Launching your own merch business doesn’t require a warehouse or big budget anymore. You can design, sell, and ship custom products — all from your laptop.
Here’s how to start your own custom merch store in 2025, step by step.
🧭 Step 1: Find Your Niche
Avoid trying to sell to “everyone.” Choose a specific audience or topic:
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Dog moms
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Techies and coders
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Mental health advocates
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Spiritual/self-care enthusiasts
Niches help you stand out and target your marketing.
🎨 Step 2: Create Awesome Designs
Use tools like Canva, Figma, or Adobe Express to make your designs. Keep them bold, simple, and niche-focused. Test a few variations — don’t overthink it.
🛒 Step 3: Choose a Selling Platform
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Shopify: Best for standalone branded stores
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Etsy: Good for traffic and handmade/creative items
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WooCommerce: Great if you already use WordPress
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Instagram Shop: For influencers and direct engagement
🖨️ Step 4: Connect with Print-on-Demand
Use services like:
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Printful
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Printify
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Gelato
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TeeLaunch
They handle printing, packaging, and shipping so you never touch inventory.
📣 Step 5: Market Like a Pro
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Use TikTok & Reels to show off your designs
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Create lifestyle photos, not just mockups
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Run small Facebook or IG ads
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Use hashtags and trends to gain visibility
💼 Bonus Tips:
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Order test samples
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Offer limited editions to create urgency
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Use upsells and bundles for better profits
🚀 Conclusion: You Can Launch Today
If you’ve got a vision and a little hustle, you can launch your merch brand in days — not months. Start small, stay consistent, and build a brand people love to wear.