WHAT'S WRONG WITH THE SHIRTS?

[Deleted]

For a couple of years vintage vanners have been wanting vintage caravan shirts.

There were a couple of failed attempts to get T. & Polo shirts happening, but finally, this year, about a month ago, we managed to come up with the goods .

vintagecaravans.proboards30.com/index.cgi?board=Memorabilia2&action=display&thread=1188307543

Paparazzi & Ditzy put alot of time into the design & manufacture of these shirts, there was alot of discussion, design work, and shopping around to manufactures.

The shirts have been on sale for about a month, and to date we have sold about 10 shirts out of 100 .

Ditzy & I put alot of time & effort into vintagecaravans.com, and whilst we're not here for profit, we're not here for loss either
I think we are very fair, when you consider membership is free, and forum advertising is free. A few members have made good money out of using this forum as an advertising medium.

So, lets use this post to have a REAL CRITICAL LOOK at these shirts, & ascertain why nobody wants them

Honesty is a MUST, if you think they are CRAP, please say they're CRAP.

Here are some possible reasons:

Are they too dull

Is it because the design has no Sunliners included

Are they too expensive

Are we concerned that its fundraising for the Beverley Home of Vintage Caravans

Is the postage cost too high

Are they not LOUD enough

Is it because the polo shirts have no pocket

Should we have used the bald headed, ex-fat Gnome from WA to model the shirts, instead of Ditzy's daughter

And, discussion is also encouraged, on how Ditzy & I can recoup the $1400 we are out of pocket for these shirts.

One idea I have is to shut down this forum totally, and start a new forum. Membership to the new forum would cost $50, and include a free shirt & sticker


Mark

PS ........a big thank you to those who have purchased shirts ......they will be despatched shortly

[SNAIL]

Sorry Mark , don't won't to be negative but you seem to be experiencing the same apathy as us.When we take the time, enthusiasum , interest and money to organise the annual Spring Tour and after confirming there interest and the oraganisers book sites,itinaries etc some just make their own way or simply pull out without so much of a phone call.
On the good side will be in Perth shortly to catch up for a beer or seven a t Shirt and a calander .
Snail

[JBJ]

Hi Mark,


As you know, I paid for & ordered 3 shirts, only to realise after I ordered that you didn't make any big enough for me. that is XXL. I know theres a lot of us easterners wear that size, but I dont know if any of them would buy them.

I thought they were OK, not very exciting, but quite good enough to wear. The price is reasonable, as its around what I pay at a hot rod event.

Interestingly most of the Hot Rod events sell more XXL than any other size I've been told.


I think you've been caught in the same apathy that occured when we tried to organise shirts a couple of years back.


I have no idea what you can do to flog the shirts.

I personally would have no problems with a yearly fee on the forum, & you providing a shirt. But you'd have to have the bigger shirts available then, & most of the cheapskates would just log on as guests. If you decide to print a few larger ones, I'll definitely buy a few.

You'd probably find that your true number of involved forum members would be less than 30, at least those that would contribute $50 to be a member.

Jailbarjuice

[whippy]

If any one on this site knows me, I won't beat around the bush, I am sorry Mark, but to me they appear amaturish and are not worth the $35.00 you are asking for them.

With the hard words being said , (I am not deliberately meaning to offend anyone) I don't have a problem with having a annual membership fee or p[ayuing $35 for a quality club shirt.

[thethreebears]

Hi Mark
Been snowed under recently and only just saw the note about the T shirts. We would like to order 1 T shirt and 1 polo. Is the total postage for the 2 shirts $5?

I presume the sizes are in Men sizing.

Thanks
Barb
TheThreeBears

[hknut]

Hi Mark,

Just read our post about the shirts and would like to order a polo shirt in large and will have the money deposited into your acct as usual. Sorry I haven't responded earlier and placed an order but I forgot all about it.
I think the shirts are reasonable for the price and the artwork looks Ok and in keeping with the theme of the forum, I have seen club type shirts ( sorry for that word ) sold for lots more and are definately crap and good for oil rags only. Jeez, we all spend more over the bar in one session chinwagging to our fellow vintvanners during our get togethers than the asking price of these shirts.
Hope the lack of response is people have just plain forgotten and not apathy.

