital presence.

Designing Your T-Shirts

Creating appealing and marketable T-shirt designs is crucial to capturing the interest of your target audience and making your online store a success. Here’s how you can pinpoint your niche and utilize design tools to produce captivating merchandise:

Identifying Your Niche: To design T-shirts that resonate, start by defining your niche. A niche is a specialized segment of the market that has unique preferences and characteristics. For instance, you could focus on environmental themes, pet lovers, or fans of retro pop culture. Understanding your niche will guide your design choices and marketing strategies.

Using Design Tools: Once you have a clear idea of your niche, it’s time to bring your T-shirt designs to life. You don’t need to be a professional graphic designer to create great visuals. There are several tools and resources available that make design accessible to everyone:

Canva: Known for its user-friendly interface, Canva offers a multitude of T-shirt templates and graphic elements that you can use. It’s ideal for beginners and also offers advanced features for seasoned creators.
Adobe Spark: This tool provides a variety of pre-designed templates and allows you to create custom designs quickly. Adobe Spark is great for creating high-quality designs with a professional look.
Placeit: Specializing in mockups and design templates, Placeit is an excellent tool for creating realistic visuals of your T-shirts, allowing customers to see how your designs look on actual products.

If you’re looking for more inspo, here are the top 10 tools for e-commerce designers.

Creating Your Designs: When designing, simplicity often reigns supreme. A simple, clear message can be more effective than a overly-cluttered design. Pick colors and fonts that are both eye-catching and easy to see. Make sure your designs are versatile enough to stand out on various T-shirt colors and styles.

Getting Feedback: Before finalizing your designs, get feedback from potential customers. Use social media polls, focus groups, or feedback from friends and family familiar with your niche. This input can be invaluable in refining your designs to better appeal to your target audience.

Customize and Sell Hundreds of Products

Diversifying your merchandise is a key strategy in growing any successful online store. While T-shirts are a great starting point due to their popularity and ease of production, expanding your range to include other products can enhance your brand’s appeal and increase your revenue potential.

Utilize Design Tools: Leverage the powerful, user-friendly design tools provided by most POD platforms to customize your products. These tools often include templates, clipart, and text editors that can help you create professional-quality designs even if you don’t have prior graphic design experience.

Target Your Audience: With a wider product range, you can target various demographics. For instance, phone cases and laptop stickers might appeal more to a tech-savvy audience, while tote bags and mugs may attract those interested in lifestyle or eco-friendly products.

Seasonal and Event-driven Products: Capitalize on seasonal events like holidays or sports events by offering limited-time products. For example, custom ornaments or themed sweatshirts can be big sellers during the holiday season, while unique sports-related designs can be popular during major sporting events.

Marketing Your T-Shirts on Socials

Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your online T-shirt business. It offers a direct line to potential customers, allowing you to build brand awareness, engage with your audience, and drive sales. Here’s how to effectively market your T-shirts on social media platforms:

Create Engaging Content: Your content should be engaging and shareable. Use high-quality images of your T-shirts, create videos showing the designs in real-life scenarios, and use catchy captions that reflect your brand’s voice.

Run Targeted Ads: Social media platforms offer powerful targeting tools that allow you to reach specific demographics, interests, and behaviors. Use these tools to run ads that promote your best-selling designs or special promotions. Be sure to include a call to action that directs users to your online store.

Regular Promotions and Giveaways: Run regular promotions, such as discounts, buy-one-get-one-free offers, or limited-time sales. You can also host giveaways to encourage engagement and attract new followers.

Monitor and Respond to Engagement: Stay active on your social media accounts. Respond to comments, messages, and mentions promptly. Engaging with your audience not only improves customer relationships but also helps increase your social media visibility due to platform algorithms favoring active interactions.

By effectively utilizing social media marketing strategies, you can create a robust online presence for your T-shirt business.

Sell Your T-Shirts Today

Launching your own T-shirt business online has never been more accessible. To build a successful online business, you need to create appealing T-shirts that resonate with your target customers.

