This week, Aaron Montgomery goes live from the American Print and Supplies Open House. He and Terry will dive into the world of full cut-and-sew apparel decoration. Whether you're curious about offering custom-made garments or wondering how to expand without sewing a stitch, this episode has you covered. We’ll talk about what makes cut-and-sew unique, from design and file prep to pricing and pattern considerations. Learn how to use cut-and-sew as a brand differentiator and how to market it. If you're looking to add high-value products to your line without adding a whole new department, this show is for you.
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News
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40a2AnHCZIw
Dad Joke
Terry: I love telling Dad Jokes on Cinco de Mayo
Yeah, that’s how “eye roll” For our podcast listeners…
Cut and Sew POD
Aaron: How do you expand your business by just taking orders and cashing the check? Outsourcing can be a great and easy way to boost your revenue.
Terry: Outsourcing has been a growth part of the garment decorating industry for a long time. And I know so many decorators who love the idea of taking the order, and then cashing the check.
So Aaron, since you already had a scheduled trip to American Print & Supply this week, we thought using them as an example of an outsourced resource. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of this concept.
Terry: Let’s start with what you offer customers who want to outsource.
Are there services beyond just the printing?
Do you do fulfillment?
Custom packaging?
Private labeling?
And what about minimums?
Let’s say one of our listeners wants to order an all-over print custom garment. What’s the process?
(Show Some of the Videos)
Why this topic matters to decorators now (rising demand for custom, differentiation, etc.)
Segment 1: What is Cut-and-Sew?
Examples of popular cut-and-sew products (jerseys, fashion pieces, uniforms, etc.) (Show Samples)
For decorators unfamiliar with the term, what exactly is “cut-and-sew”?
What makes it different from print-on-blank apparel?
Segment 2: Why Add Cut-and-Sew to Your Business?
How it can elevate your brand’s perceived value?
Stand out from competitors with custom sizing, colors, and finishes
Higher margins and more control over product outcome
Segment 3: File Prep & Artwork Setup
How should decorators prep artwork differently for cut-and-sew projects?
Understanding bleed areas, seams, and alignment
Working with vector vs raster files
Segment 4: Pricing & Cost Strategy
What should a decorator think about when pricing cut-and-sew apparel?
Tips for quoting based on quantity, complexity, and material
Segment 5: Using Cut-and-Sew to Differentiate Your Brand
How can offering cut-and-sew give decorators a competitive edge?
Telling your brand story through fully custom products
Targeting niche audiences (e.g., sports, fashion, streetwear, events)
Segment 6: Marketing Your Cut-and-Sew Capabilities
Creating a "Wow!" product demo to get people talking
How should a shop promote these services to current and new customers?
Social proof, samples, photoshoots - American Print on Demand
The Secret Sauce
We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom,