Cheers HKnut

[sutcac]

:)G'day Mark. I think the shirts are fine in all aspects re colour ,graphics and design, price, etc. Like Jailbar, I require at least a XXL size.If this was available , then I'd certainly buy a couple.

Re recouping your costs:

How about sending a big heap of shirts and calenders over to Coledale for our major get together? I'm sure a small display could be easily set up and manned by several of us on a rotational basis on the Sat and Sun . ( just a table across the front of an annex would do as a "shop front/stall" )
With approx 50 vans and heaps of visitors , I"m sure we would move quite a bit of merchandise for you.
I would be prepared to coordinate things this end. If you were any way concerned about sending the stock without payment, I could deposit ,say $1000 into your a/c as security .

I'm sure we could sell a fair bit of gear , especially with people like Reddo, Maurie and others manning the stall ;D ;D ;D

[1954homemade]

Hi Mark,

I've been slack. Planned on ordering one and just haven't got around to it - sorry.

I second Sutcac's idea about setting up a stall at Coledale and I would be more than happy to help man the stall and sell them. I could also purchase my t-shirt then !!!!

Regards
Diane

[jrod]

Hi Mark,

Im in the same boat as Dianne, been wanting to order one in time for the ECST, just needed the push to do it!

I think the shirts look great. I wouldn't worry too much about the designs and look of the shirt as you can only please some of the people some of the time! We are all different, plus i am not too worried if my van doesnt appear!

I agree with Sutcat, send some over for Coledale and we will do our best to move some for you!

Cheers J-Rod

[cobber]

As you know Mark , I have ordered a couple and the only problem I have with them is...... I haven’t got them yet.

I support Sutcac’s proposal and apply to be placed on the roster.

After that, put the calendars on eBay... hang on to the shirts, they will sell eventually, Wills got some good suggestions (on the calendar thread )

Enough said..... I’ll bite my tongue.. again.

Cobber.

[Deleted]

Oiy Mark Poo - Bags

Cheer up mate .


We ran a raffle last year and done alright. .. (Thanks everyone who supported it.)

I reckon running a stall full of official website goodies wouldnt be too hard to bung on.
You have my address.
Send me a carton of say 20 shirts ( all shapes and sizes) and 12 calanders and we will send you back the empty box and a envelope full of money.

Do i sound optomistic???
Well i am ... and enthusiastic as always .
Anyone intending to buy an official www.vintagecaravans.com website sticker.
I will also have 30 of them available at Coledale for purchase at $10 each. Discount of 10% if you buy 10 or more of them. ;D

I think some of the replys here have hit the problem on the head. Just getting our act together and going to a bank or sitting down organising the dollars can get put on the back burner .People just dont get around to it. If the goodies ( and the salestaff) are "in your face" then i reckon sales will go OK.

You guys out there have gotta remember Mark started this forum for the enjoyment of all of us... Its up to all of us to support him by at least buying something . Maybe the shirts aint the coolest thing ya have ever pulled over your head but you have to remember that a small portion of what gets raised will be used to keep this site up and running for our future enjoyment.

WILL has already given you a list of alternative uses for the shirts ;D.

Buying a t shirt may well be a bit like xmas when ya get a knitted jumper from aunt Ethel that has 3 sleeves, is pink, 2 sizes too small and smells like pensioners farts ....... Ya gotta remember its the thought that counts. Doesnt matter if ya end up using the shirt in the toilet . Just buy one .. or 2.. or three. Your last speeding fine probably cost ya 10 times more and you've got nuthin' ta show for it.. have ya ...... naaa didnt think so,

Bugger the idea of a yearly subscription. Startin to sound like some sort of National Geographic society subscribee
Why not just grab a bit of Vintage caravan regallia . By doing so you will be helping to advertise the website and our hobby.


Me being the single type runamuck person on the tour and at Coledale will have plenty of room in the TD auto tent annexe for a geniune " 'Arold steptoe type stall".
Hmmm might even get an official "Salvation Army Second Hand Goods Shop" sign and pedal off some of my old holey tee shirts ,greasy overalls, smelly soxs and skid marked undies .... yyyuuuuuukkkkk


By the looks of the volunteers that have already put thier maulers up to help run the stall, i better have a secret stash of "refreshments" to keep the counter staff happy ;D

Can just see Cobber and Sutcac sashaying up to the counter with one hand on the hip. letting the wrist go limp and coming out with....."Are you being served??"