Selling T-shirts online is more than just making money. It’s about connecting with like-minded people, and creating a unique brand in a competitive market.

Launch your T-shirt business and start connecting!

Print-on-Demand: Buy/Sell Sustainably

The demand for sustainable fashion has never been greater. Traditional fashion manufacturing has a long history of sky-high environmental costs, water pollution, and textile waste. And thanks to print on demand, there’s a revolution brewing.

Print on demand (POD) is a more sustainable and conscientious approach to fashion. This business model has changed how we think about clothes/accessories and how we go about buying and selling them. We can now focus on creating less waste, saving energy, and following ethical production practices.

People view print on demand as the future of environmentally-friendly fashion for a reason, so let’s explore why. This method of buying and selling clothes and accessories benefits the environment, promotes creativity, and boosts the entrepreneurial spirit.

The Environmental Impact of Traditional Fashion Manufacturing

The fashion industry, for all its glitz and glamour, harbors a darker side that’s far less appealing. The manufacturing and production process of clothes is one of the largest polluting industries in the world. The methods and practices from it create a substantial environmental footprint that’s felt for years after.

Chemical Pollution: The journey from raw material to finished garment involves a lethal cocktail of chemicals. Dyeing, treating, and finishing textiles requires a lot of water, and these harmful chemicals can pollute rivers and groundwater.

Carbon Footprint: The global nature of the fashion industry means that garments often travel long distances before reaching the consumer. From the field, to the factory, and eventually to a storefront or online retailer. The supply chain that is involved is complex and has a large carbon footprint.

The Overlooked Cost of Fast Fashion: The rise of fast fashion has exacerbated these environmental issues. Quick turnarounds and low costs encouraging disposable consumer attitudes towards clothing. This business model thrives on constant newness and micro-trends created by viral TikTok content. Overconsumption and waste places further strain on our planet’s resources.

So, What is Print on Demand?

Print on Demand (POD) is a groundbreaking method for manufacturing and distributing fashion that differs from traditional approaches. POD companies produce clothing only when a customer places an order, rather than mass-producing items in anticipation of demand.

How It Works: The process begins the moment a customer places an order. Advanced printing technology digitally prints designs onto the chosen garment or accessory. This allows for a high degree of customization without compromising on quality or speed.

Customization: One of the most compelling aspects of POD is the ability to personalize. Customers of your shop can choose from a wide range of designs, colors, and styles, making each piece unique.

The Sustainability Angle: By producing garments on demand, POD drastically cuts down on the waste generated by unsold stock. This also helps to decrease carbon emissions by producing goods closer to where they are sold.

How Print on Demand Promotes Sustainability

Print on demand (POD) is emerging as a transformative force in the fashion industry’s quest for sustainability. By rethinking the way we produce and consume fashion, POD addresses several key environmental issues head-on. Here’s how this innovative model promotes sustainability:

1. Drastically Reduces Waste: Traditional fashion production is plagued by overproduction, leading to massive waste. POD operates on a made-to-order basis, eliminating the guesswork in inventory management and drastically reducing the volume of unsold garments that contribute to landfill waste.

By only making what is necessary, POD makes sure each piece is sold before production, which helps achieve zero-waste goals.

2. Minimizes Environmental Footprint: The on-demand model significantly reduces the environmental footprint associated with the life cycle of a garment. Traditional methods involve long supply chains, extensive transportation, and storage, all of which contribute to carbon emissions. In contrast, POD often uses local production facilities closer to the customer, minimizing transportation distances and, consequently, carbon emissions.

3. Encourages Sustainable Materials and Processes: As POD gains popularity, there is a growing trend towards incorporating sustainable materials and environmentally friendly processes. Many POD companies are now offering organic, recycled, and eco-friendly fabric options, making it easier for consumers to make sustainable choices.

