Streamlining Your Merch Production for Maximum Impact

In today's competitive market, the efficiency of merchandise production can significantly impact a brand's ability to engage with its audience and maximize revenue. For bands and businesses alike, streamlined merch production processes not only reduce costs but also enhance product quality and speed to market, which are crucial for maintaining consumer interest and satisfaction. This guide explores how refining these processes can lead to more impactful merchandise and a stronger connection with your audience.

Efficient merch production involves optimizing each step from design to delivery to ensure that products are created and distributed quickly without compromising on quality. Streamlining these processes allows brands to respond rapidly to market trends and consumer demands, which is particularly important in the fast-paced industry of band merchandising and business promotions. This alignment between production efficiency and market demand not only bolsters profitability but also reinforces brand reliability and customer loyalty.

Understanding Your Production Needs and Goals

Defining clear production goals is the first step in streamlining merchandise production. It’s essential for brands to understand not just what they want to produce, but why, and for whom. Setting specific, measurable goals related to production output, timelines, and quality standards helps in aligning your operations with your business objectives. This clarity ensures that the entire production process is geared toward fulfilling your brand’s unique merchandising needs.

Understanding the specific needs of different types of merchandise is also crucial. For example, the production demands for delicate, high-end band t-shirts are vastly different from those of standard promotional pens. Each product may require different materials, production techniques, and timelines. Therefore, having a deep understanding of these requirements allows for more precise planning and execution, reducing waste and inefficiencies.

This deep dive into production needs must be an ongoing process. Regularly revisiting and revising production goals based on sales data, customer feedback, and market trends ensures that your merchandise strategy remains agile and responsive to changing consumer preferences. This adaptability can be a significant competitive advantage in the dynamic market landscapes of music and business merchandising.

Choosing the Right Production Partners

Selecting the right production partners is critical to ensuring the quality and efficiency of your merchandise production. The ideal merch manufacturers and suppliers understand your brand’s needs and are committed to upholding your quality standards within your desired timelines. It’s important to choose partners with a proven track record of reliability and excellent communication, as this can significantly affect the smoothness of your production cycle.

Establishing strong relationships with your suppliers can also lead to better pricing, priority treatment, and quicker problem resolution, which are invaluable benefits in fast-paced production environments. Consider conducting regular visits and audits to ensure that the manufacturing processes align with your expectations and quality standards. These practices help in building a mutually beneficial relationship where both parties are invested in the product's success.

Implementing Technology in Merch Production

The integration of advanced technologies such as automation and digital printing has revolutionized merchandise production. Automation in manufacturing processes can significantly reduce labor costs and production time while maintaining, or even improving, product quality. For instance, automated screen printing machines for t-shirts can produce large volumes quickly and consistently, allowing for faster order fulfillment and reduced human error.

Digital printing technology offers flexibility in customizing designs without the need for extensive setup, making it ideal for producing limited edition merchandise or items with a wide variety of designs. This technology enables brands to offer personalized products or short-run items at a reasonable cost, enhancing customer satisfaction and allowing for dynamic market responses.

Also, leveraging technologies like ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems can streamline production management by integrating various business processes from inventory control to order processing and customer relations. This holistic view of operations enables more informed decision-making and better coordination among different departments, crucial for timely and efficient merchandise production.

Inventory Management: Balancing Demand and Supply

Effective inventory management is key to successful merch production, ensuring that the supply meets demand without excessive overproduction or stock shortages. Implementing just-in-time (JIT) inventory systems can minimize costs and reduce storage needs by receiving goods only as they are needed in the production process. This approach not only cuts down on holding costs but also reduces the risk of spoilage or obsolescence of raw materials and finished goods.

However, JIT requires accurate demand forecasting and reliable suppliers. Brands should invest in advanced forecasting tools that use historical sales data, seasonal trends, and market analysis to predict customer demand accurately. This information allows for more precise production planning and inventory control, ensuring that products are available when consumers want them without overburdening storage facilities.

