How Do I Format My Artwork To The Solid Merch Templates?
You’ve customized your Vinyl, CD, or Cassette project, and now you need to format your artwork. The only problem is, you don’t know how! Here are a few tips to make sure that your artwork is formatted correctly, and can be uploaded without issues.
Download The Right Templates
Making sure you have the correct templates is a crucial first step! To find our artwork templates, go to the support tab in the top right of our site and select “Design Templates” from the drop-down menu.
From there you can select the type of product you’ll be ordering on the left-hand side. Once you’ve done that, you’ll see all of the different templates on the right-hand side. Just select “Download Templates” and you’ll download a ZIP file containing a PDF, PSD, and AI file so you can use whatever design software is best for you. If you don’t have Photoshop or Adobe Illustrator, we recommend Photopea, since you can open PSD or AI files and it is a free online tool!
Open Your Template
Once your template is downloaded, just open the file that will work for your software. We’ll be working in Photoshop for this example, but the process should be very similar for most other design programs.
When you open your template file in your software, it should look like this:
Now you’re ready to start laying out your artwork!
Format Your Artwork
Before you start dropping in your artwork, make sure your color mode is set to CMYK and not RGB. All printing must be done in CMYK, and RGB is reserved only for digital displays, so any artwork submitted in RGB will have to be converted to CMYK, which can cause significant color shifting.
Now you can drop your front and back cover, and also add your spine text. Make sure that all artwork extends to the blue bleed lines. If your artwork does not extend to the bleed lines, your artwork will be at risk of having blank white space in the event of a print shift.
Additionally make sure that all text is within the green safety line to make sure that all text will print on the final product. It should look a bit like this:
Remove The Template Lines and Flatten Layers
Now that your artwork is properly formatted, you’ll need to remove the template lines and get your file ready to be exported. To do this, go to your layers section and hide or delete the layer that says “TEMPLATE (DELETE)”. To hide it, just simply hit the eye icon (eye-con?) and that will hide the layer.
Once the template is removed, go to the Layer section in the top menu and select “Flatten Image”. This will merge all of your layers into one layer, which will make the file size smaller without compromising the image quality.
Export to PDF
You did it! Now all that’s left to do is export your freshly formatted artwork. To do this, just go to File –> Save As and select “Photoshop PDF”.
Now you should be ready to upload your artwork and proceed with your order with Solid-Merch! If you encounter any issues or need any other guidance, our acclaimed customer care team is more than happy to help! Just shoot us an email or give us a call, and we’ll make sure to help any way we can.
With spring and summer quickly approaching, we’re closing in on prime Festival and Touring season! At Solid-Merch, we want to help you in any way we can to get your fans to your merch table so you can get to the next gig.
Here are a few tips to spruce up your merch table so that you’re ready for big sales at the next gig!
Create An Eye-Catching Display
Create a visually appealing display that attracts attention and draws fans to your merch table. Use signage, banners, or lighting to make your table stand out in crowded venues. Organize your merchandise neatly and consider using risers or display stands to showcase items effectively.
Carry a Variety of Products
Offer a variety of products to cater to different preferences and budgets. In addition to CDs and vinyl records, consider selling merchandise such as t-shirts, hats, posters, stickers, and other branded items. Be sure to include some fun and memorable merch to capture your band’s personality!
Have Clear Pricing and Signage
Clearly display prices for each item to avoid confusion and streamline the purchasing process. Use signage or price tags to indicate prices clearly and prominently. Consider offering bundle deals or discounts for purchasing multiple items to incentivize fans to buy more.
Accepting Payment
These days, it’s pretty rare your fans will be carrying cash with them. It’s always best to set up a method of accepting credit card payments, or digital payments. Setting up a band Venmo or PayPal account can be great for this! Additionally, you can set up a Square account for free, and even take tap payments through their mobile app!
Engage with Your New Fans
Use your merch table as an opportunity to engage with fans and build relationships. Have band members or crew at the table to interact with fans, sign merchandise, and take photos. Personal interactions can leave a lasting impression and foster a stronger connection with your audience.
