1. Creating a New Store
• Step 1: Once your basic account information is set up, go to Add a Store.
• Step 2: Enter a store name, for example, “SSM Demo Store.” A default URL will be created based on the store name, but you can customize it if needed (e.g., adding numbers or changing it entirely).
• Step 3: Upload your store logo by selecting an image file. If your logo is ready, simply upload it to personalize your store.
• Step 4: Click Create Store to finalize the setup.
2. Preparing Files for Your Store
• File Preparation: For your store to go live successfully, it’s essential to have your design files prepared correctly. File preparation includes digitizing embroidery files, setting up decoration methods, ensuring proper format and resolution, and creating variations in colors.
• Cost: File preparation costs range from $125 on a starter plan to $95 if you’re on a paid plan. This fee ensures all files are formatted correctly for easy product creation and is required to publish products for sale.
NOTE: Demo stores do not need to have files prepared.
3. File Prep Request
• Step 1: Add your production file by selecting the appropriate file from your device. This could be a logo or any other design you want to use on your products.
• Step 2: Include additional supporting files, such as vector files or any pre-approved digitized files, to ensure all decoration methods are covered. If you have approved, digitized files already in place, please provide so we can use them rather than new files. There isn't a cost difference whether we digitize or you provide your own.
• Step 3: If you have special instructions (e.g., “Navy logo on all colors except navy items”), you can add these details in the additional information section.
4. Payment and Subscription Setup
• Payment for File Prep: Once files are uploaded, proceed to the payment portal. You can pay via credit card or ACH (bank transfer). If it’s your first store, using a credit card is recommended, but setting up ACH is encouraged for future transactions.
• Subscription Options to consider see separate resource for in depth explanations:
• Trial Plan: Offers 12 products for 14 days, allowing you to test the platform’s capabilities before committing.
• Starter Plan: After the trial, the account will automatically move to the Starter Plan, which allows you to sell up to 12 products with no monthly charge but includes an additional 10% fee on products.
• Basic Plan- $49: Allows you to sell up to 20 products and has other features included.
• Premium Plan - $99: Allows you to sell up to 50 products and has additional features included
• Custom Plan - TBD: Many more features and product counts vary based on final needs.
5. Building Your Store
• Step 1: After file preparation, you can start building your products. Select your product, add the design, and choose the corresponding decoration method. This process is straightforward and ensures that your products are set up correctly.
• Step 2: For demo stores, you can skip the payment step and begin exploring the platform. If setting up a live store, ensure all files are prepped before proceeding.
6. Final Steps and Store Management
• Store Design: After setting up your store, you can proceed to the Store Design section to customize the look and feel of your store.
• Waiting for File Prep: If you’ve opted for file preparation, it’s recommended to wait until the files are processed (within two business days) before adding products to your store.
This guide provides a step-by-step approach to getting started with Single Serve Merch, ensuring your store is properly set up and ready for success. For ongoing support, reach out to the Single Serve Merch team for assistance with any part of the setup process.