Moreover, regular audits and reviews of inventory levels help in identifying any issues like underperforming products or supply chain inefficiencies early. By addressing these issues promptly, brands can maintain a lean inventory that meets consumer needs while keeping costs down. This balance is critical for maintaining profitability and operational efficiency in merchandise production.

Sustainable Practices in Merch Production

Adopting sustainable practices in merch production is becoming increasingly important as consumers become more environmentally conscious. Using eco-friendly merch materials and processes can not only reduce your brand’s environmental footprint but also enhance your brand image and appeal to a broader audience. For example, sourcing organic cotton for apparel or using recycled materials for promotional items can differentiate your products in a crowded market.

Implementing green manufacturing processes also involves reducing waste, conserving energy, and minimizing water usage, which not only helps the planet but also reduces costs. These savings can then be passed on to customers or reinvested in the business to further enhance product offerings. Additionally, promoting your commitment to sustainability can strengthen customer loyalty, as more consumers prefer to support brands that align with their values.

Monitoring and Optimizing the Production Process

Continuous monitoring and optimization of the production process are essential for maintaining efficiency and quality in merch production. Using real-time monitoring tools and dashboards can provide immediate insights into production metrics, allowing managers to identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies as they occur. This proactive approach enables quick adjustments, ensuring that production goals are met without compromise.

Regularly analyzing production data also helps in identifying trends and patterns that could indicate potential issues or opportunities for improvement. For instance, if certain products consistently miss production deadlines, it may indicate a need for process reevaluation or additional resources. Conversely, detecting processes that consistently outperform can provide lessons that can be applied across the board to enhance overall productivity.

Optimization also involves regular training and development for staff to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest production techniques and technologies. Investing in your workforce is just as important as upgrading your machinery or software systems. A skilled and knowledgeable team is crucial for implementing complex production processes effectively and can be a significant asset in achieving your production goals.

---

Conclusion

Streamlining your merchandise production is crucial for ensuring timely delivery and maximizing the impact of your products. By setting clear production goals, choosing the right partners, leveraging technology, managing inventory effectively, adopting sustainable practices, and continuously monitoring and optimizing processes, brands can achieve a production flow that not only meets demand but also enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty.

The strategies outlined in this guide are designed to help bands and businesses alike navigate the complexities of merchandise production. Implementing these practices will not only improve operational efficiency but also strengthen your brand's market position by consistently delivering high-quality, impactful merchandise. Remember, every piece of merchandise is a reflection of your brand, and by optimizing your production processes, you're ensuring that this reflection is always positive and powerful.

---

Looking for The Best Merch printer?

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com, or give us a call at 323.227.1547 and we'd be happy to help.

Our showroom at 2755 Fruitdale Street, Los Angeles, CA 90039 is open by appointment only from 10 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.

---

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook

For FAQ, check out our site!

For any inquiries, send us a message!

OR

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com

The Magic of Branded Merch: Amplifying Brand Presence

Branded merch has emerged as a beacon in the marketing world, offering tangible connections between brands and their audience. From the allure of screen-printed t-shirts to the charm of embroidered hats, these items are more than just promotional tools—they're a celebration of brand identity. Let's dive into the vibrant world of branded merch, celebrating its myriad benefits and the innovative techniques that bring it to life.

---

Swag and Promotional Merch: A Brand's Best Friend:

The term "swag" is often synonymous with joy, and rightly so when it comes to promotional merch. These delightful giveaways, be it limited edition items or everyday branded treasures, serve as cherished reminders of a brand. They're not just marketing tools; they're gifts that foster goodwill and brand loyalty.

Beyond the immediate joy they bring, swag items also serve as walking billboards, amplifying brand visibility wherever they go. Whether it's a tote bag slung over a shoulder or a branded pen used in a meeting, these items subtly yet effectively keep the brand in the public eye. Moreover, the psychological principle of reciprocity comes into play; people are more likely to engage with a brand that has given them something for free, thereby increasing customer retention rates.

