Merchandise You Can Sell as an Author
As an author, there are several types of merchandise you can sell to engage with your readers and generate additional revenue. But what should you offer readers? What will catch their attention and make them want to read your book if they haven’t already? What kind of products will your super fans buy from you? Let’s go over some popular merch ideas to help you get started:
Signed Books: Offer autographed copies of your books, either directly through your website or at events. Readers often appreciate personalized signed copies, and it can create a special connection with your audience.
Bookmarks: Create unique bookmarks featuring quotes, artwork, or themes from your books. Bookmarks are affordable to produce and make great promotional items or giveaways. Be sure to include your socials, name, and book cover(s) on them as well!
T-Shirts and Apparel: Design custom T-shirts, hoodies, or other apparel featuring your book covers, quotes, or logos. Wearable merchandise allows readers to show their support for your work and can serve as conversation starters. This is also a subtle way to advertise your book on social media. Earley Editing’s Bookish Shop has a unisex hoodie customizable for authors so they can include their book cover, fanart, or title page on the front! Click here to check it out!
Posters and Art Prints: Create high-quality posters or art prints featuring artwork inspired by your books. These can be sold individually or bundled with book purchases. These are great to take to author signings.
Mugs and Drinkware: Design coffee mugs, travel mugs, or other drinkware items with book-related imagery, quotes, or your author logo. These can be great collectibles for fans and make thoughtful gifts.
Book-Related Accessories: Explore merchandise ideas related to your book's themes or settings. For example, if your book is set in a fantasy world, you could sell keychains, pins, or jewelry inspired by elements from the story. We’ve seen this done for Sarah J. Maas’s books over the years!
Stationery: Produce notebooks, journals, or notepads featuring your book covers or author branding. These can be used by readers for note-taking or as keepsakes.
Bookish PR Boxes: Curate themed PR boxes filled with goodies related to your books, such as bookmarks, stickers, candles, or small bookish items. Dedicated fans can receive a box of surprises with every new release!
Remember to consider the costs, logistics, and fulfillment aspects when deciding on merchandise. Offering merch can not only generate revenue but also strengthen your relationship with readers and boost your overall brand visibility. Be sure you have the time to put together and ship such things on top of writing, family matters, marketing, and any other jobs.
Don’t forget that Earley Editing has a Bookish Shop for Writers! Earley Editing Bookish Shop started with a desire to offer a dedicated space for writers hoping to improve their craft, reach their goals, cater to their genre, and more! Go check it out! 🤎
