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Concept to Creation: Designing with the End in Mind

Jan 1, 2025

As a creative, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of designing without thinking about the cost of production. But as I’ve learned over time, the price of bringing a concept to life is just as important as the design itself. You have to consider everything—from the number of placements on the garment to the colors you use—because all of that adds to the overall cost. The more complex the design, the higher the price tag, and you can’t sell a $75 hoodie for $20.

Here’s why: this is what cost of sales means. Cost of sales is the total cost to produce and deliver a product, including the garment itself, printing, shipping, and any other related expenses. If your total cost to produce a hoodie is $50, for example, you need to sell it at a price that allows for profit—$75 or more. Selling it for $20 means you’re losing money on every sale, which is a quick way to run your business into the ground.

It’s important to balance creativity with practicality. Start small—one placement, one color—until you master the art of selling. Build a community around your brand first, then gradually expand your designs as your customer base grows. This way, you’re not left with inventory sitting on the shelf, draining your pockets.

That said, don’t stifle your creativity. If a great idea comes to you, it’s still worth holding onto for a future launch. Execution is everything, and understanding the cost to create your product is key to making sure your brand stays profitable.

God Bless The Entrepreneur.