Check Out How promotional merch can turn your customers into brand advocates

Personalized and Embroidered Merch: Touching Hearts:

The era of personalization is here, and brands are embracing it wholeheartedly. Offering embroidered merch or screen-printed t-shirts tailored to individual tastes isn't just a marketing strategy; it's a gesture that says, "We value you." This personal touch elevates the brand experience, making each item a cherished possession.

In a world inundated with generic advertising, personalized merch stands out as a beacon of thoughtfulness. It allows consumers to feel seen and appreciated, which in turn fosters a deeper emotional connection with the brand. This level of engagement is not just beneficial for the consumer but also translates into higher lifetime value for the brand, making the investment in personalization a win-win for both parties.

Band Posters and Unique Merch: Treasures for Fans:

In realms like the entertainment industry, items such as band posters aren't just promotional—they're pieces of history. These unique merch items become keepsakes, creating a bond between fans and artists. The allure of such collectibles can ignite conversations, fostering a community around the brand.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these items often become cultural artifacts, capturing the zeitgeist of a particular time and place. They can appreciate in value over time, both emotionally and financially, making them not just a purchase but an investment. The sense of exclusivity and belonging that comes with owning such unique items can turn casual fans into brand ambassadors, amplifying the brand's reach and impact.

The Art of Merch Printing Techniques:

The beauty of branded merch lies in the diverse techniques that bring it to life:

• Screen Printing: Ideal for t-shirts and posters, this method offers vibrant colors and intricate designs.

• Embroidery: Perfect for caps, jackets, and bags, embroidery adds a touch of luxury and durability.

• Sublimation: Used for mugs and coasters, it provides high-definition prints that last.

• Laser Engraving: Ideal for metal or wooden items, it offers precision and a touch of sophistication.

• Digital Printing: Suitable for various materials, it allows for detailed and vibrant prints.

Each of these techniques has its own set of advantages and limitations, making it crucial for brands to choose wisely based on the product type, material, and desired aesthetic. For instance, screen printing is cost-effective for large batches but may not be suitable for highly detailed designs. On the other hand, digital printing offers high resolution but can be more expensive per unit. Understanding the nuances of these techniques can significantly impact the quality and reception of the branded merch.

The Role of Packaging: First Impressions Count

Packaging is often the first physical touchpoint between the brand and the consumer, and as the saying goes, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression." Thoughtfully designed packaging can enhance the unboxing experience, making it memorable and shareable. Whether it's a reusable bag, a beautifully designed box, or even a personalized thank-you note, these small touches make a big difference. They not only add perceived value to the product but also provide additional branding opportunities, as consumers are likely to share their positive experiences on social media.

Check out Custom Packaging For Your Businesses

Seasonal and Event-Specific Merch: Timely Engagement

Capitalizing on seasons, holidays, or special events can be a smart strategy for branded merch. Limited-edition items that celebrate a particular occasion create a sense of urgency and exclusivity, encouraging consumers to act quickly. These timely offerings can generate buzz and drive short-term sales spikes, all while reinforcing brand relevance. For example, a coffee shop releasing special holiday-themed mugs can not only boost sales but also enhance the festive atmosphere, making the brand a part of consumers' celebrations.

The Psychology of Freebies: The Power of Giveaways

Everyone loves free stuff, but the impact of giveaways goes beyond the initial excitement. Psychologically, receiving a gift can trigger the principle of reciprocity, making people more inclined to give back in some form—be it loyalty, advocacy, or purchases. Brands can leverage this by offering freebies at events, as part of a purchase, or through social media campaigns. The key is to offer items that are useful, high-quality, and, most importantly, aligned with the brand's identity.