Bring Promotional Materials
Provide promotional materials such as business cards, flyers, or mailing list sign-up sheets at your merch table. These materials help fans stay connected with your band after the show and provide opportunities for future engagement, such as notifying them about upcoming gigs, releases, or merchandise sales.
With these tips, you’re sure to have your merch cut through the crowd! You’ll be growing your fanbase in no time flat.
In today’s digital age, where music streams seamlessly through earbuds and smartphones, Vinyl Production seems like a relic from a bygone era. Yet, its warm analog sound, tangible format, and unique collecting culture continue to captivate music lovers worldwide. But have you ever wondered how these iconic black discs come to life? From the artist’s studio to your turntable, the journey of a vinyl record involves a fascinating blend of artistry, precision engineering, and a pinch of alchemy.
Capturing the Essence: Recording and Mastering
The story begins long before the vinyl itself enters the picture. In the recording studio, musicians lay down their tracks. This raw recording then undergoes mastering, a meticulous process where audio engineers enhance the sound for optimal vinyl playback. They adjust frequency ranges, balance instruments, and ensure the entire listening experience translates faithfully to the grooves. This critical step lays the foundation for the audio quality captured on the final record.
From Audio to Physical: Creating Your Master
At Solid-Merch, we utilize Direct Metal Mastering (DMM). DMM is a vinyl record mastering technique where the audio is cut directly onto a copper-coated master disc using a hard metal stylus, typically made of diamond. This method offers advantages such as reduced surface noise and improved fidelity, especially in high frequencies. This is due to cleaner and more defined grooves. Additionally, DMM mastering can result in better durability of the master disc. As a preferred choice for audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts, DMM offers superior sound quality and durability, albeit at potentially higher mastering costs due to the specialized equipment and expertise required.
From One to Many: The Stamper and Electroplating
While the lacquer holds the master recording, it’s too delicate for mass production. Here’s where the stamper comes in. The lacquer is treated with a silver nitrate solution, creating a thin silver layer that mirrors the grooves. This “mother” is then electroplated with nickel, resulting in a more robust metal replica – the stamper. This durable stamper serves as the mold for pressing countless vinyl records, ensuring consistency and quality throughout the production run.
Heat, Pressure, and Vinyl Magic: The Pressing Process
The stage is finally set for the vinyl disc itself. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) granules, the raw material for vinyl records, are heated and molded into small, flat pucks. These “biscuits” are then placed between the stamper and a metal counter die in a hydraulic press, along with the disc labels. Under immense heat and pressure (around 180 degrees Celsius and 100 tons of force!), the softened PVC conforms to the grooves of the stamper. This imprints the music’s physical representation onto the record. Once cooled, the excess vinyl is trimmed, revealing the iconic disc we know and love.
The Finishing Touches: Quality Control
With the basic disc formed, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Finally, each disc undergoes stringent quality control checks, ensuring there are no skips, pops, or other imperfections that could mar the listening experience.
From Factory to Fan: The Vinyl Revolution Continues
After completing these steps, the vinyl records are packaged and shipped, ready to reach the ears (and turntables) of eager music fans. Whether they’re collected, displayed, or spun with reverence, each vinyl record carries within it a unique story. In a world of fleeting digital streams, vinyl offers a tangible connection to the music. A physical embodiment of the sonic passion poured into its creation.
Beyond the Technical: The Allure of Vinyl
While this guide has delved into the technical aspects of vinyl production, the magic of these records goes beyond the machinery. For many, vinyl represents a deeper connection to music. The ritual of carefully placing the record on the turntable, and lowering the needle adds a layer to the listening experience. The warm analog sound offers a unique sound that resonates with audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
Furthermore, vinyl fosters a sense of community. Record stores provide a physical space for music discovery and connection. Limited edition pressings and unique variants contribute to a vibrant collecting culture, creating a deeper emotional attachment to the music and its physical representatio
Behind the Scenes: The Vinyl Production Process Explained
As an independent musician or record label, building a dedicated fan base is crucial for success
in today’s music industry. One effective way to engage and delight your fans is through unique
merch ideas that reflect your brand identity and resonate with your audience. In this
guide, we’ll explore ten creative merchandise ideas tailored specifically for independent
musicians and record labels, designed to captivate fans and foster a deeper connection with
your music.
