Merch by Amazon (MBA) is one of the best print-on-demand (POD) platforms, but the application process is competitive. Many people get rejected because they don’t provide enough details or lack a strong portfolio.
This guide will cover:
✅ Step-by-step process to apply.
✅ Tips to increase your chances of approval.
✅ Different approaches for influencers, artists, developers, and entrepreneurs.
📌 Step 1: Apply for Merch by Amazon
📝 Go to: Merch by Amazon
➡️ Click “Request Invitation” and fill out the application form.
✅ You Need to Provide:
1️⃣ Business Information – (Name, Address, Country, etc.)
2️⃣ Bank Account & Tax Info – Required for payouts.
3️⃣ Experience & Reason for Applying – The most important part!
❗ Important: Many people get rejected because they write a weak application. You need to convince Amazon why you are a great seller.
📌 Step 2: Write a Strong Application (The Key to Getting Accepted)
Amazon wants sellers who will create original designs and follow their guidelines.
Here’s how to impress them:
🖌️ For Artists & Designers
✅ Show a portfolio of your original artwork (website, Instagram, Behance, Dribbble).
✅ Mention any previous print-on-demand experience (Redbubble, Teespring, Etsy).
✅ Say you will create high-quality, original designs that follow Amazon’s guidelines.
💡 Example Response:
"I have 5+ years of experience in graphic design and have sold artwork on platforms like Redbubble and Etsy. My designs are 100% original, and I focus on trending and evergreen niches. I will create high-quality designs that follow Amazon’s policies, ensuring a great customer experience."
📢 For Influencers & Content Creators
✅ Show your social media presence (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter).
✅ Mention your audience size and how you will promote your designs.
✅ Say you will create unique merch for your audience.
💡 Example Response:
"I am a YouTuber with 50,000+ subscribers and an Instagram account with 20K+ followers. I want to use Merch by Amazon to create custom apparel for my audience. I have experience in branding and design, and I will follow Amazon’s content guidelines."
🖥️ For Developers & Entrepreneurs
✅ Mention your experience in e-commerce, digital marketing, or selling products online.
✅ If you use AI for design generation, mention how it’s original and customized.
✅ Highlight your market research skills (finding trending designs).
💡 Example Response:
"I have experience in e-commerce and digital marketing, selling products through Shopify and Etsy. I plan to use data analysis to identify trending niches and create original, high-quality designs. I will ensure all designs comply with Amazon’s policies and focus on customer satisfaction."
🎨 No Experience? Here’s What to Do
If you are new to print-on-demand, focus on your willingness to learn and your unique ideas.
💡 Example Response:
"I am passionate about design and have been learning graphic design using Adobe Illustrator and Canva. I have researched successful Merch by Amazon strategies and will focus on creating high-quality, unique designs in trending niches. I will follow Amazon’s rules and provide customers with great products."
📌 Step 3: Prepare Your Portfolio (Optional, but Helpful)
Amazon does not require a portfolio, but including one increases your chances of approval.
🖼️ How to Create a Portfolio?
- Use Behance, Dribbble, or a personal website to showcase your designs.
- If you don’t have a website, use Google Drive or Imgur to store your designs.
- Include at least 5-10 designs (original & high-quality).
📌 Link your portfolio in the application under "Additional Information."
📌 Step 4: Submit & Wait (What to Expect?)
- Amazon will review your application manually.
- Approval Time: 2 weeks to 3 months (varies by region).
- If you get rejected, you can apply again later.
🚀 Tips to Speed Up Approval:
✅ Apply using a business email (not Gmail or Yahoo).
✅ Be detailed in your application (avoid generic answers).
✅ Don’t rush – Take time to write a strong application.
📌 FAQs About Merch by Amazon Applications
❓ Can I apply if I have no design experience?
Yes! You can hire designers (on Fiverr, Upwork) or use Canva, Photoshop, or AI tools to create designs. Just explain your strategy in the application.
❓ Do I need a website to get accepted?
No, but having a portfolio link increases your chances.
❓ Can I apply from any country?
Amazon accepts sellers from many countries, but check their official list. If your country is not supported, you can use a US bank account service like Payoneer.
❓ What if I get rejected?
- Wait a few months & reapply.
- Improve your application (add a portfolio, be more detailed).
🎯 Conclusion: How to Get Accepted into Merch by Amazon?
✔️ Write a strong application (highlight your skills).
✔️ Include a portfolio (even if it’s basic).
✔️ Show experience (even if it’s Redbubble, Teespring, Etsy).
✔️ Be patient – It can take weeks/months to get approved.