New IG Algorithm Insights, Making $ From Merch, + TikTok's New Venture

How to Do Merch Right

This week in Creator Studio, we interviewed Zamsire (773k subscribers)—a creator who makes over 80% of his revenue from merch sales.

While he started as a gaming creator, he’s now known for his adorable plushie brand Eggdog. Here’s how he built it:

Start with Something Low-Cost

Zamsire didn’t dive straight into manufacturing plushies. He started with print-on-demand t-shirts (something that requires almost no upfront capital).

It’s a smart way to test the waters, see who’s intersted in purchasing from you, then evolve from there.

Promote Your Merch Like You Would Normal Content

You need to promote your merch—it’s just a fact.

But make sure you’re treating these videos the same way you would a normal video. Make it fun to watch regardless of whether the viewer plans to buy the merch or not.

When you’re not investing the same time and effort into these videos is when it’ll come off as a cash grab.

Taking an L Today Could Lead to a W Tomorrow

Zamsire started sponsoring esports events by accident.

Sales weren’t anything crazy, so they sponsored an Invitational. They broke even but are hopeful the new audience they’re gaining will grow into a loyal crowd that ultimately drives revenue for the brand.

Want 1:1 Advice From Creators like Zamsire?

We interview creators like Zamsire every week in Creator Studio, our private Discord community. If you attend the calls live, you can ask questions and get live answers from guests.

One Discord member got 1:1 feedback from one of the top thumbnail artists. 😅

TikTok’s Next Venture: Helping Creators Manufacture Products

In a recent Business Insider article, it was revealed that TikTok has been working on a new endeavor—helping creators sell their own custom products.

While the information is limited, they’re rumored to be connecting creators with manufacturers.

This isn’t too surprising. While most products on TikTok Shop are third-party sellers, it’s a great space for creators to sell their own goods. Yet many creators simply don’t know where to start.

TikTok wants to boost sales on Shop. Creators want more stable income. It’s a win-win.

Instagram Algorithm Insights

Adam Mosseri (the head of IG) is back with another Instagram algorithm insight…😀

In his latest video, he shared why carousels often get more reach than photos:

1. Multiple pieces of media = more interactions = more reach.

2. If someone sees your carousel but doesn’t swipe, IG will often give that carousel a second chance. They’ll show the post to the viewer again with the second piece of media instead of the first.

He also gave a quick tip for extending the reach on your carousels:

• Add music. This makes it eligible to show up in the Reels tab.

Quick Links

🤭 Use these subliminal hooks to capture attention.

🎵 TikTok trends you can hop onto.

📈 X releases powerful keyword research tool for creators.

⏰ Shorts will now allow videos up to 3 minutes long.

👀 How Nile Red makes millions from YouTube.

See ya next week,

Karat