Some insights into producing poetry merch

Financial details and production processes, including audio and apparel products

Nymphs & Thugs merch table in 2019 • Image credit: Idle Work Factory

Heading down the DIY route as a poet can extend far beyond self-publishing collections or pamphlets. Merchandise can also be a brilliant way to generate revenue. It’s not easy, but here are some insights to help you.

When I formed the Nymphs & Thugs record label in 2015, my initial aim was to sell CDs of the spoken word show that I took for a week’s run at Edinburgh Fringe. The album was also released via Bandcamp. This was a real lightbulb moment.

For many reasons, the traditional publishing route isn’t feasible for everybody. And even if it is, the timescales are extremely long. Also, I’d fallen in love with poetry through listening to it, so why not explore spoken word albums?

Over the years (2015-2022), Nymphs & Thugs produced CDs, 2LP gatefold vinyl, t-shirts, zines, pin badges, tote bags, and A4 prints. Some were more successful than others, and there are clearly even more options out there.

Cardboard CD sleeves being screen-printed; poetry on vinyl!

Clearly, prices have changed over the last decade, and there are more avenues to explore in terms of production processes. However, I believe my experiences will still provide valuable insights into producing poetry merch.

---

I’ll provide insight, including financial details, for the following:

• 2LP gatefold vinyl

• T-shirts

• Printed zines/pamphlets

• Audio releases (including streaming platforms)

Obviously, audio releases don’t count as physical merch, but as a potential income stream for poets, it seems silly not to include them in this post. That’s coupled with the fact that CDs seem to be entirely obsolete for the foreseeable future.

This post is behind a paywall because I’m being candid with financial details and production struggles. There’s always a bonus post token for the 7-day free trial if you’re desperate to see behind the curtain!