Bootstrapping a print solution

Filed in archive Bootstrapper Resources on February 16, 2008

In an article at How To Advice.com Steve McPherson suggests starting a print shop even in an unused garage or basement can be a great business opportunity with an investment of maybe $300 for the right equipment.

Jobs can include work for stationary stores, advertisers, larger printers or newspapers and printers can also create wedding announcements, greeting cards, fliers and business cards for individual clients.

However, a printing service whether bricks and mortar or from a home office can be started even more cheaply and without the time necessary to learn the operation of a printing press through a bootstrapped approach that includes simple outsourcing and cash first orders.

Here are some suggestions to get you started:
• Find yourself an outsource printer. On line companies like PrintingforLess offer a stunning array of services for the minimum run printing industry (between 250 and 50,000 copies) and allow you to handle almost any format imaginable. On line services allow you give your customers quick price quotes and approve proofs on line and you charge for the service.
• Add more service with Print-on-Demand. Services like CafePress.com offer not only on line stores for selling personalized items like T-shirts, mugs and hats but also services to create a single order of personalized products. Provide the service for your customers with no further investment.
• Reinvest in office equipment. Once you've established cash flow for services that require no up front cost, purchase an inexpensive digital photo printer for an additional service your customers will love.
• Offer copy and fax resources. If you've got a brick and mortar store front an inexpensive copier and fax machine may offer additional revenue as traffic into your shop increases.
• Make your big investments last. Buy a press and other more expensive equipment for jobs when a short run of simple fliers or business cards might be done cheaper and more profitably in house.