The sublimation industry has changed in the last 29 years — it went from calling the process dye sublimation to sublimation. We had two mugs in the industry — 11 oz. and 15 oz. — while now there are hundreds of drinkables. Dye sublimation was also a ribbon, and now it is a liquid.
We could go on, but let’s focus on what we have learned in the past 29 years and what you can do to prepare your sublimation business for 2022!
1. Don’t ask for assistance on social media
Have a reputable vendor to assist you. When you ask a question in five groups of several thousands of people, not only will you get confusing answers, you have also wasted valuable business time. That is what a reputable vendor business does — work with you and your business.
2. Workstation
Ensure that all the necessary items such as heat tape, heat gloves, scissors, and more are neatly organized, resulting in a positive production.
3. Positive production
Remember, sublimation is a unique operating system that instantly prints full color on demand. With a sublimation system, you can produce full-color tote bags, drinkware, sweatshirts, metal indoor and outdoor substrates, and so much more instantly.
4. Target market
We all have unique markets, but many of us miss business opportunities. For example Hanukkah — there is a massive market for Judaic items. That is where personalized pillows, aprons, and more could be marketed on Facebook Marketplace for free. You do realize that this is excellent business marketing all year round! All you need are mockups of the items.
It is also important to work in your community. Become a member of the Chamber of Commerce and get known in the business community! For further target marketing, do a simple Google search of items that are being sold for the various holidays and think of seasonal merchandise.
5. Ideas
When you get ideas from looking around or brainstorming:
- Rule #1: Write it down
- Rule #2: Don’t share it, as it will not be yours anymore
You can seek many ideas from your surroundings. For example, a pizza shop, deli, or coffee shop. They need aprons. Car dealerships and car events need key chains and car coasters. Broaden your horizons. With over 3,000 items in the sublimation industry, no is not an option. “Yes, I can do that instantly,” is.
To sum up: 2021 we had fun; 2022, what’s in store for you?
