How to Source and Manufacture Your Own Products in 10 Steps
A step-by-step guide for artists ready to manufacture their first product
Sourcing and manufacturing your own products as an artist can feel overwhelming, but it's the same process I've used to build a business with 160+ SKUs and 300+ wholesale accounts. This is the #1 question I get asked, so here's the exact 10-step process from finding a manufacturer to launching your first product. Fair warning: when I started over ten years ago, I knew nothing. There's no better way to learn than by doing, so don't be afraid to jump in.
How do you make your own product?
You make your own product in 10 steps: validate your idea, design it and create mockups, find a manufacturer (overseas through Alibaba or domestic), order samples, finalize your files, place a small first order, manage production and quality control, arrange shipping, launch, and review what sold. It's the same process behind every product I've ever made. Here's each step in detail:
1. Brainstorming and Ideation
Start with a clear idea of what you want to create. Consider products that excite you and align with your brand. Conduct market research to validate your idea and ensure there’s a demand for it. Still deciding what to make? Here's what it actually costs to make custom washi tape, a great example of running the numbers on a product idea.
2. Design and Samples
Create detailed designs and prototypes of your product. Using mockups can help bring your vision to life. They can also help convey your idea to a manufacturer when you get to that step. Prototyping allows you to test and refine your product before moving to production. It may help to order a sample domestically to test your idea if that is possible.
3. Finding a Manufacturer
Research and identify potential manufacturers. You can use platforms like Alibaba for overseas options or Google for domestic manufacturers. Consider factors such as cost, quality, and minimum order quantities (MOQs). Always ask for references and samples to ensure reliability. Once you have decided with a manufacturer, here’s a post I wrote all about how to keep your first order small!
4. Ordering Samples
Once you’ve found a few manufacturers, order samples to evaluate the quality of their work. Check for material quality, craftsmanship, and how well they can execute customizations. This is the place to be nitpicky! Make sure that you love your samples before you move forward. This can also be an unexpected spot to spend money- don’t skimp on the samples- this can make or break your business! Sample money is money well spent.
5. Finalizing the Design
After evaluating samples, finalize your product design. Make any necessary adjustments based on the feedback from the samples. Ensure that all files are in the correct format and resolution required by the manufacturer. The only way to learn the requirements is by asking each factory. Make sure you know all the requirements for your files and how to submit them. Each factory will be different.
6. Placing your Order
Place your order with the manufacturer. Discuss payment terms, shipping details, and timelines. Confirm all the specifics of your order, such as quantities, colors, and customizations. Regular communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings.
7. Production and Quality Control
During production, maintain regular contact with your manufacturer to monitor progress. Conduct quality checks at various stages to ensure the product meets your standards. Address any issues promptly to avoid delays. Ask for photos throughout the manufacturing process. These can be really awesome to use in the future for the launch of your products. This is also when to think about packaging — here's exactly how I package my tea towels for wholesale and markets.
8. Shipping and Logistics
Arrange for the shipping of your finished products. Decide whether the manufacturer will handle shipping or if you’ll use a third-party logistics provider. Understand the costs and timelines involved in shipping.And factor tariffs in early — here's how tariffs and shipping costs affect your product pricing so you don't get blindsided at delivery.The last thing you want is to be waiting on an order for months and months… ask all the questions.
9. Launching Your Product
Prepare for your product launch by creating a marketing plan. Use social media, email campaigns, and other marketing channels to generate buzz. Ensure you have sufficient inventory to meet the initial demand. Here is where you can start to plug in your photos from your manufacturer. Remember, when you are excited about your product, your audience gets excited.
10. Post-Launch Review and Feedback
After launching, gather customer feedback to understand what’s working and what can be improved. Use this feedback to make any necessary adjustments for future production runs. Look at what sold and get ready to reorder based on your numbers. Selling out is always my goal. I start small and grow with each product.
If you want this whole roadmap in one place- all the steps and questions answered in one place- that's exactly what I wrote Custom Products Made Easy: A Step-by-Step Guide for Artists and Makers. It's the book version of every coaching call I've ever done.