[samcolbourne]

me and a friend are trying to start a skateboard company together. we have designs for skateboards and t-shirts but we're not really sure where to get them from and what the prices should be? also about if we just get the companys to print are logo onto them or we order blanks and do it ourselfs?

any help is needed thanks

[Realbigsource]

You guys got a good idea and good make a killing if done properly...for the type of business you want to get into, you will need continuous business support.

I would recommend that you start doing some serious research...I will list a few things below that I think you should start think about, I also think that you should try and get someone on your team who got some skills in importing...Anyway, whatever you don't know you can find it at your public library, you will find a more formal information.

1. Check out Alibaba .com, search for skateboard and see what type of factories comes up on the results. With most of these factories, all you have to do is send them your design and they will send you back samples...

You have to do your research right down to the T...
Your business venture is not difficult to get started, its very simple once you have the funds and support. Simple it is, you can make big mistake that last a life.

[TylerBakerllc]

I like globalsources.com instead of alibaba... Just my personal opinion because I've had more favorable results using globalsources. com.

If I was you, I would try to create limited edition boards with your designs. (you will not be competing with the major brans so you can build a niche and command more $$ for each board)

Start with an ecommerce website, and guide your base of myspace/facebook friends to that site... Tell them to guide people in their friend network to check it out... Hang out at and visit local skateparks, conventions, shows, or even shops and get the word out. If you can get a couple of boutique shops to carry your line, then all the better.

If you need any advise or help... PM me. I will always do what i can for a forum member. Good luck!

-Tyler

[TheBigIdea]

i think as for the selling part, having a physical retail store helps. try to keep it to a low cost ( as small as possible). build a couple of skateboard rings... mini ones....

ppl would want to try your skateboards , and get the feel of it.

i can see the physical store growing, acquiring some extra space and ultimately be a skateboarding hangout place for ppl. and yes , monetizing that would be a cinch by then. U can sell skateboard gear, drinks, offer classes, the sky's the limit.

btw, i don't think the online biz for skateboards will boom. ppl want to get a feel of the skateboard first b4 buying.

[samrussell]

thanks all this advice is great and we didnt expect such a good quik response
cheers!

[TheBigIdea]

if you've got time, we can hatch up a successful biz plan. have helped a number of ppl here, and it's always a pleasure to do so. just AIM me

[thebusinessman]

Have you tried looking into the user blogs for people who have documented their experience in similiar startups?

[samcolbourne]

thanks guys. yes we have but they haven't lead to far as to many differences. thanks though.

[OffbeatGenius]

if you need a good domain for your brand i'll hook you up. I am a Branding Junkie

[TylerBakerllc]

I agree with thebigidea about not selling online and giving your customers a test area... Maybe after your brand is well established or something... But to start, stick with a retail outlet set up a small vert or street course so they can get a feel for the boards

[TheBigIdea]

just curious what are the startup costs for the skateboard company? have u run through some numbers? that would really help

[adum]

i dunno if people really need to try out your boards, if you find a supplier that makes boards for another successful company, say that your boards ride like another company's boards. Are you just trying to make decks or are you making complete boards?

[samrussell]

we are just distributing printed decks but were not sure where we can get them from if anyone knows any uk based blank deck distributers that would be great