screen printing business plan

Screen Printing Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Screen Printing Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Screen Printing business plan.

We have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Screen Printing businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Screen Printing business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Customize-It Screen Printing is a startup screen printing company located in Atlanta, Georgia.  The company is founded by John Nelson, a recent graduate of Georgia University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. While pursuing his college education, John has worked part-time as a screen print operator for a local screen printing company. Now that John has gained the experience of screen printing and the education on how to successfully manage a business, he is ready to start his own company, Customize-It Screen Printing. John plans on recruiting a small team to help manage the day-to-day business operations of screen printing – marketing, packaging, and graphic design. Other business functions such as bookkeeping, customer support, and inventory management will be outsourced or completed using business management software.

Customize-It Screen Printing will provide customized screen-printing services for customers throughout the United States. With a wide range of products available, the company will work with any material that can be screen printed. Customize-It will be the ultimate choice for price and value.

Product Offering

The following are the products that Customize-It Screen Printing will be able to customize:

• Sweatshirts
• Backpacks & Other Bags
• Sports Equipment
• Electronics

Customer Focus

Customize-It Screen Printing will target individuals, groups, and businesses who are looking to get something customized. The company will target individuals looking to customize items for themselves or gifts for their friends or family members. Customize-It will also target businesses looking to add logos or other personalization to their company T-shirts, binders or other items for corporate events or advertising purposes. Additionally, the company will target groups and organizations looking to get something customized for gatherings like bachelorette parties, baby showers, or sporting events. No matter the customer, Customize-It Screen Printing will deliver the best communication, service, and quality products.

Management Team

Customize-It Screen Printing will be owned and operated by John Nelson. He has recruited a business school peer, Timothy Hall, to be the designer and help manage the marketing for the company.

John Nelson is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He has been working at a local screen printing company for several years as a screen printing operator. John’s organizational skills and attention to detail when it comes to both screen printing and business management have given him the confidence to venture out and open his own company.

Timothy Hall has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and an Associate’s degree in Graphic Design. He is skilled in the latest and most popular graphic designer technology. John relies strongly on Timothy’s design skills as well as his marketing and sales knowledge. Timothy has worked as a marketing manager for a local retailer for over ten years and is well equipped to take on a dual role as Customize-It Screen Printing’s Lead Designer and Marketing Manager.

Success Factors

Customize-It Screen Printing will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Wide range of items that can be customized. The company will work with any material that can be screen printed – from T-shirts and tote bags to wooden plaques and glassware.
• Customers from all over the United States can purchase screen printed products through the company’s website. Operating as a completely online business allows the company to reach a wider audience than a physical brick and mortar store in Atlanta would allow while keeping costs low.
• Customize-It Screen Printing offers competitive prices. The company saves money by operating on a lean business model. Customers benefit from these cost savings by getting products at lower prices than they would get from competitors.

Financial Highlights

Customize-It Screen Printing is seeking $80,000 in debt financing to launch its screen printing business. The funding will be dedicated towards purchasing screen printing equipment and supplies and for business management software. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll and marketing expenses. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Screen printing equipment, materials, and supplies: $30,000
• Business management software: $5,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, utilities): $30,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $5,000

Company Overview

Who is customize-it screen printing.

Customize-It Screen Printing is a newly established screen printing company in Atlanta, Georgia. The company will be the ultimate choice for price and value on custom orders for any material that can be screen printed. Customize-It will provide exceptional customer service for all of its online shoppers with 24/7 customer support and an extensive screen printing guide that will help each customer choose the right materials for their project. With a wide range of products available, the company will work with any material that can be screen printed.

The company’s small team of professionals will ensure that each order is processed smoothly and efficiently. Quality control is important to Customize-It Screen Printing, so the management team will ensure that only high quality materials are used and that each item is thoroughly checked for any flaws before being shipped to customers.

Customize-It Screen Printing History

Customize-It is owned and operated by John Nelson, a recent graduate of Georgia University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. While pursuing his college education, John has worked part-time as a screen print operator for a local screen printing company. John has begun recruiting a small team to help manage the day-to-day business operations of screen printing – marketing, packaging, and graphic design. Other business functions such as bookkeeping, customer support, and inventory management will be outsourced or completed using business management software to save on overhead costs.

Since incorporation, Customize-It Screen Printing has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Customize-It Screen Printing, LLC to transact business in the state of Georgia.
• Has begun to set up the work space in John Nelson’s garage and begun sourcing equipment.
• Has selected the business management software that will be used for customer relationship management, customer support, bookkeeping, and inventory management.
• Reached out to numerous potential suppliers to get quotes and product samples.
• Has begun recruiting a small team to help with marketing, design, screen printing, and operations.

Customize-It Screen Printing Services

The following are the types of products that Customize-It Screen Printing will screen print:

Industry Analysis

According to IBISWorld, the custom screen printing industry is valued at an estimated $9B. There are approximately 12,000 custom screen printing businesses operating in the U.S. with over 67,000 employees. Key external market drivers including per capita disposable income, corporate profit, total advertising expenditure for corporations, and the percentage of business that is conducted online versus in-person.

Apparel is by far the largest segment of screen printed products, accounting for approximately 49.4% of revenue share compared to other types of items such as mugs or plaques. There is an increasing trend for custom t-shirts and other garments by businesses, organizations, and individuals for a variety of purposes from advertising to teambuilding.

With the growing number of screen printing businesses and the increase in online shopping, industry operators can gain a competitive advantage by executing a top notch online marketing campaign, providing exceptional customer service, offering unique products or services, and maintaining competitive prices.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Customize-It Screen Printing will target individuals, groups, and businesses in the United States who are looking to get something customized. The company will target individuals looking to personalize items for themselves or gifts for their friends or family members. Customize-It will also target businesses looking to add logos to their company T-shirts, binders, or other items for corporate events or advertising purposes. Additionally, the company will target groups and organizations looking to get something customized for gatherings like bachelorette parties, baby showers, or sporting events. No matter the customer, Customize-It Screen Printing will deliver the best communication, service, and quality products.

The precise demographics for the United States are:

Customer Segmentation

Customize-It will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Individuals looking to customize items for themselves or gifts for friends and family.
• Businesses looking to add logos or other personalization to their corporate T-shirts, binders, or other promotional items.
• Groups looking to personalize T-shirts or other items for events such as bachelorette parties, baby showers, and family reunions.
• Organizations and sports teams looking to get T-shirts or other items customized for their team to keep or to sell for fundraising purposes.

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Customize-It Screen Printing will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Kustum Screen Printing

Kustum Screen Printing provides custom screen printing on-demand for customers in Atlanta and surrounding areas. The company’s list of products that can be screen printed includesT-shirts, apparel, hats, mugs, glassware, wood, binders, stickers, and more. Customers can design and purchase screen printed products through Kustum Screen Printing’s intuitive website. Products can then be shipped or picked up in-store.

Kustum Screen Printing’s promise is to deliver high quality products, exceptional customer services, and quick follow up on any issues with custom orders. The management team of experienced screen printing professionals ensures that each order is handled with the best of care.

Screen Print For You

Screen Print For You is an Atlanta-based screen printing company that provides outstanding customer service and fast processing on all custom orders. Screen Print For You provides personalized screen printing services for individuals, groups, and teams. The owners of Screen Print For You are graphic designers and marketing experts so they can help customers design their products for any purpose from family events to corporate advertising. Customers can depend on their unique screen printing process to create long-lasting designs that will be sure to make a great impression.

Make It Personal Screen Printing

Make It Personal Screen Printing is a trusted Atlanta screen printing company that provides superior custom screen printing services throughout the state of Georgia. The company is able to provide a one-stop shop for people looking for unique gifts for loved ones or for businesses looking to get marketing materials personalized with the company logo. Products include T-shirts, sweat shirts, hats, picture frames, keychains, stickers, and binders. Make It Personal Screen Printing is able to ship products throughout the state. Customers can also order online and pick up in store.

Competitive Advantage

Customize-It Screen Printing will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Customize-It Screen Printing will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Wide range of items that can be personalized. Customize-It will work with any material that can be screen printed. Customers can choose from products sourced from the company’s trusted suppliers or send in their own items to get customized.
• Unbeatable pricing to its customers- Customize-It Screen Printing operates using a lean business model that saves on overhead costs. These cost savings are then passed on to the customers in the form of deep discounts and lower prices than what competitors are offering for the same services.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Customize-It Screen Printing is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

The company’s marketing manager will create accounts on various social media platforms including TikTok, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. The marketing manager will maintain an active presence on all social media, updating accounts with the latest information, special promotions, and designs. Customers will be encouraged to post their purchases on social media and link to the company’s account to stimulate organic growth.

Print Advertising

Customize-It Screen Printing will invest in professionally designed print ads to be displayed in direct mailers, magazines, and newspapers. Direct mailers will be designed to target individuals and business customers.

Broadcast Advertising

The company will invest in commercials to play on multiple streaming platforms, TV channels, radio, and podcasts.

Website/SEO Marketing

Customize-It Screen Printing’s marketing manager will design the company website. The website will be well organized, attractive, and list all of the company’s products and pricing information. The website will include informative screen printing content to help customers choose the best materials for their project. The marketing manager will also enhance Customize-It’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that when someone types in the search engine “custom screen printing company” or “screen printing services”, Customize-It Screen Printing will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of Customize-It Screen Printing will be competitive and lower than competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing the company’s products and services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Customize-It Screen Printing.

Operation Functions:

• John Nelson will be the Owner and Manager of the company. He will oversee the screen printing process and manage supplier relationships. John has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Timothy Hall – Lead Designer and Marketing Manager who will oversee the design process and handle all sales and marketing initiatives for the company.
• Kelly Smith – Operations Assistant who will oversee the packaging, logistics, and shipment of the products.

Customize-It Screen Printing will use business management software including customer relationship management, bookkeeping/accounting, and inventory management software for the bulk of its operational procedures. Maintaining a lean operational team will help the company save on overhead expenses.

Milestones:

Customize-It Screen Printing will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

9/1/2022 – Finalize contracts with suppliers.

9/15/2022 – Finalize employment contracts for Timothy and Kelly.

10/1/2022 – Purchase business management software.

10/15/2022 – Complete the company website.

10/22/2022 – Initiate the marketing campaign.

11/1/2022 – Officially open for business and begin taking orders.

Customize-It Screen Printing will be owned and operated by John Nelson. He recruited a business school peer, Timothy Hall, to be the designer and help manage the marketing for the company.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Customize-It Screen Printing are the screen printing fees that will be charged to customers for the products and screen printing services. The company will charge a 50% markup for products such as T-shirts or mugs that come from wholesale suppliers. Additionally, Customize-It will charge a flat $5 processing fee for each item.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs to maintain the screen printing equipment and the cost of the products themselves. The expenses will be the payroll cost, supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Average number of items screen printed per month: 500
• Average sales in dollars per month: $6,000
• Average overhead expenses per month: $12,500

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, screen printing business plan faqs, what is a screen printing business plan.

A screen printing business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your screen printing business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your screen printing business plan using our Screen Printing Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Screen Printing Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of screen printing business , some examples include: T-shirt/Clothing, Logos and Decals, and Advertising.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Screen Printing Business Plan?

Screen printing businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding. This is true for a screen printing business plan and a business plan for printing business.

What are the Steps To Start a Screen Printing Business?

Starting a screen printing business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Screen Printing Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed screen printing business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your screen printing business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your screen printing business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Screen Printing Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your screen printing business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your screen printing business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Screen Printing Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your screen printing business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your screen printing business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful screen printing business:

• How to Start a Screen Printing Business

Other Helpful Business Plan Templates

T-Shirt Business Plan Template Retail Business Plan Template

How to Start a Screen Printing Business (and Make Nearly $1M/Year)

• 3 years ago

Have you ever wondered how to start a screen-printing business? You can start screen printing with $10,000 or less. We’ll show you how to make a great living running a screen printer.

Forrest Wedmore and Clint Graham started The Foundry in 2010 as a custom t-shirt company. The screen printing company that they were using was struggling and sold them the screen printing equipment for $10,000. 11 years later the Foundry is making nearly $1m per year!

Forrest took the time to explain they started The Foundry. He gave us a ton of great advice about how to start your own t-shirt company that we’ll include while providing a step-by-step guide to start a screen-printing business.

Step 1: What’s the Best Way to Start a Screen-Printing Business?

The first step in the process of starting a screen printing shop is to research to determine whether a print shop is right for you. Screen printers can make great money, but every business owner has a different mindset.

You may want to run a store focused on a specific group, such as company t-shirts, one that caters to everyone, or you may want a warehouse where you focus on e-commerce.

You aren’t limited to just one type, but the type of printing company you choose will impact every decision you make going forward.

The Foundry focuses on printing, embroidery, and selling custom garments. Forrest told us:

Many consumers start their shopping experience online, so a shop that can sell clothing in person or online is recommended to start your clothing line.

Keep reading for different types of printing companies.

Printing for Private Label T-shirts

This is the type of printing Forrest does. Printers focus on printing for specific brands. 

A business plan using this model typically focuses on a niche market to satisfy their needs and may expand into other markets later while maintaining the same brand.

A franchise is just a business that has already developed a reputation and business processes. They let owners purchase the right to use a company’s branding and process in exchange for a licensing fee and percentage of revenue.

Franchises also help you with aspects like marketing, sales, and sourcing equipment. To learn more about starting a franchise printing company, check out our blog about Big Frog .

Retail T-shirt Printers

Printers that operate this way are commonly in malls and have shops that focus on retail customers that have small order sizes.

They’ll typically have a higher price per shirt, but that’s because the costs associated with the screens and design are covered by a smaller order than bulk print orders.

With the rise of eCommerce, this part of the industry is hurting. Closures of retail stores have been increasing for at least the last 3 years according to Moneywise .

Despite this, Digital Commerce says retail sales have increased around 3% per year since 2007, meaning locations that stay open make money.

This business model works with franchisees and stores that run a tight ship. They tend to need sales of $40k/month to be safe. Otherwise, you’ll probably want to start a different way.

That is comparable to what Forrest told us about his costs:

Printing for E-commerce

Many clothing companies, print-on-demand companies, or other e-commerce businesses hire a printer to press and ship the clothing their customers order from their website.

Printers can make great money doing this because they will typically get an additional payment for handling the shipping.

How much does it cost to start a screen-printing business?

Forrest told us “We started the business with $10,000 and a U-haul.”

When starting a screen-printing business, start-up costs can range from a few hundred dollars to $150k for a franchise.

Is a screen-printing business profitable?

It can be profitable as they are making around $3,500 per day, but you’ll need to control the expenses in the early stages of the company.

Step 2: Learning how to screen-print

The next step is learning how to start screen-printing. Some of the skills you might need include:

• Technology.
• Business Skills.

Let’s dig deeper into each of these to see how they impact starting a screen printing and embroidery business.

Design Skills

Before you can begin screen printing shirts, you’ll need a design for your screen printing press or other types of printers.

T-shirt designs will typically be designed using digital software, like Photoshop or Illustrator . Adobe has a ton of tutorials on how to use both.

If you are using a screen printer, you’ll then create the screen from the design, which we’ll go into later. If you want to avoid this step, there are other types of printers.

For instance, a direct-to-garment printer costs around $22,000 for the printer and the software. This equipment allows you to go straight from design to print.

 Technology

The next skill you need to develop is familiarity with the technology aspect of the industry. The technology falls into two categories:

• Production and screen printing skills.
• Technology to support your business.

Let’s look at each.

Production and Printing Skills

Your screen printing business will need to produce t-shirts,  and you’ll be doing it. Otherwise, you should research print-on-demand companies like Printful.

If you don’t already print garments, you’ll need to learn how to operate different types of machines.

Some of the typical techniques you’ll need to learn include:

• Screen Printing
• Direct to Garment
• Transfer Printing
• Cad Cut Vinyl

Forrest walks you through the direct to garment printing process at the 8:14 mark of the interview .

Printsome offers a good infographic on deciding what kind of technique you want to use.

The best way to learn these screen printing and heat transfer techniques is hands-on, which means purchasing your own machines or finding someone who will teach you.

Other ways to learn t-shirt printing skills, like heat transfer, are YouTube videos and manufacturer training courses. Just search “screen printing training courses” to find great resources.

Technology to support your screen printing business

I’ve seen people spend $25k to not get what they want from technology investments. It’s important to understand the technical aspect before you start.

Technology that will need to be used includes:

• An eCommerce platform. Read Investopedia’s review of the best platforms .
• Payment processors .
• Editing Software.
• Marketing Software .

This information is really important when trying to figure out how to start a t-shirt printing business because a great website and software can save you time and allow you to expand your customer base to a national or global level.

If you want to learn more about building a website, check out our blog How to Create a Website .

Most tech companies offer a free trial or low-cost tutorials on how to use their software. Make sure to use them. They were built to help you make the most of their offerings.

Business Skills

Business skills cover a wide range, including accounting, pricing, shipping, and managing inventory.

To educate yourself on all of these would be a lifetime of learning. We’ve provided a list of useful resources for getting more familiar with the subject matter:

• Accounting – Udemy , EDX
• Pricing – Coursera , Udemy
• Shipping – Shopify , BigCommerce
• Inventory Management – TradeGecko , Unleashed
• Marketing- We’ll cover this in greater detail below

You can also use YouTube videos to learn almost anything these days.

Marketing is about going where your target audience is to help them become aware of your screen printing services. Marketing can be done both online and through other channels.

Three of the largest marketing companies expect digital marketing to make up over half of all ad spend in 2021. To read more of their insights, check out this blog .

You’ll need to be familiar with the largest places where you can market your print shop:

• Facebook/Instagram -Direct-to-Consumer traffic
• Google – Search Traffic
• Amazon – Largest Retailer, great for private brands
• LinkedIn – Great for B2B sales

It’s important to have social media accounts connected when starting a screen-printing business. They help drive awareness, give you a channel to connect with customers, and allow you to set up shops to sell your products.

Each site has a ton of resources to educate people on their marketing tools. Make sure to familiarize yourself with them; otherwise, you’ll be operating in the dark and wasting a lot of money.

Marketing is focused on developing awareness of the organization and turning those who are aware into paying customers.

Step 3: Shirt Business Name

I can’t stress enough the importance of what you name your company. It will communicate what the company is all about. Keep reading for best practices.

Does the name explain the business?

The Foundry Co does not clearly state what it does: screen print and embroider clothing and other products. It references metalworking both in the name and the logo.

I feel like this is something that could make running a business a challenge, but the name also conveys the idea of well-made craftsmanship.

The easier it is to identify what the company is focused on, the easier it is for your target audience to find it while preventing wasted spending on industries that use similar wording.

Is it easy to spell?

Make sure your business name is easy to remember when using a search engine.

A crazy name like Onomatopoeia Printing makes searching for your business difficult cause it’s hard to spell. The Foundry is easy to spell and remember.

Because people tend to type fast, it can be helpful to register domain names for common misspellings of your company’s name and forward them to your website to make it easier for customers to find you.