Analytics and ROI: Measuring Merch Effectiveness

In the age of data-driven decision-making, it's crucial for brands to measure the effectiveness of their merch strategies. This involves tracking metrics like engagement rates, sales uplift, and customer lifetime value attributed to merch activities. Advanced analytics can even delve into granular details like which items are most popular, seasonal trends, and customer preferences. This data is invaluable for refining future merch strategies, ensuring that efforts are not just creative but also financially rewarding.

Each of these sub-headings adds another layer to the multifaceted world of branded merch, highlighting its potential to be much more than just a promotional tool. From sustainability to analytics, the opportunities for innovation and engagement are vast, offering brands a powerful means to connect, engage, and grow.

The Positive Impact of Branded Merch:

Branded merch is a testament to a brand's commitment to its audience. It's a strategy that goes beyond marketing—it's about building relationships. Offering high-quality items that resonate with the audience not only boosts brand awareness but also fosters trust and loyalty.

The ripple effects of this trust can be monumental. A consumer who trusts a brand is more likely to become a repeat customer, recommend the brand to others, and engage more deeply with its other offerings. This creates a virtuous cycle where the brand gains not just a customer but an advocate, further solidifying its presence in the market and setting it apart from competitors.

Conclusion

Branded merch is a celebration of brand identity, a bridge connecting businesses to hearts worldwide. With a plethora of printing techniques and a focus on quality and personalization, brands can create lasting memories. Embracing branded merch is not just a strategy; it's a journey towards creating brand ambassadors who wear their loyalty with pride.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook

For FAQ, check out our site!

For any inquiries, send us a message!

OR

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com

Screen Printing vs. Digital Printing

The art of screen printing has been around since the late 900s, and as with any industry that gains popularity over time, innovation is no stranger to the world of printing. With so many print styles to choose from, it isn’t always easy to match the right style with the right project. No one understands how difficult this decision can be more than us at Family Industries. With over a decade of experience, we’ve seen it all.

The two most popular forms of apparel and art printing are Screen Printing and Digital Printing. For some, the differences in the finished product can often be indistinguishable. However, the contrast between these two styles extend far beyond the print itself. That’s why we thought we’d take a stab at helping you figure out which print style works best for your next order.

Screen Printing

What is Screen Printing?

The screen printing process involves a silkscreen with your image. The inks are applied by color and by layer unto the printing surface one at a time. Screen printing is very versatile, and the technique can be used to print on many different types of material such as textiles, plastic, and latex. Check how does screen printing work?.

Screen printing is the most widely known and used method, as it has been around for a very long time. Technology has made some advancements in this method to speed up the process but its main functions have not changed, it is still ink being pushed through a stenciled screen.

Screen Printing Pros

• Color vibrancy - Screen printing uses Plastisol inks and water-based inks, which are the most vibrant colors available, while digital printing is limited by the CMYK color gamut. It is also easier for screen printers to match the exact color, especially when using the Pantone Matching System.

• Durability - Digital prints can deteriorate as you wash your clothes, especially if you are washing with hot water. While screen printing does not have this problem, if done correctly, your print will retain its color and vibrancy for a long time.

• Versatility - With screen printing, you have the ability to print on many different textiles, garment styles, print locations, and placements. While digital printing is limited to the type of textiles and placement.

• Special effects - From raised print to texture, shine, sparkles, or glows, there’s a special ink or additive that can do it and it can only be done with screen printing. Digital printing now has some specialty inks but they are not widely available or as easy to accomplish.

  Check out the different types of special effects possible with screen printing:

  • Water-based
    Absorbs into the fabric for a very lightweight and soft print.

  • Discharge
    Chemically removes the dye from the pigment of the fabric.

  • Puff
    This additive expands while being cured, for a soft, raised feel.

  • Fluorescent
    Very bright neon colors, also known as “day glow”.

  • Metallic
    Popular ink for a shiny look. Typically in gold, silver, or copper.