Artist-Designed Apparel
Extend your brand beyond the music with artist-designed apparel that allows fans to wear their
support proudly. Collaborate with graphic designers or visual artists to create bold and eye-
catching designs that reflect your music’s aesthetic and vibe. From t-shirts and hoodies to hats
and tote bags, offer a range of apparel options that fans can incorporate into their everyday
style, serving as walking billboards for your music wherever they go.
Personalized Merchandise Bundles
Offer personalized merchandise bundles that allow fans to create their own unique collection of
items tailored to their preferences. This could include a mix of music formats (CDs, vinyl, digital
downloads), apparel, accessories, and exclusive memorabilia, packaged together in a
customizable bundle. By giving fans the freedom to curate their own merchandise experience,
you can increase engagement and satisfaction while driving sales and loyalty for your music
brand.
Live Show Memorabilia
Capture the magic of your live performances by offering exclusive memorabilia available only at
your shows. This could include limited edition concert posters, tour-specific merchandise, or
artist-signed merchandise exclusive to each venue. By creating a sense of urgency and
excitement around your live shows, you can incentivize fans to attend and create lasting
memories while supporting your music career.
Interactive Merchandise Experiences
Enhance fan engagement with interactive merchandise experiences that go beyond the
traditional product offerings. This could include augmented reality (AR) experiences accessible
via smartphone apps, QR codes that unlock exclusive content or discounts, or merchandise
bundles that include access to virtual meet-and-greets or exclusive live streams. By leveraging
technology to create immersive and interactive experiences, you can deepen the connection
between your fans and your music brand.
Limited Edition Art Prints
Transform your music into visual art with limited edition art prints featuring album artwork, song lyrics, or original illustrations inspired by your music. Collaborate with visual artists or illustrators to create unique and collectible prints that serve as both decorative pieces and meaningful mementos for your fans. Offer signed and numbered editions to add an extra layer of exclusivity and value, appealing to collectors and art enthusiasts within your fan base.
Custom Merchandise Collaborations
Expand your fan base and reach new audiences by collaborating with other artists, brands, or
influencers on custom merchandise collections. This could involve co-branded merchandise
collaborations, limited edition releases featuring guest designs or artwork, or exclusive merch
drops tied to joint music releases or events. By leveraging the reach and influence of your
collaborators, you can tap into new markets and attract fans who may not have discovered your
music otherwise.
Limited Edition Vinyl Records
Vinyl records have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, making them a must-
have item for music enthusiasts and collectors alike. Create a sense of exclusivity and nostalgia
by releasing limited edition vinyl records with unique artwork, colored vinyl variants, or bonus
tracks. By offering fans a tangible piece of your music that they can treasure for years to come,
you can tap into their passion for physical media and create a valuable revenue stream for your
music career. Some other great vinyl-related merch ideas would be customized slipmats or 45 adaptors!
Eco-Friendly Merchandise Options
Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability by offering eco-friendly merchandise options that align with your values and resonate with environmentally conscious fans. This could include merchandise made from organic or recycled materials, biodegradable packaging, or products that support environmental causes. Items like Digipaks or Eco Wallets for CD packaging, or hemp tees are a great way to have sustainable merch. By prioritizing sustainability in your merchandise offerings, you can attract like-minded fans who appreciate your efforts to minimize your environmental footprint while supporting your music career.
Beyond Tees, Totes, and Hats – Think Outside The Box!
In addition to traditional merchandise offerings like t-shirts, totes, and hats, Solid-Merch offers custom bespoke merch services that allow independent musicians and record labels to truly stand out. With a focus on creativity and innovation, Solid-Merch specializes in unique merchandise items such as custom-designed socks, personalized bobbleheads, branded lighters, and custom playing cards. Whether you’re looking to add a playful twist to your merch lineup with quirky socks featuring your logo or create collectible bobbleheads of your band members, Solid-Merch has you covered.
Conclusion
By incorporating these unique merchandise ideas into your music marketing strategy, you can
delight your fans, strengthen your brand, and generate additional revenue streams to support
your music career. Whether it’s limited edition vinyl records, personalized merchandise bundles,
or interactive merchandise experiences, the key is to offer meaningful and memorable
merchandise that resonates with your audience and reflects your unique identity as an
independent musician or record label. With creativity, authenticity, and innovation, you can
create a merchandise lineup that not only delights your fans but also drives long-term success
for your music career.