Including your state, county, or city identifies you as a local business. For example, Windy City Screen Printing would be focused on screen printing in Chicago.

Does your name fit your branding? Some business owners focus on visual ideas for a logo before a name. The Foundry’s logo looks like this:

The saving grace for the logo is they include the word “print shop” in the logo. Without that, it would be hard to tell what it is. Make sure to make it easy for people to understand what your company does.

Register a .com

Find a name for which the .com domain is available. It’s the most recognizable. You can search by clicking here .

Give it a go!

See how people like it. Make sure to check what happens if people shorten it. 

You wouldn’t want to name a business Super Crazy Athletic Tees because it would get shortened to SCAT, and you don’t want that to be associated with your brand.

Check Google Trends. Read articles like Five Tools for Naming a Business. Finally, register your business name with the government.

Step 4: Write a T-shirt Screen Printing Business Plan

You need a business plan to help define your vision for the screen printing company’s objectives and strategy.

Its purpose is to drive the direction of your screen printers’ decisions, secure financing, and develop partnerships with other businesses. 

Having a flexible business plan that is constantly evolving is a great approach to the process and allows for businesses to pivot when necessary. Here are some resources to help with this step.

We’ve gathered templates to help you develop your business plan. Here are some of the best:

• One-page business plan
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Business Guide
• State-specific templates
• Business Plan Template for a Startup Business

It gets better! Here’s some free and low-cost education on business plans:

• UpFlip’s blog How to Write a Business Plan
• SCORE’s free business plans and startup assistance resources
• The Complete Business Plan Course (Includes 50 Templates)

Step 5: Establish the legal structure to screen-print

You’ve created a name and business plan. It’s time to establish the legal structure. For best results, hire legal representation that has experience starting a business, like an attorney, accountant, or tax specialist.

They’ll help you get your business started quickly so you can start printing faster.

Licenses, permits, and tax forms

Each location has different licenses, permits, or tax forms required. Use the SBA License and Permits page to identify what your custom tees company needs. Keep reading for information on different legal structures.

Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the easiest way to start a t-shirt business, but the structure doesn’t protect the owner’s assets from legal issues.

That means if something goes wrong, you could lose both your printing company and your home.

This structure should only be used if you can’t afford an LLC because shirt businesses have work and materials that can cause injuries to employees or customers.

To start a sole proprietorship, fill out a special tax form called a Schedule C . Sole proprietors can also join the American Independent Business Alliance .

Limited Liability Corporation (LLC)

An LLC is the most common business structure used in the United States because the company protects the owner’s assets.

It’s similar to partnerships and corporations but can be a single-member LLC in most states. An LLC requires a document called an operating agreement.

Each state has different requirements. Here’s a link to find your state’s requirements .

People may register in specific states due to the cost of doing business. Delaware and Nevada are common states to file an LLC because of their business-friendly laws. Here’s a blog on the top 10 states to get an LLC.

Partnerships and corporations

Partnerships and corporations are typically for massive organizations or legal firms. Unless there is a specific reason you need a partnership, it is better to do a multi-person LLC.

Investopedia has good information about partnerships and corporations here .

There are several opportunities to purchase t-shirt franchises.

Franchising.com has two franchise opportunities in the United States that allow you to start a t-shirt business using a reputable company’s name and business processes.

A franchise makes it where an entrepreneur can benefit from the reputation of an established clothing printer that has already worked out many of the kinks of starting from scratch.

Step 6: Getting Ready for Customers

Your screen printing business is now an entity, but there’s more to do. 

The order you do the rest of the steps will depend on the resources you have, your skill sets, and the type of print company you are running.

There are six areas of business you will need to focus on to get you running:

• Location – Where will you be working?
• Equipment and Inventory – What will you have in stock and how will you pay for it?
• Employees – Will you have employees and how will you make sure it is a safe environment?
• Finances – How will you keep track of transactions and financial records?
• Insurance – How can you protect what you are building?
• Marketing – How will you find customers?

Step 7: Location

Finding a location will vary based on the type of screen printing business you are running. For instance, if there are certain major clients you are trying to target, being located near them can be beneficial.

Otherwise, you may want to choose the location based on the wealth distribution of the area, based on the price of space, or choose a central location that is convenient for more people.

When deciding to rent a space for a clothing line, consider:

• How will I store equipment and inventory?
• Is there space for a home-based office?
• Will customers be coming to my location?
• How much inventory will I have?
• How much display space do I need?
• How much space is needed to store inventory?

When opening a screen printer, you will probably need to rent space in your area. Whether the space is a warehouse, a storefront,  or U-Haul, you’ll need to plan to make sure you have the proper setup.

How much space do I need for t-shirt printing equipment?

A discussion in T-shirt Forums suggests a minimum of 320 square feet for a 6 color/6 station clothing printing machine.

That assumes you only have one screen printer machine. You’ll need more space for silk screen supplies, inventory, and office space.

Typically you’ll want about 500 square feet per occupant plus space for the tee shirt printing machine.

That means at the very least you’ll need about 900 square feet to make sure you have the space you need to work and store everything.

To find spaces to rent in your area, contact a local commercial real estate agent. You can search for them in your area here.

Step 8: Professional T-shirt Printing Machines and Product Displays

A new screen printing business requires inventory. You’ll need the shirts you’ll be selling, product display stands, registers, computers for design, and the machines for adding designs.

You’ll need machines based on the different types of t-shirts. These can range from heat presses to DTG printers to embroidery stations.

A professional t-shirt printing machine that is recommended in other blogs is the Brother DTG Printers .

Starting a Clothing Line  offers a list of manufacturers by location and type of clothing. It’s a great place to start when looking for manufacturers.

Used printing machines and product displays

Screen printing equipment for shirts and product displays can often be found at huge discounts if you buy them used.

You can find printers and product displays through most online markets, pawnshops, going-out-of-business sales, and other places.

If you are considering buying an existing business, the equipment, the suppliers, and the client list are the most valuable aspects of the company. 

Learn more about valuing an existing business in our guide about buying businesses.

Step 9: Employees

Forrest emphasized the importance of great employees. He told us:

He also told us not to make the same mistakes he did. Screen printers tend to be creative. They have a different mindset than accountants. He said that every creative should have a great bookkeeper.

When you hire employees, you’ll need to meet some obligations. Let’s discuss common requirements.

Tax filing and withholding

Federal and state tax filing requirements apply to new employers. You must keep records of employment taxes for at least four years, including special forms and accounting for state taxes.

Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered! Check out the IRS guide for employers here .

Federal employment and labor law posters

All employers must display Workplace Posters , which you can download from the website.

Other requirements include:

• Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9)
• State’s New Hire Program
• Worker’s Compensation Insurance
• Disability Insurance—varies by states
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Job Posting

Hiring people requires posting “now hiring” signs and posting on prominent job boards. Some places you can start posting job requirements are:

• Zip Recruiter

Having a prepared list of questions for interviews can make hiring the right people easier. Indeed offers a variety of resources to help you make better hiring decisions. Read their guide: How to hire your first employee.

Given this is a skilled trade, I’d recommend having them do a physical test to identify silk screen supplies and show you how to do screen printing.

While you can teach someone how to operate a clothes printing machine, it’s easier if they know how.

Compensation

Employees are typically a company’s biggest expense. There are four common pay structures in business:

Each fits different scenarios. Let’s take a closer look.

Flat weekly/monthly rate based on a person working a specific number of hours. This is typically reserved for owners, managers, and some admin roles. You might want to assign this to yourself for budgeting purposes.

This pay structure just tracks the hours an employee works and pays them a set hourly rate. This pay structure is solely based on time, not performance.

In Portland, Sanford says, “I pay my employees $14 to $16 per hour.”

Typically used in sales to give employees a percentage of revenue. It is a strictly performance-based compensation model.

Hybrid Models

Hybrid models combine two pay structures — for instance, hourly and commission—to compensate for time and performance.

The hourly rate will typically be lower than an hourly rate without commission, but the commission should make it where high-performing employees make more than they would without commission.

These structures also help reduce the variability of pay from week to week.

Paying employees an hourly wage works for most screenprinting businesses, but depending on your business structure, a commission or hybrid payment model might make sense.

The article , “How to Create a Pay Structure That Promotes Team and Company Growth” offers some insights into thinking about pay structure.

Also check out payscale.com for estimates on how much to pay for screen printers in your area.

Step 10: Financial Management

A crucial portion of successfully starting a small business is managing the finances. Here are some tips and resources to help you get started with the financial management of your print shop.

Budget! Budget! Budget!

A budget is the most important tool you can use in business. Without it, your screen printing business might not make it through the first few years.

Some of the best free budgeting software includes:

• dsBudget – open-source software that requires some development experience
• Quickbooks – used by millions to make their accounting easy by setting up rules, directly connecting with their bank(s), and more.
• Xero – I have some experience with them. I was introduced to them through an Australian client, and people love them. It allows you to automate most of your processes but is meant to be set up by an accountant and software developer so that the platform works specifically based on your location(s) tax needs.

Consider the many funding options

While Forrest started Foundry with a $10k loan from family, other printers we have talked to have started their company with less than $1,000.

In our interview with Marcus from Portland Gear, Marcus suggests beginners use the following:

• A print-on-demand company.
• Social media marketing of less than $500/mo.

Common funding paths include:

• Personal funds
• A loan from family or friends
• Funds from a business partner(s)
• Government programs

The SBA offers free courses on financing options and funding programs . For info on using personal funds to start a business, check out this article from The Hartford.

Alternative sources of funding include:

• Crowdfunding  
• Credit cards
• Home equity loan
• Rollover for business startups (ROBS)

Develop a pricing structure

Screen printing prices vary, so research the market in your area to come up with a good pricing structure. Forrest told us:

Step 11: Sales Tax and Insurance

Sales taxes.

All but five states and some cities (or counties) require sales tax. You can find a guide on applying for sales tax on TaxJar . After you register to pay sales taxes, you will need to keep track of the sales to pay them according to state laws.

I would highly recommend speaking with an accountant that specializes in taxes to help you comply with your business’s unique needs.

You’ll need unemployment insurance and worker’s compensation if you have employees. You may also want a general liability policy to protect against unforeseen events that could cause substantial losses.

Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment insurance protects employees from entirely losing income when they lose their jobs.

It is paid for on both the federal and state level. Federal unemployment insurance is driven by a 6% tax on the first $7,000 of each employee’s income, a total of $420/year per employee.

Your state taxes can reduce the federal portion down to $42/year per employee, but each state has different requirements. You can find a full list of agencies that deal with UI on nolo.com .

Workers Compensation

Workers Compensation is for when people are injured on the job. There are both federal and state requirements. You can find both federal and state requirements at dol.gov .

The policies protect against excessive costs when an employee is injured through acceptable business practices.

General Liability Policy

A general liability policy is not required, but it is highly advised if people other than employees will be at your location. It protects against lawsuits. Contact an insurance agent to get a quote.

 Step 12: Marketing

You’re ready to sell shirts. You have the location, equipment, inventory, and employees, but no clients!

How are you going to let people know you have a press, ink, and are ready to print quality tees?

Marketing is crucial!

Forrest stressed the importance of asking to show all your work on social media.

That tip can save money during the start-up phase.

Other suggestions he had are:

• Build relationships. Networking is what makes a business succeed. It pays off.
• Continually focus on SEO. Start by familiarizing yourself with Google requirements .
• Check the customers’ previous print jobs to give you ideas of how to sell more shirts.
• Follow up! It makes a difference.
• Try to upsell them. If you love their artwork, suggest putting it on stickers too.
• Use analytics.
• Don’t forget business cards .

Using software like Hootsuite makes managing social media easier. You can schedule posts, assign team members to manage specific sites and access all your social media in one place.

In addition, they keep up with the requirements for each platform for you and update you when you enter the dashboard.

A CRM like Hubspot can make keeping track of clients easier as well.

You can integrate it with almost everything, including emails, invoicing, inventory, and your accounting to make sure that you know what is going on with every client. 

Influencers

One of the best ways to learn what works in marketing and business is to follow others who rock their industries. Some of the top influencers to follow are:

• Gary V – He turned a wine company into serial entrepreneurship with a focus on marketing. If you struggle with marketing, check out what he does. He’s awesome!
• Screen Printing Blogs – a list of 40 blogs focused on t-shirt printing.
• SEO Influencers – Randy Fishkin , Danny Sullivan , and Neil Patel

Is it hard to start a screen-printing business?

Forrest told us:

If screen printing T-shirts sounds interesting to you, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I have the required screen printing start-up costs?
• Am I comfortable operating a screen printing machine?
• Will I be comfortable speaking to clients?
• Where will I buy my screen printing supplies?
• Why am I starting a clothing business?
• Do I need employees or advice?
• What will I need to feel successful?

We’ve given you the steps to starting a screen-printing business. There’s just one more step: Start your own!

Let us know in the comments below if you have any questions, we’ll be more than happy to help!

Brandon Boushy

Brandon Boushy lives to improve people’s lives by helping them become successful entrepreneurs. His journey started nearly 30 years ago. He consistently excelled at everything he did, but preferred to make the rules rather than follow him. His exploration of self and knowledge has helped him to get an engineering degree, MBA, and countless certifications. When freelancing and rideshare came onto the scene, he recognized the opportunity to play by his own rules. Since 2017, he has helped businesses across all industries achieve more with his research, writing, and marketing strategies. Since 2021, he has been the Lead Writer for UpFlip where he has published over 170 articles on small business success.

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2 thoughts on “How to Start a Screen Printing Business (and Make Nearly $1M/Year)”

Am a newbie in the screen printing business. I need more insight on how to kick start with little income here in Nigeria.

Having gone through the informative blog on “How to Start a Screen Printing Business,” I’m intrigued by the mention of equipment but specifically want to delve deeper into the world of screen printing machines. The blog provides a general overview, but I’d like to hear from those who have hands-on experience. What are the key considerations when selecting a screen printing machine? Any recommendations or pitfalls to avoid? Let’s share insights on finding the perfect screen printing machine for a successful startup.

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Screen Printing Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Screen Printing Business

Written by: Esther Strauss

Esther is a business strategist with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, educator, and management advisor.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on September 14, 2021 Updated on March 13, 2024

Investment range

$9,000 - $27,000

Revenue potential

$90,000 - $360,000 p.a.

Time to build

Profit potential

$50,000 - $110,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Do you enjoy graphic design or have a flair for creating eye-catching works of art? Then starting a screen printing business could be a great way for you to grab a small slice of the nearly $8 billion US screen printing market.

Starting a screen-printing business is straightforward and requires little if any training. And thanks to low start-up costs, you could start your very own business without breaking the bank.

But, that doesn’t mean it’s easy to launch and run a successful printing business! As with any business, you’ll need to do some careful planning before you can start making money. Thankfully, you’ve come to the right place, as this step-by-step guide details all you need to do to put yourself on the path to screen printing success.

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

When you plan to start a business, you must choose one that fits your situation and preferences. That’s why, in this section, we’ll delve into everything you need to know to make that decision. 

Pros and cons

Before you venture into the world of screen printing, you should be aware of the pros and cons of the industry.

• Low costs make it easy to get started
• Work with a variety of materials and product types
• More durable than heat press and digital printing
• Production is pricey for small quantities
• Color constraints mean no photo-based designs
• Low barriers to entry means stiff competition

Screen printing industry trends

Following a pandemic-driven downturn, the market looks set for significant expansion, with the global screen printing industry expected to see strong 16% growth through 2027.

Industry size and growth

• Industry size and past growth – The US custom screen printing industry is worth nearly $9 billion, after declining more than 2% per year since 2017.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/custom-screen-printing-united-states/ ))  
• Growth forecast – Market analyst IBISWorld says the screen printing industry is expected to bounce back and grow nearly 3% in 2022. Globally, the screen printing industry is predicted to post strong growth of 16% per year to reach $5 billion by 2027.(( https://www.reportlinker.com/p06032841/Global-Screen-Printing-Industry.html?utm_source=GNW ))
• Number of businesses – There are more than 12,000 screen printing businesses in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/custom-screen-printing-united-states/ )) 
• Number of people employed – The industry employs more than 67,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/custom-screen-printing-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends shaping the screen printing industry include:

• Use of customized t-shirts as marketing tool
• Increasing ecommerce penetration
• Rising demand for pop culture merchandise

Challenges in screen printing industry include;

• Poor print quality
• Health risks from chemicals
• High level of competition

What kind of people work in screen printing?

• Gender – 71% of all screen printers are male, while 29% are female.(( https://www.zippia.com/screen-printer-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education – About a third (35%) of screen printers have a high school diploma, while 30% hold a bachelor’s degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/screen-printer-jobs/education/ ))
• Average age – The average age of a screen printer is 48 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/screen-printer-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How much does it cost to start a screen-printing business?

Startup costs range from $9,000 to $27,000 or more. By far, the highest startup cost will be your screen printing equipment, which includes a screen printing press, a screen print dryer and more. If you need some training, there are countless screen printing courses and workshops online for as little as $40. 

If you’re looking to start with minimal investment, you’ll want to operate out of your home, at least in your first months. It’s also a good idea to look for used screen printing equipment online — this Facebook group with more than 6,000 members is a good place to start. 

On the flip side, the maximum budget will get you something along the lines of Lawson Screen Printing’s Advanced Start-Up Package , which will set you back nearly $16,000. You’ll also likely need commercial space to make good use of all your equipment.

How much can you earn from a screen printing shop?

Revenue will depend on the products you offer and the number of colors you expect to use. For example, printing a T-shirt with three colors will generate different revenue numbers than printing a mug with a single color.

Let’s use an order for 50 custom, three-colored T-shirts as an example. Blank T-shirts are $2 each, while your materials average out to $1 per T-shirt. That means your total cost of $150 breaks down to $3 for each T-shirt, which you then sell for $7 each, making $350. This means you’ll have a profit margin of about 55% and make $200 in profit from this order, which should take no longer than one hour to fulfill. 

In your first year or two, you might average five of these orders per week, bringing in more than $90,000 in annual revenue and around $50,000 in annual profit, assuming a 55% margin. After a few years you might generate 20 sales per week, but with higher overhead, due to staff and facilities, your margin will fall to 30% and you might only make $100 in profit from each order. Still, you’d make more than $360,000 in annual revenue. At a 30% margin, you’d make a tidy profit of almost $110,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There aren’t many barriers to entry in the screen printing business, but one to be aware of is the intense competition from local, national, and even international players.

Another barrier to entry is that clients face no costs to switch to another service, which means you have got to be excellent at screen printing to keep your customers.

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a screen printing business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Explain how the reader should identify an opportunity — examine the market for gaps and trends, consider your special skills and capabilities. 

Research screen printing businesses in your area to examine their products/services, price points, customer reviews, and what sells best. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a screen printer that focuses on references to 1990s culture and style. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, like coffee mugs.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

You could offer a standard set of screen printed T-shirts and mugs, and also offer custom printing for a wide variety of products, including backpacks, binders, ceramics, posters, wood, snowboards, medical devices and more. The possibilities are almost endless when it comes to screen printing. Do your research and decide what works best for you and your business. 