4. Shifts Consumer Behavior Towards Conscious Consumption: POD encourages a more mindful approach to fashion. By allowing for greater customization and personalization, it fosters a stronger connection between consumers and their clothing, potentially leading to longer garment lifespans and reduced consumption.

5. Enables Small Scale and Local Production: The scalability of POD allows for small-scale, local production, which not only supports local economies but also reduces the need for long-distance shipping and storage.

The Economic Benefits of POD for the Fashion Industry

While the environmental merits of print on demand (POD) are compelling, its economic advantages further solidify its position as a future-forward solution in the fashion industry. Here’s how POD not only promotes sustainability but also offers tangible economic benefits:

1. Reduced Inventory Risk: Traditional retail models require significant upfront investment in inventory, posing a substantial financial risk if the merchandise doesn’t sell. POD’s made-to-order approach eliminates the need for holding large quantities of stock, thereby drastically reducing the risk of unsold inventory. This model allows businesses to be more agile and responsive to market demands without the financial burden of excess stock.

2. Lower Start-up Costs: For emerging designers and small fashion brands, the entry barriers to the market can be high due to the costs associated with production and inventory. POD levels the playing field by offering a low-risk entry point.

3. Streamlined Supply Chain: POD simplifies the supply chain, reducing the complexity and costs associated with manufacturing, storage, and distribution. By producing garments closer to the point of sale and minimizing the steps between design and delivery, businesses can achieve greater efficiency and cost savings. This streamlined process not only reduces overhead but also allows for quicker response times to market trends, enhancing competitiveness.

4. Customization and Niche Market Appeal: The ability to offer customized products without the need for large inventory levels opens up new revenue streams in niche markets. POD allows brands to cater to specific customer preferences and trends without the risk of unsold stock, enabling them to tap into markets that traditional retail models might find unfeasible.

5. Sustainability as a Competitive Advantage: As consumer awareness and demand for sustainable products grow, POD’s inherently more sustainable model becomes a competitive advantage. Brands that adopt POD can leverage their commitment to sustainability to differentiate themselves in the market, attracting customers who prioritize environmental responsibility.

Making Our Case

In navigating the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and economic viability, print on demand (POD) emerges as a beacon of progress in the fashion industry. As we’ve explored, the environmental and economic benefits of POD are profound and multifaceted, offering a sustainable alternative to the traditional, waste-ridden production models.

The future of sustainable fashion is not a distant ideal. It’s a tangible reality being shaped by the innovative practices of print on demand. By supporting and investing in POD, we take a significant step towards a more responsible, environmentally conscious fashion industry that is equipped to meet the challenges of our era.

Personalized Mother’s Day Gifts For Mom

Mother’s Day is an opportunity to thank mothers for their love, sacrifices, and support. Flowers and chocolates are the classic route, but nothing shows your appreciation like a personalized gift.

Print-on-demand services make it easy and accessible to create a personalized Mother’s Day gift. With Spreadshop, you can customize hundreds of products with heartfelt messages and designs. And you’ll get them in time for May 12.

Let’s take a look at some custom merch ideas for inspiration that you can create and order with just a few clicks. Your mom will appreciate it.

Why Give a Personalized Gift?

When it comes to showing your mom just how much she means to you, the gift you choose plays a big part. Traditional gifts have their place, but personalized gifts hold a special charm. Here’s how a personalized Mother’s Day gift makes a difference:

An Emotional Bond

Personalized gifts aren’t just random items; they’re special cause they have memories attached to them. Make a gift special for your mom by adding a message, photo, or design that is meaningful. These gifts are a reminder of the unique bond you share, making them much more valuable than generic options.

The Wow Factor

Mass-produced gifts are the norm, and personalized gifts break the mold. Your mom is one of a kind, and she deserves a gift that reflects her personality. Whether it’s her name, an inside joke, or a custom design that just screams ‘her’ – these are ways to express her uniqueness.

