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Creator success Design tips Launching products Promoting merch

7 Ways to Earn More Money on Spring

Spring makes it easy for you to create products and make money selling them. However, many of our users struggle to make even one sale. If that’s you, or you believe you’re not getting as many sales as you should, don’t sweat it! Check out the steps below to learn the secrets to creating and selling like a boss on Spring!

1. Design Graphics Tailored to Your Following

Your fans are your biggest supporters–and who you’re selling your products too,–so make them the inspiration behind your designs. Center your creations around those special moments from your content that your fans know and love—the funny jokes, the memorable quotes, or even your beloved sidekick, like your pet. Let your designs reflect the vibe of your community, with a playful touch that only your true fans will appreciate.

If you’re stuck on what to make, take advantage of your social media fam by running polls or surveys to get their input directly. Find out what designs they’re vibing with, what gets them excited, and let their feedback guide your creative process.

And if you’re looking for some extra design mojo, dive into the world of AI design tools. Check out these three free platforms:

Canva: 

Canva is a great beginner tool with an easy interface that makes designing images and text easy to do. It also offers a new AI feature where you can request specific images to be created for you.

Pixlr: 

Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, Pixlr’s AI-powered tools have got you covered. From basic edits to cool effects that’ll make your designs pop, Pixlr makes it easy to bring your vision to life.

Gravit Designer: 

Try vector design with Gravit Designer’s intuitive features and AI-driven capabilities. With powerful tools at your fingertips, you’ll be creating captivating designs in no time.

With these tools in your arsenal, you’ll be whipping up designs that speak directly to your audience, paving the way for a merch launch that’s as unique as you are.

2. Pick the Perfect Products

When it comes to choosing products for your designs, think about what your fans would actually want to snag. If you’re a gaming creator, consider slapping your designs on desk mats, phone cases, and other cool tech gear. Or, if you’re more into the fitness scene, try leggings, sports bras, or water bottles. You want to make sure you cater to your audience’s interests.

You’ll also want to keep the seasons in mind. When the chilly weather rolls around, cozy hoodies and long sleeves are a must-have. But when the sun’s shining, tank tops and board shorts are where it’s at. 

Need some inspo? Check out all our hot sellers right here.

3. Keep the Launch Party Going

Spring gives you the green light to launch as many products as your heart desires. Why? So you can experiment, of course! Test out different designs and product types to see what gets your followers buzzing. And hey, if something doesn’t quite hit the mark, no sweat—you can easily unlist it and move on to the next big thing.

But here’s where the magic happens: Take note of what works and what doesn’t. What designs have your fans raving? What products are flying off the shelves? Use that golden info to fine-tune your strategy for future launches and keep the good vibes rolling.

4. Highlight Your Hottest Hits

Give your best sellers the spotlight they deserve and make them easier for your fans to find on your storefront.

Here’s how to place products at the front of your store:

  1. Click on Stores on the left-hand menu.
  2. Select Edit Store
  3. Click Products
  4. From there, you can star any products you want to feature at the top of your store. 

5. Order Samples and Use Them in Your Content

Using samples in your content can increase your sales by 300%! So get your hands on some samples of your products and incorporate them into your content strategy. Whether it’s unboxing videos, photoshoots, or giveaways, showing off your products in action can drive interest and sales. 

You can order samples here!

6. Spread the Word on Social Media

Once you have your designs and products live, it’s time to turn up the volume on your socials and get the word out about your awesome merch! Hit up all the platforms where your fans hang out and start showing off your awesome products.

Whip up some eye-catching social graphics and videos that showcase your products in all their glory. Talk ’em up, show ’em off—whatever it takes to get your fans excited to hit that “add to cart” button.

Also, don’t forget to drop your store link in your bio to make shopping for your products easy, as well as add our social integrations. 

7. Reach Out with Email Campaigns

Email campaigns are a great way to boost sales and keep your fans engaged/aware of your new drops.

If you have an email list, use it to share exciting updates about your latest merch drops, exclusive deals, or behind-the-scenes peeks into your creative process. With the right message, you’ll have ’em hitting that “buy now” button in no time.

If you don’t have access to an email list, but have gotten a lot of sales, reach out to us at creatorsupport@spri.ng. We’ve got your back, and we’re here to help you make magic happen.

Now Go Start Earning!

Our platform is designed to help you earn with ease, and with these tips in mind, you can become unstoppable! 

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter for weekly tips and tricks on how to succeed on Spring! 

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Creator success Launching products

10 Must-Have Products to Add to Your Store This Spring


Now that winter is behind us, it’s the perfect time to amp up your sales with some seriously hot springtime products. These 10 must-haves aren’t just any old items – they’re the ones that your fans are craving as the weather starts to warm up. And here’s the best part: by adding them to your store and putting your own spin on them, you can take your sales to the next level without needing to come up with a bunch of new designs.

Just drop your best sellers on products like Dad Hats for those laid-back park hangs, Premium Tank Tops for sunny days, and Coach Jackets for when the weather’s playing games. These items are already selling like crazy, and by adding your branding or designs to them, you’re giving your fans exactly what they want – with a personalized twist.

So check out these springtime essentials, add your unique touch, and get ready to crush it this season while keeping your fans looking fresh and feeling connected to your brand. Let’s make this spring the best one yet!

1. Dad Hat

Your fans are all about that effortless, laid-back style, especially as the weather warms up. A dad hat is the perfect accessory to top off any spring outfit, whether they’re heading to a music festival or just chilling in the park. 

By adding your designs or branding to these hats, you’re giving your fans a way to rep their favorite creator while staying on-trend.

  • Base cost: $22.60
  • Material: Chino washed cotton twill

Create yours here. 

2. Premium Ring-Spun T-Shirt

Spring is all about shedding those layers and rocking your favorite tees. Your fans will love the softness and quality of these premium shirts, making them a go-to choice for everyday wear. 

  • Base cost: $17.74
  • Material: 100% Combed Ringspun Cotton

Create yours here.

3) Coach Jacket

Spring weather can be unpredictable, but your fans will be prepared with these stylish coach jackets. They’re perfect for those breezy days or light showers, making them a practical and fashionable choice for any springtime adventure. 

  • Base cost: $33.49
  • Material: 100% nylon exterior, 100% polyester lining

Create yours here.

4) Premium Tank Top

As the temperatures rise, your fans will be looking for lightweight and breathable clothing options. These premium tank tops fit the bill perfectly, offering comfort and style in equal measure. 

  • Base cost: $17.74
  • Material: 100% Combed Ringspun Cotton

Create yours here.

5) Leggings

Whether your fans are hitting the gym or lounging at home, they’ll appreciate the comfort and versatility of these athletic-fit leggings. Plus, the trendy designs you add to them will make them stand out from the crowd, turning them into a must-have item for any spring wardrobe.

  • Base cost: $37.50
  • Material: 100% Polyester

Create yours here.

6) Full-Zip Windbreaker

From outdoor adventures to casual outings, your fans will love the practicality and style of these full-zip windbreakers. 

  • Base cost: $46.49
  • Material: 100% Polyester

Create yours here.

