Welcome to Let's Talk Shop! Where we explore the inspiring stories of customization and industry experts. Today, we’re excited to share the journey of Mel L, one of the founders of Allmade and the owner of Sandilake, her own screen printing shop.
Mel's story is a testament to how passion, creativity, and determination can transform a simple hobby into a thriving business. Watch the video below to hear from Mel herself and read on for a deeper insight into her incredible journey.
VIDEO
AUDIO ONLY
EARLY BEGINNINGS
Mel's interest in making t-shirts began at a young age. She started with duct tape designs for group events, creating logos and names on shirts. This hands-on approach laid the foundation for her future in apparel customization.
RELATED: A GUIDE TO SCREEN PRINTING T-SHIRTS
THE FIRST BIG HIT
The first real hit came with a family event. For her dad's 50th birthday party, Mel created "Matt's Men" shirts with a printed pistol in the back pocket, making everyone look like security for her dad. The shirts were a huge success and sparked Mel's interest in screen printing.
FOUNDING SANDILAKE
After moving into a new house and looking for ways to make money, Mel discovered the potential of Etsy for selling custom apparel. She started Sandilake, focusing on unique, unisex children's clothing. The brand quickly gained popularity, thanks in part to Mel's innovative designs and commitment to quality.
RELATED: HOW TO ESTABLISH A BRAND
A MAJOR CHALLENGE
One of the pivotal moments in Sandilake's history was when Target copied one of Mel's designs. This led to a David vs. Goliath media story that brought national attention to Sandilake. Despite the challenges, this experience taught Mel the importance of protecting her artwork through copyrights and trademarks.
RELATED: HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ARTWORK FROM COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT
JOINING ALLMADE
Mel's journey with Allmade began with a phone call and an invitation to join a unique project. Allmade was focused on creating sustainable, high-quality apparel while supporting communities in need. The mission resonated with Mel, and she became one of the founding members, contributing her expertise and passion to the brand.
INNOVATING WITH ALLMADE
Allmade stands out for its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The brand uses eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester and organic cotton. Mel has been instrumental in developing new products and ensuring they meet the highest standards for both quality and sustainability.
RELATED: 3 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR SCREEN PRINT SHOP STAND OUT
GIVING BACK
One of the core values of Allmade is giving back to the communities where they manufacture. Mel has been actively involved in supporting orphanages in Honduras, providing essential supplies and improving living conditions for the children. These efforts reflect Allmade's dedication to making a positive impact beyond just producing apparel.
FUTURE OF ALLMADE
Looking ahead, Allmade continues to innovate with new fabrics and products. The goal is to make sustainable apparel more affordable and accessible without compromising on quality. Mel and the team are committed to expanding their impact and building a brand that truly makes a difference.
CONCLUSION
Mel's journey from duct tape designs to leading a sustainable apparel brand is inspiring. Her story highlights the power of creativity, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact. We hope her experiences motivate you to pursue your passions and create something meaningful.