  • Glitter
    Contains glitter for a sparkly look, often combined with a clear gel.

  • Glow-in-the-dark
    Almost clear, light-activated ink that glows in the dark.

  • Suede
    Similar to puff, but creates a soft and fuzzy texture to the surface.

  • High-density
    Creates raised layers of rubber-like ink for a 3-dimensional print.

  • Soft Hand
    Additive for reducing the thickness of ink for a softer feel.

  • Clear Gel
    A thick glossy coating that can be used in combination with others.

  • Shimmer
    Creates a unique reflective, iridescent shine.

  • Crackle
    Splits and cracks during curing for a naturally distressed look.

  • Plasticharge
    Combines the best of Plastisol and discharge.

Digital Printing

What is Digital Printing?

This process is much newer and involves specialized inkjet printers developed to print textile inks. The image on the screen is converted into a format that can then be printed unto the surface required. Digital printing is typically used when the print requires more details and this method is very versatile as it can be used on any type of surface. Check out how Digital Printing works.

In the Print Industry, “digital printing” is more of a term than an actual method of printing. In the world of Screen Printing, “digital printing” is typically referred to as “Direct to Garment”. While Screen Printing has been around for centuries, Direct to Garment printing has only been around for about 15 years. As society has grown more impatient over time, people are always looking for instant gratification. The majority of online on-demand printing companies use this as a primary method because of the speed and accuracy with minimal set-up.

Digital Printing Pros

• Details - Designs with a lot of detail or photographs usually require a more precise and clear print. These types of designs are better candidates for digital printing.

• Color Blending - Photographs or intricate designs will require color blends that may be more difficult to achieve with screen printing, for this reason, digital prints would be a better option.

• Consistency - Your print is most likely to be consistent all throughout when printed digitally as the file is set-up by a computer and the consistency of the ink is distributed at the same rate for each piece.

• Quantity - Digital prints require less of a set-up, therefore, allowing for a much-limited amount of prints to be done, while most printing services have a minimum quantity for screen printing.

So, Which Print Method is The Best?

The best method depends on what you intend on printing and the surface. The look is different as the digital printing allows for a more precise, crisp, and detailed print while screen printing provides a more authentic, softer, and retro look. Because both methods are good and serve different purposes, here are a few things to consider before making your decision.

View fullsize

1. Quantity: Digital printing allows for a smaller quantity to be printed while screen printing will usually require a minimum.

2. Apparel: Screen printing has more versatility when choosing your fabric. For digital printing, it is advised to print on 100% cotton or other select cotton blends and only certain colors.

3. Design: Photographs or hyper-detailed images with a lot of colors are usually better printed digitally. However, if you have a large number of shirts you would like to print, screen printing may still be an option but it may cost you a little bit more or may require some adapting to make the design work best.

For some people it may come down to cost, so we will take you through what will dictate your cost based on several factors for both methods.

1. Apparel: The type of apparel can range from value to premium options and depends on the style and brand.

2. Print Locations: There is the option for 1 or 2 locations, which would be the front and/or the back (for a t-shirt or sweatshirt).

3. Fabric Color: For screen printing on darker color fabrics, a white layer before your print is necessary and may cost a little bit more.

4. Number of Colors: The more colors your print requires the higher the cost is for screen printing, however, if you have a large quantity, this cost may be a lot lower as you can have access to deeper discounts.

5. Quantity: With screen printing, the number of pieces will dictate the majority of your cost. This is the most important factor that will most likely dictate the right method for you.

Author: Irene Floridia - Content Creator

Need more information? Hit us up! and we will be glad to walk you through the process.

Are you ready to make a choice and place an order? Click Here!

How To Design a Statement T-Shirt

As individuals we all have a lot to say and we’re constantly looking for ways to share our opinions and thoughts about social issues, politics, and our own identities. A statement tee is a great way to share your thoughts without having to say a single word. A statement tee also helps you identify people that are likeminded and can become a way to meet new people and share common ideals. In this article we’ll show you how design the perfect statement tee.