7) Duffle Bag

Whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a trip to the gym, duffle bags are a springtime essential that your fans won’t be able to resist. Made from durable spun polyester and featuring ample storage space, these duffle bags combine practicality with style. 

  • Base cost: $49.99
  • Material: 100% Spun Polyester

Create yours here.

8) AOP Swim Trunks 

Get your fans ready for pool parties and beach vacations with all-over print (AOP) swim trunks that make a bold statement. Crafted from a blend of polyester and spandex, these swim trunks offer comfort and flexibility in and out of the water. 

  • Base cost: $34.00
  • Material: 90% Polyester, 10% Spandex

Create yours here.

9) Women’s Swimsuit

Treat your female fans to some seriously stylish swimwear that’s both flattering and comfortable. Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, these swimsuits offer a comfortable and supportive fit, perfect for lounging by the pool or soaking up the sun at the beach.

  • Base cost: $36.50
  • Material: 82% Polyester, 18% Spandex perfotek

Create yours here.

10) Denim Bucket Hat

Add a touch of retro flair to your spring collection with denim bucket hats that exude casual coolness. Made from 100% cotton denim, these hats are both stylish and functional, offering protection from the sun while making a fashion statement.

  • Base cost: $25.23
  • Material: 100% Cotton

Create yours here.

Get ready for springtime sales!

Adding your unique designs and branding to these springtime essentials is a no-brainer. Not only will it give your fans a way to support you and show off their love for your brand, but it’ll also take your sales to the next level by letting your fans shop the products they need this spring. 

So go ahead, get creative, and give your fans something they’ll be excited to buy this spring!

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Design Hot-Selling Springtime Products That Resonate with Your Unique Following!

Spring is in the air, which means it’s time to capitalize on seasonal sales by adding springtime designs to your product lineup. 

There are a few ways you can bring the season into your designs while staying true to your brand. Read our top suggestions below!

1. Splash of spring colors

No need to reinvent the wheel! Simply add spring colors to your product listings or tweak existing designs with a limited edition spring palette. Think cheerful and uplifting hues like:

  • Pastel pink: Soft and soothing, perfect for invoking feelings of warmth and joy.
  • Mint green: Refreshing and invigorating, reminiscent of blooming gardens.
  • Sunshine yellow: Radiant and energetic, sure to brighten anyone’s day.

Remember to stay true to your brand image. While spring colors can enhance your products, they should still align with your overall aesthetic.

If you’re a content creator who posts about Halloween or horror stories, adding pastels or bright, cheerful colors to your designs or color selections might be off-putting to your followers. Consistent branding should always come first. 

However, if springtime colors don’t fit your branding, but you still want to incorporate them, think about adding them in a creative way. If you normally feature a little monster, you can have him sitting down in a spring garden, looking down at a calendar showing how many days are left until Halloween. 

The more creative you get with it, the more likely your fans will be hitting that buy button. 

2. Celebrate spring activities 

Spring ushers in exciting events like Easter and spring break, and your audience craves designs that match the vibe. Consider offering event-styled products such as:

  • Easter-themed goodies: Think bunny-printed shirts and egg-cellent mugs to celebrate the season.
  • Spring break must-haves: Add spring break designs to tote bags, beach towels, and sunglasses – essentials for a sun-soaked getaway.

Introducing trendy event-inspired designs can amp up your brand’s visibility. Imagine if one of your followers flaunts your branded spring break beach towel during their trip – it’s sure to catch attention and pique curiosity among their friends and fellow travelers, potentially bringing in a whole new set of customers.

Jumping on the event-themed products train is a smart move to broaden your audience and seize the moment. But keep it cool and aligned with your brand’s vibe. Whether it’s slapping on a catchy “Spring break is here!” slogan to a top-selling design or crafting a funky text-only artwork that screams your brand’s spirit while capturing the event’s hype, ensure everything you create stays true to your brand’s essence.

3. Embrace nature-inspired designs

Spring isn’t just about flowers blooming and birds chirping; it’s about embracing nature’s wild side in your designs. Dive into the nature-inspired trend by incorporating elements like floral patterns, leafy motifs, or fluttering butterflies to infuse your creations with that springtime magic.

But hey, stay true to your vibe! If your brand revolves around anime, don’t just toss flowers onto your gear and call it a day. Showcase your anime characters holding flowers or sporting some fresh spring swag. That’s how you keep it real!

4. Get creative with light and airy typography

When adding light and airy typography to your spring designs, it’s important to consider your brand’s vibe. Try out different fonts and styles that match your brand’s personality and style. Whether your brand is bold and adventurous or sleek and minimalist, make sure the typography complements your brand’s overall look.

Stick to your brand’s style to keep things consistent and recognizable among your followers. Instead of straying too far from what your brand is known for, add some spring elements to your typography while staying true to your brand’s identity. For example, if your brand is known for being playful and fun, go for fonts with playful curves and organic shapes. If your brand leans more towards sophistication, opt for elegant and refined typography that adds a touch of luxury.

By finding the right balance between adding spring elements and staying true to your brand, you can create designs that capture the essence of the season while staying authentic to your brand. This ensures that your spring products not only feel fresh and exciting but also stay true to what your followers love about your brand.

Here are some fonts that can give your designs a springtime vibe:

  1. Script Fonts: Script fonts bring elegance and charm to your designs with their flowing lines and decorative details. Examples include:
    • Great Vibes
    • Sacramento
    • Playlist Script
  2. Handwritten Fonts: Handwritten fonts add a personal touch to your designs, making them feel warm and inviting. Examples include:
    • Amatic SC
    • Quicksand
    • Pacifico
  3. Serif Fonts: Serif fonts give your designs a classic and sophisticated look, perfect for adding a timeless touch to your spring designs. Examples include:
    • Playfair Display
    • Merriweather
    • Lora
  4. Sans-serif Fonts: Sans-serif fonts offer a clean and modern feel, making them versatile for a variety of spring designs. Examples include:
    • Open Sans
    • Lato
    • Montserrat
  5. Decorative Fonts: Decorative fonts bring personality and flair to your designs, adding visual interest and creativity. Examples include:
    • Lobster
    • Lemon Tuesday
    • Cherry Swash

Experiment with different combinations and styles to find the perfect typography for your spring designs that resonate with your younger audience while staying true to your brand’s identity.

The point of spring designs

In wrapping up, spring is here, bringing with it a prime opportunity to spice up your brand and drive sales with trendy seasonal designs. By infusing your products with a springtime vibe while staying authentic to your brand, you can create designs that truly resonate with your audience.

Sticking to your brand’s identity while exploring spring designs isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about seizing the moment and staying relevant. Incorporating vibrant spring colors, celebrating seasonal activities, and embracing nature-inspired themes not only captures the essence of the season but also deepens your connection with your audience.

Consistency with your brand image builds trust and familiarity among your followers, leading to increased sales. Whether you’re adding a touch of spring to your typography or crafting event-inspired designs, finding that sweet spot between seasonal trends and your brand’s essence is key.

So, as you venture into spring, remember to stay true to your brand, get creative with your designs, and watch as your products resonate with your audience, keeping your brand at the forefront of their minds.