How much should you charge for screen printing?

Assuming you start from home as a solopreneur, your main costs will be materials and ink, and you should be able to achieve a profit margin of 50-55%. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will hinge on the products you choose. If you focus on T-shirts for instance, you are likely to have a younger demographic, and could find them on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. If your products are mostly mugs, binders and signs, you would do better to target businesses on LinkedIn. 

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you’ll want to run your screen printing business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers and rent out a production facility. Find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Screen Printing Business Name

Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “screen printing” or “custom T-shirts”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Prime Design Prints” over “Sports Screen Printing”
• Avoid location-based names that might hinder future expansion
• Use online tools like the Step by Step Business Name Generator . Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Screen Printing Business Plan

Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:

• Executive Summary: Summarize the objectives and strategies of your screen printing business, emphasizing custom designs on various apparel and promotional items.
• Business Overview: Describe the core service of screen printing, targeting custom apparel creation for businesses, organizations, and individuals.
• Product and Services: Detail the types of products offered, from t-shirts and hoodies to tote bags and corporate wear, along with design services.
• Market Analysis: Assess the demand for personalized printed products and identify key customer segments like local businesses, schools, and event organizers.
• Competitive Analysis: Evaluate the local and online competition, noting how your business will provide superior quality, service, or design options.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your strategy to reach potential clients, such as through social media marketing, attending trade shows, or partnerships with local businesses.
• Management Team: Highlight the expertise and experience of the team that will manage the business and production operations.
• Operations Plan: Describe the production process, from design approval to printing and fulfillment.
• Financial Plan: Provide an overview of start-up costs, pricing strategy, cost management, and revenue projections.
• Appendix: Include additional documents like sample designs, client testimonials, or detailed market research to support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan before, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider finding and hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to screen printing. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your screen printing business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• Corporation – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that most new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your Articles of Organization and be on hand to answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital: Venture capital investors take an ownership stake in exchange for funds, so keep in mind that you’d be sacrificing some control over your business. This is generally only available for businesses with high growth potential.
• Angel investors: Reach out to your entire network in search of people interested in investing in early-stage startups in exchange for a stake. Established angel investors are always looking for good opportunities. 
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

For a screen printing business, your best bet is probably going the personal route or reaching out to friends and family. Although, if you have a great concept, you could give crowdfunding a shot as well. 

Step 8: Apply for Screen Printing Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a screen printing business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your screen printing business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account.

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use graphic design tools such as Affinity Designer , Adobe Illustrator , and CorelDRAW for photo editing, typography, and more. 

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Launching a successful screen printing business requires more than just a passion for the craft. To stand out in a competitive market, consider these effective marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.

• Social Media Engagement: Leverage platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your unique designs, share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your printing process, and engage with your audience through polls and contests.
• Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses, schools, and community organizations for custom merchandise or promotional items, fostering a strong local presence and word-of-mouth referrals.
• Targeted Samples and Demonstrations: Provide sample prints to local businesses and organizations, allowing them to experience the quality of your work firsthand, and consider hosting live printing demonstrations at events to attract potential clients.
• Referral Programs: Implement a referral program that rewards existing customers for referring new clients, creating a cost-effective way to expand your customer base through word-of-mouth recommendations.
• Seasonal Promotions: Capitalize on holidays, sports seasons, or local events by offering limited-time promotions on themed merchandise, attracting customers looking for unique and timely prints.
• Quality Business Cards and Flyers: Design visually appealing business cards and flyers that showcase your printing capabilities, distributing them strategically at local businesses, community bulletin boards, and relevant events.
• Customer Loyalty Programs: Encourage repeat business by implementing a customer loyalty program, offering discounts or exclusive deals to clients who consistently choose your screen printing services.
• Online Tutorials and DIY Kits: Share screen printing tutorials on platforms like YouTube to position your business as an industry authority, and consider selling DIY screen printing kits to a broader audience.
• Attend Trade Shows and Events: Participate in relevant industry trade shows, fairs, and community events to network with potential clients, suppliers, and collaborators, expanding your reach beyond online platforms.
• Quality Assurance and Guarantees: Build trust with customers by offering quality assurance guarantees, ensuring satisfaction with your products and services, and prominently displaying positive customer reviews on your marketing materials.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your screen printing business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your printing business could be: 

• The hottest, coolest T-shirts in town 
• Mugs, tablets, desks, posters — your whole business branded
• Custom screen printing at great rates! 

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a screen printing business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in screen printing for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in printing. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build your team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a screen printing business would include:

• Screen Printers
• Marketing Lead
• General Manager

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Screen Printing Business – Start Making Money! 

Now that you’ve put a strong foundation in place, it’s time to get out there and grab your slice of the $8 billion US screen printing industry! 

To ensure your business starts off on the right foot, here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Meet your deadlines: Whether it’s the deadline for a printing project or your bills, make sure you meet your time commitments—your stakeholders will appreciate it!
• Provide more value than you take: Ensure your clients and stakeholders get more value from you than you take from them, and they’ll stick with you for life.
• Always implement quality control: A simple quality assurance check will reduce product returns and customer dissatisfaction.
• Engage the local community: You know the local community and have a direct connection with them, so it’s better to serve their needs before you market your products on a state or national level.
• Address complaints with humility: Always listen to your clients, especially their negative remarks as these are areas where you can improve. And even if a complaint is illogical or unfair, address it calmly and professionally.
• Keep improving your production capacity: You don’t know when a big client will come out of the wood work. Make sure you’re able to seize the opportunity when the time comes.
• Attend events: Ensure your participation in industry events and trade shows. Bring your best designs as samples and prove yourself as a creative and capable printer.
• Screen Printing Business FAQs

It can be if you generate enough demand for your services. As a solopreneur with minimal expenses and 20 hours worth of printing projects per week, you’d earn just shy of $150k in net profit per year, on average.

If you operate in a similar capacity with employees, your profit can be much higher.

While the screen printing industry declined almost 20% during the economic crisis spurred by the COVID-19 surge in the U.S., it has already shown early signs of recovery, achieving modest growth in 2021. The screen printing industry is certainly not dead and will flourish again as normalcy returns to the U.S.

The cost of screen printing equipment starts from as low as $1,500 for hobbyists, $7,000 for beginners, and $42,850 for advanced-level printers. The cost of an automatic screen printing machine ranges from $30,000 to $80,000.

To make your screen printing business successful, you should first focus on creating a valuable offering for your customers. Next, you’ll need to focus on key areas, including business planning, training, team building, targeting a niche, and marketing strategy.

To start screen printing at home, you will need the following basic equipment and supplies:

• Screen printing press: A device that holds the screen and allows you to apply ink onto the printing surface.
• Screens: A mesh screen stretched over a frame, which is used to transfer the design onto the printing surface.
• Squeegee: A tool with a flat, rubber blade used to push the ink through the screen onto the printing surface.
• Ink: Specialized screen printing ink designed for fabric or other surfaces.
• Emulsion and emulsion remover: Emulsion is used to create stencils on the screens, and emulsion remover is used to clean and reclaim the screens.
• Screen exposure unit or light source: A light source used to expose the emulsion-coated screens to create the stencil.

Starting screen printing can have a learning curve, but it is possible to start at home with dedication and practice. Understanding the basic techniques, such as preparing screens, mixing inks, and operating the press, is essential. There are various online resources, tutorials, and classes available to help you learn the techniques and best practices of screen printing. 

The best material for screen printing depends on the type of printing you want to do. Common materials used for screen printing include fabric (such as cotton, polyester, or blends) for creating custom apparel, paper for printing posters or artwork, and various substrates like wood, metal, or plastic for creating custom prints or signage.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Screen Printing Business Name
• Create a Screen Printing Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Screen Printing Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build your team
• Run a Screen Printing Business - Start Making Money! 

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Screen Printing Business Plan

The art of printing graphics on different clothing products, such as t-shirts, is the main focus of a screen printing firm. It brings the creative side of yours to life, but start that with proper planning.

Need help writing a business plan for your screen printing business? You’re at the right place. Our screen printing business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Screen Printing Business lan?

Writing a screen printing business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section to offer an overview of the business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your business:

• This section may include the name of your screen printing business, its location, when it was founded, the type of screen printing business (E.g., commercial apparel printing, promotional products printing, contract printing), etc.

Market opportunity:

Product and services:.

• For instance, you may include uniform printing & contract printing as services and mention custom screen printing carpets as your USP.

Marketing & sales strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business description:

• Custom apparel printing
• Promotional products printing
• T-shirt printing business
• Team sports uniform printing
• Event merchandise printing
• Graphic designing and printing studio
• On-demand printing
• Retail print shop
• Describe the legal structure of your screen printing company, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
• Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission statement:

Business history:.

• Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.

Future goal:

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

• For instance, retailers or e-commerce would be an ideal target audience for a screen printing business.

Market size and growth potential:

Competitive analysis:, market trends:.

• For instance, customized printing has a booming market; explain how you plan on dealing with this potential growth opportunity.

Regulatory environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your screen print business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your services:

Mention the screen printing services your business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Event Merchandise Printing
• Wholesale and Contract Printing
• Online Print-on-Demand
• Specialty Printing Techniques
• Rebranding and Repurposing

Cusomization:

• For instance, mention the inks you will use here and also design consultation if you provide any.

Quality control:

• This may include pre-production sampling, color matching, material & ink testing, wash & durability testing, etc.

Additional services:

In short, this section of your screen printing plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique selling proposition (USP):

• For example, high-quality inks, quick turnaround times, and customization options could be some of the great USPs for a professional screen printing company.

Pricing strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your screen printing business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your screen printing business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & training:

Operational process:, equipment & machinery:.

• Explain how these technologies help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your screen printing business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founder/CEO:

Key managers:.

• It should include, key executives(e.g. COO, CMO.), senior management, and other department managers (e.g. operations manager, customer services manager.) involved in the screen printing business operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your screen printing services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more.These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your screen printing business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample screen printing business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful screen printing plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our screen printing business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a screen printing business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful screen printing business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your screen printing company.

How to get funding for your screen printing business?

There are several ways to get funding for your screen printing business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your screen printing business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your screen printing business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your screen printing business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any screen printing business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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How to Develop a Business Plan for your Screen Printing Shop

Are you ready to make your screen printing hobby a business? Or maybe you are already printing for profit and want to take the next step. If you're thinking of starting a serious business out of screen printing, it's important to create a business plan to help guide you towards success. Here are the steps you can take to create a comprehensive business plan for your screen printing shop.

1. Executive Summary:

Start with a brief summary of your business plan, highlighting the most important aspects of your business, such as your mission statement, the products and services you'll offer, your target market, and your projected revenue.

The purpose of the executive summary is to give readers a quick and clear understanding of the business and its potential for success, which can encourage them to read the rest of the plan in more detail. The executive summary is therefore a critical part of the business plan and should be crafted carefully to make a strong impression and to generate interest in the business.

Although this section is first, we suggest writing it last. Once you complete the steps below you will have a better picture of your business and summarizing will be easier.

2. Company Description:

Provide a detailed overview of your screen printing shop, including the name of your business, its legal structure, location, and a brief history of how you came up with the idea. Explain your vision for your business and your long-term goals.

You will need to select the type of structure your business will operate under. There are several legal structures that screen printing businesses can choose from, depending on their specific needs and goals. Here are some of the most common legal structures:

• Sole Proprietorship: This is the simplest and most common legal structure for small businesses. A sole proprietorship is owned and operated by a single individual who is personally responsible for the business's debts and liabilities.
• Partnership: A partnership is a legal structure in which two or more people own and operate a business. Each partner is personally responsible for the business's debts and liabilities.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): An LLC is a hybrid legal structure that combines elements of a partnership and a corporation. It offers personal liability protection to its owners (called members), while also allowing for pass-through taxation, meaning that the business's profits and losses are reported on the members' personal tax returns.
• Corporation: A corporation is a legal entity that is separate from its owners. It is owned by shareholders and is managed by a board of directors. Corporations offer personal liability protection to their shareholders, but are subject to double taxation, meaning that the business's profits are taxed at the corporate level and again at the individual level when they are distributed to shareholders.

The legal structure that is best for a screen-printing business will depend on a variety of factors, including the number of owners, the level of personal liability protection desired, and the tax implications of the different structures. It is important to consult with an account if you are unsure of which to choose, they can help you pick the option best for your unique financial situation.

Let’s talk about goals! Where do you see your business in 5 or 10 years, it is important to establish goals now so you can start to measure your success and progress against these goals. Here are some examples of goals you can set for your screen printing business.

• Increase Revenue and profitability – Set a goal to generate x amount of revenue by year 5
• Expand your product offering –In 3 years you will offer embroidery and sublimation printing
• Scale your shop size – By year 10 you will own an automatic machine and employee 20 persons

3. Market Analysis:

Conduct market research to understand your industry and your target market. Identify your competitors, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and determine how you can differentiate your screen-printing shop from others in the market.

This is your space to analyze and then get creative. How can your shop stand out amongst all the other printing services offered? Focus on what you can do different. What value can you bring customers that others can not?

4. Products and Services:

Outline the products and services you'll offer, such as t-shirts, hoodies, and other types of apparel. Explain how you'll create and produce these products, and the pricing strategy you'll use.

They sky is the limit here. There are so many services you can offer customers as well as different garment offerings. We suggest you first establish a smaller niche and then expand your offering as you grow. Its much easier to market a niche than it is a large category. Nail down your niche, then grow.

5. Marketing and Sales:

Describe how you'll promote and sell your products and services. Identify the channels you'll use, such as social media, email marketing, and word-of-mouth. Explain how you'll price your products and services, and how you'll handle payments and orders.

We have a great blog post that goes into depth about marketing your screen printing business. This blog shares free marketing suggestions as well as paid. Read here.

6. Operations and Management:

Describe how your screen printing shop will operate, including the equipment you'll need, the employees you'll hire, and the systems you'll use to manage your business. Include information on how you'll handle inventory, production, and quality control.

If you plan to start as a one man show, that’s great. Include this in the plan and perhaps your goals on growing your staff if you are interested in employing others.

7. Financial Plan:

Create a financial plan for your screen printing shop, including your startup costs, projected revenue, and expenses. Estimate your profitability over the first few years of operation, and include a break-even analysis. You should also include a cash flow statement and balance sheet.

Here are some financial information resources:

            Breakeven Point Calculator

            How to Prepare a Cash Flow Statement from Havard Business School

            How to Prepare a Balance Sheet from Harvard Business School

Does everything above sound like gibberish? I get it, Im not a numbers person either. I suggest hiring a freelancer rom upwork to help you prepare these statements. This can be done fairly cheap and it saves you from a headache

8. Appendix:

Include any supporting documentation, such as market research data, legal documents, and financial projections that were mentioned in the plan above.

By following these steps, you'll create a comprehensive business plan for your screen printing shop that will help guide you towards success. Remember to review and update your plan regularly as your business evolves.

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How To Start A Screen Printing Business

Starting a screen printing business can be a great way to turn your creative passions into a profitable venture. However, like any business, starting a screen printing business requires careful planning, research, and preparation.

Here are some steps to help you get started:

Develop a Business Plan

A business plan is a roadmap that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections for your business. It helps you stay focused and organized and can also be used to attract investors and secure funding.

Your business plan should include the following:

• Business overview: This section should provide a brief overview of your business, including your mission statement, goals, and objectives.
• Market analysis: This section should describe your target market and competitors. It should also include an analysis of industry trends, customer needs, and market opportunities.
• Marketing strategy: This section should describe your marketing and advertising strategies for reaching and attracting customers.
• Operations plan: This section should outline how you plan to run your business, including the equipment, materials, and staff needed to operate.
• Financial projections: This section should include financial projections, including startup costs, revenue projections, and cash flow projections.

Register Your Business

Once you have developed your business plan, you will need to register your business with the relevant authorities. This includes obtaining any necessary licenses and permits, registering for taxes, and registering your business name.

You may also need to register for a business bank account, insurance, and any other necessary services.

Acquire Equipment and Supplies

Screen printing requires a range of equipment and supplies, including screens , ink , a squeegee , and a printing press . The type and quality of equipment you need will depend on the type of printing you plan to do.

When selecting equipment, consider the following factors:

• Quality: Look for high-quality equipment that is reliable and durable. This will help you produce high-quality prints and reduce the need for repairs and replacements.
• Cost: Screen printing equipment can be expensive, so it's important to find a balance between quality and cost. Look for equipment that is affordable and offers good value for money.
• Capacity: Consider the capacity of your equipment and how much printing you plan to do. You may need to invest in additional equipment as your business grows.

Develop Your Designs

Your designs are the heart of your screen printing business. They should be creative, unique, and visually appealing to your target market.

When developing your designs, consider the following factors:

• Target market: Your designs should be tailored to your target market. Consider their age, gender, interests, and preferences when developing your designs.
• Branding: Your designs should also reflect your brand identity and values. Consider using colors, fonts, and imagery that are consistent with your brand.
• Trends: Stay up-to-date with the latest design trends and incorporate them into your designs when appropriate.

Learn how to create t-shirt designs in Adobe Illustrator .

Market and Promote Your Business

Marketing and promotion are key to building a successful screen printing business. You will need to create a strong online presence, build relationships with potential customers, and establish your brand in the industry.

Here are some marketing strategies to consider:

• Social media: Use social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram , and TikTok, to showcase your designs and engage with your audience.
• Website: Create a professional website that showcases your designs, services, and pricing information. Make sure your website is optimized for search engines and is mobile-friendly.
• Networking: Attend industry events, trade shows, and conferences to build relationships with potential customers and suppliers.
• Referrals: Ask satisfied customers to refer their friends and family to your business.

Provide Excellent Customer Service

Providing excellent customer service is essential to building a successful screen printing business. Make sure you respond promptly to customer inquiries, provide clear pricing and turnaround times, and deliver high-quality prints on time.

Here are some tips for providing excellent customer service:

• Communication: Keep your customers informed throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the delivery of the finished product.
• Timeliness: Meet deadlines and deliver prints on time. If you encounter any delays, communicate with your customers and let them know the expected timeline.
• Quality: Ensure that all prints meet high-quality standards and are consistent with the design specifications.
• Flexibility: Be open to making changes or adjustments to the design or print if the customer requests it.

Learn how Stark Screen Printing brings back customers over and over again.

Set Pricing and Manage Finances

Setting the right price for your screen printing services is critical to the success of your business. You will need to consider the cost of materials, labor, and overhead, as well as the competitive landscape in your market.

When setting your prices, consider the following factors:

• Cost of materials: Calculate the cost of ink, screens, and other materials needed for each print.
• Labor costs: Factor in the time it takes to prepare the screen, print the design, and clean up afterward.
• Overhead costs: Include any fixed costs, such as rent, utilities, and equipment maintenance.
• Profit margin: Determine the profit margin you want to achieve and set your prices accordingly.

