Starting a business selling t-shirts; Screen printing/direct heat transfer graphics on t-shirts/apparel?

Question

I'd like to start a company that sells t-shirts and other apparel that have direct heat transfer or screen printed graphics, embroidery, etc on them. I'd like to have different brands and sell them online as well as to retailers both locally and nationwide (in the US). I've listed some detailed questions and information below:

1- I would like to find out more information on the different methods of putting graphics onto apparel, their strengths and weaknesses, the differences in each method, which method is appropriate for a certain graphic or expected quality and so on. I've done some research on the internet but I'd like to have much more information. Any book, website, video etc recommendations are welcome.

2- I would also be interested in learning more about the business/industry and learn more about specific companies in particular (www.tshirthell.com, Drifter, Affliction, House of Howe, Express, Monarchy, Vurt, and Element).

Answer 1

Like Maximus said you need to get a job with decent textile printer in your area. You are jumping in too little knowledge and unless you can bankroll all your learning mishaps your almost sure to be doomed.

There are plenty of books on the market, none more important than the manual that comes with your presses. The problem isn't desire I believe you have that. It is the fact that screen printing is a trade not a job. You can't just read a few books and build a skyscraper. You are on the right track with wanted to stick to textiles but there are a lot of tricks to be learned about each step of the process. You want to stand out from the want to be printers that are making good money but delivering junk. I know we have all seen ink that has cracked after five washings because the ink was not cured properly or a red shirt that looks like it has been washed thirty times because the dryer was too hot. The graphic end of things can be tricky too. Start simple and work your way up at home. And learn on someone elses dime.

Just a suggestion for a marketing tip if you want to do stuff like tshirthell then you need to open two online stores with very different names even linking them may be risky due to the fact that kind of site will drive some customers away. Also keep the name of your brick and mortar Professional due to you wanting to sell to other brick and motars, unless your just looking for ten shirt orders from head shops.

There are trade magizines that can get you started on one kind of equipment vs another process.

The Big Picture-www.bigpicture.net
Screenprinting-www.screenweb.com

There are digital t-shirt presses available although I don't know anything about them.

Good luck

Answer 2

Being that there are so many details to know and learn in any business, can i suggest that you get a part time job at a similar business... or get friendly with a local business owner who has the same business and polietly ask the owner all the questions you need to... knowledge is everything in business (and life?)
...or contact your supplier of such "raw" products, T-Shirts, Inks etc and ask them.

I hope this helps, all the best with your new venture !

Answer 3

good luck to many companies out there,not a good investment yet

Answer 4

www.cafepress.com/alsooq