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How to Leverage Your Following to Create Buzz for Your Merch Drop

Ready to turn your following into some serious cash? Selling your own branded merch is an easy way to do that and also helps you build a deeper connection with your fans. And guess what? If you’ve got a big or super-engaged following, you’re already halfway there! 

All that’s left to be done is get that community hyped up for your next merch drop, which guarantees a killer launch that’ll send your sales into orbit. So let’s dive in and learn 7 proven strategies on how to make your next merch drop break the internet! (Not literally, but you get the gist).

1. Know your fans inside and out

You probably don’t need a refresher here, but we’re going to give it to you anyway. If you’ve done the legwork of growing your fanbase, you most likely have a solid idea of what your fans are about and what they’re into. But let’s not diminish this key first step! Knowing their likes and dislikes is the key to making money. Understand their language. Design your merch with their desires in mind, which will greatly aid you in preparing a killer drop and getting the word out to your followers once it’s live. 

Also, be sure to tet familiar with your audience stats on your social media analytics. Most platforms give you this in the form of age, gender, when they’re most active, etc. Use this goldmine of data to schedule posts leading up to your merch drop and work out the best way to chat with your fans. 

2. Pick products that make sense

Ok, you’ve got your designs. What products do you put them on? This is where knowing your fans truly pays off. 

Let’s say it’s summertime and your fanbase is primarily in the U.S. You’re obviously gonna load up on warm-weather merch like tees, tank tops, water bottles, etc. But what if you have fans in Alaska or even Australia (where our summer is their winter)? In that case, you’ll want to have some cozy items like sweaters, jackets, hoodies, and beanies to keep your fans warm. Heck, even mugs for that hot cup of brew. 

Additionally, you need to pay attention to your niche. For example, if your content is all about gaming, then dropping gaming gear like a rad desk mat or a slick Nintendo Switch case will get your fans pumped up way more than beach towels or shower curtains. 

If you’re not sure what products to pick for your niche, check out our core collections for some awesome ideas!

3. Create hype

Once you have your products ready to go, you need to build excitement. Hop on your socials and other channels to get your fans hyped up for your merch drop. Tease some samples in your content so fans can actually get a sneak peek. Talk about your process of designing your merch (because everyone loves a good behind-the-scenes moment).

If you want to go the extra mile, take a few moments to explain why you created these designs or picked these products. Creators who can make an emotional connection with their fans over their merch perform significantly better than those who just say “Check out my new lineup!”

4. Hand out discounts

Hook up your fans with discounts before the big launch! Share a promo code over your socials ahead of time and encourage fans to use it as soon as your merch goes live. Just make sure to set up that promo code before you launch and clearly communicate when the code ends. (You can create codes easily on your dashboard here).

Discounts are great for getting your fans to snag your merch ASAP and can create some serious FOMO. After all, nobody wants to miss out on a deal, right?

5. Mix it up with other influencers or brands

Consider collaborating with other influencers or brands to spread the news of your merch drop so you can attract new customers. Collaborating with creators who share your vibe can help you expand your fanbase and create a buzz that spreads like wildfire.

6. Only offer merch for a limited time

Create some serious FOMO by offering limited edition merch! If fans snooze and don’t buy, they’ll miss out! Having a limited supply of anything increases value. Plus, if your launch is successful you can always bring it back in the future “by popular demand.” Making your merch scarce will have everyone scrambling to snag it before it’s gone and will get fans ready to pounce the next time you have a merch drop. 

7. Hit ‘em up with emails

Tap into email marketing to keep your biggest fans in the loop about your merch drop! If you’ve got an email list, send out must-read newsletters, sneak peeks, and special deals to keep your fans hyped and ready to shop.

And if you’re not rockin’ an email list yet but wanna blast out some merch news, hit us up at creatorhelp@spri.ng. Our crew might just hook you up and help you reach your past buyers with some epic merch updates!

So there you have it. You’re building your fanbase, so now you need to tap into it for some serious cash. As always, Happy Selling! 

Categories
Creator success Promoting merch

7 Creative Ways to Use Short-Form Videos to Boost Merch Sales

Short-form videos are taking the stage across social media. 

They have the power to go viral, increase engagement, captivate audiences, and best of all, get your sales to shoot through the roof when you use them to show off your merch!

Sometimes it’s a good idea to get a visual for how much of a big deal something is. Take a look below at how effective short-form videos really are in your world. 

First, short-form videos deliver the highest ROI.

Which Video Format Has the Biggest ROI? - HubSpot
Source: HubSpot

Second, short-form videos get the most engagement.

Which Video Format Gets the Most Engagement? - HubSpot
Source: HubSpot

So if you’re ready to learn 7 creative ways to use short-form videos to boost your merch sales, we’re ready to help!  

1. Product Demos

People wish they could physically touch a product when they shop online, but obviously they can’t. So help them live that experience through you (or someone you ask or hire to demonstrate handling, using, or wearing your product). Showcasing a sample of your product is a “virtual shopping” experience that helps the potential buyer see what your product looks like in the real world.

Make sure you highlight the key benefits and features of your product. Brevity is the soul of wit, so keep the dialogue lean and to the point. Online, attention spans last even shorter than IRL. 

Also, actions matter, not words. No one wants to hear about your product. They want to see it in action. When you show it, your product is literally doing the talking (in action) for you. 

Lastly, don’t be boring. Whether it be catchy music, humor or creative editing, show off your personality and keep it fun. The two key words to focus on here are: informative & entertaining! The more engagement you keep up with your fans, the more sales and long-term customers you acquire.  

2. Behind-the-Scenes

There are many reasons why BTS videos are a good idea, but here are two really strong ones: 

  1. It forms an emotional bond between you and your audience. They see you in every day action, which shows that you’re human just like them. They see that you have to deal with the same every day trials and tribulations that they do. Who doesn’t want to support someone that they can relate to? 
  2. It builds trust and authenticity. Your audience sees the actual processes and people involved in creating your amazing designs. This also gives them a story to pass along when people ask, “hey, where did you get that?”  

3. User-Generated Content

Have you ever heard someone say, “No one likes a braggart. But if other people brag about you, it gets attention.” User-generated content (UGC) is the online version of other people bragging about you. 

Encourage your customers to create and share their own short-form videos featuring your products (if they’re happy with it, of course). If need be, offer incentives to do so. This not only generates authentic content but it fosters a sense of community around your brand—Something you will already be building if you have followed steps 1 and 2! 

People also like to be given the greenlight to make their own creative calls. Let them decide what kind of video to make (unless they request you to come up with the idea). It makes them feel like part of the team, knowing they can showcase your merch in a fun and unique way. 

User-generated content (UGC) promotes trust and absolutely influences buying decisions.  

4. Brand Awareness on Social Media

Ask yourself where short videos are mostly seen. Tiktok? Facebook? YouTube? Instagram? The answer is all of the above (and more) but these platforms have the most massive user bases. The best thing about these platforms, though, is that they offer a lot of ways to promote videos, such as algorithmic recommendations, discovery pages, hashtags, and more. They are also easily shareable not just on the platform but in messaging apps. When viewers like a video or think it’s interesting, it’s so simple to share it (it’s probably harder to NOT share it lol), increasing exposure of your brand and its reach (maybe to the point of going viral). If it does, in fact, go viral, you’re looking at widespread brand awareness immediately. 

