302designs
Give us an overview of your shop. What kind of merchandise, style, theme, etc…
302designs creates clothing that inspires you to trust in the nature of yourself and embrace your life’s true, limitless potential. We sell a variety of t-shirts for guys and a selection of tees, tanks, and sleeveless tops for the ladies. We strongly promote progressive business practices, so you’ll find us printing only on sweatshop-free garments, and making a move to more eco-conscious based processes in the future. We believe man has a connected energy with the environment, so if we respect nature, the universe will align to help us reach each of our personal destinies.
How long have you had the shop / been selling shirts?
We began operating in October of 2004 with only 1 design. We sold out quickly, and then had money to do 3 designs. When we sold out of those, that’s when things really started taking off and we started to realize there are people out there that embrace 302’s positive, inspirational outlook on life.
How did you get started selling shirts?
The company was originally founded by me and two housemates while we were in school at The University of Texas at Austin in 2004. We lived in an old, run-down house just north of campus and found ourselves congregating in the rustic, 1960’s style kitchen nearly every evening having some of the most amazing discussions we ever shared with others in our lives.
We would talk for hours on end in that kitchen, staying up until the early hours of the morning until we could go no longer. We talked endlessly about youthful optimism, our progressive business ideals, our individual philosophies on life and the future, spirituality, personal strength, life forces, the human spirit—all very profound topics—topics of which we had never covered so indepth with anyone else. We left those conversations with a natural high—a feeling of exuberance, hope, and confidence.
Before living together in that house, we had each lived separately in our own dorms and various small apartments. So, we were convinced that there was something about being in that house that stirred these thought-provoking discussions and feelings of independence. We greatly wanted to take that spirit and feeling and share it with others. Our medium of communication turned out to be t-shirts. And because our home was so much a part of that feeling, we named the company after the number on our house—302.
Do you have a physical store? If so where?
We don’t yet. But it is definitely part of the vision. It will be a concept store about “Poetic, Inspirational Living.” We will feature artwork, furniture, books, and clothing from individuals and businesses that share our business values, individual morals, and the 302 outlook on life.
What are some of your most popular items?
Our “Free” shirt has probably been our biggest hit of all. We’ve combined a simple, yet profound message with unique artwork & colors that just jump right off the shirt. Our girls, “Metamorphosis” shirt has been a great success too. It is printed on a natural, organic tee with symbolic design and message that always seems to get a lot of double-takes.
Do you have a particular creative process you follow?
Our whole creative process has transformed into an organic exchange and collaboration of ideas among a team of artists and poets. First we brainstorm ideas. We use books, movies, and conversations with people to help grow those ideas into a strongly rooted message of meaning. Then, we collaborate with a team of artists to create visuals that match those messages. After approving the designs, we then shift focus to a team of poets, who work to to craft a verse that eloquently brings together the theme and graphic illustration. Colors of the t-shirt are chosen in the final stage of the process so that they compliment the design and fit the styles of the season.
What inspires you?
The beauty within all of us—our thoughts, fears, and passions. And finding a way to remind others of their internal beauty.
What celebrity would you most like to see spotted wearing one of your shirts? And what shirt?
There’s no celebrity in particular. But definitely someone that does great things for the progression of the world or inspires others to do the same.
What advice would you offer someone starting out selling t-shirts?
In the beginning, find a niche market that you can relate to, and then offer the best t-shirts in the world for that group.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about being in the t-shirt business?
It’s important to differentiate your products and your brand in order to stand out amongst the thousands of other t-shirt businesses.
Hind sight is 20/20. What do you wish you would have done differently? Is there a trend you missed? Marketing angle you were late jumping on?
I wish I had networked more in the beginning with others in the industry. Not only are they useful contacts to have, but talking to them and getting positive feedback is constant encouragement you’re doing something right with your products.
What kind of advertising do you do, PPC ? Blog Ads?
blog ads, facebook, myspace, email campaigns, PPC, and SEO
Have you found it successful?
We use PPC and Blog Ads. They’ve both proven successful. However, the biggest surprise from both is that not only will you get more customers, but it’s a great way to expose boutique owners to your products. Wholesalers are always searching for new product to buy. And if they see you advertising, they know you’re professionals.
Do you use a fulfillment platform like CafePress or Spreadshirt? No, we manage all fulfillment in-house.
Approximately what is your sales volume?
100 – 500 shirts a month
Is this your full time job?
Yes – and I love it.
Do you work with designers? Or do you design everything yourself?
We have a great team of designers, but on occassion we will have talented artists contact us that are interested in participating in the design process. And for those interested in submitting a design, we have a design contest. (http://www.302designs.com/experience/design_submission.php)