My name is Elena, and I love everything that makes life a little brighter, that helps to go beyond the usual boundaries. In my closet I have T-shirts and hoodies with prints of various fandoms - from cult TV series to art-collaborations with famous artists. It would seem that everything has already been invented, but unusual merch continues to surprise even me. If you also like experiments, want to understand how to open your own merch or be inspired by ideas for corporate merch, I invite you to plunge into the world of modern technology and a huge selection of a variety of interesting and at the same time simple and comfortable clothes.
More than clothes: the power of merch
Merch is not just a way to decorate a T-shirt with a logo or a shot from your favorite movie. For me, it has long been a form of self-expression, a kind of language I use to tell the world about myself. Think about it: what can better emphasize your individuality than a hoodie with a designer print or a cap with a symbol, drawing or inscription created by you?
Sometimes merch pleases with trifles - original embroidery or reflective detail, which is immediately noticed on the evening street. And sometimes it becomes a whole art object, especially if you mix several printing and embroidery techniques. In any case, cool merch can not only surprise and inspire, but also become a reason for new acquaintances: fans of the same fandom quickly find a common language.
The latest effects: glow, reflection and holography
To the prints we are already used to, I am impressed by modern solutions, and especially by the combination of techniques and accessories.
Reflective films
Look especially spectacular if you are participating in evening events or want to stand out at a street festival. With bright flashes or flashlights, they “light up” on clothing. Especially if the character is associated with cyberpunk or science fiction, it creates the desired effect. Such a print seems to come to life in the light of lanterns and causes delight in others.
Holographic elements
When you want something truly futuristic, holographic film comes to the rescue. It changes hues in different lighting conditions, adding mystery and a bit of cosmic atmosphere to the look.
DTF printing (Direct to Film)
Ideal for those who appreciate sharp details and rich colors. The print is durable and does not fade after washing. I like to use DTF when I make the first trial batches of merch, because you can quickly print a design of any complexity. It's perfect when you need a bright pattern or to print your favorite photo or painting.
Interesting details about embroidery: a bit of history and experimentation
Embroidery is traditionally associated with luxury, because in the past it was expensive and done by hand. In the Middle Ages knew a lot about embroidered masterpieces: the secrets of craftsmanship passed from generation to generation, and clothes with embroidery became a real family heirloom.
Today, everything is no less exciting. New professional equipment opens up new possibilities: 3D-stitches, chameleon or metallized threads are used. Such a touch looks great in merch for cosplay, because embroidered symbols give the clothes a special expensive effect. The combination of different technologies that can now be used together is a great tool for creativity and bringing your image from the world of fantasy to the world of reality.
Organic cotton - comfort without compromise
I always pay attention to what a t-shirt or hoodie is made of. When making personal merch , you need to choose not only the possible techniques and ways to put your design on the garment, but also a quality material that feels good. For example, in our showroom we have T-shirts with a density of 300 g/m² and hoodies with a density of 500 g/m² made of organic cotton. This density helps the clothes to be warm in winter and retain their shape and quality for longer.
Why do I recommend organic cotton? Firstly, it is more carefully grown. Second, it is softer to the touch and more comfortable for long term wear. Thirdly, it does not form lint after washing. This is especially important if you plan to wear your cool merch not only at festivals or special occasions, but every day.
How to start your own merch: my experience in five steps
A lot of people ask me where to start if they want to launch their own line of clothing or accessories. Once upon a time, I too wondered if I could gather people around my idea who would want to wear my products. Here's a simple plan that many of our customers who don't have huge financial budgets but still want to express themselves and create their own merch, their own ideas, use:
- Come up with an idea, and then no think about what will unify your entire collection. It could be a retro aesthetic, a favorite universe from games, or author drawings.
- Find a designer or learn the basics of graphics and if you're not strong in drawing, collaborate with artists or master graphic editors. This way you can realize ideas faster, and if you are absorbed in coming up with ideas and are a very busy person, you can contact us and we will help you with the design.
- Decide on a textile supplier. It is better to check the first batch of clothes just by trying them on, ask for samples to make sure of the quality of things.
- Experiment with technologies of print, embroidery, combining with film. Be sure to order a few pilot t-shirts, hoodies or caps with different executions. Perhaps walk around town in them, look at the reaction of friends and acquaintances, assess how the thing withstands washing.
- Promo and sales. Declare yourself in your social media account, show how you create merch, share photos of finished images and collect feedback. Over time you can get into festivals and themed markets, and many have a decent extra income.
Many start with a small run of 10 pieces. And after they quickly spread amongst acquaintances and subscribers - further word of mouth has done its job. So I can smoothly grow to a full-fledged online store.
Having accumulated experience and knowledge, I am now happy to help others understand how to open their own merchor improve existing projects. You can write to us or come in person to our showroom, our whole team loves the challenge of realizing complex ideas.
Merch that gives you freedom
Cosplay doesn't have to be limited to festivals - you can wear these ecstavagant pieces every day, with unusual holographic inserts or a cap with a reflective logo. It is worth experimenting with embroidery or combining several types of technology. And not to agonize with the organization of procurement and storage, you can entrust all these issues to our team CodeLife, who will select the ideal option, help with design and deliver to each of your clients ready-made things around the world.
If the idea of opening your own merch, do not be afraid. The main thing is to experiment, come up with ideas, because inspiration is everywhere. This will allow your talent to grow organically and not lose your mojo, for the sake of which the whole magical world of cosplay and merch is created. That's how things are born that you want to wear and show to the world.
After all, bright details on clothes help to reflect our inner world, support our favorite fandom and just add creativity and creativity to our lives.
If you still have questions or ideas - always happy to discuss them in the comments. After all, each of us deserves magic in our everyday lives!