When it comes to increasing brand awareness, not all short-form videos on social media are created equal, however. Here are a couple quick suggestions:

  1. Customer testimonials. Share positive reviews and feedback from real customers who’ve experienced your product firsthand. This includes their thoughts, emotions, and experiences about how the product has either improved or impacted their lives for the better. This is similar to UGC, but sometimes you can’t get them to make a video of their own, so you need to incorporate fragments into your content.  
  2. How-to or challenge videos. How-tos can teach an important skill and they’re always popular. Same with challenge videos, where you ask your fans to compete or complete a task. Again, these build trust and credibility. Don’t forget to make the videos humorous and fun! In fact, humor is the number one common trait between most successful videos. 
  3. Unboxing or reviewing videos. These typically include showcasing the unpacking of your product for the very first time. In recent years, these videos have gained massive popularity, and they’re an amazing way to engage your audience. Note: Don’t do a fake “unboxing” video. It must be authentic because no one is really that good of an actor, not even actors. Authenticity is so important because it’s essential to be genuine and allow the excitement to shine through as the product is discovered and explored. And once again, what does this build? We’ll say it over and over and over again because it’s the key to everything involved in being successful: Connection on a personal level, trust, and credibility. 

5. Team-up with Influencers

The hot-button word of the moment is “collab.” Collaborating with influencers can significantly widen the reach of your brand. A lot of influencers have engaged followers across multiple channels. If one of them endorses your products, you just hit a whole new audience. 

One of the greatest ways to partner with influencers is in the short-form video format. Either influencers can create short videos, showing their audience your products, you can make the video with the influencer for your audience, or ideally, both!  Any of the types of videos we covered in point #4 will work. The more the merrier!

6. Q & A with Customers 

You would think we’ve harped on connection, trust, and credibility enough, right? Well….one of the best ways of building those three key elements is to hold a Q & A. Sometimes your fans have questions. Sometimes it’s tough to get to each individual. If this is the case, hop on a Q & A video and answer those questions. Be funny or at least light-hearted and sweet about it. Bots don’t take care of everything. Plus, people (your fans) want that personal connection. And who wants to pay a live agent out of their revenue? I’m sure you don’t. Make it known you will be holding a Q & A every month or so. It’s fine to have a FAQ section on your site, but you will be answering these questions with more nuance and a personal touch. 

Also, think beyond just providing “answers.” You can provide step-by-step explanations, product demonstrations, and examples. Studies have shown that this clarity reduces frustration and confusion on the viewers part, leading to higher customer satisfaction. 

7. Contest Teasers

Who doesn’t love a contest? They’re a no-brainer if you want to reach a larger audience. Contests also create buzz around upcoming product launches, and short-form videos are one of the best ways to execute buzz. Here are some tips on how to go about using short-form videos to hype up a contest:

  1. Playfully hint at contest details. 
  2. Feature catchy jingles, quirky characters, or a mini storyline that leaves your fans craving more. 
  3. Keep the videos short and snappy. Give fans a taste of what’s in store but don’t give away all the juicy details. 
  4. Keep it fun and think outside the box. The more memorable it is, the more it gets shared with their friends. The more they share, the more your visibility and reach increases. 
  5. Highlight the prizes that can be won. Showcase them in an engaging and creative way, and make sure they’re aligned with your target audience’s interests and your brand. 
  6. Make the prizes really enticing. The more enticing, the more eager people will be to share your videos and enter the contest.  

In Closing

These 7 surefire strategies will help you use short-form videos to boost your popularity and your sales. Since videos are really what the entire planet is responding to right now, the possibilities are endless. So start filming and happy selling! 

Categories
Creator success Design tips

How To Turn Viral Moments Into Hot-Selling Merch

Going viral is one of the best things that can happen to content creators. Not only does it boost your followers and make you internet-famous, but it can also fill your wallet—especially if you know how to turn that moment into awesome merch.

So, if you have content that blew up or got tons of likes and shares, don’t let it slip away! Take that moment, turn it into a killer design, and slap it on merch to sell to your fans.

When done right, viral moments translated into designs can deeply resonate with your audience and ignite excitement for them to purchase. Plus, it’s a cool way for them to show off their fandom to their buddies who love your stuff too.

Ready to turn your viral moment into a merch empire? Check out our tips below and let’s make some merch magic happen! 

1. Strike While It’s Hot:


Timing is key when it comes to cashing in on a viral moment. Don’t hesitate—start brainstorming merch ideas as soon as your video starts blowing up.

If you’re feeling stuck on what to create, consider these things:

  • Was there a line in your content that had everyone laughing or quoting it in the comments? This could be a good line to throw on some merch.
  • Could any freeze frame from your video be turned into a funny meme?
  • What are people chatting about in the comments? Is there a theme that keeps popping up?

By asking these questions, you’ll get a good idea of what kind of merch would really hit home with your fans.

For instance, let’s say your viral moment captured you busting a move with your grandpa, and everyone in the comments couldn’t get enough of his smooth moves. You could turn that into a meme with him rocking digital sunglasses and the caption “I leave no crumbs.” Then, slap that meme on coffee mugs, shirts, notebooks—whatever you think your audience would love.

But remember, don’t spend ages agonizing over the perfect design. The quicker you act, the more impact your merch will have.

2. Keep It On-Brand:

When creating your merch design, it’s important to keep it on-brand and give it the familiar vibes that people already associate with you and your content. So whether it’s a hilarious catchphrase, a jaw-dropping discovery, or a signature move that got everyone hyped, your design should still resonate with your brand. 

Why? Here are a few reasons staying on brand is so important:

Brand Recognition 

Keeping your merch consistent with your brand helps your fans instantly know it’s yours. When they see your merch, they should be like, “Oh yeah, that’s [Your Name]’s stuff!” It makes them more likely to buy it and rep it proudly and allows them to easily bond with other fans of yours when they’re out and about.

Emotional Connection

You’ve built up a real bond with your audience over time, right? Your brand represents all the things they love about you—your humor, your positivity, your unique perspective. So when your merch reflects that, it strengthens the connection even more. 

Making It All Fit

Your merch should feel like it’s part of the bigger picture of you and your content. Whether your fans are watching your videos, scrolling through your socials, or rocking your merch, everything should feel like it’s from the same awesome universe. When it’s all consistent, it creates this super cool experience for your fans that they can’t get enough of.

With that in mind, here are some tips to help you stay on brand as you transform your viral moment into a design your fans will instantly recognize as yours:

  • Think about what makes your brand unique and incorporate those vibes into your merch designs. Whether you’re all about humor, positivity, or breaking boundaries, try to add some of that into your viral moment merch design.
  • Keep your design in line with your overall aesthetic. Whether you’re into bold and colorful or chill and minimalist, translate your viral moment into your style.
  • Don’t forget to use your existing brand elements, like logos and colors, if it makes sense, to tie everything together and make your merch instantly recognizable.

3. Get Creative with Products:

Choosing the right products for your merch is key to turning your viral moment into a cash cow! 

