T-Shirt Design for Tweens and Teens
In partnership with JTruth Designs
The YEP We Design T-Shirt program is an innovative initiative aimed at empowering youth ages 12-17 to explore their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit through the art of t-shirt design. This program provides participants with hands-on experience in graphic design, marketing, and business management, equipping them with valuable skills for future career opportunities.
Business Skills Development:
Participants will learn the fundamentals of graphic design using industry-standard software, creating unique and marketable t-shirt designs. They will be introduced to the principles of branding, marketing, and sales, gaining insights into the full lifecycle of product development. From concept to creation and market launch, youth will engage in:
- Design thinking and creativity exercises.
- Market research and target audience identification.
- Branding and logo design.
- E-commerce platforms and online store setup.
- Sales strategies and customer engagement.
- Budgeting, pricing, and financial management.
Through these activities, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of running a business, enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and preparing them for future ventures.
Social-Emotional Impact:
The YEP We Design program also focuses on the social-emotional development of its participants. Engaging in creative expression and collaborative projects fosters a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem. The program promotes:
- Confidence and self-expression through art.
- Collaboration and teamwork in group projects.
- Problem-solving and critical thinking.
- Resilience and adaptability in overcoming design challenges.
- Communication skills through presentations and peer feedback.
By participating in this program, youth will develop a strong sense of identity and purpose, learning to express themselves creatively while building meaningful connections with their peers. The program provides a supportive environment where participants can explore their passions, build confidence, and develop essential life skills that will benefit them in all areas of their lives.
The YEP We Design T-Shirt program is more than just a design workshop; it is a comprehensive learning experience that prepares youth for future success in business and personal development. By combining technical skills with social-emotional learning, the program aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who are ready to take on the challenges of the world with creativity, confidence, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
By the end of camp students will learn
- Choosing materials to print on
- Vectors vs. pixels
- Choosing a printing method
- Know how direct-to-garment (DTG), dye sublimation, and screen-printing methods work.
- Online t-shirt printing options
- Designing the shirt
- Adobe Illustrator Basics
- Production challenges
- Location and size of design
- How your budget affects your methods
- Specialty colors and inks for screen prints
- Social awareness and creative thinking