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 Far Ahead Should You Start Planning a Product Launch?
How early should you start planning a product launch — three months, or three weeks? Here's a realistic backwards timeline for makers, plus the spot where most first launches quietly run late.
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.
Is Selling Washi Tape Profitable? An Honest Take
The question every artist asks before they manufacture anything: is this actually going to make money? Here's an honest breakdown of washi tape margins — including the situations where it's not the right product to make.
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.
Where Is Washi Tape Manufactured? A Real Maker's Guide
"I keep hearing 'overseas,' but where exactly?" If you've gone hunting for a washi tape factory, you've already found Alibaba and gotten lost. Here's what makers actually need to know about where washi tape gets made.
What's the MOQ for Custom Washi Tape? (And How to Lower It)
"What if I have to order 10,000 rolls?" The fear of MOQs keeps more artists from manufacturing than almost anything else. Here's what's actually negotiable — and the email scripts I use to lower a first order.
How Much Does It Cost to Make Custom Washi Tape?
"How much is this actually going to cost me?" If you've been close to ordering custom washi tape, you've asked this question already. Here's an honest breakdown of what moves the price — and the costs nobody tells you about.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
How do you find trustworthy manufacturers?
Want to learn how to find a trustworthy manufacturer?
Are all your products made overseas?
I am about to pull back the curtain on products in this blog post.
How do you communicate with factories about your artwork?
Communicating in color is like learning a new language!
Buy me a cup of tea!
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!"