The Statement

Statement shirts are the perfect choice to highlight any outfit or occasion. Whether you are just trying to spruce up a casual look or you want to down play your evening look, a statement shirt almost always fits. A statement t-shirt doesn’t always have to be something serious, it can be printed with funny quotes, inspirational quotes of your favorite celebrity or a funny drawing, the choice is up to you and you’re imagination and opportunities have no limits.

The Design

Don’t overthink it - the more simple your concept is, the more relatable it will be. To come up with the best statement think of all the things or ideals that you strongly believe in and put those believes into 2 or 3 words. You can also convey your message by creating a single graphic.

If you own an apparel business and are looking to create a buzz around your idea, creating a graphic tees with a message can also be effective and look more appealing. A statement tee can also include pop culture references, which tend to be more widely recognized.

Pro Tip: If your design includes a font or typeface, making sure it’s easily legible.

The Print Process

Once you have a design locked in, it’s time to decide what type of printing and what type of ink you will use for your design. Here is a guide to help you with your options.

Print Options

• Screen Print - This is the gold standard of t-shirt printing. The screen printing method is the most widely used because of its’ effectiveness and durability. It is also affordable when printing in bulk as it most often a minimum is required.

• Direct To Garment - Also known as DTG printing, this method uses the freedoms of inkjet printing, but prints directly on fabric. Generally, this option is more affordable than screen printing as it requires less setup, specifically if the print has more than 2 or 3 colors. This method is also best when printing a small amount of t-shirts and if the design is highly detailed or is a photo image.

Check out Screen Printing vs. Digital Printing

Inks & Effects

• Plastisol - This is the standard ink used in screen-printing. It is the most long-lasting type of ink.

• Foil - This ink is shiny and reflective, mostly used in specialty prints where you have a metallic or a gold color.

• Water-based - This type of ink is engrained into the fabric, unlike plastisol that sits on top of the fabric. This ink is also better for the environment.

• Puff - This type of print requires an additive that is applied to ink. This additive rises when it is exposed to heat, making the print “puff up” on the garment.

Learn more about What is The Best Ink for Screen Printing

Color

Considering the colors before the design process is complete may help you budget for your production. The more colors your print has, chances are, the more it will cost you to print. Figuring out what type of print you will use is the first step, if your prefer method is screen printing, then we recommend you take into consideration that if your design contains a lot of colors, this will require a bigger set-up cost for each screen.

By choosing the direct to garment print option your cost will most likely not go up if you have a lot of colors, however, you will sacrifice durability.

In addition to dictating the cost of printing, color can also dictate the color of the t-shirt.

T-shirt designs have two sets of colors to keep in mind: the fabric color(s) and the print color(s). To make sure that these two complement each other, always use your fabric color as the background of your design ideas.

Learn more about the Pros and Cons of Screen Printing vs. Digital Printing

T-Shirt Type

Work with your printer to find the right fabric and t-shirt style for your design. You should also consider your customers such as what type of t-shirt style is most popular among your demographics? and what price point is most attractive for your customers? that questions specifically will help determine the t-shirt quality you will need to purchase.

Find a Printer

Finding a print shop can be an easy google search, but finding a GOOD printer can be a little more diffucult.

So how do you know if a print shop is good? Don’t just look for the best deals, you should also consider the printer’s reputation. Check for customer reviews, check their social media such as Instagram for examples of their work. Remember, the print shop does not always have to be local, if you find a printer outside of your city or even state, ask them about their shipping rates prior to placing your order.

You can also tell if a print shop is good based on their customer service and how much help they provide for setting up your files. File setup can be a little complicated, so a print shop that offers to help with this task is a plus!

Check out How To Prepare a Design File For Screen Printing

Besides the technical file setup, find a print shop that has an in-house art department. This will demonstrate that they are capable of assisting you on your design to achieve the best print possible.