Here’s how to pick products that will have your fans lining up to buy:

Know Your Audience

Consider what your fans are into and choose products that match their style. Whether they’re gamers, fitness freaks, or everyday parents, pick merch items that they’ll actually want to buy and use. If you’re not sure which to choose, browse our Core Collections for ideas.

Think Outside the Box

Don’t stick to the basics—get creative with your merch ideas! From socks to pet tees, explore unique products that stand out and make a statement. 

Stay Practical

While being creative is important, make sure your merch is also practical and useful. Choose items that people can use in their daily lives, like water bottles or tote bags, to ensure maximum exposure for your brand. Also, coffee mugs are one of the best sellers and easy gift ideas, so consider adding your viral moment to one!

Test and Learn

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and see what resonates with your audience. Gather feedback and use it to refine your merch lineup over time, ensuring that you’re always offering what your fans want.

4. Get Your Fans Involved:

Your fans are the heart and soul of your content, so why not make them an integral part of your merch-making journey? Start by sharing sneak peeks of your designs on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Let them see the creative process unfold in real-time and give them a glimpse behind the scenes.

But don’t stop there—ask for their input and feedback! Run polls or contests to let them vote on their favorite designs, colors, or slogans. Not only does this make your fans feel valued and appreciated, but it also gives them a sense of ownership over the final product. And when your fans feel like they’ve had a hand in creating your merch, they’ll be even more excited to rock it and show it off to the world.

5. Shout It from the Rooftops

Last but not least, once your merch is live, go all out spreading the news! 

Here are some of the best ways to do that: 

Blast it on Social Media

Your social media platforms are your megaphone, so use them to their full potential! Post about your merch on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and any other platforms where your fans hang out. Remind everyone of your viral moment and why you created this merch.

Order Samples

Samples can increase your sales by 300%, so don’t be afraid to order yours! Once you have your samples in hand, you can use them in your content and advertise them without even saying a word about it! Fans that see you wearing or using products that remind them of your viral moment will be intrigued and want to get their hands on them. After all, you’re internet famous, so who doesn’t want to copy you?

Host Giveaways or Contests

Everyone loves free stuff, so why not host a giveaway or contest to drum up excitement for your merch launch? Offer prizes like exclusive merch bundles, signed merch items, or even a virtual hangout with you. Encourage your fans to participate by sharing your merch launch posts, tagging their friends, or creating user-generated content related to your merch. Giveaways and contests are a fun and interactive way to engage your fans and generate buzz around your merch launch.

Create FOMO

Use scarcity and limited-time offers to create a sense of urgency and encourage your fans to act fast. After all, your viral moment will probably only have a short time under the sun, so creating FOMO around your merch is a good plan no matter what.  

Engage with Your Fans

Don’t forget to keep the party going with your fans during your merch launch! Reply to their comments and messages, give them a big thanks for all the love, and make sure they feel like they’re in on the action. Encourage them to show off their new merch on social media, especially because so many people will have seen your viral moment. Building that sense of community and connection with your fans will make your merch launch even more successful!

What’s next?

In the end, turning your viral moments into hot-selling merch is not just about capitalizing on a trend—it’s about building an epic connection with your fans. By getting creative, sticking to your vibe, and making your fans feel like they’re part of the squad, you can take a moment and turn it into a merch sensation.

Remember, timing is key, so don’t sleep on brainstorming those merch ideas while the hype’s still fresh. Keep it real, keep it you, and keep your fans in the loop every step of the way.

Stay tuned for more content that will help add more zeros to your bank account and become the content creator everyone knows about.

Categories
Creator success

Spread the love: Our shoutout to creators all month long!

It’s that time of year when love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the month of February than by shouting out some of our absolute rockstar creators!

From killer designs to epic success stories, these creators taken their passions and turned them into dollar signs using Spring. Plus, they’ve been able to build tighter bonds with their communities through some seriously cool branded merch that fans can bring straight into their home.

Check them out below! 

Week 3: Give It Up For Epic Careers!

Max Randolph

IG  | YT  |  FB  |  TT  |  Website  |  Shop

Meet Max Randolph, a visionary blacksmith who creates stunning metal sculptures and dynamic architectural pieces. For the past 20 years, Max has been unlocking the hidden possibilities of steel, blending artistry with craftsmanship. Fueled by his passion for creativity, he constantly pushes the boundaries of metalwork to bring his visions to life.

When Max embarks on a new project, his creations first come to life through captivating illustrations, capturing the essence of the craft that will later take shape in the forge. These handcrafted prints are unique originals, reflecting the dynamic energy and fluidity characteristic of Max’s metallurgical mastery.

Max has now added these captivating illustrations into an incredible lineup of products, which you can explore right here.

Tokyo Lens 

IG  | YT  |  TW  |  FB  |  TT  |  Website  |  Shop

Next up is Norm Nakamura, the creative force behind Tokyo Lens, a Japan-based YouTuber whose adventures have hooked nearly 1 million subscribers. Norm’s journey kicked off as an apprentice of the Yoshida Brothers, where he started documenting his daily life. But over time, his channel has become a vibrant hub showcasing Japan’s diverse culture and lifestyle.

From uncovering hidden villages to shining a spotlight on Japanese craftsmen, Norm’s videos offer a fresh take on life in Japan. With a passion for tiny apartments and unique experiences, Norm’s videos are always buzzing with energy. 

Norm has also expanded his brand with merchandise, including a custom plushie inspired by his beloved shamisen. This limited edition plushie celebrates Norm’s gratitude to the shamisen world that has shaped his journey in Japan. Check out all his merch here.

Shantel Tessier 

IG  |  TW  |  FB  |  TT  |  Website  |  Shop

Shantel Tessier is a bestselling romance and suspense author whose stories have captured readers worldwide. Shantel’s talent for crafting gripping plots and unforgettable characters has landed her on the USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestseller lists.

Outside of her writing career, Shantel is happily married to her high school sweetheart, who is a wonderfully supportive husband. When she’s not lost in the world of storytelling, Shantel loves to spend time cuddled up on the couch with a good book. She considers herself extremely lucky to pursue her passion while wearing pajamas.

Thanks to Spring, Shantel has been able to take her novels to the next level by putting moments and quotes on merch. Now, fans can bring their favorite stories to life in their own homes, adding a touch of magic to their everyday lives. It’s not just about the books—it’s about creating a community where fans can truly immerse themselves in Shantel’s world. See her collection here.

Week 2: Celebrating Love-Inspired Designs!

Going into the second week of February, we can’t get more love-filled than with the celebration of Valentine’s Day. Take a look at some creators who launched some rockstar mech for the holiday and read about a creator with a story that will pull on your heart.

A Smiley Brand

You probably already know of our first highlight this week, A Smiley Brand, or better known as YouTube baddy Bobby Mares. Starting out as a musician combining music with technology to create a brand-new sound, he quickly graduated to making entertaining YouTube videos. 

Whether it’s his tags, challenges, or collaboration videos with popular stars like Kian Lawley, JC Caylen, and Franny Arrieta, this vlogger with a huge heart (don’t tell anyone he now has a gf) will capture yours. With over 700,000 subscribers and rapidly growing, his videos range from melting hearts to spooking the crap out of his audience with creepy moments in haunted locations. 

