THE SILK-SCREEN PROCESS, also known as screen-printing, is a creative art form that allows you to transfer amazing designs onto t-shirts, bags, hats, and more. While many people enjoy silk screening items at home, this hobby can also turn into a profitable business venture. If you’re interested in learning how to turn your silk-screening hobby into a business, this guide can help you get started. From drafting a business plan to buying equipment and setting up a workspace, read on to learn how you can turn a fun hobby into a business at home.
Before starting a small screen-printing business, you’ll need to develop a plan. Sit down and brainstorm a few ideas, so your vision and goals are clear and easier to reach. Here are some things to keep in mind:
To be a legitimate business, you’ll need to register your silk-screening company as a legal entity. First, confirm that your business name is unique and that no other companies have the same name. Now is also the time to decide whether you’ll be an LLC, sole proprietor, or another business type.
Once you do this, you’ll need to register your business in your specific state. It’s also a good idea to check your website URL to confirm that it’s unique and available. You should also decide if you want to register your company for a federal trademark, but it’s not always a necessity, especially with a new business startup.
Whether you’re silk screening as a corporation or a small home business, you’ll need to register with the IRS. This straightforward process can be done online and will ensure that you’re properly registered in the system for tax purposes.
You can get your federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) in one simple session by accessing your state’s website and entering the information in the state application. Once you’re done, it’ll take you to the same application on the IRS website. Some small businesses choose to use their social security number, which is usually fine if you’re not registering as an employer who will pay employees.
Not every state has requirements for business licenses and permits, but it’s crucial that you check with your specific location to confirm. If your state and local laws require it, you may need to register for a business license and get a permit to do business in your city and your state.
Look into registering for a business license that lasts several years so you don’t have to remember to renew it every year. The fees for these licenses and permits will vary, so it’s best to check with your locality to confirm what your costs will be in advance.
AdvertisementIf you need some capital to get your business started, there are several options available to give you a financial boost. When you start a new business, it’s important to ensure you have enough money to obtain supplies, inventory, and cash for licensing and marketing. There are several ways to get the money you need:
If you’re getting a bank loan to get your business started, you may also need to purchase business insurance. Business income insurance covers you in case of property damage, while professional liability insurance protects you against lawsuits. Contact a business insurance broker or provider to find out which types of business insurance you may need for your new silk-screening company.
When you start your silkscreen home business, you’ll need items like equipment and materials. If you already have silk-screening equipment, there are other items you may want to add before you market your company.
Here are the key silk-screening equipment items you’ll need:
Some major manufacturers of screen-printing equipment offer free training to teach you how to use their products. Ask the retailer or manufacturer for more information before making a purchase.
You can also find a wide range of helpful screen-printing training classes online that may help you hone your skills or learn new techniques. If you just plunked down a lot of cash for expensive, heavy-duty, or high-tech equipment, then knowing how to use it correctly is vital. Look into training opportunities to ensure that you’re doing things in the best and most efficient way possible.
Look for places in your home that you can convert into a workspace for silk screen printing.
If you have a well-ventilated workspace, make sure it also has everything else you need. Ensure the area has enough outlets so it can handle all the equipment you need to plug in. You should also make sure the area has ample lighting so you can easily see what you’re doing. A space with a lot of windows and natural light is a smart choice.
Organize your new workspace so it’s easy to find everything you need. Add some floor or wall shelving and store items like small tools and screen-printing inks in boxes or bins. Label each container so you can quickly grab what you need.
Some of your heavier-duty equipment may have specific voltage requirements that need the attention of a licensed electrician or other professional. For example, conveyor dryers need a minimum voltage of 220v, so you might need to install a new outlet or breaker to keep your equipment running smoothly. If the room needs extra light, ask the electrician to install new light fixtures.
Aside from hiring an electrician, consider hiring a home improvement contractor to help you build add-ons like cabinets, work benches, or worktables for your new screen-printing production area.
After you’ve determined your target market, you’ll need to focus on branding your new business. Decide on a creative business name and logo, then come up with a tagline that’s easy for people to remember. Branding is the most important part of any business, as this is what customers will recognize and remember whenever they see your marketing or advertisements.
Spread the word about your brand through various marketing techniques, like your website and social media accounts. More information about these tactics is below. Ultimately, your new business’s brand defines you, so choose your name and logo carefully.
AdvertisementCome up with a short, catchy URL (website name.com) for your silk-screening business. Make sure the website isn’t already registered, then have fun designing your new site.
You’ll need to pay for web hosting and if you’re not savvy in web design, consider paying a professional web designer to help you. Part of the website should include your online store with all of your designs, products, and pricing. Make sure the images are clear and crisp. You can also add content like a video about your company to introduce yourself to customers.
Social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram are a great way to engage customers and spread the word about your business. You can also use Pinterest and Twitter to share photos and tweets with your followers.
If you set up a Facebook and Instagram account, be sure to post frequently to make your business more visible. Answer questions from customers as quickly as possible and work on active engagement. This is the best way to stay on top of the algorithm and to give customers a positive perception of your business.
Platforms like Etsy are excellent for selling handmade wares. If you’re looking for an easy way to get sales, consider using Etsy to sell your custom screen-printed tees, bags, and other items.
You can also look into opening a Shopify account. This is a great way to set up a business website through one single platform. Shopify will let you set your prices, showcase your inventory, and process payments all in one place. Check their online blog for excellent advice about running a business, helpful tutorials, and more. Both Etsy and Shopify are excellent companies to help you promote your business online.
You’ll need to have an official business phone number so customers can reach you. Consider setting up a separate business phone number or phone response/answering system so people aren’t calling your home number or personal cell phone. You can easily convert a WhatsApp Messenger account to a business account.
Many people who enjoy doing silk-screen as a hobby also enjoy making tie-dye t-shirts and other items. If you’re thinking about branching out and selling tie-dyed items, the process is fairly simple. Look into some tutorials to learn how to process tie-dyed products at scale. You can also make tie-dye items and add your own custom silk-screened graphics on them for an even more unique look. The tie-dye trend has grown in popularity recently, so it’s a smart way to get more sales when you start your business.
AdvertisementIf you’ve been doing silk screening as a casual hobby and you’re ready to turn it into something more, remember these tips to help you start your home business. With a good business plan and a bit of legwork, you can start selling your talents to people all over the world. Remember to incorporate marketing tactics, create a beautiful website, and engage with your customers to help increase the outreach of your brand. The right equipment and great branding will ensure that your silk-screen business is a success.
This article was originally published by Porch.
Denisse Garcia Topete is a Content Marketer at Porch.com and HireAHelper.com. She is passionate about business, marketing, and technology. Aside from writing, she enjoys other creative pursuits such as painting, pottery, and, recently, screen printing at her local serigraphy studio.
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