Author: Irene Floridia - Content Creator

---

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook!

For FAQ, check out our site!

For any inquiries, send us a message!

OR

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com

The Women At Family Industries Print Shop

Women are an integral part of Family Industries, and to close out Women’s History Month we would like to highlight the women behind the scenes at Family Industries. These women are an essential part of the team and they bring a lot of creativity and value to our business.

Meet Kerin

Kerin is Family Industries’ Fulfillment Department Manager, her role is vital to our fulfillment operation and more than a manager, she is the master behind our DTG projects. Kerin has been with family industries for a long time and has become the go-to person for many projects. She is also a very creative and talented designer and has designed for some of our clients such as Amoeba Records. And as if that was not enough, Kerin is also a big part of our Live team, helping with live events as a printer and a brand ambassador. She is without a doubt a force to be reckoned with.

Get to know Kerin

Q: What do you do at Family Industries?

Kerin: I'm a part of the art department, however, I occasionally jump from art to post-production. I also take care of any DTG orders.

Q: What do you like about your day-to-day tasks?

Kerin: I like that I get to problem-solve. I enjoy a challenge and having to figure out how to get people's ideas into the real world.

Q: How did you become interested in the Screen Printing business?

Kerin: I love art. I took several printmaking classes in college and fell in love with the process.

Q: Are you an artist? if so, what motivates you to make art?

Kerin: I'm originally an illustrator/animator. I make art that I want to see. If I don't see enough of a thing I like, I'll make it.

Q: Who are the women or who is the woman in history that has had a big impact on your life or career?

Kerin: Obviously I'm going to go with my mother. When I was growing up, there weren't that many women in power that you could look up to, but my mother was someone who got shit done and never let anyone belittle her. I strive to be that kind of person every day.

---

Meet Andrea

Andrea is Family Industries’ main graphic designer and also provides superb customer support. Andrea is a master of design and has a very important role within the company as she talks to the clients and helps them with their designs. Many clients come to us with a basic idea and Andrea is able to translate their ideas into a kick-ass graphic. She is a key and integral part of our client success rate - she helps us keep our clients happy and coming back.

Get to know Andrea

Q: What is your day-to-day like at Family Industries?

Andrea: At Family Industries we use Monday.com, which allows sales and live reps to create a checklist of things that need to be done for the day. I go through that checklist as the day progresses. Each of us in the art department creates CADs and mock-ups for clients to review. Sometimes we get art requests for businesses, events, or parties.

Q: What do you enjoy the most about working at Family Industries?

Andrea: I enjoy creating fun designs for events and companies.

Q: What woman in history or in your personal life has had the biggest impact on your art and/or your career?

Andrea: I don't know if I really have anyone that I can really say influences or inspires me, but I've always liked the story of Annie Oakley, a sharpshooter. kind of a crazy reference but I went to preschool/kindergarten in the south. She grew up in a home where her father taught her at an early age to hunt, which was a crazy concept for "proper girls" back in her day. She was poor though, so it was out of necessity and she ended up taking that skill to travel circuses and was able to support herself. I think it stuck with me because she was a woman that was unconventional but practical. Her fame was based on her skill and nothing else. As a note, I'm not for guns but I admire people being themselves and celebrated for it.

10 Thing You May Not Know About Annie Oakley

Gertrude Stein was another figure I was fascinated with. I was pretty lucky to go to good schools with strong female teachers also. Cal State Long Beach has a lot of great professors that helped me gain my skills and direction during my time there. If I hadn't taken graphic design and printmaking I wouldn't be at family.

Q: What motivates you to make art or be creative?

Andrea: I think creating is the motivation itself. I think artists are just people that have ideas that they need to get out or they'll implode. I love doing doodles and designs just for fun. And when you see others enjoy them it makes you want to make more.