Once you have set your prices, it's important to manage your finances carefully. Keep accurate records of all income and expenses, and track your cash flow regularly.

Consider using accounting software to help you manage your finances and generate reports, such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.

Expand Your Business

Once your screen printing business is up and running, you may want to consider expanding your services or product offerings. Here are some ways to expand your business:

• Offer additional printing services, such as embroidery or digital printing.
• Expand into new markets, such as corporate branding or event printing.
• Develop a product line, such as custom T-shirts, bags, or other merchandise.
• Partner with other businesses to offer bundled services or cross-promotions.

Starting a screen printing business can be a challenging and rewarding venture. By following these steps, you can develop a solid business plan, acquire the necessary equipment and supplies, and market and promote your business effectively.

Remember that success in screen printing depends on providing high-quality prints, excellent customer service, and competitive pricing. By focusing on these areas, you can build a successful and profitable screen printing business.

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Screen Printing Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Are you ready to launch your screen printing business? Do you need a plan to get you started on the right track? The #1 Screen Printing Business Plan Template & Guidebook is an invaluable tool for entrepreneurs who want to start their own screen printing business. This comprehensive guidebook provides step-by-step advice on how to create a successful business plan template and covers topics such as market analysis, product positioning, financial statement building, and marketing strategies. With a detailed overview of the process, this guidebook is the perfect companion for anyone starting a screen printing company.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Screen Printing Business [11+ Steps]
• 10+ Best & Profitable Screen Printing Business Ideas [2023]
• 25 Catchy Screen Printing Business Names:

How to Write a Screen Printing Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your screen printing business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your screen printing business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a screen printing business:

Our mission at X Screen Printing is to provide our clients with high-quality, unique, and affordable printing products and services. We strive to create products that capture our client’s ideas in the most artistic way possible while always providing superior customer service. We aspire to be an integral part of our local community and foster a sense of connection with businesses and organizations in our area. With our dedication to quality, creativity, and customer service, we will create remarkable experiences for our customers by bringing their ideas to life through the art of screenprinting.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Screen Printing Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your screen printing business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your screen printing business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your screen printing business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your screen printing business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a screen printing business?

Equipment: Screen printing press, exposure unit, drying racks, squeegees and flood bars, screens, ink, film output device, flash dryer. Supplies: Screen printing inks, emulsions and chemicals, squeegees and flood bars, screen frames and mesh, substrates such as paper or fabric for printing on. Permits: Depending on the city or state you are in and the type of business you are running, you may be required to have a business license or permit. You may also need to meet zoning regulations or have special permits for hazardous materials if you are working with certain types of chemicals.

5. Management & Organization of Your Screen Printing Business.

The second part of your screen printing business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your screen printing business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Screen Printing Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a screen printing business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a screen printing business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your screen printing business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your screen printing business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your screen printing business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Screen Printing Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a screen printing business.

A business plan is essential for any business, including a screen printing business. It allows potential investors to have an understanding of the structure and future goals of the business, helps to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, allows for proper financial projections and budgeting, and helps to identify both external and internal risks. Business plans are critical documents that provide the roadmap for success for any company.

Who should you ask for help with your screen printing business plan?

You should ask a business consultant or your local Small Business Administration (SBA). They can provide you with the guidance and resources to develop an effective and successful business plan.

Can you write a screen printing business plan yourself?

Yes, it is possible to write a screen printing business plan yourself. Just like any other business plan, it should include all the necessary information about your business, including an overview, financial projections, marketing plan, and competitive analysis. Additionally, you'll need to include information such as strategy, start-up costs, personnel requirements, and equipment needs. You may also want to research the industry and target market to get a better understanding of the market.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

Screen Printing Business Plan Template

• Written by Dave Lavinsky

Table of Contents

If you’re looking to create a screen printing business plan, you’ve come to the right place!

Over the past 25 years, the PlanPros team has helped over 1 million entrepreneurs and business owners write business plans….and many of them have started and grown successful screen printing businesses.

Screen Printing Business Plan Example

Below is our screen printing business plan template and sample plan:  

I. Executive Summary

Company overview.

Welcome to ArtfulImpress Screen Printing, located in the heart of Middletown, CT. Since our launch on January 15, 2024, we have established ourselves as the premier provider of high-quality screen printing services in the community. Our offerings include competitively priced custom T-shirts, professional-grade embroidered apparel, and eye-catching posters and banners. Additionally, our graphic design services are tailored to bring our customers’ visions to life. With a foundation built on exceptional craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and a central location in Middletown, we are poised to meet and exceed the screen printing needs of our customers.

Success Factors

Our success stems from the wealth of experience our founder brings, having previously run a successful screen printing business. This expertise ensures that we deliver superior services, setting us apart in the industry. Notable accomplishments include establishing our unique brand identity with a distinctive logo and securing a prime location for our business operations. We are confident in our ability to flourish, thanks to these milestones and our commitment to quality and customer service.

Industry Analysis

The screen printing industry in the United States is flourishing, with a projected growth from $1.8 billion in 2019 to $2.4 billion by 2024. This expansion is fueled by the increasing desire for customized apparel and promotional products. At ArtfulImpress Screen Printing, we are well-placed to capitalize on the trend toward eco-friendly printing practices by offering sustainable options. Additionally, our adoption of advanced digital technology and e-commerce platforms allows us to serve our customers with efficiency and convenience, setting us apart in the growing market.

Customer Analysis

At ArtfulImpress Screen Printing, we cater to local residents seeking personalized apparel, local businesses needing branded merchandise, and educational institutions requiring screen-printed products for teams and events. Our proximity to these customers ensures convenience and fosters repeat business. We are dedicated to providing tailored solutions that meet the branding and marketing needs of our clients, thereby establishing a loyal and diverse customer base in the Middletown area.

Competitive Analysis

Our competitors include Persnickety Promotions, focusing on a wide range of promotional items; Cinder & Salt, offering eco-friendly apparel; and Emulsion Printhouse, known for handling large-scale orders. ArtfulImpress Screen Printing distinguishes itself through our superior screen printing quality, attention to detail, and a customer-centric approach. We continually integrate the latest industry innovations and prioritize exceptional service, ensuring that we deliver unrivaled value to our customers.

Marketing Plan

Our marketing plan revolves around a comprehensive suite of services including custom T-shirts at $4.99, embroidered apparel at $6.75, and posters and banners starting at $4.99. We also offer professional graphic design services for $35. Our promotional tactics utilize online marketing, local SEO, community engagement, referral programs, direct mail, networking, collaborations with local artists, and press releases. These strategies are designed to build brand awareness, connect with the community, and foster customer loyalty in Middletown, CT.

Operations Plan

In our day-to-day operations, we prioritize excellent customer service, efficient design and pre-production, high-quality production, thorough quality control, and reliable shipping and fulfillment. Financial management and proactive marketing and sales efforts are also integral parts of our operations. We aim to achieve key milestones such as securing a physical location, acquiring necessary equipment, and launching targeted marketing campaigns to reach a monthly revenue of $15,000. Through continuous improvement and staff development, we strive for operational excellence.

Management Team

Our management team is led by Sarah Green, our President, whose entrepreneurial prowess and commitment to sustainability and efficiency drive ArtfulImpress Screen Printing forward. Sarah’s experience in the renewable energy sector and her strategic foresight ensure that our business is geared towards growth and profitability while upholding our environmental and ethical values.

Financial Plan

To achieve our growth goals, ArtfulImpress Screen Printing requires $138,000 in funding. This investment will be allocated across various areas including location buildout, equipment purchases, working capital, initial rent, staff salaries, marketing, advertising, and insurance. These funds are essential for setting up our operations and positioning us for success in the competitive screen printing market.

Below is an overview of our expected financial performance over the next five years:

II. Company Overview

Welcome to ArtfulImpress Screen Printing, the newest addition to the Middletown, CT business community. As a local screen printing enterprise, we are excited to fill the void in high-quality screen printing services within the area. Our mission is to provide our customers with exceptional products and services that meet their individual and business needs.

Our Products & Services

Our product line is tailored to offer both individuals and businesses a way to express their unique style and brand. With competitive pricing, we ensure that our customers receive value without compromising on quality. Our custom T-shirts are available for just $4.99, a price that allows for creativity to flourish without financial constraint. For those in need of embroidered apparel, we provide this service at $6.75, ensuring that professionalism and sophistication are within reach. Our posters and banners, priced at $4.99, are perfect for events, promotions, and personal use, offering a canvas for your messages and designs. Moreover, our graphic design services stand ready to assist at $35, bringing your vision to life with professional finesse.

Based in the heart of Middletown, CT, ArtfulImpress Screen Printing is perfectly situated to serve the local community with ease and efficiency. Our central location means we are accessible and dedicated to our local customers, providing a personal touch to every project we undertake.

Why We Will Succeed

We are uniquely positioned for success in the Middletown market for several key reasons. Firstly, our founder brings a wealth of experience from running a successful screen printing business, ensuring that we understand the industry and our customers’ needs intimately. Secondly, we pride ourselves on outperforming our competitors with superior screen printing services, guaranteeing customer satisfaction with every order.

Our Journey So Far

Since our inception on January 15, 2024, ArtfulImpress Screen Printing has been committed to establishing a solid foundation as a Sole Proprietorship. We’ve hit the ground running with significant early accomplishments. Our brand identity has been solidified with a custom-designed logo, and our company name has been developed to resonate and be memorable. Additionally, we’ve secured an excellent location that will serve as the hub for our operations and customer interactions.

III. Industry Analysis

The screen printing industry in the United States is a thriving sector, with a significant market size and promising growth potential. According to recent data, the screen printing industry in the United States is estimated to be worth over $2 billion. This impressive figure highlights the scale and importance of the industry within the country’s economy.

Furthermore, the market is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years. Experts predict a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 3% for the screen printing industry in the United States. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including increased demand from various sectors such as apparel, promotional products, and signage. As businesses recognize the value of customized and eye-catching printed materials, the demand for screen printing services is anticipated to rise steadily.

Several trends in the screen printing industry are particularly encouraging for ArtfulImpress Screen Printing, a new player in Middletown, CT. One such trend is the growing popularity of custom-designed merchandise and promotional items. As businesses and individuals seek unique ways to stand out, the demand for high-quality screen printing services that can bring their ideas to life has surged. This trend provides an excellent opportunity for ArtfulImpress to establish itself as a go-to destination for top-notch screen printing services in the local market.

IV. Customer Analysis

Below is a description of our target customers and their core needs.

Target Customers

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing will target local residents seeking personalized clothing and accessories for various occasions such as family reunions, sports teams, school events, and local festivals. These customers will appreciate the ability to support a local business while receiving customized products that reflect their community spirit and personal style. The company will tailor its services to meet the needs of these individuals, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Additionally, ArtfulImpress Screen Printing will also focus on local businesses and organizations in need of branded merchandise. These customers will require bulk orders of screen-printed uniforms, promotional t-shirts, and other items that feature their company logo or messaging. The business will offer competitive pricing and quality services to establish long-term relationships with these clients.

Educational institutions and non-profit organizations will form another significant customer segment for ArtfulImpress Screen Printing. They will need custom apparel for school spirit wear, fundraisers, and community outreach programs. The company will provide design assistance and flexible order quantities to accommodate the varying needs of these groups, ensuring that budget constraints do not hinder their ability to obtain quality screen-printed materials.

Customer Needs

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing caters to a diverse clientele looking for high-quality screen printing services for various applications, from custom apparel to promotional merchandise. Customers expect crisp, vibrant, and durable prints that can withstand the test of time without fading or peeling, ensuring that their message or brand remains visible and impactful. The company’s commitment to excellence fulfills this need by using premium inks and materials alongside state-of-the-art screen printing technology.

In addition to quality, customers seek reliable and timely service. ArtfulImpress understands that businesses, organizations, and individuals often operate on tight schedules, especially when preparing for events or marketing campaigns. The company ensures that orders are completed and delivered on time, providing customers with peace of mind and the ability to plan their activities without worrying about delays in receiving their printed products.

Another critical need for customers is personalized service and the ability to bring their unique visions to life. ArtfulImpress offers a collaborative approach, working closely with clients to understand their design preferences and objectives. The expert team can translate even the most intricate designs onto the chosen medium, ensuring that every detail is captured accurately. This personalized touch is essential for customers who value originality and seek to express their identity or brand through custom screen-printed items.

V. Competitive Analysis

Direct competitors.

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing’s competitors include the following companies:

Persnickety Promotions

Persnickety Promotions offers a range of customized promotional products, including screen-printed apparel and accessories. They cater to corporate clients looking for marketing materials and also serve individuals in need of personalized items for events. With competitive pricing, they position themselves as an affordable option for bulk orders.

The company operates primarily in the Connecticut area, reaching local businesses and organizations. Their customer segments include small to medium-sized businesses, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations seeking promotional items. Persnickety Promotions prides itself on its customer service and quick turnaround times.

However, being a smaller player, they may face challenges in scaling operations and offering the same breadth of services as larger competitors. Their focus on local markets could also limit their exposure to a broader geographic customer base.

Cinder & Salt

Cinder & Salt is known for its eco-friendly and sustainable approach to screen printing, offering a selection of apparel and accessories. They target environmentally conscious consumers and businesses looking for green alternatives in their merchandise. Product prices reflect the premium nature of sustainable goods, which can be higher than conventional items.

Based in Middletown, CT, Cinder & Salt has a strong local presence and also serves customers through its online platform, extending its reach nationally. Their key strengths include a commitment to sustainability and a unique brand identity that resonates with a growing eco-aware customer base.

Their niche focus, however, could be seen as a weakness as it may not appeal to the mass market. Additionally, the premium pricing may deter cost-sensitive customers, potentially limiting their market share in the competitive screen printing industry.

Emulsion Printhouse

Emulsion Printhouse specializes in high-quality screen printing services for apparel and posters, targeting both businesses and independent artists. They offer a diverse range of products and often collaborate with clients on custom projects. Pricing is structured to accommodate both small custom orders and larger commercial runs, providing flexibility for various customer needs.

The company operates in the broader Connecticut area, with a strong emphasis on supporting local artists and businesses. Emulsion Printhouse’s customer segments include the music and entertainment industry, corporate clients, and small businesses looking for branded merchandise. Their key strengths are their high-quality prints and their support for local arts and culture.

A potential weakness for Emulsion Printhouse is the balance between artisanal quality and mass production efficiency. While they excel in custom, high-quality work, they may struggle to compete on price and turnaround time for larger, less customized orders.

Competitive Advantages

At ArtfulImpress Screen Printing, we pride ourselves on offering superior screen printing services that outshine our competitors. Our commitment to quality is evident in the vibrant colors and lasting durability of the prints we produce. We utilize state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques to ensure that every print is a work of art. Our skilled technicians can handle intricate designs with precision, offering our customers a level of detail that is unmatched in the market. We understand that our clients expect the best, and our rigorous quality control procedures guarantee that we meet and exceed those expectations with every order.

We also recognize that each client’s needs are unique, and our ability to provide customized solutions sets us apart. Our team collaborates closely with customers to bring their vision to life, offering expert advice and flexible options to suit various requirements and budgets. We are not just a service provider; we are a partner invested in our customers’ success. With a customer-centric approach, we ensure a seamless and satisfying experience from the initial design consultation to the final delivery of the product. Furthermore, our quick turnaround times and competitive pricing structure provide incredible value, making ArtfulImpress Screen Printing the go-to choice for businesses and individuals alike.

VI. Marketing Plan

Our marketing plan, included below, details our products/services, pricing and promotions plan.

Products, Services & Pricing

Custom t-shirts.

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing specializes in creating high-quality custom T-shirts designed to meet the unique needs of each customer. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, clients can expect vibrant prints on a variety of T-shirt styles and fabrics. The custom T-shirts are competitively priced at just $4.99 each, offering an affordable way to wear personalized apparel or promote businesses, events, and organizations.

Embroidered Apparel

For those looking for a touch of elegance and durability in their custom apparel, ArtfulImpress offers exquisite embroidered apparel. This service is perfect for corporate wear, uniforms, and any clothing requiring a sophisticated and professional appearance. Customers can enjoy beautifully embroidered items for only $6.75 per piece, combining quality with affordability.

Posters and Banners

ArtfulImpress also provides exceptional printing services for posters and banners. Whether you’re advertising a local event, creating visuals for a marketing campaign, or need decorative art, their wide-format printing solutions can cater to all these needs. High-impact posters and banners are available to customers at the cost-effective price of $4.99 , ensuring that your message stands out without breaking the bank.

Graphic Design Services

Understanding the importance of strong visuals, ArtfulImpress offers professional graphic design services. Their team of skilled designers can help bring your vision to life or assist in creating a brand new design concept tailored to your requirements. With a focus on creativity and client satisfaction, these custom design services are provided at a rate of $35 per design, making it easy for clients to get custom graphics that perfectly match their printing needs.

Promotions Plan

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing embraces a comprehensive approach to attracting customers through various promotional methods, with a strong emphasis on Online Marketing . Online marketing serves as a cornerstone of the promotional efforts, leveraging the power of digital platforms to reach a broad audience.

Online Marketing

The company’s online marketing strategy includes a user-friendly website showcasing their services, portfolio, and customer testimonials. With search engine optimization (SEO), the site will rank higher in search results, making it easier for potential customers to find ArtfulImpress Screen Printing. Additionally, the company will engage with customers through social media channels, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, to build a community around their brand.

Email Marketing

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing will use email marketing to keep in touch with existing customers and to reach out to potential clients. Regular newsletters will provide subscribers with updates on new services, special offers, and industry news. This direct form of communication will help maintain relationships and encourage repeat business.

Local Partnerships

Building local partnerships with businesses and organizations in Middletown, CT, will create networking opportunities and increase word-of-mouth referrals. ArtfulImpress Screen Printing will collaborate with event organizers, schools, and local businesses to offer customized screen printing services for various events and campaigns.

Community Engagement

By participating in local events and sponsoring community activities, ArtfulImpress Screen Printing will demonstrate its commitment to the local community. This visibility will help establish the brand as a community-centric business, leading to increased local support and customer loyalty.

Promotional Products

The company will create promotional products featuring their screen printing work to distribute at events, trade shows, and in the local community. High-quality samples of their work will serve as a tangible representation of their services, enticing potential clients to choose ArtfulImpress for their screen printing needs.

Customer Referral Program

Encouraging satisfied customers to refer new clients will be a key element of the promotional strategy. ArtfulImpress Screen Printing will implement a customer referral program that rewards both the referrer and the new customer, fostering a network of brand advocates.

In-Store Promotions

For local traffic, the company will host in-store promotions and open houses to invite the community to learn more about screen printing. These events will provide an opportunity for hands-on experiences and direct engagement with the staff and products.

