When authors write and self-publish a book, many aim to generate income. It’s common for writers to engage professional book marketing services and enhance their publicity campaigns with additional elements. One approach is creating merchandise related to the book. While items like t-shirts, caps, and mugs remain popular, the options have expanded significantly. Today, authors often design branded cases for electronic devices and other wearable items. “Merch” can serve as a new revenue stream and promotional tool, provided you can connect with your audience to offer these products.
If you participate in events, consider giving away items like tote bags featuring your book’s title. These items are effectively increase visibility and promote your work. Compared to advertising, they can be more budget-friendly and can yield impressive results. People also enjoy winning branded merchandise through contests. Hosting one on social media is increasingly common, and having ready-to-go prizes can help. The quality and pricing of your merchandise will often depend on your book’s subject and your target audience’s interests. Let’s take a closer look at some popular categories of merchandise.
Apparel is a strong area, and sweatshirts complement the primary offerings of t-shirts and caps. Although they tend to be priced higher, they might gain more popularity over time. Many authors sell apparel showcasing their book’s title, while others might highlight memorable quotes or their cover art. If you’re considering merchandising, remember this when collaborating with a cover designer, as some design elements can be translated into your merchandise. Additionally, some designers may have connections to higher-quality manufacturers that can help produce your items.
Depending on your genre, posters can also be appealing. For instance, teens often collect posters from their favorite books to decorate their rooms. With the power of social media, these images can circulate widely, serving as a compelling promotional tool to attract new readers. If your book cover can be easily reproduced larger, it’s perfect for a poster. If not, your designer can create aversion that works well in a larger format. Additionally, office supplies such as Post-it notes are popular as branded merchandise. You can incorporate specific colors linked to your book and its title to make these items more attractive.
