Hey hey!
I have been thinking about something: What if we are one question away from our next bold move?
Ask away, we need to move past the discomfort of unknowing and into the space where we allow ourselves to be brave and get the answers we need to create the businesses we want!
How to Make Product Decisions When You Don't Trust Yourself Yet
How do you "trust your gut" when your gut has never been in this room? Here is a different way to move through a product decision when you do not feel ready, a small sequence to break the question into three smaller parts, and what to do this week if a decision has been open on your desk for too long.
Is Alibaba Safe? An Honest Answer From Years of Using It
Is Alibaba safe? Here is the honest answer, from years of using it. What Trade Assurance actually does (and does not do), the three signals that tell you a supplier is real, and the small process that does most of the work before any money moves.
Why Cheaper Isn't Always Better When You're Starting a Product Business
How to evaluate a manufacturing quote when one is cheaper, the questions a price tag does not answer, and when the lower number actually is the right call.
Foil Washi Tape vs. Regular Washi Tape
Foil washi tape is having a moment. But is it the right first product for you to manufacture? An honest comparison of cost, MOQ, design considerations, and lead time — and the case for starting with regular tape first.
How to Design Washi Tape That Actually Prints Right
Your art looks beautiful on screen. That doesn't mean it's print-ready. The five most common file mistakes I see on first washi tape orders — and exactly how to fix each one before you send your designs to the factory.
How to Get Your First Real Quote From a Manufacturer
If you've been circling a blank email to a manufacturer for weeks, this one is for you. Here's exactly what goes in a first quote request — and why the email you've been afraid to send is simpler than you think.
What Overseas Manufacturing Actually Looks Like in 2026
Thinking about manufacturing overseas in 2026? Here's what the process actually looks like, including timelines, tariffs, and what nobody tells you before you start.
How Much It Really Costs to Start Making Products
Wondering how much it really costs to start making products? This guide breaks down realistic cost categories so artists can plan without panic.
Top 5 Most-Loved Blog Posts of 2025 for Artists and Product Makers
Before we head into 2026, let’s revisit the top 5 most-loved blog posts of 2025! From packaging tea towels to connecting with retailers and getting started in art licensing, these posts are packed with creative business insights and manufacturing tips.
What Are the Easiest Products to Start Manufacturing as a Creative?
Wondering where to start with manufacturing your own products? From stickers and tea towels to wrapping paper and notepads, here are the easiest products for creatives to produce—and how to start small while building a product line that sells.
When Should I Manufacture Overseas?
Thinking about manufacturing overseas? If you’ve outgrown domestic production or need better margins, this post breaks down when and why to make the switch—and how to do it with confidence.
How to Make Eco-Friendly Products: A Manufacturing Guide for Artists
Thinking about creating eco-friendly products, but not sure where to start?
If you’re an artist or small business owner trying to make sustainable choices in your product-based business, this post breaks down what’s actually possible at a small scale. From print-on-demand options to low-waste packaging and realistic sourcing strategies, here’s how to move toward eco-conscious manufacturing—without needing to be perfect or go broke doing it.
6 Manufacturing Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Product-Based Business
Avoid These 6 Manufacturing Mistakes When Starting a Product-Based Business
Ready to launch your own line of products—like tea towels, stickers, or stationery—but feeling overwhelmed by the manufacturing process? You’re not alone. In this post, I’m breaking down the six most common mistakes creative entrepreneurs make when starting product manufacturing (and exactly how to avoid them). Whether you're sourcing overseas or producing small-batch items, these tips will help you confidently price, plan, and produce your first product run—without the costly errors.
Ideal for artists, makers, and small business owners getting started with manufacturing.
How to manage multiple manufacturing partners Without Losing Your Mind!
Managing multiple manufacturers doesn’t have to feel like total chaos. I used to feel overwhelmed trying to keep track of quotes, timelines, and samples—until I created a system that actually works. In this post, I’m sharing how I use Airtable, Dropbox, and a few simple organization tricks to keep everything running smoothly. If you’re juggling production partners and want to feel more in control, this one’s for you.
Top 3 Certifications to Look For When Sourcing a Product.
Discover the three must-have certifications for safe and ethical product sourcing, including B Corp, ISO, and CPSC certifications. Make your sourcing process easier and aligned with your brand values.
How do you scale a business with product?
Discover effective strategies to scale your business by manufacturing custom products. Navigate US and overseas production with ease!
How to Source and Manufacture Your Own Products in 10 Steps
Want to source and manufacture your own products? Here's the exact 10-step process I use to take an idea from sketch to first product run — written for artists.
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I started this blog to share answers to questions I recieve all the time. I figured the answers could help others who are finding their way in business.
If you would like to contribute extra to keep the ship afloat, consider a donation below. Cheers!
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Does working overseas make you nervous?
I get it – the thought of manufacturing overseas can be daunting. But with these five questions in your back pocket, you'll save yourself a whole lot of frustration and set yourself up for success.
Want to know the insider secrets to overseas manufacturing? I’ve got you covered! My guide will walk you through the must-ask questions that will help you cut costs and maximize profits!
So what are you waiting for? Don't miss out on this game-changing opportunity – download our guide now and get ready to take the manufacturing world by storm!"