What is the first step to starting an apparel business?
Every successful apparel brand starts with a unique idea. Whether it’s a passion for sports, faith, hobbies or something different, those interests can become the foundation for a new business.
"The first step to launching an apparel brand is figuring out what your style is instead of following what everyone else is doing,” Texas Transfers owner Melissa Eisenman said. “You need to find out what is unique to you and what your niche is. Otherwise, you'll constantly be chasing other companies.”
Do entrepreneurs need to spend thousands of dollars to start their business?
While traditional apparel production often requires large minimum orders, DTF transfers allow entrepreneurs to print only what they need.
Those who want to complete DTF transfers by themselves will need a heat press, which can cost as low as $150.
For those who aren’t ready to invest in their own equipment, Texas Transfers offers affordable in-house printing. The company has no minimum order requirement, so business owners can test a design on a single shirt before committing to larger quantities. Once artwork is print-ready, most DTF orders are completed the same or next business day.
For more established businesses with resale certificates, Texas Transfers offers 15% discounts on every order to help keep costs manageable as the businesses grow.
What should new business owners focus on besides great designs?
Quality matters just as much as creativity. Eisenman said entrepreneurs should use high-resolution artwork—300 dots per inch or higher—to produce sharp, professional-looking prints. To help entrepreneurs accomplish this, Texas Transfers offers an AI-powered gang sheet builder that can upscale images, remove backgrounds and make other adjustments before printing.
The company's printing process goes beyond standard industry practices by using nine-color CMYKORGB printing instead of the traditional four-color CMYK option. The expanded color range produces greater detail and more accurate color matching, which is especially helpful for schools, businesses and brands with specific color requirements.
What types of apparel businesses does Texas Transfers support?
Texas Transfers supports numerous apparel businesses, from parents ordering merchandise for their child’s sports team, to churches designing custom t-shirts.
One standout customer is Whitney Moore, founder of Love Always 24/7, who launched a faith-based apparel brand from scratch. Texas Transfers currently handles the company's printing and pressing while Moore focuses on creating designs and growing the business. Today, her products are sold online and in two local boutiques.
No matter who she is supporting, Eisenman strongly believes that there is room for everyone to succeed.
“At the end of the day, this should be about forming relationships. My gift is different than someone else's gift, so when we work together, we can both succeed,” Eisenman said.
What advice does Eisenman have for growing an apparel business?
Instead of trying to become a national brand overnight, Eisenman encourages entrepreneurs to focus on their immediate community, price products reasonably and build momentum one sale at a time.
She also recommends showing the personality behind the business. Authenticity, consistency and genuine relationships often resonate more with customers than polished marketing campaigns.
For example, Eisenman posts on social media about her faith and viewpoints to create an authentic connection with her customers.
“This is who we are, and we're being true to who we are,” Eisenman said. “When I post on social media, I have a sense of humor. People can read through everything that I post and know that it's still me behind [the business].”
Where can aspiring entrepreneurs find support?
Beyond printing, Texas Transfers positions itself as a resource for new business owners.
Eisenman invites entrepreneurs to stop by and ask questions before investing in inventory or equipment. Whether someone is launching a side business, earning extra income or pursuing a long-term dream, she hopes they realize the process is more attainable than they may think.
With affordable production options, quick turnaround times and guidance from someone who built her own business from the ground up, Texas Transfers helps entrepreneurs take the first step toward building an apparel brand.
Those interested in learning more about Texas Transfers can find resources here:
Website: www.texastransfersanddesigns.com
Address: 100 S. Main St., Conroe
Email address: [email protected]
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
A quick recap FAQ
Does Texas Transfers have a minimum order requirement?
No. Texas Transfers has no minimum order requirement, so entrepreneurs can test a design on a single shirt before committing to larger quantities. Most DTF orders are completed the same or next business day.
Do I need my own equipment to start an apparel business?
Not necessarily. Texas Transfers offers in-house printing for those who aren't ready to invest in equipment. For those who want to complete transfers themselves, a basic heat press can cost as low as $150.
How do I get started with Texas Transfers?
Visit Texas Transfers at 100 S. Main St. in Conroe, Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m and Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Owner Melissa Eisenman welcomes entrepreneurs to stop by and ask questions before investing in inventory or equipment.
The above story was produced by Senior Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
