Dream of starting your own brand but think it costs a fortune? Think again. With just a few hundred dollars, you can launch a custom t-shirt business from home. Here’s how to get started on a $300 budget.
The concept is simple: use a Cricut cutting machine and a heat press to create professional-quality shirts. While brand-new equipment might push you slightly over, you can easily hit your $300 target by finding a used Cricut machine online.
Your $300 Startup Kit:
- Used Cricut Machine: The key to cutting intricate designs.
- Heat Press: For professional, long-lasting application.
- Iron-On Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV): Your design material. Start with a basic color pack from Amazon.
- Blank T-Shirts: Purchase affordably in small batches from sites like JiffyShirts.
- Essential Tools: Don't forget weeding tools and heat transfer tape.
The 4-Step Process:
- Design: Create simple logos or text in the free Cricut Design Space software.
- Cut & Weed: Let the Cricut cut your mirrored design, then remove the excess vinyl.
- Press: Pre-press your shirt to remove moisture. Center your design, and press it for about 15-30 seconds at around 320°F. Peel off the backing once it cools.
- Sell: List your finished shirts on platforms like Etsy and eBay. A shirt that costs you about $2.50 in materials can sell for $18 or more.
With a small $300 investment and a bit of creativity, you can be on your way to running a profitable online business, proving that you don't need deep pockets to make your entrepreneurial dreams a reality.
