Started in 2006, Printfresh is a fashion prints studio housed in a renovated factory in Olde Kensington. The studio boasts many notable clients, including Urban Outfitters, Pottery Barn, Mango, American Eagle, Zara, H&M, and more. To learn more about the studio’s success, we chatted with cofounder and creative director Amy Voloshin.
How’d you get started? Why’d you choose Philly?
Previously, I worked for Urban Outfitters as a design assistant creating prints, embellishments, and garments. I’ve always loved prints and patterns, and wanted to explore the other side of the industry. Also, I’m originally from outside the Philly area and after living and working here, I fell in love with the city!
Can you point to any city services or programs that helped jumpstart your business?
The Goldman Sachs 10KSB [10,000 Small Businesses] program was a fantastic experience. I was in cohort 1 (their first program in Philadelphia) and I didn’t know what to expect. It taught me a lot about planning. I learned how to evaluate a business opportunity – and how to run it through a system to see if it’s worth pursuing. As an entrepreneur it’s very easy to always jump into your next big idea – but this program taught me to slow down and really study whether it was just an idea – or if it was truly an opportunity worth committing time and energy to. I also met a lot of amazing entrepreneurs through the program – through sharing experiences we all learned so much from one another. I now have a much stronger network of friends and business connections because of the program.
Any words of wisdom for new startups?
It’s important to maintain a positive attitude and hire the right people. Look for passionate people willing to go outside their job descriptions
Plans for the future?
We’re in the process of renovating a new studio space in Harrowgate. Supported with financing from PIDC, the new studio is nearly double the size of our current location in Olde Kensington. We’re also in the process of launching a lifestyle brand of stationary and clothing!
To learn more about Printfresh, visit their website.