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Here’s a fun fact that you definitely don’t know: When I was a teenager, I worked at Sears in the children’s department. This is where I learned to properly fold a shirt for retail. Since that was quite a few years ago (I won’t tell you how many!), I might be a bit rusty – but I’m showing you to properly fold a shirt today.
How to Properly Fold a Shirt for Retail
- Lay the shirt face down on a flat surface.
- Fold the sleeves inward.
- Fold each side of the shirt towards the center. The edges should meet at the middle of the shirt.
- Fold the bottom portion of the shirt up – about 1/4 of the way. (Note: On smaller shirts, you can often skip this step.)
- Fold the bottom corners of the shirt in half to meet with the top corners.
- Slide the shirt into a bag. Now, there are a lot of wholesalers and retailers that sell bags and packages. I know that many small sellers simply cannot meet the minimum order quantities. If you can’t, head to your local big box retailer and pick up some Twist Tie Bags. The ones shown in the photo below are from Walmart, and are perfect for tee shirts! A box of 100 cost $2.96, which is $0.03 each. To hold them closed, tape the edge or finish with a sticker with your brand name.
That’s it – it is really that cheap and easy! Struggling with folding shirts? You can buy shirt folding boards to help you save time and get perfect creases – click here to view them.
Looking for other cheap packaging ideas? Click here.
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Since 2015, Christine Schinagl has been helping crafters start and run craft businesses through her blog, Cutting for Business. As a Silhouette and Cricut crafter herself, she has a unique take on what works and what doesn’t work in the craft business world. She also enjoys teaching other crafters how to create digital SVG designs, available through the Design with Me series.
Mary-Lynne
Tuesday 2nd of April 2019
I've been using zip lock bags from the dollar store but these are a lot less expensive. Thanks. P.s. I use the cardboard insert from the canned cat food boxes. Folded shirts fit nearly in the bag.
Christine, Cutting for Business
Saturday 18th of May 2019
I love these bags!
Denise Dixon
Monday 1st of April 2019
Thank You Christine! I suck at folding shirts like this!
Christine, Cutting for Business
Saturday 18th of May 2019
Happy to share!
Amanda
Monday 5th of February 2018
Absolutely great idea for packing t-shirts. I found this article very healpful for me. Thanks and keep sharing.
Christine
Tuesday 6th of February 2018
Great to hear!
Daphne
Thursday 2nd of November 2017
Hi Christine, Today was the first time that i actually read through your entire Blog. I am "Highly"disappointed...in myself! Your entire page has been such a blessing to me!! i wish i had taken the time to read through it sooner. You have so much information that you shared that will help my business thrive! thank you so much!
Christine
Friday 3rd of November 2017
Awesome, Daphne! Thanks for reading!
Ann
Sunday 29th of October 2017
Thank you for the great tip!
Christine
Sunday 29th of October 2017
My pleasure!