My first order almost killed my dream.
Pheew!
Finally, I found a printer willing to print single samples of each of my t-shirt designs. Although the pedestrian traffic in and out of the store was near distracting, in between pickups of family reunion orders, we eventually narrowed it down to color, fabric and size based on some screenshots of styles I had saved to my phone.
Two plus hours later, I plopped myself into the driver's seat, mentally drained from the exercise. Cranking up the engine and lowering my cupped fist towards the gear box, a sudden deluge of thoughts flooded my mind.
What was I doing?
Was I sure, I was not in over my head and how was I going to recoup all the costs already sunk into the venture?
The fear was of paralyzing proportions.
Weeks later, I was faced with the same task, placing an order but this time it was with a different printer. In spite of the larger order size, not only was it smoother experience, I was out in no time.
Why was this different?
I had learned a few helpful lessons from the earlier experience(s) and now better positioned to ask the right questions regarding:
1. Type of ink to be used based on the t-shirt fabric that would facilitate the curing process,.
2. How long it would take for the order to be ready for pick up,
3. Ink colors that would work better with the dark colored shirts.
4. In house or customized colors needed for the job.
5. Colors of t-shirts and print based on the graphic design.
I learned that doing some background research helps. This may entail investing some time making a few calls or sending emails or DMs on social media to a few people already in the business and picking their brains for what they consider important printing considerations.
I was not expecting to get all the answers and learn everything about the process in one experience, but it reinforced my conviction not to be quick to throw in the towel at the slightest bump in the road.
Bumps in the road are a given but the difference is in the approach to resolve them.
There are some many supportive communities that can help with building your business while nurturing relationships. Beyond the typical spheres of influence, family and friends, technology today has provided easy access to some of these communities and resources which may be a mere tap of the keyboard away. Social media platforms provide numerous outlets for connecting with others.
Nonetheless, there are no guarantees that the first set of inquiries will result in answers to your "pressing" questions. All it takes is just a one response by someone who can relate to your predicament and would be so willing to share.
However the onus is on you and I to do our part and ask and not let the bumps on the way kill your dreams.
Keep asking, keep on exploring!