With a multifaceted approach to promotion, ArtfulImpress Screen Printing expects to attract and retain a diverse customer base in Middletown, CT, and beyond. By consistently delivering high-quality services and engaging with customers through multiple channels, the company is poised for success in the screen printing industry.

VII. Operations Plan

Our Operations Plan details:

• The key day-to-day processes that our business performs to serve our customers
• The key business milestones that our company expects to accomplish as we grow

Key Operational Processes

To ensure the success of artfulimpress screen printing, there are several key day-to-day operational processes that we will perform:.

• Respond promptly to customer inquiries via phone, email, or in-person visits.
• Provide detailed information about services, pricing, and turnaround times to prospective clients.
• Process orders, including order entry, confirmation, and updates on order status.
• Handle customer feedback, complaints, and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Consult with customers to finalize design files and ensure they are ready for screen printing.
• Create or adjust artwork as per customer requirements and prepare proofs for approval.
• Convert approved designs into screens for printing.
• Ensure that all materials (inks, screens, substrates) are prepared and available for production.
• Set up screen printing machines and conduct pre-production tests to guarantee quality.
• Run production jobs while maintaining high-quality standards and efficiency.
• Monitor inventory levels of inks, screens, and substrates to avoid production delays.
• Clean and maintain screen printing equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Inspect finished products to ensure they meet customer specifications and quality standards.
• Conduct spot checks during the production process for ongoing quality assurance.
• Address any quality issues that arise and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
• Package finished products securely to prevent damage during transit.
• Organize and manage inventory of completed products for efficient order fulfillment.
• Coordinate with shipping providers to ensure timely delivery to customers.
• Track shipments and provide customers with delivery updates.
• Issue invoices for completed orders and follow up on payments.
• Monitor and record daily expenses and revenues for accurate bookkeeping.
• Manage payroll, supplier payments, and other financial obligations.
• Analyze financial performance to identify trends and areas for cost savings.
• Deploy targeted marketing campaigns to attract new customers.
• Engage with local businesses and organizations to expand the customer base.
• Utilize social media and online platforms to showcase products and share customer testimonials.
• Offer promotions and discounts to encourage repeat business and referrals.
• Regularly review and optimize operational workflows for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Stay updated with the latest screen printing technologies and industry trends.
• Invest in staff training and development to maintain a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.
• Solicit feedback from customers and staff to inform process improvements.

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing expects to complete the following milestones in the coming months in order to ensure its success:

• Finalize lease agreement and set up the physical location of the shop in Middletown, CT, ensuring it is in an area with high foot traffic or with a demographic that matches our target market.
• Secure the necessary permits and licenses to operate a screen printing business within local and state regulations.
• Purchase and set up essential screen printing equipment and supplies, focusing on quality and efficiency to produce superior products.
• Develop a robust online presence including an e-commerce website and active social media profiles to expand market reach and facilitate easy customer orders.
• Implement a local marketing campaign to build brand awareness within Middletown and surrounding areas, engaging with the community through events and partnerships.
• Hire and train a dedicated team of staff for production and customer service roles, ensuring they embody the company’s values and quality standards.
• Launch ArtfulImpress Screen Printing with a grand opening event to generate buzz and attract initial customers.
• Establish relationships with local businesses, schools, and organizations for potential bulk orders or ongoing service agreements.
• Monitor and optimize operational processes to reduce waste, improve turnaround times, and ensure high customer satisfaction.
• Achieve $15,000/month in revenue, marking the company’s growth to a sustainable level and enabling further investment in marketing and equipment upgrades.

VIII. Management Team

Our management team has the experience and expertise to successfully execute on our business plan.

Management Team Members

ArtfulImpress Screen Printing management team, which includes the following members, has the experience and expertise to successfully execute on our business plan:

Sarah Green, President

Sarah Green, President , brings a wealth of leadership and entrepreneurial experience to ArtfulImpress Screen Printing. Having a track record of successfully managing a biodiesel business, Sarah has demonstrated her ability to navigate the complexities of a dynamic industry while driving growth and innovation. Her previous role has equipped her with vital skills in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership. Sarah’s foresight in recognizing market trends and her expertise in sustainable practices is an invaluable asset, as she steers the company towards eco-friendly initiatives and operational excellence. Her business acumen and commitment to success are pivotal in guiding ArtfulImpress Screen Printing towards a prosperous and sustainable future.

IX. Financial Plan

Funding requirements/use of funds.

To accomplish our growth goals, ArtfulImpress Screen Printing needs $138,000 in funding. Key uses of this funding will be as follows:

Financial Projections

5 Year Annual Income Statement

5 year annual balance sheet, 5 year annual cash flow statement, what is a screen printing business plan.

A screen printing business plan is a document that outlines the strategies you have developed to start and/or grow your screen printing business. Among other things, it details information about your industry, customers and competitors to help ensure your company is positioned properly to succeed. Your screen printing business plan also assesses how much funding you will need to grow your business and proves, via your financial forecasts, why the business is viable.  

Why You Need a Business Plan for your Screen Printing Business

A business plan is required if you are seeking funding for your screen printing business. Investors and lenders will review your plan to ensure it meets their criteria before providing you with capital. In addition, a screen printing business plan helps you and your team stay focused. It documents the strategies you must follow and gives you financial projections you should strive to achieve and against which you can judge your performance.  

Screen Printing Business Plan Template PDF

Download our Screen Printing Business Plan PDF to help guide you as you create your business plan for your own screen printing business.  

Before you read…

Printavo is simple shop management software. We help you streamline your business, keep jobs moving forward and your team on the same page.

Scheduling, quoting, approvals, payments, customer communication, automation and more. With Printavo, you’ll work smarter–not harder.

Printers and artists

Entrepreneurs, community builders, how much money do screen print shops make, what problem do you solve, who is your ideal customer.

• Buying garments
• Buying equipment
• Leasing vs. buying your space

Starter kits vs. buying individual equipment

Google suite, content marketing, email: the most powerful tool you have, lead your town, try retargeted advertising.

• Growing from $0 to $250k

Growing from $250k to $1M

Poor processes, mismanaged job scheduling, not meeting due dates.

• Prices set too low

A note from Bruce, Printavo’s founder:

I started a screen printing business at University of Illinois.

I always loved fashion, design, skateboarding and computers – and screen printing managed to combine all of my interests (and make some extra cash). I made Printavo to help screen printers get organized and solve their most common problems. Now it’s used by thousands of print shops in more than 40 countries!

If you want to start a screen printing business, make sure you love:

• Apparel and printing
• Dealing with customers
• Working on (and in!) a business

These are the three key elements!

Don’t get into screen printing just for the money. I can promise that you’ll burn out…and end up hating screen printing.

When you’re up printing at 2 AM, or have to redo an order because of a fussy customer, or wind up needing to remake a screen because it just broke and you’re on a tight deadline..loving what you do will keep you pushing forward.

What are the benefits of owning a screen printing business?

Owning your own business is part of the American dream. Screen printing offers people from all walks of life an opportunity for entrepreneurship – and a way to connect with their local community. Unique for its large market of small-to-medium size print shops, the US has a vibrant and diverse screen printing industry. 

Think about your favorite t-shirt. It was printed somewhere! Screen printers make lasting connections with their communities by creating custom merchandise that people love – and wear around town. While you may not know the shop that made your favorite shirt right now, you’ll soon learn that screen printing is a tightly-knit community with helpful Facebook Groups . The history of modern screen printing is rich thanks to the people that make up the industry. It’s filled with artists , entrepreneurs , and even parents looking for a side hustle .

What types of people own screen printing businesses?

Printavo has helped thousands of screen printers start, organize, and grow their business – so we’ve seen a few common trends in the people that succeed as screen printers.

There are three major types of people we’ve discovered that love screen printing and love working in the industry.

If you love printing itself or artwork , screen printing has a place for you. 

Printers typically have an eye for detail, love experimenting with process and technique, and adore working with their hands. They don’t mind spending all day on their feet experimenting with different screens and squeegees because there’s a thrill to putting ink on a shirt that they live for.

You can find printers working as press operators, production managers, and even as owners! Lots of print shops (like SHIRT KONG ) have started because a young screen printer wanted to try and do things their own way.

Artists can come from many walks of life, but they’re driven by crafting great artwork for screen printing. Shops like The Yetee use art as a gateway to the communities they want to reach. Think about it: you can print almost anything on a t-shirt (as long as you don’t violate copyright law).

Then, people wear your art everywhere. More compelling, art for screen printing is driven by process and technique: artists have to be aware of the limitations of screen printing. Even a simple photograph or painting can be a challenging puzzle to figure out how to screen print. But that limitation isn’t a constraint – it makes screen print artists particularly adaptable and creative.

Artists can also make a career out of t-shirt and merchandise design on sites like Upwork, creating vibrant and purposeful designs for clients of all stripes.

“The t-shirt is the ultimate canvas,” Jon Weiss told us . He would know – he’s co-inventor of colorful simulated process screen printing , the kind of high-color print you’d see for sports championships in the 90s.

Entrepreneurs are the driven visionaries of the screen printing world. They’re the ones that “jump out of the plane and build a parachute as they fall.” While some entrepreneurs start as artists or printers, they’re animated by the desire to grow their organization and serve their customers. They come in all personality types and interests – you don’t have to be a natural salesman to be an entrepreneur (though it can help).

If you’re reading this article, you’re probably an entrepreneur.

You fantasize about printing for a big client like Nike or Amazon.

The idea of staying up late to rush an order out to please a customer doesn’t scare you.

Imagining a big stack of shirts that needs printing probably gets you excited.

You don’t mind taking on some risk if there’s a much bigger potential reward in the future.

You’d probably pass the marshmallow test as a kid.

Screen printing in the US is full of entrepreneurs. Some of them never print a t-shirt in their life thanks to contract printing , leaving it to the printers and artists.

Others find ways to be involved with screen printing in other ways. One of screen printing’s most exemplary entrepreneurs is Ryonet’s Ryan Moor . Just a few years ago he started selling screen printing kits off Amazon as a way to pick up some cash on the side.

Now, Ryonet is a world-reaching screen printing supply distribution behemoth.

The community builders are in screen printing because they love their communities. Screen printing is a powerful way to spread a message quickly. Within a few hours, you can make and distribute hundreds of prints. From flatstock posters to t-shirts, screen printing can be an easy way to get the word out about events, bands, brands, and virtually anything else.

These businesses are the most unique (and most rare) in screen printing. They’ve crafted a special position in their community (or their customer niche). Some examples include the Spudnik Press Co-op , Rockford Art Deli , and Calimucho .

Don’t imagine that community builders aren’t savvy business people – they often choose the exact clients they want to work with and aren’t motivated by expanding their business.

They might say “no” to more projects than they say “yes” to.

But they carefully pick the right projects and work with the right people.

T here’s a lot of value in exclusivity! Look at brands like Kanye, Air Jordan, Nike, or even Cookies.

Do screen print shops make a lot of money? That depends on their business model, their customers, their prices, and their overhead.

Many print shops may not hit show-stopping revenue numbers. But a lot of screen printers turn a tidy profit on their work by carefully controlling their pricing and only taking on orders that they can print at a profit. 

In the US, the amount of revenue screen print shops make follows a fairly normal distribution. This means the overwhelming majority of shops collect revenues between $100,000 to $1,000,000. There are hundreds of shops with revenues above $1M. However, there are very few screen print shops with revenues above $5M.

Note: the most common way screen print businesses fail is by setting their prices too low and failing to account for all of their fixed costs.

How to build a business plan

Begin with the end in mind: what is your ultimate goal? As you start your business, consider what your ultimate goal is. This is your dream, so consider the exact outcome you want 20, 30, or 40 years from now. Do you want to sell the business? Leave it to your kids? Grow it as large as you can? Work with certain clients and businesses? Become the best printer?

Thinking with the end in mind is a powerful way to focus your efforts. “This will make every decision you make along the way much easier,” says legendary screen printer and industry consultant Mark Coudray .

Note: for some ideas about what screen print shops can be, check out Printavo’s print shop tours .

The best screen printing businesses solve a problem. That may sound ridiculous – how can printed items solve problems? But the truth is that it’s extremely challenging to order and procure t-shirts and other merchandise. Large companies have staff dedicated to purchasing and distributing “company swag” – it’s that challenging of a task!

The items you print are not what solve your customer’s problem. 

The way you will solve problems for a customer (and, ultimately, add value ) comes down to communication, execution, and professionalism.

Communication is how you talk to customers, when you send them messages, whether you use the phone or emails or texts, and what you say.

Execution is how you deliver what you promise on schedule.

And professionalism is the magic X factor – it’s how you make people feel once they’ve ordered from you.

Professionalism doesn’t mean you need to wear a suit and tie. It just means you’ve presented a top-notch custom experience for your customer from order intake to payment to delivery.

If you define the core customers you want, all of your marketing and sales efforts become much simpler. To get a better grasp of who your customers are, write simple customer profiles:

• Who they are
• What their problem is
• Where they will purchase from you (in store, online, etc.)
• When they want to order (seasonal vs. recurring vs. one-time)
• Why they need custom printed merchandise
• How you solve their problem

You should NOT try to be everything to every single person! Once you’ve built several customer profiles, think hard about the potential and longevity of each type of customer.

For potential, consider whether this is a customer that will come back again and again – or whether they will only need a few small, one-off orders.

For longevity, consider whether this is a customer that can grow with you – or whether they’re a customer that won’t last long or doesn’t need your help.

Finally, consider what your brand is like. Your logo is great, sure…but how’s your brand?

The entrepreneurial nature of screen printing means that screen print shops come in all sizes and all types. Screen print shops have brands that range from punk-rock to manufacturing powerhouses , with the imagery, customers, and language to go along with their brand.

“Your brand is what people say about when you’re not in the room.” – Jeff Bezos

So what do you want your business to be? Branding is where you get to imagine something and make it into reality. Your brand can be clean-cut or rough around the edges – as long as it resonates with your customers and is true to what you do.

What’s the average cost of running a screen printing business?

It’s easy to start a screen printing business.

It’s harder to sustain it , keep employees happy, turn a profit , and still pay your bills . So how much does it cost to run a screen printing business? Again – it depends on a lot of factors, from where your shop is located to what type of garments you typically print on.

“Screen printing has a tremendous number of fixed costs,” explains Mirror Image’s Rick Roth .

The most common fixed costs for print shops are (in this order):

• People: labor
• Space: rent (or mortgage) payment
• Supplies: Garment and equipment payments

If you do custom printing, you’re probably well aware that every job is different. This also means that your revenue and profit can vary considerably even if your fixed costs are the same. This is why 50% of screen print shops fail within the first 5 years: it’s a challenge to maintain and manage a consistent quote pipeline of profitable custom orders!

Screen print shops employ people at different pay and skill rates. Here are several common positions and pay ranges.

Production managers are often the highest paid employees, as they bring a set of skills that provides a lot of value to the business. We have seen production managers paid salaries that range from $60k to $100k or more.

Press operators vary by location, but skilled press operators can command $15 to $20 an hour in many urban markets. Some shops designate one press operator as the lead operator. Many press operators juggle tasks such as shipping and receiving.

Salespeople command salaries and commission that depend on their skill and experience, but many shops give sales staff a moderate salary – and a percentage of their total sales. How you structure your sales commission depends on what you want to incentivize. We suggest using profitability instead of revenue – you don’t want your sales staff to sell jobs that don’t make your shop money.

Artists can command salaries from $35k to $65k, though many work part-time hours or are paid through an hourly or per-piece rate. Many shops utilize outside art services to lower their art cost, since there may not be 40 hours of work for an artist in a typical small-to-medium screen print shop. Note: many artists also work as screen technicians, press operators, or even in sales.

Screen technicians may perform multiple duties, such as coating, exposing, and reclaiming screens. They can command hourly rates from $12 to $20, depending on their experience and where they work.

While there are many other roles and positions in screen printing shops, these 5 roles are common throughout the industry in virtually all shops that do production printing.

Buying Garments

Depending on what kind of garments you print on, you may spend a lot of money procuring garments for your customers.

This is a big reason that you should always collect 100% downpayment – if you don’t, you’re floating the cost of the garments for your customers. If they’re paying you to print on expensive North Face jackets, you could be spending thousands of dollars before the customer has paid you a single penny!

So how do shops deal with the cost of ordering t-shirts for screen printing ? They charge a markup . 

If a t-shirt costs $3 to order from a distributor like SanMar, a shop may charge the customer $5. These $2 are the shop’s markup. That doesn’t mean the shop automatically makes $2 on every shirt it buys and sells .

So how much does it cost to purchase garments for screen printing? Again – the answer is really “it depends.” Screen print shops typically buy in bulk to get “case pricing,” meaning they order in multiples of 72 shirts. You can negotiate different wholesale rates through the major garment distributors.

Note: ordering garments is really easy in Printavo. We’re integrated with TSC Apparel, SanMar, AlphaBroder and S&S Activewear catalogs.

Buying Equipment

Most shops start by purchasing used equipment , though many shops jump straight into purchasing an automatic press once they tire of printing with their hands.

High-quality screen printing equipment for a serious print shop is expensive. After all, these tools can quite literally print money! The big ticket items are presses, dryers, screen printing software and consumables.

Automatic screen printing presses range from $20k for an affordable used model all the way up to $100k or more for top-of-the-line models from top manufacturers. Manual presses cost much less, but they also are much less capable of printing high volumes. An automatic screen printing press is widely considered the dividing line between “serious” and “hobby” shops within the industry – though we don’t want to put down shops that print by hand !

Curing dryers typically cost thousands of dollars (and consume gas or electricity to boot). Once shops need an automatic screen printing press, they typically need to upgrade their dryer shortly thereafter just to keep up with the press! 

Software and consumables like ink and emulsion account for a large chunk of the cost to start a successful screen printing business, too. While consumables are just a cost of doing business, software for screen printing has a big return-on-investment by making your business organized and effective instead of disorganized and chaotic.

You’ll also have to spend money on tools (think squeegees, T-squares, and more) – but these are smaller, recurring purchases that you can think of like consumables. More advanced equipment like hybrid printers and computer-to-screen machines come later in your business growth.

Leasing vs. Buying Your Space

Ah, the classic dilemma: should you lease  or buy your screen printing shop ?

There’s no single right answer here – but we’ve talked to Real Thread’s Dru Dalton about his philosophy. He’s a renter, and he explains: “At a certain point, you have to decide whether you want to invest the money into real estate or into the business. I chose the business.”

This has been a tremendous asset for Real Thread during 2020 – they’ve been nimble enough to downsize and move because they’re not locked down to a mortgage on a big building. This has let them survive the challenging times their shop faced shortly after the pandemic began.

While we can’t tell you exactly how much you should spend on your space, a good rule of thumb for personal and business finance is to spend 30% (or less) of your total estimated revenue on your rent or mortgage.

The essential screen printing business tools

The tools you need for printing are not the same tools you need to run a successful business. You can always purchase a starter kit – or use one to get an idea of what you’ll need. It’s essential you have a way to send quotes and art for approval, get paid, and keep track of everything.

