We get it – running a screen printing shop is a labor of love, but it comes with challenges. Slow seasons and tight budgets can test your passion.

At Anatol Equipment, we’ve worked with screen printers from small startups to large shops, and here’s the good news: you can grow without a large budget.

With a few smart, low-cost strategies, you can attract new clients and keep your shop thriving. Let’s explore eight practical ways to boost your screen printing business!

1. Let Your Work Shine with Social Proof

Your prints are your best advertisement. Showing off your high-quality screen printing builds trust and draws in customers eager to see what you can do.

Try these steps:

  • Share photos or short videos of your latest projects on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Highlight unique designs to showcase your skills. Ask happy clients if you can feature their custom apparel in your posts or tag their business.
  • Add customer reviews or feedback to your website and social media.

A quick smartphone photo with a catchy caption can attract clients searching for “custom screen printing near me.”

2. Connect with Your Local Community

Your next valuable customer could be right around the corner. Local businesses, schools, and events need custom apparel, and a warm introduction can lead to consistent orders. A local chamber of commerce or networking group can be a great resource to connect with residents and organizations.

Try these steps:

  • Offer a first-order discount to local restaurants, gyms, or schools to spark interest.
  • Drop off a sample T-shirt with your screen printing shop’s logo and contact info to nearby businesses.
  • Sponsor a local event, like a charity run, by printing their shirts in exchange for visibility.

Building local relationships creates loyal customers and spreads the word about your screen printing shop.

3. Spark Interest with Limited-Time Offers

A well-planned promotion can bring in new orders without breaking the bank. The trick is to create offers that feel exciting and urgent.

Try these steps:

  • Offer “10% Off Your First Order” to attract new clients to your screen printing shop.
  • Bundle services, like free screen setup for orders of 50+ shirts.
  • Run seasonal deals, such as “Back-to-School Tees” or “Holiday Merch Specials.”

Share these offers on social media, email, or local flyers, and add a deadline to encourage quick action.

4. Get Found with a Strong Google Presence

When someone searches “screen printing near me,” you want your shop to pop up first. A free Google Business Profile can make that happen.

Try these steps:

  • Claim your Google Business Profile and update it with your shop’s hours, address, and services.
  • Add photos of your prints and shop to make your listing stand out.
  • Ask satisfied customers to leave a quick Google review to build trust.

This simple step helps your screen printing business appear where local customers are looking.

Anatol VOLT all-electric screen printing press operating efficiently in a modern print shop.
5. Focus on a Niche You Love

Standing out is easier when you specialize. Whether it’s school spiritwear, fitness gear, or band merch, a clear niche makes your screen printing shop memorable.

Try these steps:

  • Look at your best customers – what do they have in common? Schools, teams, or businesses?
  • Tweak your website and social media to highlight your specialty (e.g., “Expert Screen Printing for Fitness Brands”).
  • Join online communities, like school parent groups or fitness forums, to connect with your audience.

A focused niche helps you attract the right customers to your screen printing business.

6. Reconnect with Past Clients

A personal touch can bring old customers back. A quick message can remind them why they loved working with your screen printing shop.

Try these steps:

  • Check your order history and reach out to clients you haven’t heard from lately.
  • Send a friendly email or DM, like: “Hey [Name], planning any events? We’re offering free delivery this month for your next custom apparel order!”
  • Keep it personal – use their name and mention past projects.

This small effort can turn quiet leads into new orders for your screen printing business.

7. Win with Fast Turnaround Times

Speed can set you apart. Many clients, like event organizers, value quick screen printing services as much as quality.

Try these steps:

  • Offer a “Rush Order Package” for small, urgent jobs.
  • Highlight your fast turnaround times on your website and social media.
  • Keep a stock of basic blank garments for last-minute orders.

Promoting speed makes your screen printing shop the go-to for time-sensitive projects.

8. Host a Free Hands-On Workshop

Whether it’s local students, artists, small business owners, etc. –  people love to see how a quality product is made – especially something as tactile and visual as the printing process. 

Try these steps:

  • Invite one or several of these groups to your event
  • Perform demos and allow for hands-on learning, or a “print your own tee” segment.
  • Display custom spirit wear for any schools or businesses that are attending – see if you can’t sell some on the spot, or start a conversation about future apparel needs.

Keep Pushing Forward

Slow days are part of the screen printing journey, but they don’t define your shop. The key is to keep moving – one small step at a time. Pick one idea from this list, give it a try, and build from there. You’ve got the creativity and drive to make it happen.

At Anatol Equipment, we build reliable, easy-to-use screen printing equipment designed to grow with your shop. A smart upgrade can turn a slow season into a success story.

We are here to support screen printers with tools, tips, and encouragement. Ready to grow your screen printing shop? Contact us to discuss your next steps.

You’re ready to print your way to success – let’s make it happen!