Everything I Know About Merch-Making
this is a companion to my free downloadables and zines. there are also resources on how to get started printing your own merch (indonesia only) and helpful tools to size and layout printables.
why?
I've participated in the art convention circuit for a little over two years. I started out selling beaded accessories, to fanart, to original stories. I decided I'm not cut out to handle the business-side of things, hence why I'm giving the files to my merchandise
where do I print these?
I can only give recommendations for Indonesians, specifically within Java. All of these are shopee stores, none are affiliate links. I don't get a cut of sales and I bought and tested the products myself with my own money.
pins
- sakurapin21 (affordable, bandung-based, somewhat slow shipping if unlucky)
- mousierat (bekasi-based, pricier, good in a pinch within jabodetabek area)
stickers
- heymagira (i haven't tried other vendors)
keychains
- upsize888 (for affordability)
- shopartcrylic (for quality control)
zines
- the best way to print zines is using your office printer of your friend's office's printer. or library if you have a library with a printer! not jealous at all.
helpful tools for merch-making
if you're in the business of making zines or binding books, do check out bookbinder.js to make booklets easier. if you're going to a printshop you won't need to do this step, but if you print at home you'd definitely want to use this to reduce the headache or trying to layout double-sided signatures.
misc tips
- ask your vendor or check their detailed instructions whether you should send your files in rgb or cymk. some places like to color-match to the digital rgb rather than go off pure cymk
- unlike most holo cold laminates, glitter, doff, and "linen" laminates do not add a yellowish hue to your print
- all epoxy will yellow. do not use resin on keychains if you want longevity. if you must, use it on a sandwiched (double-acrylic) keychain so the resin can be pried off while preserving the image beneath
- invest in a paper guillotine if you plan on making prints at home
- you don't need a long-arm stapler to make stapled zines