Being a vlogger isn’t enough for this guy, though, so he also rocks a clothing line called A Smiley Brand with merch that sports his famous logo. It’s perfect for V-Day and beyond.

Jimmy & Clarence

If you’re one of the few who haven’t broken your ribs laughing at the Jimmy and Clarence videos on TikTok, you’re in for a delight. Clarence is America’s funny AF labrador (also known as King Clarence) who speaks via Siri. The videos are from the dog’s POV and the writing is as smart as it is hilarious. Everyone’s favorite dead-pan dog quips about his “hooman” baby brother, his owner Jimmy and his Kim Jong Mom, his adventures at the vet (spoiler alert* he comes back without his manhood), and his faithful girlfriend (a stuffed dog). Check out his IG here. 

Official Jimmy and Clarence Merch is available at the JimmyandClarence store, your one-stop-shop for unique t-shirts, accessories, and more. All designs are inspired by the funniest, smoothest cat (erm Black Labrador) on the internet. And he just rolled out some King Clarence merch for Valentine’s Day. So load up on some puppy love.

Alex Kidd

Ready for a story that’ll tug at your heart strings? Enter our next creator Alex Kidd.

Alex started writing about beer and quickly took off. In May 2022 the father of two, attorney, stand up comedian, and beer enthusiast was diagnosed with several types of cancer and has been sharing his journey to recovery openly with his community. In an effort to help raise money for his ongoing treatment, childcare, and various other expenses, he relaunched his popular 2017 Barleywine Otter design and it has done amazingly well since his launch.

Alex explains the meaning behind the design:

“The otter is a nod to a special type of English malt ‘Maris Otter’ which is used to make Barleywine the best beer style in existence. Maris is the mascot for the massive barleywine following of Barleywine Is Life, a group I created in 2017 to celebrate this overlooked style. It now has thousands of members and annual competitions and lore.”

To go more in depth on Alex Kidd, his fascinating take on all things related to beer, and life in general, can be read here. For Valentine’s Day, spread the love and help Alex spread joy through beer. This V-Day, you can spread the love by grabbing some of Alex’s beer-inspired designs here. 

Week 1: Let’s Give It Up for Our Black Creators!

To kick things off, we’re shining a spotlight on our amazing black creators for Black History Month. These guys and gals aren’t just making waves – they’re making tidal waves in their communities! So, let’s dive in and get to know ’em a little better!

Tahir Moore

IG  |  TW  |  TT  |  FB  | YT

First up, we’ve got the one and only Tahir Moore. This dude is a straight-up comedy genius! From stand-up to acting to hosting, he does it all – and he does it like a boss. And guess what? He’s been tearing it up on tour with some seriously big names, including D.L. Hughley, Lavell Crawford, Affion Crockett, and more. 

But here’s the real kicker – Tahir’s more than a comedy maestro, he’s also a savvy business man. He’s taken some of his viral moments online and turn them into merch designs that his fans can’t wait to buy. 

Check out his Spring store here for some seriously rad merch that will hit even harder if you’ve seen his comedy shows or take a peek at some of our favs below.

Shop here

Shop here

Shop here

Ashley Maurice 

IG  |  TW  |  FB  | YT

Next on our list is the one and only Ashley Maurice – a true chess master and all-around legend! At just thirty-three years old, Maurice made history by becoming the very first African American to snag the title of International Grand Master of Chess. Talk about breaking barriers!

Since that groundbreaking moment, Maurice has been spreading his love for chess far and wide. He’s not just a grandmaster – he’s also a three-time national championship coach, a published author, an ESPN commentator, and an absolute motivational powerhouse.

And guess what? Maurice isn’t content with just dominating the chessboard. Nope, he’s taken his passion and poured it into some seriously cool merch that’s as unique as he is. Check out his merch lineup below or hit up his store here for even more chess-tastic products.

Shop here
Shop here
Shop here

Real Men Teach

IG  |  PIN  |  FB  |  TT  |  LI 

Real Men Teach isn’t just some ordinary brand – it’s a full-blown movement! Their goal? To spread nothing but good vibes and positivity about of men of color working in the education system.

Founded by Curtis Valentine, Real Men Teach is all about making a real difference. They’re not just talking the talk – they’re walking the walk by hooking up male educators of color with scholarship funds and teaming up with schools, non-profits, and universities to shake up the way we see men of color in education.

But guess what? They’re not stopping there! Real Men Teach has gone all out by dropping their very own Spring store. And get this – every dime you drop on their gear goes straight to funding scholarships for male educators of color. Talk about putting your money where your heart is!

Their merch designs are inspired by historically Black institutions such as HBCUs and Greek-letter fraternities, serving as a powerful tribute to these legendary traditions.

Ready to show some love and rock some seriously meaningful threads? Dive into their entire store right here or peep some of their standout pieces below.

Shop here
Shop here
Shop here

Shante Fagans

IG  |  PIN  

And last but totally not least, let’s give it up for the super talented Shante Fagans! Hailing from Detroit,​​ Shante is a total creative powerhouse. She’s got skills for days – dancing, snapping killer photos, changing lives as a natural hairstylist, and painting like nobody’s business.

In her artwork, Shante paints vivids portraits, typically showcasing individuals from the chest up against colorful backdrops. With bold colors, patterns, and funky accessories, each piece is a celebration of vibrancy and style. And there’s a signature touch too – her subjects often rock a killer red lip, just like Shante herself..

But here’s the really cool part – Shante’s taken her art game to the next level by turning it into a rad collection of products in her Spring store that are guaranteed to bring some serious flair to any space. 

Check out her store here or browse below. 

Shop here
Shop here
Shop here

Stay tuned for next week as we highlight even more incredible creators!

Categories
Creator success

How to relaunch your listings

We’ve made some awesome improvements to our platform to make it easier than ever to design, launch, and promote your merch. But as we move to a more dynamnic system, some listings will need to be relaunched in order to stay active.

Read through the blog below for step-by-step instructions to learn how to identify which listings need to be relaunched, save your designs, relaunch your listings, and update all your URLs and Pixels.

What listings need to be relaunched?

To view your listings and check if any need to be relaunched, sign into your Spring account and click “Listings” on the on the lefthand menu. 

Next, click the “Show Active” filter and change it to “Old Teespring Designer.”

If you see an icon of a red triangle with an exclamation point beside any of your listings, you’ll need to relaunch them (see image below). 

Relaunching will only take a few minutes. Follow the steps below to ensure your creations remain active. Don’t forget the last step, as skipping it might render your original URLs inactive. 

How to save your designs

If you don’t have your artwork, you can quickly save it by clicking the download icon next to your listing.

You may need to allow pop-ups if you’re downloading several images. 

These images can then be used to relaunch your listings.

NOTE: If you don’t see the download icon, this means the design was created with images or text from the old Teespring designer and there’s no file to download. You’ll need to remake that listing from scratch in our current design launcher.

