Custom Shirt Making: Career Insights from a NYC Entrepreneur

Custom Shirt Maker 

8/12/25

How do you start a custom shirt business—and how much can you make selling custom apparel? In this episode of How Much Can I Make?, we explore careers in custom shirt making, we talk to Carl Goldberg, a shirtmaker, entrepreneur, and all-around fabric whisperer.  Learn what it takes to design, produce, and sell custom shirts, for theatre, movies and consumers. What tools and skills are required. You’ll get a peek behind the curtain of the entertainment world, where Carl’s shirts have been featured in The Producers, The Music Man, Law & Order, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle, creative business, or scalable e-commerce brand, this episode offers clear insights into income potential and real-world career paths.

How much can a custom short maker earn?

Custom shirt making can range from a creative side hustle to a full-scale apparel business, with income depending on skill, niche, and sales channels. Entry-level shirt makers or print-on-demand sellers might earn $20,000–$50,000 annually, while established custom designers, tailors, or e-commerce brand owners can make $60,000–$150,000+. At the high end, successful niche brands, corporate merch suppliers, or premium bespoke shirt makers can exceed $200,000+, especially with strong online sales or wholesale contracts. In this episode, we break down how money is made—from one-off custom orders to scalable online stores.

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FAQ

• How much can you make selling custom shirts?
  Earnings typically range from $20,000 to $150,000+, with top sellers and brand owners earning $200,000+ depending on volume and niche.

• What are the different ways to make custom shirts?
  Common methods include print-on-demand, screen printing, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), embroidery, and bespoke tailoring.

• Do you need equipment to start a custom shirt business?
  Not necessarily—print-on-demand platforms allow you to start with minimal upfront cost, while in-house production requires equipment like printers or presses.

• Where do custom shirt makers sell their products?
  Many sell through platforms like Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, or their own websites, as well as through local events and bulk orders.

• Is custom shirt making a good side hustle?
  Yes—it’s a popular side hustle with low barriers to entry and the potential to grow into a full-time business with the right niche and marketing.