Independent professional wrestlers and entertainers like musicians often face the challenge of building their brand on a budget. Merchandise is one of the best ways to engage fans, promote yourself, and generate income—but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to get started. Here are some affordable and creative merchandise ideas that work for indie wrestlers and other entertainers, such as bands, comedians, and online personalities.
1. Trading Cards
Trading cards are a unique, budget-friendly merch option that fans love to collect.
Why They Work:
- Trading cards stand out from the typical merch like shirts and posters.
- They’re inexpensive to produce in small batches.
- You can release multiple designs, turning them into collectible items for fans.
How to Make Them:
- Use platforms like Vistaprint or Canva to design your cards. Add stats, fun trivia, or fictional “power levels” to make them engaging.
- Partner with a local printer or online service for small print runs.
- Include autographed versions to create higher-value collectibles.
- Still unsure where to begin, contact us at contact@benhall.club to get your very own, professionally designed cards for a very reasonable price.
2. T-Shirts
T-shirts are a merch staple for a reason—they’re wearable advertising for your brand.
Why They Work:
- Fans love to show support by wearing their favorite entertainer’s gear.
- Custom t-shirts can be created with minimal upfront cost through print-on-demand services.
How to Make Them:
- Use print-on-demand services like Printful or Teespring to avoid high initial costs.
- Stick to simple, bold designs like your name, logo, or a catchphrase.
- Limited-edition or event-specific designs can create a sense of urgency and exclusivity.
- We can help with a design! Contact us at contact@benhall.club for design services.
3. Posters
Posters are a low-cost, high-impact way to give fans something visually striking.
Why They Work:
- They’re cheap to produce, especially in bulk.
- They appeal to fans who want to decorate their spaces with memorabilia.
How to Make Them:
- Design posters that showcase your personality, character, or event highlights.
- Offer signed versions for an added personal touch.
- Team up with local printers to save on costs or use online services for quick and easy production.
- We can help with a design! Contact us at contact@benhall.club for design services.
4. DVD/Blu-Ray Collections
While digital streaming is king, physical media still appeals to die-hard fans who love tangible items.
Why They Work:
- DVDs and Blu-rays offer a nostalgic, collectible feel.
- You can bundle multiple matches, behind-the-scenes footage, or special commentary to increase value.
How to Make Them:
- Create content such as highlight reels, commentary tracks, or training montages to make your product unique.
- Consider bundling physical copies with exclusive digital downloads for added value.
- We offer full DVD/Blu-ray authoring services at a fraction of the cost of going to one of the “big guys”. Contact us at contact@benhall.club for more information.
5. Stickers
Stickers are small, inexpensive, and endlessly versatile.
Why They Work:
- Low cost to produce and high profit margin.
- Fans love using stickers on laptops, water bottles, and notebooks.
How to Make Them:
- Use sticker-making platforms like Sticker Mule or Redbubble.
- Focus on simple, eye-catching designs that feature your logo, signature phrase, or mascot.
- Bundle multiple sticker designs into packs for higher perceived value.
- We can help with a design! Contact us at contact@benhall.club for design services.
6. Buttons and Pins
Buttons and enamel pins are trendy, compact, and budget-friendly.
Why They Work:
- Easy to transport and sell at events.
- Collectible nature encourages repeat purchases.
How to Make Them:
- Use services like PureButtons for affordable custom buttons or Pinsource for enamel pins.
- Offer designs inspired by your character, logo, or even special events.
- We can help with a design! Contact us at contact@benhall.club for design services.
- We 100% recommend reaching out to Buttonup_LV for everything buttons! Tell Noah we sent you! Find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092645017995
7. Digital Content
If physical merch isn’t feasible, digital downloads are a great alternative.
Why They Work:
- No production or shipping costs.
- Instant delivery and global reach.
How to Make Them:
- Sell downloadable content like exclusive wallpapers, music tracks, or e-books.
- Use platforms like Gumroad or Ko-fi to handle transactions.
- Promote your digital offerings as environmentally friendly and convenient.
8. Personalized 8×10 Photos
Glossy 8x10s are a wrestling merch classic, but they’re just as effective for other entertainers.
Why They Work:
- Inexpensive to produce.
- Perfect for autograph sessions.
How to Make Them:
- Have professional photos taken or use high-quality promotional shots.
- Print batches in bulk to save costs.
- Sell them at events or include them as bonus items in bundles.
- We recommend Justin Cotterell of Electric Sleep Images for all your photography needs!
9. Mystery Grab Bags
Mystery grab bags are an exciting way to sell leftover merch or test new products.
Why They Work:
- Fans love the surprise element.
- Great way to clear out older inventory.
How to Make Them:
- Include a mix of items like trading cards, stickers, or signed photos.
- Market them as limited edition or event-exclusive.
Final Tips
- Engage Your Fans: Ask your fans on social media what kind of merch they’d like to see.
- Start Small: Focus on a few items at first, then expand based on what sells well.
- Bundle for Value: Offer combo deals (e.g., a t-shirt and trading card) to encourage larger purchases.
- Think Quality: Even on a budget, prioritize quality to ensure fans are happy with their purchases.
Merchandise isn’t just about making money—it’s about creating a lasting connection with your audience. With a little creativity and planning, you can turn your indie brand into a powerhouse of fan engagement and support!