Screen printing starter kits seem like a great way to start a small business – and they can be!

But tread carefully. Remember: buy something nice, or buy something twice. Too many novice screen printers believe they can save a few bucks by buying a super-cheap screen printing kit off eBay.

These low-quality kits are infamous, and they often prey on people who don’t know enough about screen printing – but are interested in starting their own business. 

If you really want to buy a screen printing kit, we suggest going with a company like Ryonet . Their kits are priced fairly, come with reputable brands, and are backed by Ryonet’s support staff. You can also use these screen printing kits to get an idea of what you’ll need to start printing.

You need software to succeed in screen printing

Even in this day and age, screen printers overlook the value that screen printing software can add to their business.

Printavo has helped thousands of print shops in more than 40 countries get organized, grow their business, and run online stores. Never miss another deadline or get a question about when an order will be ready. The list of things Printavo can do continues to grow – everything from scheduling to approvals to payments to online stores – and it’s backed by an easily accessible team based in Chicago.

Sign up for a free trial to get a feel for how Printavo works. It’s the way to get organized, supercharge your shop, and craft an incredibly professional experience for your customers (even if you’re printing out of your garage). 

QuickBooks is the simplest way to start invoicing customers and keeping track of your payments. While QuickBooks is built for managing the finances of any small-to-medium sized business and isn’t specific to screen printing, many shops use QuickBooks simply because accountants are familiar with it.

Note: Printavo integrates directly to QuickBooks Online. We’ve found that most shops don’t have to change a thing about their accounting if they’ve used QuickBooks Online to manage their finances.

A truly indispensable set of tools, Google Suite (or GSuite) is more than just email from your domain. You’ll get Docs, Sheets, and dozens of other tools in Google’s powerful ecosystem. This is the simplest and most affordable way to give your team a set of tools that they’re probably already familiar with.

Note: looking for more info on screen printing software? We’ve got a list of more than 30 great tools to try. Read more here.

How to market a screen printing business?

Marketing your screen printing business doesn’t have to be a pain. It can be a natural part of your workflow: just take pictures of the prints you make and present them nicely. You could even post the artwork directly. Or film silly videos around your shop!

Content marketing is SUPER powerful. We’ve seen shops use content to drive customers to their online stores, create guides for customers to use when they’re placing custom orders, or even just show how to fold a t-shirt super fast.

People expect you to present some kind of content! One of our favorite suggestions is to avoid focusing too much on what you do in your shop – and instead focus on what your customers do with your products. “Tell the story behind the t-shirt,” Jon Ladd from Terminus Tees suggests. You could do a podcast, interview, or just take their picture and get a good quote.

The goal: make your brand real by guiding your customers to the right story.

Email is the most powerful way to reach customers on the web! 

Sounds kind of crazy, right? But it’s true. There’s no algorithm dictating whether your message gets delivered or not – and you can build a powerful list with very little work.

We suggest starting with MailChimp if you want to try email marketing. Make sure you’re collecting email addresses every time you interact with someone. Then start with a simple newsletter showcasing a cool print or something you’re doing around the shop. The goal: get in the habit of emailing your customers regularly so you stay top-of-mind.

The most popular print shops act like a leader in their town. They’re a bustling hub for retail, or they support really popular teams and organizations, or they’re simply present at all of the big events. “Be like the Mayor,” says Envision Tees’ Tom Rauen . 

Ever searched for something…and then seen it all over the websites you visit afterward?

That’s called retargeted advertising, and it’s specifically designed to track customers that have visited your site all around the internet!

You stay top-of-mind when you appear on major websites –  and it makes your brand way more legitimate. You can try AdRoll for retargeted advertising. Spend just a few dollars a day to start…you may see big results.

How to grow your screen printing business

So you’ve got all your ducks in a row and you’re all set.

But how do you  grow your business? 

This is where persistence really pays off. With some patience and the right mindset, you can keep doing the  right things to get you closer to your goal.

Growing from $0-250k

Growing from $0 to $250k is where sheer hustle and determination – and some long hours – can really pay off. You’re probably handling just about everything in the business right now: marketing, sales, printing, order intake, shipping, approvals, design…it’s a lot for  anyone.

The biggest piece of advice we can offer is simple:  use software to help you. 

Experimenting with different tools and types of software is  crucial during this phase because you have so much you have to handle.

We were curious how software for screen printing helps a smaller print shop, so we asked Sound & Fury’s Mike Kodak . His response floored us: “Printavo is like getting an entire employee for a fraction of the price. I was so skeptical at first, but it’s true.”

Think about it: you can handle the printing while software handles order intake, quote and art approval, sends automated emails about job statuses, stores files, and makes sure you never forget another due date. It’s like getting a secretary, assistant, and automated call center all in one.

The things that got you to $250k are not the same things that will get you to $1M and   beyond.

That’s because the superhero screen printer entrepreneur can only take things so far. What should you do next? Delegate and elevate.

At this phase in your business growth, it’s common to have a bunch of annoying, low-value, and repetitive tasks crop up. They kill your enthusiasm and make it seem like your to-do list is just endless.

Even if you can’t hire now, you have to find a way to get some of these tasks off your plate. Make a list of things you LOVE and things you DON’T LIKE. Find ways to get rid of as many “DON’T LIKE” items as possible – these are what will actually stop your business growth.

This is when standards, managers and departments become a big part of your vocabulary. Read our comprehensive guide for working on your business instead of in your business if you’re at this phase.

Common mistakes to avoid when starting a screen printing business

Since 50% of screen printing businesses fail within about 5 years, it’s worth noting the most common and expensive mistakes that print shops make .

We’ve seen these 4 major problems crop up in shops. These are the major profit-killing areas that you can avoid if you’re proactive from the beginning.

Do you understand what exactly happens when your customer places an order – from beginning to end?

Sit down with a pen and paper and try to draw it out. The odds are good that it’s a lot more complicated than you think.

How do you track and manage so many complex statuses for so many orders?

Having a clear process – from day 1, if possible – is key. It’s best if it’s written or illustrated in an area that any employee can access it. Software like Printavo can help you track your statuses and (better yet) keep everyone on the same page.

Even the tightest shops have about 3 days of wiggle room in their schedule. This gives you room to move jobs around and hit surprise rush dates. Or, candidly, give you some spare time if you make a mistake.

The best way to schedule jobs? Put things that require similar techniques and inks together. Got a bunch of hoodies coming up? Try to schedule them all on a couple days instead of spacing them out.

So you’ve hustled super hard and landed a big order for a marathon.

But for some reason, your wholesaler doesn’t pull through on time. You don’t manage to print the shirts in time for the race.

The race organizers are  pissed  and they want a full refund. You wind up eating the cost of shipping each shirt to the race participants and lose thousands of dollars.

In a couple months, you can’t make bills and your business goes under.

This has happened.  Without rock-solid due dates, you can’t expect to please your customers…particularly if you’re delivering the swag for a big event.

Always leave room in your shop to hit due dates. We suggest setting your print dates well before the day the customer actually wants the product – it’s crucial to your business’ survival!

Pricing set too low

Pricing is tough and everyone knows it.

Set your prices too high and you can’t get sales.

Set your prices too low and you go out of business.

But it’s not impossible!

You have a lot of fixed costs in screen printing. The more you can print, the more profitable you can be (ideally). So don’t fall in the trap of offering nonsensical price breaks.

We’ve explained how to do breakless pricing for screen printing – where your costs are calculated per each individual shirt ordered instead of broken down into tiers – and you can easily upload your shop’s unique prices to Printavo with our pricing matrices.

But here’s our #1 piece of advice to EVERY screen printer:  raise your prices.

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How to Start a Screen Printing Business: The Ultimate Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching your regular job in favor of being your own boss, you certainly aren’t alone. In fact, as of 2016, 25 million Americans launched or were already running their own businesses . And around the world, there are more than 582 million entrepreneurs. Joining their ranks takes plenty of hard work and dedication, though. Being a business owner isn’t for everyone, but for those who have the passion and drive to make it work, it can be incredibly rewarding in many, many ways. 

Whether you are ready to walk away from your current job entirely or you are thinking about starting something on the side to earn some extra cash, there are a lot of options to choose from. It’s possible to start a business doing just about anything, but it’s important to keep in mind that lack of demand is the most common reason small businesses fail. 

When you want to start your own business and are looking for a relatively safe industry to break into, screen printing is a solid option. Screen printing services are always in demand, and even if there are other printers in your area, you can always cater to a specific niche your competitors don’t. As a screen printer, you can also build mutually beneficial relationships with other businesses, organizations, etc. to ensure you always have orders coming in. 

The best part? 

Starting this type of business is easier than you might think. Keep reading to learn how to start a screen printing business! 

Start with a Plan

No matter what type of business you’re starting, you need to have a plan. Even if it’s not a formal business plan , you need to, at the very least, come up with a detailed plan outlining your startup and operational costs, what niche you’ll be targeting and what your ideal customer looks like and what supplies and materials you’ll need to invest in.

One of the great things about starting a screen printing business is that it’s something that can be done on virtually any budget. If funds are tight and you’re looking to start small, it’s possible to get the basics for less than $500. If you’re looking to launch a full-service screen printing company and plan on investing in high-quality automated equipment and leasing a space, you can usually get the job done for around $15,000 or less. And while $15,000 is a hefty sum of money, it’s significantly less than the startup costs associated with many other types of businesses. 

Keep in mind, after you are up and running, you’ll still need to continually purchase blank garments to customize, silk screens, ink and other daily supplies. If you’re leasing a space rather than working from home, you’ll also need to think about rent and utilities.

Consider who you’ll be targeting. Are you going to offer custom screen printing services for large businesses or are you planning on screen printing your own artwork onto t-shirts to sell? Thinking about offering wholesale t-shirt printing for resellers ? Or do you, perhaps, have another idea? Whatever the case may be, do your homework to find a niche where there is demand. 

Browse Our Collection of Bulk Wholesale T-Shirts

Take Care of the Legalities

Once you have a plan of action, taking care of legal issues is your best next step. If you fail to operate your business legally, you could face some major, potentially business-destroying problems later on. While it certainly isn’t the most fun or exciting part of starting a business, addressing the legal stuff early on is highly recommended. 

Start by forming a legal entity, such as an LLC. This protects you from being held personally liable if your business is sued. Familiarize yourself with the different types of business structures and choose the one that’s right for you. If you’re not sure, consult with an attorney. 

From there, you’ll want to register for taxes. Again, it’s not a whole lot of fun, but neither is an angry letter from the IRS when they find out you haven’t been paying your fair share. To register for taxes, you’ll need to apply for an EIN . This will then allow you to register for state and federal taxes. 

Next, obtain the proper licenses and paperwork. The requirements vary from state to state and even from city to city, so you’ll need to do some research to determine exactly what you need to do. 

Consider your business insurance needs. Investing in insurance is highly recommended for all business owners, and if you hire employees, purchasing workers’ compensation insurance may be a legal requirement. 

Finally, open up a business bank account and credit card. In addition to protecting your personal assets, having separate accounts for your business makes it much easier to track your income and expenses and makes accounting much easier. 

Establish Your Brand

Your brand is your business’s face to the world. It’s what your company stands for and how it is perceived by the public. While your brand may begin with a logo and a color scheme for your website, it’s much more than that. It encompasses your products, services and values. A good brand is very much a living thing that changes and evolves over time. 

Building a strong brand in the beginning is a crucial step in building awareness of your business and making it recognizable. Over time, it becomes virtually everything your business is known for. Establishing, growing and maintaining your brand is something that should always be at the forefront of your mind.

Invest in Supplies and Materials

At this point, you are ready to start shopping for everything you need to get your business off the ground. This step can be a lot of fun, but it can also be pretty stressful. Before you spend a single cent, make sure you have a detailed list of everything you need to get started and a budget. At the very least, you’re going to need screen printing equipment , of course, and blank apparel on which to print. 

While you may offer a number of screen printed products, it’s likely custom t-shirts will make up a large portion of your business. For this reason, it’s crucial to score the best possible prices on blank t-shirts . Rather than buying in individual quantities, look for bulk wholesale t-shirts . Doing so will save you a bundle of cash and ensure the highest possible profit margin on your products. 

Check Out Our Assortment of Quality Blank T-Shirts

When you’re shopping for materials, consider offering some unique products in addition to the ones likely to be your bestsellers. Something as simple as having plain long sleeve shirts to customize in addition to the usual short sleeve offerings could set you apart from your competitors. Keep in mind that it’s possible to screen print on almost anything, so there’s no need to limit yourself to apparel. 

Start Marketing Your Business

By now, you should have just about everything you need to get started. If you plan on actually selling products to your customers, though, you’re going to need to start marketing. Working with a professional marketing agency is always a solid option, but not everyone’s budget allows for such expenses–especially in the beginning. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to market your company on your own without spending a fortune. 

In today’s market, the internet is always the best place to start. At the very least, you’ll need to have a strong presence on social media and a professional-looking website. Even if you plan on opening up a physical location where you’ll sell your products, having a solid online presence ensures potential customers will be able to find you. 

Once you’ve set up your social media profiles, share content regularly. Now is a great time to let people know who you are and what your business is all about. It’s also a great time to show “behind the scenes” glances of how the process of launching your business is going or provide sneak peeks of the products you’ll be selling. Engage with your followers to start building relationships with them. Consider investing in some paid advertisements, too. It’s possible to advertise on social media on nearly any budget and doing so is a great way to build awareness of your up-and-coming business. 

Use your website as a means of showcasing your products and services and building an email list. Encourage prospective customers to sign up by offering a small discount on their first purchase once your business officially launches. Once they’ve enrolled, you can send updates, promotions and more directly to their inbox. 

Think about embracing some traditional advertising methods, too. Traditional newspaper and radio ads are still highly beneficial if you plan on selling your products locally. Sending out home mailers or setting up a booth at a local event can help as well. As always, consider your target audience and how its members would most like to be marketed to. 

Start building relationships with other businesses and organizations. You may be able to find other people who are willing to promote your business in exchange for you promoting theirs. Or you might find business owners who would be open to advertising your services in exchange for you providing them with some free hats or shirts. Get creative! In many instances, the most unique business partnerships turn out to be the ones that are the most lucrative. Of course, you can also generate awareness of your products and services by simply volunteering to print new shirts for a local team or organization and including your logo. 

Launch and Keep Your Customers Coming Back for More

If you’ve followed our advice up to this point, you should now be ready to officially launch your business. You should have all the supplies and materials you need, a strong web presence and a following of people with whom you’ve already built relationships. Now, you need to take all the time and effort you’ve put into your business so far and turn it into a profit. 

Whether you are opening a physical location or launching an online business, create some hype around your grand opening. If you’re opening a storefront, schedule a weekend event where customers can see your new shop, check out your products and learn more about your business. Offer some sort of freebie to entice people to come in. Even if you’re just offering cookies and coffee or a hot dog and a soda, people love free stuff! If your budget allows, you could also give away promotional merchandise or hand out valuable coupons. 

If you’re launching an online business, create hype on social media by planning an event for the moment the site goes live. Offer a special incentive for the first few customers or offer a discount on all orders placed within a certain period of time, such as your first day, weekend or even month. Think about offering some sort of referral incentive. Something as simple as providing a 10 percent discount to anyone who refers 10 other customers could turn out to be quite lucrative!

Once you’ve started making sales, remember to always put your customers first. Treat them with kindness and respect, and do everything you can to make their experience a positive one. Even when dealing with challenging customers, provide the best customer service you possibly can. Word of mouth and online reviews can make or break your screen printing, so you may need to swallow your pride at times and do what it takes to keep your buyers happy. It might be frustrating in the moment, but in the long run, it’s definitely worth it. 

Wrapping Up

Starting a screen printing business doesn’t have to be difficult, and it’s something that can be done on even a limited budget. When you follow the suggestions listed above and rely on The Adair Group for blank apparel and accessories, you can start a lucrative business and experience the joys of being your own boss. 

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How to Start a Screen Printing Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   February 6, 2024

BusinessGuru.co is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The screen printing industry is heading up, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8% from 2023 to 2030 . As of 2022, the market reached $489.63 billion, meaning by 2030, you’re looking to make a nice profit.

For entrepreneurs considering starting their own screen printing company, now may be an opportune time to get into this growing industry and establish a specialty niche or competitive advantage. With some initial equipment, supplies, and elbow grease, screen printers can start turning profits on small-batch orders from local businesses and expand from there.

This guide will explain how to start a screen printing business. Topics include sourcing materials to screen print, opening a business bank account, registering an EIN, market research, and more. Here’s everything you need to know to start your own screen printing business.

1. Conduct Screen Printing Market Research

Market research is an integral part of starting any screen printing shop. It offers valuable insight into trends in the screen printer market, your target audience, local market saturation, and other information needed to start screen printing.

Some details you’ll learn through marketing as a successful screen printing business include:

• The best opportunities are in printing on textiles like t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats.
• Companies making custom prints for promotional products and apparel can target local businesses, event planners, schools, nonprofits, and more.
• Athletic teams, music groups, and other organizations need jerseys, tees, and sweatshirts printed regularly.
• With low startup costs, even home-based screen printing businesses can profit from these consistent local sources of demand.
• Signage and decal printing is another major service, making up 20% of revenue. Greeting cards are also a popular choice.
• Banners, vehicle wraps, window decals, yard signs , and more are needed by many of the same clients that order apparel printing.
• Restaurants, realtors, and event venues will pay for quality signage that builds their brand.
• Focusing on superior customer service and fast turnaround times can help new printing companies stand apart.

Large runs for big corporate clients offer high-volume business but require significant equipment investments. New entrants may want to perfect their operations with smaller orders first. Outsourcing production during peak times is an option to handle overflow without expanding too quickly.

2. Analyze the Competition

Understanding the competitive landscape is key for new screen printing companies. Locally, drive around to identify existing shops and assess factors like location, signage, facility size, and branded vehicles.

Some ways to find details on local competitors include:

• Examine industry reports to learn the market share of top printing firms like Deluxe Corp .
• While unlikely competitors initially, their expansion plans may influence local opportunities.
• Review trade journals and communities to find common pain points like capacity constraints and bottlenecks.
• Joining a print association provides access to industry benchmarks.
• Search online directories and platforms like Yelp to see their services, reviews, and ratings.
• Look up their websites and social media to evaluate their portfolio, pricing, and messaging.

Online competitions are growing. Their infrastructure makes it easy for individuals and small businesses to design and sell printed products. New printing companies can still compete by focusing on the fast local turnaround. Offering integrated design services is another way to provide more value than pure order fulfillment.

3. Costs to Start a Screen Printing Business

When launching a screen printing company, they typically range from $20,000 to $100,000 depending on the scale of operations. Let’s more closely explore the costs you’ll encounter as you purchase a screen printing machine, rent a facility, and more.