Thoughtfulness

Choosing and creating a personalized gift requires thought and effort. It shows that you’ve taken the time to think about what makes your mom special and what she would appreciate. This level of thoughtfulness doesn’t go unnoticed. It highlights the care and love you’ve put into selecting her gift, making it more meaningful.

Lasting Memories

Unlike generic gifts that will fade from memory, personalized gifts have a lasting impact. They can become cherished keepsakes that your mom will look back on for years to come. Every time she uses or sees the gift, she’ll remember that special Mother’s Day you had together.

Personalized gifts allow you to express your love in a way that is as unique as your relationship with your mom. So, this Mother’s Day, consider giving her something from the heart: a personalized gift she will treasure forever.

Print On Demand: Meet Your Gifting Superhero

Print on demand (POD) has permanently changed the way we think about personalized gifts. You no longer have to spend hours making something yourself or waiting weeks, months, for custom orders to arrive. Here’s why print on demand stands is the ideal choice for creating your personalized Mother’s Day gifts:

Convenience

Platforms like Spreadshop make it easy to design and order gifts with just a few clicks. Anyone can create a professional-quality personalized gift from the comfort of their own home with their platform. Whether it’s uploading a design or adding a personal message, POD services make customization accessible to everyone.

No Minimum Orders

Traditional custom merch platforms often require bulk orders, which makes it impractical for individual gifts. With print on demand, you don’t have to have a minimum amount of orders. You can make a special gift for your mom without buying extra.

Wide Range of Products

Print on demand platforms have an extensive array of products to customize, from apparel and accessories to home decor. Spreadshop has over 250 products you can customize as Mother’s Day gifts. You’ll be able to find the perfect item to use to convey your love and appreciation to your mom.

A Sustainable Choice

With POD, items are only printed when they are ordered. This reduces waste and excess inventory. You can feel good about gifting high-quality and sustainable products that promote a more conscious way of consuming.

Timing and Efficiency

Print on demand services aim for efficiency. Create and deliver your personalized Mother’s Day gift quickly with our fast production and shipping processes. You don’t have to worry about long lead times traditionally associated with custom manufacturing.

Choosing print on demand for your Mother’s Day gift is a convenient and creative way to show your love. It also demonstrates a thoughtful approach to gift-giving.

Top Personalized Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day

Finding the perfect Mother’s Day gift is all about capturing the essence of your mom. Here are some great personalized gift ideas to make your mom feel loved on her special day. You can easily create these gifts using print-on-demand services.

Custom Apparel and Accessories

T-Shirts with Personal Messages: Design a T-Shirt with a message that speaks directly to your mom’s heart. Wearing a message that is meaningful to her will make her feel loved. This message could be a quote, a term of endearment, or an inside joke. It’s important for her to feel special and appreciated.
Aprons for the Cooking Enthusiast: If your mom loves to cook or bake, a personalized apron is a great gift. Feature her name or a cheeky cooking-related quote that can add more joy in the kitchen.
Morning Reminder: Adorn a custom mug with a heartfelt message, a memorable family photo, or a design that matches her personality. It’s a small gesture that can make her daily coffee or tea ritual more special.
On-the-go Memories: Tote bags are a great versatile gift for your mom. She can use them to grab groceries and run other errands.

Each of these personalized gift ideas offers a unique way to show your love for your mom this Mother’s Day. Choose a gift that matches her interests and add a personal touch to show how much she means to you. Celebrate her uniqueness and the special bond you share!

Design Tips for Custom Merch

Designing custom gifts for Mother’s Day using print-on-demand services allows for a special and personalized touch. However, the design process can be daunting if you’re not familiar. Here are some tips to help you design custom merch that will make your mom cherish your gift for years to come.

Use High-Quality Images

Resolution Matters: For photo-based designs, ensure your images are high resolution to avoid a pixelated or blurry print. A resolution of at least 300 dpi (dots per inch) is ideal for a clear, sharp image.
Meaningful Photos: Select photos that have emotional value—like family gatherings, special occasions, or memorable trips. These images evoke feelings of nostalgia and love.