Although it’s not all gems, if I'm lucky, the drawings I put together come together to make something I like. There are a lot of versions and failures before I get to something I really like and make me want to create more. LOL

Q: Were you familiar with Screen Printing before you started working for Family Industries? What do you find interesting about what Family Industries offers to their clients that maybe other similar businesses don't?

Andrea: Yes I went to Cal State Long Beach for printmaking and my main focus was actually drypoint and screenprinting. I actually interviewed because a friend of a friend knew there was an opening and felt it could be something to check out.

Family Industries probably caters more to clients than the other companies. We definitely try hard to make sure all orders are treated the best they can. Attention to sizing, detail, and print quality. We try to catch errors and work with the clients to make sure we can give them the best product.

Andrea’s Work

---

Meet Gabi

Gabi is the newest addition to the team, she is our customer service specialist and focuses on new clients by providing quotes and taking the client from the initial contact phase to the production phase. Gabi has been a much-needed addition to the team and has helped us manage all of the inquiries we receive on a daily basis.

Get to know Gabi

Q: What your job title is and what is your day-to-day like?

Gabi: My official job title is Customer Service Specialist. My days are pretty much filled with emails with clients, phone calls, and building quotes. I handle the quotes email, so whenever we get a request for a quote, I’m one of the people that respond. When putting together a quote, a lot of it involves searching for the right garment, amount of placements and colors in the art (which sometimes can be super hard to tell lol), and also finishing services if needed.

I also handle custom order requests, for example, we just started an order with custom tie-dyed socks and a custom dip-dyed shirt that looks like a watermelon! For an order like that there's a lot of coordinating with outside vendors for the tie-dye and socks since we don't produce those in-house. Luckily, we work with awesome vendors that produce the best quality for us! Another thing that happens during my days is print approvals; whenever the guys in production start printing an order, they bring up the first print for us in sales to approve. We make sure the placements are right according to the mock-ups/CAD's. Sometimes Pantones and placements can be tricky, so it’s always best to have another set of eyes on it!

check out How To Dip Dye Your Clothes

Q: What do you like about working at Family Industries?

Gabi: I love the crew so much! Everyone here is so nice and so chill which makes it a great work environment. They welcomed me with open arms and taught me so much about screen printing (I literally knew nothing about it when I started). I feel like a part of a team which is great and something I lacked in my past work experience. We have fun and joke around but always get our work done on time.

I also LOVE all the cool prints we do and the clients we get to work with! Seeing an order come together from start to finish is an awesome process. I get blown away sometimes by the beautifully detailed work we produce. Screen printing is literally an art!

Q: What woman in history or in your life inspires you and why?

Gabi: I'm going to be cheesy here and say my mom, but she is such a huge inspiration to me; she's tough, hardworking, and loving. She started her own business in Philly just after she left her job and literally a year after my sister was born. Now, the company is one of the biggest real estate companies in Philly and they have about 12 employees and manage HUNDREDS of properties. She should be retired by now, but she still goes to work every day - I definitely get my ambition and drive from her. She always supported my dreams and choices, which I didn't always get from others. I hope one day I can be a boss babe like her!

Q: Do you have any artistic or creative interests? If no, what do you like to do in your free time?

Gabi: I love art but I am no artist. However, I live and breathe music! I'm always listening to Spotify and love finding new and eclectic artists. I'd say my favorite hobby is making playlists on Spotify, and honestly, I think I'm pretty awesome at it.

Other than that, I'm usually watching a good show/film relaxing with my cat and pup, or online shopping for things I DON'T need.

Q: What are your top 3 favorite movies?

Gabi: My favorite movies are Empire Records, Almost Famous, and The Craft.

Gabi’s Pets

Author: Irene Floridia - Content Creator

---

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook!

For FAQ, check out our site!

For any inquiries, send us a message!

OR

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com

Our showroom at 2755 Fruitdale Street, Los Angeles, CA 90039 is open by appointment only from 10 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.