Start-up Costs

• Equipment and screen printing supplies are the biggest expense. An entry-level screen printing press costs $5,000 to $10,000.
• Additional presses can run $3,500 to $7,000 for semi-automatic or $8,000 to $15,000 for automatic.
• A four-color manual press with an electric flash dryer is a reasonable starter setup for around $7,500.
• Other essential gear like washout booths, exposure units, screens, and conveyor dryers can add $5,000 to $20,000 in expenses.
• Budgeting $15,000 to $25,000 for core equipment allows room for growth.
• Working capital covers inventory like blank apparel ($1,000 to start), printing supplies ($500 to $1,000), and shop necessities.
• Incorporation or licensing fees are around $100 to $800 depending on location and structure.
• Print shop software averages $50 to $100 monthly for project management and invoicing.
• An e-commerce platform like Shopify to take custom orders online runs $29 to $299 per month.
• Leasing a small commercial space for screen printing costs $7 to $12 per square foot monthly, so plan on $2,500 to $4,000 for 750 to 1,000 sq ft.
• Utilities, insurance, any initial shop renovations, and initial marketing efforts should also be factored in.

Ongoing Costs

Typically include rent, payroll, supplies, software subscriptions, utilities, maintenance, insurance, and sales and marketing costs. Any additional equipment lease payments would need to be budgeted as well. Staffing costs vary based on hiring needs and local wages. As revenue grows, upgrading machinery and expanding production capacity leads to larger annual capital expenditures.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

When starting a screen printing company, the legal structure impacts taxes, liability, and operational flexibility. The four main options each have pros and cons.

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most affordable, requiring only a business license. There is minimal paperwork, and profits are taxed as personal income. However, the owner has unlimited liability for debts and lawsuits. This risk is too great for most businesses.

Partnership

Forming a general partnership shares liability across partners. However personal assets remain vulnerable without corporate protection. Partners also share authority, creating potential disputes. Income is passed through to individuals. This structure works best for small professional services firms.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

For equipment-intensive operations like printing, an LLC limits liability and is taxed like a sole proprietorship or partnership while allowing shared ownership. A startup costs more than a sole proprietorship but much less than a corporation. LLCs can elect S-corp status for tax savings. This hybrid approach provides liability protection without high compliance costs.

Corporation

C corporations have the most complex taxation and legal requirements. Double taxation of profits and extensive recordkeeping make this unsuitable for most small businesses. Screen printing companies with venture capital funding may need to incorporate. However, an LLC provides most benefits without the added overhead.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required by the IRS for any business, including a screen printing t shirts company, to identify tax accounts. Even sole proprietors need to get an EIN. It’s easy to apply online.

Go to IRS.gov and search “apply for an EIN” to find the application page. You’ll need to create an IRS online account if you don’t already have one. Make sure to have key information handy like name, address, and SSN for those with ownership stakes.

The online application takes about 10-15 minutes to complete. You’ll be asked for the legal name and structure of your business, start date, reason for applying, and responsible parties. Providing contact details and principal business activity codes helps process the EIN faster.

Once submitted, you will immediately receive your EIN at the end of the session. There is no cost to obtain this identification number. Print or save the confirmation notice for your records.

The EIN is necessary to open business bank accounts, apply for licenses and permits, hire employees, and file taxes properly. It is used on all official documents instead of SSNs to keep personal and business finances separate. Stay compliant with IRS requirements by always using the EIN on screen printing forms.

You’ll also need to register with your state Department of Revenue for sales tax collection. Search “[state] business tax registration” to find the right agency. Fees are generally $10-$100 depending on location. Proper licensing ensures you collect and remit sales tax according to local regulations.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Proper accounting is crucial for screen printing companies to track finances, manage taxes, and operate smoothly. Investing in tools and services prevents issues down the road.

Accounting Software

Getting accounting software like QuickBooks streamlines bookkeeping and automation. Connecting to business bank/credit card accounts allows seamless transaction importing. Features like invoicing, expense tracking, reporting, and payroll prep ensure organized records. This gives real-time visibility into the financial health of a growing printing business.

Hire an Accountant

Hiring an accountant provides expertise that screen printers often lack. They can handle tasks like monthly reconciliations, sales tax filings, and advising on optimizing finances for profitability and tax efficiency. Come tax season, an accountant prepares returns and ensures accurate IRS reporting.

Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping business and personal finances completely separate is essential. Commingling funds leads to problems in accurately documenting business income and expenses. The IRS requires being able to differentiate sources. Opening a dedicated business checking account and using a business credit card helps avoid co-mingling.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Business credit cards also build credit history and can offer better terms than personal cards. Limits are based on business revenue and creditworthiness. Provide legal registration documents and EIN when applying for a card tailored to printing needs.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Operating legally requires screen printing companies to obtain proper licensing before opening. Find federal license information through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state and city requirements.

Zoning approval ensures the planned facility location and use aligns with local regulations. Industrial business permits are often needed as well to meet codes for equipment operation and materials. Seek guidance early to determine if zoning changes or hearings are necessary for approval.

Retail sales tax licenses must be obtained if selling printed products directly to local customers. Wholesale transactions may require separate licensing. Registration ensures proper collection and remittance of sales tax to state authorities. Research thresholds for obtaining seller’s permits.

Environmental regulations address waste disposal and pollution. For printers, this includes ink, solvents, and water used in production. Permits related to air emissions, wastewater pretreatment, and hazardous materials storage may apply. Consult with the EPA and state agency for guidance.

Signage permits regulate the location and size of any shop signage displayed externally. There are often city or county-level approvals needed before installation. Consider rules for lighting, construction materials, placement, and dimensions.

Fire safety inspections completed by the local fire marshal ensure print shop layouts, exits, and extinguishers meet codes. Any chemical storage also gets reviewed. Make requests well ahead of opening to schedule assessments and correct any issues.

8. Get Business Insurance

Purchasing adequate insurance is critical to protect screen printing businesses from unexpected risks that could lead to bankruptcy. Operating without coverage exposes the company to financial devastation.

For example, a major equipment breakdown could cost tens of thousands in repairs and lost revenue during downtime. A customer injury from a slip and fall on site creates liability exposure. Even something as simple as a burst pipe damaging the leased commercial space can rack up major costs.

Without insurance, these common issues become possibly company-ending. The right policies help hedge against disasters and ensure continuity after a claim.

Start by researching options like general liability, commercial property, equipment breakdown, and business interruption insurance. Connect with an agent experienced in covering print shops specifically. Provide details on operations, inventory, and property when seeking quotes.

The application process will require legal documents, financial records, employee info, and statements on existing policies. Be thorough and honest to avoid denial of claims later. Read all policies closely to ensure adequate coverage levels and terms.

9. Create an Office Space

Having a dedicated office provides screen printing companies workspace for administrative tasks, meetings, and phone calls apart from the production floor. This allows uninterrupted time for key business functions.

Home Office

A home office works well for sole proprietors, with minimal costs. Deductible expenses like utilities and supplies can offset taxes. However, distractions from family can hinder productivity. Meeting clients at home also may seem unprofessional. Expect costs under $100 monthly to maintain a basic setup.

Coworking Office

Coworking spaces offer amenities like WiFi, printing, conference rooms, and front desk service for a monthly fee. The community environment also provides networking opportunities. But noise could disrupt calls. WeWork locations start around $300 monthly in a shared work area.

Retail Office

Leasing retail space allows meeting walk-in customers but incurs monthly rent of $1,500, utilities, and maintenance costs. Codes may also require accessibility improvements. Retail offices work best for printers with storefront sales.

Commercial Office

Renting basic office space in a commercial building is ideal for small teams. Expect monthly rents of $200-$500 for 100-200 square feet. Options like month-to-month terms provide flexibility. However, amenities like parking often cost extra.

10. Source Your Equipment

Launching a screen printing operation requires specialty gear that can be costly to purchase outright. Beyond buying new, entrepreneurs have options to acquire affordable equipment through used purchases, rentals, and leases.

New press systems, dryers, exposure units, and washout booths from leading brands like Riley Hopkins , M&R , and Workhorse cost $5,000 to over $50k. Buying high-quality new equipment from a printing supplier ensures optimal performance and warranties. Trade shows also offer deals on the latest models.

Used equipment is widely available at 30-70% discounts off new prices. Check print trade journals, auction sites, and classifieds for deals. Inspect functionality and condition carefully before purchasing. Buying used machinery from other closing print shops can provide incredible value.

If the budget is very limited, renting equipment for $100-$500 weekly allows starting operations without huge capital outlays. This tests demand before large investments. Short-term dryers, exposure units, or press rentals help complete specific jobs. Just confirm availability for the needed time frames.

Leasing spreads payments over 12-48 months, easing cash flow constraints. Approval depends on business financials and credit. Monthly lease costs are longer than buying outright but facilitate growth with upgraded machinery.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Creating a strong brand identity helps screen printing companies stand out, attract ideal customers, and build authority in the marketplace. Investing in professional assets ensures consistency across touchpoints.

Get a Business Phone Line

Acquiring a unique business phone number via a provider like RingCentral enables listing key contact info in directories, advertisements, and websites. Toll-free numbers project credibility and a national presence. Call management features like voicemail transcription adds functionality.

Design a Logo

A logo is the cornerstone of a memorable visual brand. Iconic marks like Nike’s swoosh instantly identify companies. Hiring a professional designer through Looka to create a sleek, versatile logo for multiple formats is recommended. Scalable vector files allow printing on different signage, apparel, and promo items.

Print Business Cards

With a logo finalized, order professionally printed business cards, stationery, brochures, and uniforms from Vistaprint to showcase the brand. High-quality, consistent collateral conveys professionalism. For storefront shops, large exterior signage and window decals are also needed to attract walk-by traffic.

Get a Domain Name

Securing a domain name that matches the brand name ensures customers can easily locate the website. Short, memorable domains using .com build credibility. Use Namecheap tools to identify available options and make purchases.

Design a Website

Every business needs a website to publish product/service details, images, and branding. Employing Wix ‘s drag-and-drop editor enables designing a custom site without coding skills. Hiring a web developer on Fiverr provides affordable design expertise.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Joining relevant local organizations and online communities provides screen printers with invaluable connections, resources, and industry knowledge. Tapping into these networks boosts growth and success.

Local Associations

Searching for a local print association provides access to trade events, training, and peer groups. For example, the Northwest Print Council and Florida Graphics Alliance offer member benefits like seminars, networking, and advocacy. Joining gives visibility and insider access.

Local Meetups

Attending industry meetups and trade shows facilitates meeting fellow printers to exchange ideas and strategies. Platforms like Meetup make finding upcoming events easy by location and interest. The hands-on workshops at screen printing trade shows offer product demos and techniques.

Facebook Groups

Facebook communities enable crowdsourcing guidance from thousands of industry peers at any time. Large groups like Screen Printing Support and Screen Printing Support share troubleshooting, recommendations, and services. More localized groups provide region-specific connections.

13. How to Market a Screen Printing Business

Implementing an effective marketing strategy is essential for screen printing companies to steadily gain new customers and grow revenue. A mix of digital and traditional promotion cultivates awareness and sales.

Personal Networking

Leveraging personal connections provides the most valuable lead sources when starting. Offering referral rewards or discounts incentivizes happy customers to recommend the business within their network. This personal endorsement carries more weight than impersonal ads.

Digital Marketing

Digital channels should form the core of ongoing marketing efforts for scalable outreach and metrics-based optimization:

• Run Google/Facebook PPC ads geotargeting local searchers of printing services
• Create social media business pages to promote work and engage followers
• Claim profiles on review sites like Yelp to build credibility through positive reviews
• Start a YouTube channel showcasing production processes and customer testimonials
• Send email newsletters with special offers to the subscriber list
• Guest post on local business blogs to boost organic search visibility

Traditional Marketing

Traditional tactics supplement digital efforts:

• Mail promotional postcards and coupons to neighborhoods
• Distribute menus/flyers to local shops, offices, and events
• Take out ads in local newspapers and radio spots
• Sponsor community event banners and programs
• Rent billboard space on highways with heavy traffic

The combination of digital marketing for a broader reach and conversions at a lower cost per lead plus selected traditional promotion to locals who may not very online covers all bases when introducing a new brand.

14. Focus on the Customer

Providing exceptional customer service is crucial for screen printing companies to keep clients happy and gain new business through referrals. Going above and beyond to meet customer needs separates successful print shops from the competition.

For example, answering questions promptly, meeting tight deadlines, and fixing any errors quickly show clients their business is valued. Sending follow-ups to ensure satisfaction and checking if additional services are needed demonstrates proactive care.

Explaining the printing process thoroughly and offering guidance on design options makes customers feel informed and involved. Educating them on best practices for file formats, color matching, etc ensures optimal printing quality.

Little touches like handwritten thank you notes and free local delivery of completed orders make clients feel appreciated. These experiences stick in their minds and make them likely to leave positive reviews and recommend the printer to others needing merchandise or signage.

Providing such thoughtful service earns business owners the trust and loyalty of customers. This leads to repeat business, word-of-mouth referrals, and growth fueled by a stellar reputation.

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Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template

• Great for beginners
• Ready-to-use, fully customizable Subcategory
• Get started in seconds

Running a screen printing business requires more than just high-quality products and services—it also requires a solid marketing plan. With ClickUp's Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template, you can take your business to new heights by attracting and retaining customers through strategic marketing efforts.

This template will help you:

• Identify your target market and create customized marketing strategies to reach them effectively
• Develop a strong brand identity that resonates with your ideal customers
• Implement advertising and promotional strategies to increase brand awareness and drive sales
• Establish partnerships with local businesses or organizations to expand your reach and generate more leads

Don't miss out on the opportunity to grow your screen printing business. Get started with ClickUp's Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template today and watch your business thrive!

Benefits of Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template

Being proactive in your marketing efforts is crucial for the success of your screen printing business. With the Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template, you can:

• Identify your target market and tailor your marketing strategies to reach them effectively
• Develop a strong brand identity that resonates with your customers and sets you apart from the competition
• Implement advertising and promotional strategies to increase brand visibility and attract new customers
• Establish partnerships with local businesses or organizations to expand your reach and generate more sales
• Track and measure the effectiveness of your marketing efforts to make data-driven decisions and continuously improve your strategies

Main Elements of Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template

Looking to create a marketing plan for your screen printing business? ClickUp's Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan template has got you covered!

Here are the main elements of this template:

• Custom Statuses: Keep track of your marketing tasks with 6 different statuses, including Cancelled, Complete, In Progress, Needs Input, Planned, and To Do.
• Custom Fields: Capture important information about your tasks using 6 custom fields such as Quarter, Task Type, Impact, Progress, Percent Completion, and Effort.
• Custom Views: Visualize your marketing plan in 5 different views, including Key Results, Timeline, Getting Started Guide, Objectives, and Progress Board.
• Task Management: Break down your marketing plan into actionable tasks, set due dates, assign team members, and track progress.
• Collaboration: Foster collaboration by leaving comments, attaching files, and mentioning team members directly within tasks.
• Automation: Streamline your marketing processes with Automations, saving you time and effort.

With ClickUp's Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan template, you can effectively manage your marketing efforts and achieve your business goals.

How to Use Marketing Plan for Screen Printing Business

If you're looking to promote your screen printing business effectively, follow these five steps using the Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template in ClickUp:

1. Define your target audience

Before you start marketing your screen printing business, it's crucial to identify your target audience. Determine who your ideal customers are, their demographics, interests, and pain points. This will help you tailor your marketing efforts to reach the right people.

Use custom fields in ClickUp to create a profile for your target audience, including their age, location, and preferred printing styles.

2. Set your marketing goals

Establish clear and measurable marketing goals for your screen printing business. Do you want to increase brand awareness, generate more leads, or boost sales? Setting specific goals will guide your marketing strategies and help you track your progress.

Create Goals in ClickUp to outline your marketing objectives and set deadlines for achieving them.

3. Develop your marketing strategies

Now that you know your target audience and goals, it's time to develop effective marketing strategies. Consider using a mix of online and offline tactics, such as social media marketing, email campaigns, content creation, networking events, and collaborations with local businesses.

Use the Board view in ClickUp to create cards for each marketing strategy and track their progress.

4. Implement your marketing plan

Once you have your strategies in place, it's time to put your marketing plan into action. Start by scheduling and executing your marketing campaigns across various channels. Ensure that your messaging is consistent and aligns with your brand identity.

Use Automations in ClickUp to automate repetitive marketing tasks, such as scheduling social media posts or sending email newsletters.

5. Monitor and optimize

To ensure the success of your marketing efforts, regularly monitor and analyze your results. Track key metrics, such as website traffic, social media engagement, lead conversions, and sales. Identify what's working well and what needs improvement, and make data-driven optimizations to maximize your marketing ROI.

Use Dashboards in ClickUp to visualize your marketing metrics and gain insights into the performance of your campaigns.

By following these steps and utilizing the Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template in ClickUp, you'll be able to create a comprehensive marketing strategy that effectively promotes your screen printing business to your target audience.

Get Started with ClickUp’s Screen Printing Business Marketing Plan Template

Screen printing business owners can use this Marketing Plan Template to effectively promote their business and attract potential customers.

First, hit “Add Template” to sign up for ClickUp and add the template to your Workspace. Make sure you designate which Space or location in your Workspace you’d like this template applied.

Next, invite relevant members or guests to your Workspace to start collaborating.

Now you can take advantage of the full potential of this template to create a successful marketing plan:

• Use the Key Results View to set measurable goals and track your progress towards achieving them
• The Timeline View will help you plan out your marketing activities and ensure everything stays on schedule
• Use the Getting Started Guide View to access step-by-step instructions on how to create an effective marketing plan
• The Objectives View will help you define your marketing objectives and outline strategies to achieve them
• Use the Progress Board View to visualize the progress of your marketing initiatives and identify any bottlenecks
• Organize tasks into six different statuses: Cancelled, Complete, In Progress, Needs Input, Planned, To Do, to keep track of progress
• Update statuses as you work through tasks to keep team members informed and ensure smooth execution of your marketing plan

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Start a Screen Printing Business

Transforming Blank Canvases into Masterpieces: The Artistic Journey of a Screen Printing Entrepreneur

SCREEN PRINTING BUSINESS

Related business ideas, discover your perfect domain, screen printing mini business plan, business analysis of screen printing business, expected percent margin:, earnings expectations:, actions to hit those numbers:, equipment & supplies:, marketing and customer acquisition:, cost control:, business operations:, not what you had in mind here are more ideas, grab your business website name, step 1: determine if a screen printing business is right for you, examples of ways to make money, breakdown of startup expenses, breakdown of ongoing expenses, step 2: name your business, step 3: create a business plan, step 4: obtain licenses and permits, obtaining the licenses and permits, cost of licenses and permits, keeping licenses and permits up to date, step 5: purchase equipment, where to purchase equipment, financing options, maintenance and upkeep, step 6: market your business, tips for effective marketing, step 7: set up a website, setting up the website, promoting the website, step 8: make money, step 9: market your business, tips for marketing your business, step 9: keep records, types of records to keep, benefits of keeping records, how to keep records, explore more categories, take the next steps.