Color Considerations

Complementary Colors: Use colors that complement each other and enhance the overall design. Tools like Adobe Color can help you choose a harmonious palette.
Think About the Product Color: The color of the product you’re customizing (e.g., t-shirt, mug) will affect how your design looks. Ensure your design colors stand out against the product color for maximum impact.

Typography and Text

Readable Fonts: Choose fonts that are easy to read and fit the mood of your message. A script font might be perfect for a sweet, heartfelt note, while a bold sans-serif suits a more straightforward message.
Contrast and Size: Make sure your text contrasts well with the background and is sized appropriately for the product. You want your message to be seen in its full glory.

Personal Touches

Custom Messages: A personalized message can transform a nice gift into something truly special. Whether it’s a simple “I love you” or a quote that resonates, the words you choose can significantly impact.
Signature Designs: Consider adding a unique design element that’s special to your family or your mom’s interests. It could be a family crest, a symbolic icon, or even a doodle that has meaning to you both.

If you don’t have design experience and don’t want to spend extra on special tools, there are plenty of free services out there. Canva is a great, easy-to-use option. They have hundreds of text options, graphics, and templates you can use for your designs.

Conclusion

Personalized gifts have a special meaning that mass-produced items just can’t match.

Creating these custom gifts has never been easier thanks to print-on-demand services. They’re simple to use and you don’t have to worry that your gift won’t arrive in time. Make sure to follow our design tips to make sure your personalized gift truly reflects your bond with your mom.

This Mother’s Day, go beyond the conventional gifting route and explore the personalized options that print-on-demand services offer. A custom-made gift, crafted with love and care, is a beautiful way to show your mom just how much she means to you. And it’s something she can truly cherish forever.

Make Positive Merch Designs – “Spread Good Vibes” Design Challenge

Positive vibes are all it takes to make a difference in someone’s day. Positive designs have become increasingly popular in recent years, in tangent with the increasing awareness for self-care and mental health. So why not use your design super-powers to Spread Good Vibes? In this blog post we’ll cover a few different ways to spread positivity and the trending styles you should have in your shop.

The optimistic minimalist

Minimalist merch designs have become increasingly popular. With minimalist designs, less is more, and simplicity is key. It is all about keeping only the crucial elements of a design to keep it clear and concise, whilst also making it visually appealing and not overwhelming. This design style resonates with a contemporary audience, and is practically a guaranteed best-seller.

Natural elements

It should come as no surprise that designs with plants and flowers evoke feelings of happiness and positivity. These designs tap into humans deep-seated connection with the natural world and evoke feelings of tranquility and appreciation. Natural elements such as flowers, fruits, animals, or landscapes make great additions to positive designs.

Mental health and self-care

A rise in mental health awareness and focus on self care has led people to look inwards instead of out. These kinds of designs use visual elements to encourage self-love, resilience, and support for others.

Shout it from the rooftops

What better way to spread positivity than to say it loud and clear? Using uplifting quotes and phrases directly encourages positive thoughts and motivates viewers to have a positive mindset.

Back in time

Be creative with how you connect with your audience by incorporating pop culture references and nostalgic retro vibes. These designs evoke a sense of familiarity and comfort, something the viewer can relate to or remember. By engaging with the viewer on an emotional level, you are able to create a design that evokes stronger emotions and is more memorable.

Community and unity

Designs that celebrate unity and togetherness foster a sense of belonging and connection. It also gives you, as a designer, a special connection with your audience. You can show them they’re part of something bigger. Want to get your community directly involved in your designs? Check out our blog post on how to involve your community in your creative process.

There are many different design styles you can implement when it comes to creating designs with positive vibes. It is completely in your creative hands; the most important thing is that the message is uplifting and evokes positive emotions.

Feel free to use any of the designs from this blog post as a starting point, you can download them for free here.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to share your positivity, take part in our design challenge and submit your own “good vibes” design!