How to relaunch a listing

Relaunching a listing is easy. Follow these steps to quickly get your new listing live:

  1. Click “Create” on the left menu.
  2. Pick a product.
  3. Upload your artwork or add text.
  4. Choose colors, set your price, and currency.
  5. Click “advanced” for display options in your store.
  6. Hit “Continue.”
  7. Add more products if you want the same design on them.
  8. Hit “Continue” again.
  9. Enter a product description and title.
  10. Click “Launch,” and you’re live!

Update your URL and Pixels

This is one of the most important steps because any listing that becomes inactive will have links that no longer work. Instead of updating all of your links in your link in bio, website, social profiles, and anywhere else you share your merch, just follow the steps below to update your new listing with your original link. 

How to change your url

  1. Click “Edit Details” on your original listing.
  2. Copy your URL.
  3. Add “-old” to your original URL and click “Save.”
  4. Go to “Edit Details” on your new listing, paste your original URL, and click “Save.”

How to update pixels

  1. Click “Settings” on your original listing.
  2. Remove pixels, as needed.
  3. Click “Settings” on your new listing.
  4. Add pixels, as needed.

Once this step is complete, you can delete your old listings by clicking Settings, End the listing.

Take a look at our step-by-step visual overview:

Categories
Creator success Grow your following

10 Ways to Grow Your Instagram Following in 2024

If you’ve never been initiated into the world of Instagram and/or are unaware of its significance, let us put this in perspective: 80% of businesses report that they use the platform to promote their businesses and/or products! That’s one way to know what’s working in the marketplace! If it works for big businesses, it can work for you, too! But first, you need an audience to market to. 

So how can you grow your following in a relatively short amount of time?

Here are 10 tips on how to grow your Instagram following so that you have a solid, loyal and engaged audience in 2024 that can help you earn more as a creator. 

1. Start Posting Reels 

In the beginning, Instagram was just a photo sharing app. But it quickly realized the value of video and launched its Stories feature: a way to post short vertical-videos viewable only to followers, visitors to your page, and friends. 

Enter Reels. These are public-facing, meaning everyone can watch it (and it opens the door to going viral). Reels should be in your Instagram strategy due to their high engagement rates, as opposed to Instagram posts. 

Check out this one by Don Marshall where he promotes his LOTR calendar!

@donmarshall72 – 131K IG followers

Reels get 42% more likes than posts, and four times the number of shares. It’s a quick way to gain more followers AND increase merch sales.

Here are some tips when comes to Reels:

  • Follow trends but be unique. You want to put your own spin on trends that are hot on TikTok, Instagram and across the web. 
  • Provide valuable information. Product hacks and lifestyle tips are always popular. Find that sweet spot between education and entertainment, whether it’s industry info, funny takes on trends, product demos, tips, how-to videos, etc.

When making your reels, don’t try to overtly sell your products. Get people emotionally engaged with your content so they will want to follow you to see more. Then they’ll discover your products (and be more inclined to buy).

2. Optimize Your IG Profile

New users will first find you from a post that pops up in their feed (or on the Explore page – more on that below). If they like your content, the next step is for them to click on your profile. Here is where you can gain or lose a follower. 

Make sure your profile represents you and your content. You need a unified vision. If someone finds you from a Cat video, but your profile is all about football…you’re not clearly communicating what you’re about. It is for this reason that your brand should show up in the same way on your profile that it would on any other social channels, your Spring store, and product designs. Think of all of it as the billboard for your brand. 

Check out this creator, @Jimmyandclarence for inspo:

Merch store: https://www.kingclarence.com

💡Tip: You can use Instagram’s native scheduling feature to plan and schedule Instagram posts and Reels to create the overall look and layout of your feed. 

3. Collaborate With Other Creators

The sad (or awesome, depending on your situation) truth is that when an influencer or celebrity tells someone to use a product through their words or actions, they just reached a new stratosphere of the customer base. 

In fact, 61% of consumers say they trust influencer recommendations. When someone we know (or know of) endorses something, we’re more likely to trust them than someone who may have a better product (but we don’t know who they are or if their product is good). 

Look for creators in your niche that have something in common with you and your brand (and make sure they have a good following). It’s a chance for both of you to broaden your fan base.

4. Implement a Hashtag Strategy

Using hashtags is a great way to show up in search results when users search for content similar to yours.

A common strategy is using hashtags that users often search up or a current trend that’s exploding online. These hashtags, however, tend to be saturated. 

One way around it could be to pick popular hashtags that are close to your niche.

Here are the top 10 hashtags on Instagram so far in 2024:

  • #love
  • #instagood
  • #photooftheday
  • #tbt
  • #selfie
  • #art
  • #friends
  • #repost
  • #nature
  • #style

Maybe pick some of those and put your own spin on it. Also check out other creators in your niche to see how they are tagging their posts and hop on that train. The goal is to capture a broader audience, and since most people don’t put a limit on who they follow, go after every niche you can.

Use hashtags in Reels and Stories, too! In Stories, you can use hashtag stickers (which can be found in the Instagram Stickers menu when creating a Story) or just hashtag directly in your post captions. Since users can also follow hashtags, your Stories have a chance to be seen by those who are following that hashtag—not just your followers. 

Hashtags in Reels are added in the third stage of the Reel-creation process. Add and edit your video before proceeding to a screen where you can add account tags, location tags, and hashtags.

💡Tip: To bump old content, add hashtags to comments or use the edit feature on Instagram to add them to the captions after posting. 

5. Time Your Posts

When are IG users most active? You want to post at high traffic times, not during the dead zone when your target audience is offline. 

We’re not here to endorse one over another, but there are multiple social media scheduling tools that will help you determine when the best time to post is based on your target audience.

If you’re curious about a basic guideline, see below for some general “best times”, but if you sell tees and hoodies about night life to a target audience that wakes up at 3 in the afternoon…you get the idea. 

Best times to post on Instagram (regardless of time zone)

  • Weekdays 7AM – 9AM (catch users after they wake up and before work)
  • Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 6PM – 8PM (catch the “I’m almost off work” crowd)
  • Fridays 4PM (TGIF)
  • Saturdays & Sundays after 4PM (the daytime is slower than weekdays, but picks up toward evening)

6. Sell Branded Products to Build UGC (User-Generated Content)

User-generated content (UGC), whether it be photos, videos, written reviews, audio, and more—is content that is created about a brand by a customer, fan, or follower. 

This is invaluable when you have users out there doing your job for you! At some point, your brand could actually be running itself. Not really, but isn’t it nice to know someone else is helping to carry the load? UGC gives your brand credibility but also further reach (by all of that user’s followers) which ultimately means more followers for you.

When you design custom merch, you are inviting fans into your brand by letting it now be part of their life. When they post on social media, you now have a chance for your brand to reach new users. So ask your customers to post when they purchase!

Check out this IG post from a fan wearing merch by our creator @Indeimaus!

@hexxbite wearing @indeimaus merch.

Strategies to get more UGC:

  • Create a branded hashtag feed where customers can post images after they purchase your product.
  • Add a call to action in your Instagram bio to purchase and post.
  • Run a contest; ask for video or photo reviews of your products as entries. 
  • Reach out to smaller influencers and offer them free products for an honest review.