How to Start a Screen Printing Business

A screen printing business specializes in printing images on t-shirts or other items of clothing. There is flexibility to operate such a business completely online or via a traditional store. The store may also offer pre-set options for images and phrases as well as allowing customers to submit their own designs. The ability of such a store to create t-shirts for schools and businesses also provides a great way to build community spirit.

Learn how to start your own Screen Printing Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a screen printing business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Screen Printing Business
• Form your Screen Printing Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Screen Printing Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Screen Printing Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Screen Printing Business
• Get Screen Printing Business Insurance
• Define your Screen Printing Business Brand
• Create your Screen Printing Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your screen printing business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Screenprinting Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your screen printing business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a screen printing business.

It is relatively cheap to open a screen printing business. The specialized printer you need can typically costs $10,000 or less; the supplies you need to start, including many shirts to print on, can typically be obtained for less than $5,000. Such a business can be operated from your home, so there is no need to lease a separate space. Instead, you can spend about $500 to design a professional website, and about $5,000 on traditional advertising, including radio ads, newspaper ads, and a combination of fliers, business cards, and direct mail.

What are the ongoing expenses for a screen printing business?

The ongoing expenses for this business are variable because you may have to order more materials in some months and fewer materials in other months. Generally, you will spend about two dollars per t-shirt, and about $1.50 per silk screen you create. If you buy pre-made silk screens, they cost about $25 a piece, and ink costs amount to about five cents per shirt. Beyond this—and the need to pay a hundred dollars or less per year to host your website—you don't really have any ongoing expenses, as extra costs such as shipping are billed to the customer directly.

Who is the target market?

While people of all demographics buy screen printed t-shirts, your target market is typically males between the ages of 15 and 25. Such a demographic is more social and enjoys using custom t-shirts to express aspects of their interests and identity to new people that they meet.

How does a screen printing business make money?

A screen printing business makes money by selling individuals t-shirts and other items of clothing with preset or customized designs on them.

How much you charge customers varies based on many factors such as t-shirt colors, amount of shirts, and how quickly the customer needs them. For instance, you might charge nine dollars for printing a design on a single color shirt, but if the same customer orders a hundred or more, you may charge them as little as five or six dollars. For someone ordering a shirt with six colors, you'd likely charge between twelve and fourteen dollars for the shirt or as low as eight dollars if they are buying in bulk.

How much profit can a screen printing business make?

The amount of profit you can make is completely dependent on how many customers and orders you get per year. Some successful screen printers make $100,000 a year or more by amassing large numbers of clients that need to regularly order shirts in bulk. Realistically, your profits will be smaller to start with, although the ability to do this business from home means that you can start it as a second job and build your brand and reputation before making this your sole form of income.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Most of your customers will order from you online, so consider investing in some form of software to help you monitor customer data and email them about your latest products and deals. Try to offer a large variety of clothing options—while every screenprinter sells t-shirts, you may be able to sell things like hoodies and tank tops that the competition simply doesn't have. Finally, keep detailed records of what is selling well and what is not, and use each quarter to refocus your business on giving your customers more of what they want.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your screen printing business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a screen printing business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A screen printing business is generally run out of a storefront. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a screen printing business.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your screen printing business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Screen Printing Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Screen Printing Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a screen printing business

As mentioned earlier, be sure to create a professionally designed website. In addition to traditional newspaper and radio advertising, be sure to advertise on social media—highly visual services such as Instagram provide a natural way to show off your designs. Finally, make personal contact with as many businesses and community groups as you can, as these organizations typically have need to produce custom t-shirts in large quantities.

How to keep customers coming back

In addition to the advertising methods mentioned above, you should hold online contests to build interest. This might include free shirts for people who submit the best new shirt designs, or discounted shirts for those who refer their friends. Also, be sure to pre-make shirts you know will be successful and sell them at local events. From music festivals to comic conventions, any concentrated gathering of people with the same interests represents an opportunity to reach a large audience with your products.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

This business is great for artists, giving them a venue to create their own designs and sell them via t-shirts. It is also great for those with strong community ties, as it lets them build long-lasting relationships providing t-shirts for various high school clubs, small businesses, local churches, and other organizations. Finally, it's a good business for savvy social media users as they can leverage these skills to reach diverse audiences of customers online.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a screen printing business?

The daily activities of a screen printing business are pretty straightforward: much of your time is spent communicating with existing customers, advertising to prospective customers, and finalizing designs for shirts. Beyond this, your time is spent buying and receiving raw materials, printing designs on shirts, and delivering them to your customers.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful screen printing business?

Skills in Photoshop and other image manipulation software will be invaluable in starting your business. Similarly, previous experience printing your own t-shirt designs for friends and family is a major help before doing so professionally. Photography experience can also be useful because there are some parallel skills, including working in specialized dark rooms.

What is the growth potential for a screen printing business?

The growth potential for such a business is modest, with the industry growing nearly two percent between 2011 and 2016. It is worth noting that the increasing popularity of buying custom products online through sites such as Etsy gives you more venues to find customers.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a screen printing business?

Try to quickly identify a target market and create a specialty product for that market. Be sure to give yourself ample time to learn how to operate the machinery and develop shirts in short amounts before doing it full time. Finally, don't forget to attach tags to the shirts you sell—this serves as an additional way to build your brand and advertise your products.

How and when to build a team

Because many screen printing businesses are run from people's homes, it is unlikely you will need a team such as a formal retail team. However, you may want to partner with gifted artists in order to offer a greater diversity of designs for your products. If you do so, you should wait until after the first year (at minimum) to ensure there is enough demand to warrant expanding your team and splitting your profits.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• American Screen Printing Association
• Printing United Alliance
• Instant Imprints franchise opportunity

Real World Examples

• Underground Printing
• Custom Ink (online business)
• Ann Arbor Tees

Further Reading

• Mistakes to avoid
• Tips for starting this business
• Additional tips

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to Start a Screen Printing Business – Complete Guide

Do you want to start a screen printing business? If yes, you have landed at the right place.

It is without saying, the screen printing business is a lucrative business across the globe. The screen printing market presents a wide range of prospects due to the developing apparel market and rising demand for customized products.

However, jumping into this industry without adequate preparation and knowledge can result in costly errors. We will walk you through the crucial processes and factors needed in starting a successful screen printing business in India in this tutorial.

Table of Contents

Here are the 10 Steps to Start Screen Printing Business

1. do market research.

Before launching your screen printing business, it’s essential to conduct thorough market research to identify your target audience and evaluate the competition. Determine the market demand for custom-printed products, such as t-shirts, hoodies, bags, and promotional items. By understanding your potential customer’s preferences and needs, you can tailor your services to meet their expectations effectively.

2. Create a Business Plan

Developing a comprehensive business plan is crucial for any entrepreneurial venture. Outline your business goals, target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and growth plans in a well-structured plan. Additionally, consider the legal aspects of starting a screen printing business in India.

3. Machinery and Equipment Required

To start a screen printing business in India, you will need various equipment and tools. Here are the essential items:

a) Screen Printing Press

A screen printing press is the core equipment used for printing designs on various substrates. There are manual, semi-automatic, and automatic options available. Choose a press that suits your production needs and budget.

Screens are the primary component in screen printing. These are frames with mesh stretched across them. The mesh holds the stencil or design that allows the ink to pass through onto the substrate. Purchase screens of different sizes and mesh counts to accommodate various print sizes and ink types.

c) Squeegees

Squeegees are used to apply the ink onto the screens and push it through the mesh onto the substrate. Opt for different sizes and types of squeegees depending on your printing requirements.

d) Emulsion and Emulsion Coater

An emulsion is a light-sensitive material that is applied to the screens to create the stencil. Use an emulsion coater to evenly coat the screens with emulsion and ensure proper exposure and washout of the stencil.

e) Exposure Unit

An exposure unit is used to expose the screens with the emulsion-coated stencil to UV light. This process hardens the emulsion, creating the areas through which the ink will pass during printing.

f) Flash Dryer or Conveyor Dryer

A flash dryer or conveyor dryer is used to cure or dry printed designs. These machines help set the ink and ensure its durability. Choose a dryer that is suitable for the size of your prints and the type of ink you use.

Select high-quality screen printing inks that are compatible with the substrates you will be printing on. There are various types of inks available, such as plastisol, water-based, and discharge inks. Consider the durability, color range, and environmental impact of the inks.

h) Palette or Ink Mixing System

A palette or ink mixing system is necessary for accurately mixing and preparing custom colors. This allows you to match specific Pantone colors or create unique shades as per customer requirements.

i) Cleaning Supplies

Screen printing involves regular cleaning to maintain the quality of prints and prolong the life of screens. Have cleaning supplies such as emulsion removers, screen degreasers, and screen reclaimers on hand.

j) Drying Racks

Drying racks are used to lay out and dry printed garments or substrates. Invest in sturdy and well-ventilated racks to accommodate your production volume.

k) Heat Press

A heat press is optional but can be useful for heat-applying transfers or for curing certain types of specialty inks. Consider adding a heat press to your equipment if you plan to offer heat transfer printing services.

l) Computer and Design Software

A computer with design software such as Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW is essential for creating and manipulating artwork. This allows you to prepare the designs for screen printing.

Other tools you may need include a screen printing registration system, exposure calculator, screen tape, screen printing pallets, ink scoops, mixing spatulas, and cleaning brushes.

4. Make your Business Legal

In starting a small and medium-scale screen printing unit, you will need to obtain the following registrations and licenses.

• Business registration with ROC
• Trade License from Municipal Authority
• GST Registration
• Udyog Aadhaar MSME Registration
• NOC from Pollution Control Board
• IEC Code for export.

5. Arrange Funds

If you are short on funds, you can approach banks and private investors for startup funding for your screen printing business. It is worth mentioning here, that a professionally documented business project plan will be a key factor in getting approval for funds from banks.

Read:  Best Credit Cards in India

6. Screen Making and Preparation

Before you can start printing, you need to create screens with the desired design. Here’s a step-by-step process to guide you through screen making and preparation:

• Design Transfer: The first step is to transfer your design onto a transparency or film using specialized software or by hand drawing. It is important to ensure that the design is accurate and well-aligned.
• Emulsion Coating: Apply a light-sensitive emulsion to the screen mesh using a scoop coater. Make sure to coat both sides evenly and avoid any drips or streaks. Allow the emulsion to dry in a light-free environment.
• Exposure: Next, place the dried screen with the design transparency on top of it into an exposure unit. Expose the screen to UV light for the specified time, which will cure the emulsion and create a stencil of your design on the screen.
• Washing Out: After exposure, wash out the screen using a pressure washer or a hose with a spray nozzle. The water will remove the uncured emulsion, revealing the stencil. Be careful not to apply too much pressure and avoid washing away fine details.
• Drying: Finally, allow the washed-out screen to dry completely before you can use it for printing. Ensure it is free of any moisture or water droplets to prevent ink smudging during the printing process.

7. Screen Printing Techniques and Processes

Screen printing involves various techniques and processes to achieve different effects and results. Here are some common techniques used in the screen printing industry:

Spot Color Printing: This technique involves printing each color in the design separately using individual screens. It is suitable for simple designs with solid colors.

CMYK Process Printing: CMYK process printing uses a combination of four colors – Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black) – to create a wide range of colors. It is commonly used for detailed and full-color designs.

Specialty Inks: You can explore specialty inks such as metallic, glow-in-the-dark, or puff inks to add unique effects to your prints. These inks require specific handling and curing methods, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Heat Transfers: Heat transfers involve printing the design onto a transfer paper or vinyl and then applying it to the substrate using heat and pressure. This method is suitable for smaller quantities or intricate designs.

All-Over Printing: All-over printing covers the entire surface of the substrate with the design. It is commonly used for t-shirt printing and requires specialized equipment and larger screens.

8. Pricing Your Services

Determining the right pricing for your screen printing services is crucial for profitability and competitiveness. Consider the following factors when setting your prices:

Costs : Calculate all your expenses, including equipment, supplies, labor, overhead costs, and marketing expenses. Factor in a reasonable profit margin to ensure sustainability.

Market Analysis : Research the prices offered by competitors in your area. Analyze their quality, services, and customer base to position your pricing accordingly. Avoid underpricing that may devalue your services or overpricing that may discourage potential customers.

Value-added Services : Consider offering value-added services such as design consultation, rush orders, or free delivery to justify slightly higher prices. Highlight the unique benefits customers can expect when choosing your business.

Pricing Structure : Determine whether you will charge per print, per color, or based on the complexity of the design. Use a transparent and easy-to-understand pricing structure to avoid confusion and disputes.

9. Managing Finance

Proper financial management is crucial for the sustainability and growth of your screen printing business. Here are some tips to effectively manage your finances:

Budgeting : Create a comprehensive budget that includes all your expenses, such as equipment, supplies, rent, utilities, marketing, and salaries. Regularly review and adjust your budget as needed.

Tracking Income and Expenses : Maintain accurate records of all your income and expenses. Use accounting software or spreadsheets to track your cash flow and ensure you’re staying within your budget.

Separate Business and Personal Finances : Open a dedicated business bank account and separate your personal finances from your business finances. This will make it easier to track your business transactions and maintain transparency.

Invoice and Payment Management : Implement an efficient invoicing system to ensure timely payments from clients. Clearly communicate your payment terms and follow up on overdue payments to maintain a healthy cash flow.

Inventory Management : Keep track of your inventory to avoid overstocking or running out of essential supplies. Regularly review your inventory levels and reorder materials in advance to avoid disruptions in production.

Seek Professional Advice : Consider consulting with an accountant or financial advisor to ensure you’re making informed decisions regarding taxes, financial planning, and managing your business finances effectively

1o. Have a Marketing Plan

To attract customers and establish your screen printing business in the market, effective marketing and branding strategies are crucial. Here are some ideas to promote your business:

Online Presence : Create a professional website and social media accounts to showcase your services and portfolio. Optimize your online presence for search engines by using relevant keywords like “screen printing business in India” to increase your visibility.

Samples and Catalogs : Develop a catalog showcasing your work and offer free samples to potential clients. This allows them to see the quality of your prints firsthand and encourages them to place orders.

Networking : Attend industry events, trade shows, and local business networking events to connect with potential clients, suppliers, and collaborators. Build relationships and create partnerships to expand your reach in the market.

Referrals and Word-of-Mouth : Encourage satisfied customers to refer your business to others by offering incentives such as discounts on future orders. Positive word-of-mouth recommendations can significantly boost your business.

Collaborations : Collaborate with local businesses, organizations, or influencers to create custom merchandise or promotional items. This helps increase brand exposure and reach a wider audience.

Online Advertising : Utilize online advertising platforms like Google Ads and social media ads to target your specific audience. Create engaging ad campaigns that highlight your unique selling points and drive traffic to your website.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How much does it cost to start a screen printing business.

The cost of starting a screen printing business in India can vary depending on factors such as the size of the operation, the quality of equipment and materials, and the location. On average, you can expect to invest anywhere between INR 5 lakhs to INR 20 lakhs.

Do I need any prior experience or training in screen printing?

While prior experience or training in screen printing can be beneficial, it is not a requirement. You can learn the techniques and processes through online tutorials, workshops, or by working with experienced printers. Practice and experimentation will help you refine your skills.

How long does it take to set up a screen printing business?

The time required to set up a screen printing business can vary depending on various factors such as acquiring equipment and supplies, setting up your workspace, and obtaining necessary permits or licenses. On average, it can take around 2-4 weeks to get everything in place.

How can I attract customers to my screen printing business?

Effective marketing strategies such as creating a strong online presence, offering samples, networking, and collaborating with local businesses can help attract customers to your screen printing business. Providing quality products, excellent customer service, and competitive pricing will also contribute to customer retention.

How do I ensure the quality of my prints?

It is essential to use high-quality materials, properly calibrate your equipment, and maintain consistency in the printing process. You need to regularly perform test prints, inspect the finished products, and seek feedback from customers to continually improve your printing quality.

What are some common challenges in the screen printing business?

Some of the common challenges in the screen printing business are the following:

• Manage color accuracy
• Maintain consistent quality across different print runs
• Equipment maintenance and repairs, a
• Staying updated with new design trends. E

You can overcome these challenges with proper planning, continuous learning, and adapting to market demands.

The Editorial Staff at NextWhatBusiness is a team of Business Consultants having years of experience in small and medium-scale businesses.

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Print Shop Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Print Shop Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their print shop companies.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a print shop business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a print shop business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Print Shop Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your print shop business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Print Shop

If you’re looking to start a print shop business or grow your existing print shop company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your print shop business to improve your chances of success. Your print shop business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Print Shop Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a print shop business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for print shop companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a print shop business.

If you want to start a print shop business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your print shop business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of print shop business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a print shop business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of print shop businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the print shop industry.
• Discuss the type of print shop business you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of print shop business you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of print shop businesses:

• Digital printing : This type of printing is one of the most cost-effective and fast printing processes available today. Electronic files and digital images replace the need for paper, press set-up and ink, which helps reduce the carbon footprint on the earth.
• Offset lithography printing: Used for magazines, circulars, brochures and books, this type of print shop specializes in larger volumes and includes traditional methods of binding.
• Screen printing: Any material that is not flat is a candidate for screen printing: shirts, hats, fabric bags, etc. Screen printing forces ink through a screening process that is replicated onto fabric or other materials used.
• 3D printing: This type of printing is performed through design, initiated by a computer program, followed by the print process in a 3D printer. The 3D printer is calibrated and outfitted with special plastics to fulfill the specifications of the 3D computer program.

In addition to explaining the type of print shop business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of printing projects completed, the amount of revenue earned, or reaching X number of clients served, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the print shop industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the print shop industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your print shop business plan:

• How big is the print shop industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your print shop business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your print shop business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, schools, charitable organizations, corporations, and innovators.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of print shop business you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other print shop businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. Stores that house copy machines or overseas service companies may be examples of indirect competitors. You will want to mention any direct competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of print shop business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide bundled services including printing and binding?
• Will you offer large 3D printing projects that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a print shop business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of print shop company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide cover design, book layout and digital printing to create a niche service for authors?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your print shop company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your print shop business located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone office, or purely online? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your print shop marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your print shop business, including answering calls, planning and providing printed items or 3D printed items, billing customers and assisting with maintenance of equipment, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth print project , or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your print shop business to a new city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your print shop business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing print shop businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a print shop business or successfully running a small co-op of screen printers.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you see 5 new customers per day, and/or offer discounted packaged pricing? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your print shop business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a print shop business:

• Cost of equipment and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or a list of corporations on a monthly printing contract.

Writing a business plan for your print shop business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the print shop industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful print shop business.

Print Shop Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my print shop business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your print shop business plan.

How Do You Start a Print Shop Business?

Starting a Print Shop business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Print Shop Business
• Create Your Print Shop Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Print Shop Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Print Shop Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Print Shop Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Print Shop Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Print Shop Business Equipment
• Develop Your Print Shop Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Print Shop Business
• Open for Business

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

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