So, you’ve poured your heart and soul into creating your masterpiece, an album you’re fiercely proud of. Now, the exciting yet daunting prospect of sharing it with the world looms large. One increasingly popular way to do this? Vinyl.
Holding a physical record, with its tangible artwork and warm analog sound, offers a unique and special experience for music lovers. But the process of ordering vinyl for your album release can be a confusing labyrinth of pressing plants, jacket options, and minimum quantities. Fear not, intrepid artist! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate this sonic odyssey and ensure your music reaches eager ears on glorious slabs of wax.
Step 1: Master Your Craft (and Your Masters)
Before venturing into the vinyl realm, ensure your audio is pristine. Request high-resolution WAV or AIFF files from your mastering engineer. These uncompressed formats will serve as the foundation for your vinyl’s sonic fidelity. Remember, the quality of your vinyl can only be as good as the source material, so invest in a top-notch master!
Step 2: Choose your pressing plant – Solid-Merch!
Vinyl pressing plants come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own strengths and quirks. Solid-Merch offers meticulous attention to detail and specialized services like custom color vinyl, with low order quantities and quick turnaround times.
Not to mention our excellent customer care team is always here to provide personal assistance with anything you’d need to get your order going!
Step 3: Quantity Quandary: How Many Records to Press?
This is a crucial decision with financial implications. Pressing too many can leave you with a lot of unsold inventory, while pressing too few might mean missing out on potential demand. Consider factors like pre-orders, anticipated fan base, distribution channels, and budget. Err on the side of caution, especially for your first pressing. Remember, we hang onto your metalwork for 3 years after your last order placement, so you can always do a second run if the initial batch flies off the shelves!
Step 4: Design Your Jacket: Folding, Gatefolds, and Gimmicks
The jacket is the visual canvas for your album, so choose wisely! Standard single jackets are the most affordable option, but gatefolds offer extra space for artwork and lyrics. You can also add inserts, hype stickers, or printed inner sleeves to add a few more bells and whistles!
Remember, the jacket should complement your music and brand identity, so choose materials and designs that resonate with your artistic vision.
Step 5: Inner Sleeves: Protect Your Vinyl
The inner sleeve protects your precious vinyl from scratches and dust. Opt for anti-static sleeves made from rice paper or polyolefin to minimize static buildup, which can attract dust and distort the sound. You can also choose custom inner sleeves with printed lyrics or artwork to add a touch of personality.
Step 6: Let the Music Flow: Inserts and Downloads
Liner notes, lyric sheets, and download codes can add value to your vinyl package. Include insightful liner notes that tell the story behind your music, and consider offering a digital download code for added convenience. Remember, vinyl and digital can coexist harmoniously, offering fans different ways to experience your music.
Step 7: Distribution Decisions: DIY or Do It For Me?
Distributing your vinyl can be handled in-house or through a distributor. For smaller releases, selling directly through your website or at gigs might be feasible. However, if you’re aiming for wider distribution, partnering with a distributor can help you reach a larger audience and secure placements in record stores and online retailers.
Step 8: Market Your Masterpiece: Spread the Vinyl Word!
Once your vinyl is ready to roll, don’t let it gather dust in a warehouse! Generate excitement through social media campaigns, pre-order incentives, and targeted online advertising. Partner with music blogs and tastemakers for reviews and features. Create eye-catching visuals and share behind-the-scenes glimpses of the vinyl production process. Let the world know your sonic treasure is available on glorious wax!
Bonus Tip: Vinyl Goodies for the Superfans
Want to take your vinyl release to the next level? Consider offering limited-edition pressings on colored vinyl or with exclusive bonus tracks. Bundles with merchandise like t-shirts or tote bags can also entice fans. Remember, creating a memorable vinyl experience can foster deeper connections with your audience and turn them into lifelong fans.
By following these steps and injecting your own creative flair, you can navigate the world of vinyl pressing with confidence and ensure your music reaches the ears and hearts of music lovers.