7. Organize Your IG Stories Into Highlights

Instagram Stories disappear after 24 hours. That’s why you want to organize your Stories into Story Highlights. What this does is increase the chances for new visitors to your page to get a taste of your past content. 

When you use Highlights, Stories can be grouped into collections. Yesterday’s Story could lead to today’s new follower x100.

You can organize Stories a number of ways. Here are a few: 

  • Create trailers that tease what your brand is about.
  • Organize your Stories into seasons, themes, product collections, or content type (product launches, DIYs, behind the scenes, etc.).
  • To stay fresh and relevant, create a new highlight each time you launch a new product or collection.
  • Accumulate user-generated content into one Highlight to honor and celebrate your loyal customers. 

💡Tip: Nudge your followers to become subscribers. Instagram Subscriptions allow you to offer exclusive content to paying subscribers—one of the easiest ways to make money on Instagram. 

8. Throw a Giveaway

One of the best incentives for someone to follow you is when following = chance to get free stuff. So throw a Giveaway! Pick some merch and offer it up. 

Usually, creators ask users to complete one or some of these actions in order to enter:

  • Follow your account (and accounts of collaborators, if any)
  • Like the contest post 
  • Tag one of more friends
  • Leave a comment
  • Click out to an entry form on your brand’s website (this also helps you build an email list) 

The great thing about tags is they bring you a potential new follower from a trusted recommendation. Engagements are favorable to the algorithm on Instagram, meaning you get more reach with your post. 

9. Use Instagram Live

You can broadcast live video to your followers with Instagram Live. Besides being live, the main difference between Reels/Stories and Live is it has interactive features that allow you to engage directly with fans, monetize your content with Instagram badges, and save previous Live feeds to use in a collection. 

Here are a few tips for using Instagram Live to get exposure to new groups of followers:

  • Host influencer account takeovers (this gets you exposure to a ton of new potential followers)
  • Host an interactive Q & A or AMA (Ask Me Anything)
  • Tease an update or product launch, or give live viewers exclusive access
  • Increase reach by going live in a “room” with up to three other accounts (triple the potential followers!)
  • Go behind the scenes to humanize your brand
  • Answer questions in real time while running a how-to or product tutorial
  • Interview other compatible creators to promote in advance across both accounts 

10. Try Instagram Ads

Look, we know not everyone has a budget. We’ve given you 9 solid tactics to help gain more followers on Instagram. But if you do have a budget, paid promotion is a great way to gain followers quickly.

Instagram Ads are available through a self-serve platform that allows you to set your own budgets and goals. The ads can help you reach users in your preferred locations or with matching interests (your target audience). A paid promotion on your Instagram is a powerful sales channel. 

Honorable Mention: Ask For Followers

There’s no shame in straight-up asking for the follow. Have you seen every other successful creator and influencer asking people to “smash” that like or “hit” that subscribe button? We all do it. If you ask, they may not do it or they might. But if you don’t ask, they most likely won’t. 

You can ask for followers in captions or just asking yourself in your video content. Maybe let the audience know what’s in it for them with an incentive. Or tell them why they should follow you, what’s coming up, tease future giveaways and product launches.

To wrap up

The goal of gaining followers is to get IGs algorithm to give you more preferential treatment. Getting on the IG Explore page is the social media equivalent of striking gold, because this is where you can expand your reach and get discovered by users. If you don’t know where it is, tap the spyglass icon. On this page you can search but also go down the rabbit hole of public content. 

How to get on the Explore page? Start following the tactics above! Post relevant content (as often as possible), use those hashtags and start building your niche.

Note: you want to keep tabs on all the features available on Instagram as they will update and/or evolve from time to time. 

We made it to the end! Now you have the tools to help you grow your followers. Happy 2024 and Happy Selling!

Categories
Creator success

Creative Ways To Sell More Merch in 2024

As we step into 2024, it’s the perfect time for you to reassess your merch strategies so that you can turn Spring into one of your top revenue streams.

Below, you’ll find the top ways creators like yourself have been successful in promoting their merch to increase their sales:

Tip 1: Order Samples

Did you know that samples increase sales by 300%?! That’s because samples allow you to advertise your merch in your day-to-day content. Think of it as giving your products some much needed “face time”.

What kind of video should you do? Here are some thoughts:

  • Unboxing videos. These are still going strong in 2024. Capture the moment you open your delivery and see your product for the first time. Excitement is contagious.
  • Give tips. Sure, we all know how to wear a T-shirt, but styling tips are in demand. Offer suggestions on how  to best show it off. If you created a mug, then use it in your content! Where do you hang your calendars? Where do you place your stickers? Give fans ideas and that’ll entice them to buy. Use Spring’s social integrations to link your products directly in your posts so fans can make a purchase decision on the spot! 
  • Run giveaways. Everyone likes to get something for free. Giveaways can be used as incentives to encourage your fans to do something, like reply to a post or fill out a poll. You can also use samples in your content promoting your giveaway so fans will want to participate (because they’ll really want that merch). 

Tip 2: Launch Limited-Edition Merch

Only offering your products for a limited time is an effective sales strategy. Having a deadline creates FOMO (fear of missing out) and can increase your sales by as much as THREE TIMES. In fact, 60% of millennials have made a purchase because of FOMO, according to Online Strategy.

Here are some ideas:

  • Put a holiday-themed spin on one of your best sellers. For example, you can add hearts or a pink & red color option for Valentine’s Day. 
  • Mark a memorable occasion. Honor a significant moment in your journey as a creator, like hitting 100K followers, or a funny moment you shared with your fans in your content. 
  • Capitalize on a trend. Memes are always of the moment. If there’s a current trend you spot that you feel fits you and your brand, put it on some products and run it for a limited time. By the time the trend goes cold, your limited edition sale is over and you’ve (hopefully) made some money.

If you need help creating a design for your limited edition merch, you can hire a professional designer to do it for you here at an affordable price. 

Tip 3: Run a Promotion

People also love a deal. Spring creators who share promo codes with their fans see a 200% increase in sales on average! Creating a promo code only takes a few seconds and is one of the easiest and fastest ways to boost your sales. Log into your Dashboard and select Promotions (Under Tools & Services).

Once you have your code created, make sure to set a clear end date! You’ll want to communicate that to your fans. Then it’s time to spread the news by sharing your code across your socials.

You can easily create a graphic on Canva to really make it pop, or better yet, take a photo with a sample of your merch and announce your sale with your big pearly whites smiling next to your sample! 

Tip 4: Use Spring’s Social Integrations

If you’re familiar with Spring, you know we talk about our social integrations all the time. But that’s because they work! Creators who actively use our social integrations to share their merch with their fans see a 20X increase in sales!

We have integrations with almost every major platform. Click on any below to learn more and set up the integration within minutes.

You can also use our PopUpShop to add your Spring store as a widget anywhere that basic HTML is accepted, making it easy to drive sales from anywhere on the internet. 

Follow the steps above and you will have a better shot at having a prosperous 2024. Never forget, it’s about you and your brand just as much as it is about the product. Fans are buying YOU. So get those samples, make them part of your everyday content, get some promotions, and get selling!