Ssssssh dont tell thier missus that i am running an "Early opener/late closer/ sly grog/ tee shirt shop" ;D

Ok Marcus Poobagus. Get packin those T shirts son... well ... ... go on.......... get moving.............. >:(I said..... ...get moving...... Do It..........NOW.... MOVE BOY.... I SAID........NOW

Reddoldtshirtdealafromwayback ;D

[sportsman 1]

Hi Mark,

thought I'd throw in my 2 bobs worth.

I think lots of people dont seem to "get around" to doing things these days. Life is far too hectic!

I'm sure many people will buy a shirt if it is there in front of them but don't get around to writing off, organising payment, etc.

The idea of sending some to the Coledale weekend is a great idea. I would also like to offer to sell some at the Bendigo Swap if this is ok with you. I have a secure indoor site and would be pleased to put them on a table and snaffle any and all VVers that happen by. Same applies for the calendars and stickers if you like.

Perhaps we will become the unofficial Bendigo Swap site for the Vintage (and Classic?) van group/s if no one else wants to do it.

Are you coming over this year? If not perhaps someone can bring them over (or up from Coledale) to save on postage.

Let me know what you think.

Cheers for now,

Leigh.

[Roehm3108]

I'll join the queue of bludgers what simply haven't got around toit
I had asked about postage for more than one order and you said to watch this space, so I did
WIll go and organise my order this evening after dinner.
Cheers
Ray

[MRFJ55]

NOTHING WRONG WITH THE SHIRTS I'LL BUY ONE FOR SURE AND WILL WEAR IT WITH PRIDE . I THINK ONCE EVERYBODY GETS TO SEE ONE ON SOMEONE THEY WILL BE HAPPIER WITH THE PRODUCT AND MAKE THE PURCHASE THEN . I THINK ITS A BIT HARD TO JUDGE FROM THE PHOTOS HOW GOOD THEY ARE . SO SELLING THEM FACE TO FACE WOULD HAVE TO BE A WINNER !
I THINK CLYDE'S IDEA IS THE WAY TO GO , AND I WILL PUT MY HAND UP TO HELP HIM SELL THEM AT COLEDALE AMONGST OURSELVES AND TO THE HUGE CROWD OVER THE WEEKEND , ESPECIALLY ON THE SUNDAY WITH A FEW CAR CLUBS CRUIZIN IN AGAIN FOR A LOOKIE-SEE .
LETS DO IT ! MAURIE

[fibrelass]

I will order a polo..soon! ..perhaps a little more profiling for newer members who may not have been aware of the shirts?
I like the colour..I'll just have to embroider a fibreglass van in one small corner!!
Cheers ;D

[tinnie]

Hey Mark,
Got the idea, lock down the site and have it only available for entry once order for shirt has been placed ;D
Seriously, I thought the shirts looked the goods, I thought the style of the picture was in keeping with 'nostalgia',like a vintvan. I agree with reddo - who gives a hoot anyways, just buy one or two.
But then I own more tshirts than imelda marcos had shoes

If I can crawl out from under my sombrero sober enuff from a siesta, surely some northerners and westerners can manage it.
Cheers,

Gristy

[Deleted]

thanks to everybody for their input on this post.

Some orders for shirts are now starting to flow through

And thanks to those members who have offered to man a stall at Coledale ......I'll take up your offer and package a heap of shirts and calenders and post them to my trusty contact in the East .

Thanks Sutcac for your offer of $1000, but that won't be necessary ........

Mark

[Deleted]

Leigh,
not sure whether I'll do the Bendigo swap

I'm close to having organised a couple of caravans to pick up form Vic & SA, so, if I can find someone with time to drive my truck accross to Bendigo, I'll fly over, do the swap, pick up the two vans, than drive the truck back accross the Nulla .......its a plan ;D

The stand to sell VV merchandise is a top idea, so, if the plan works, will bring a heap with me (if there's any left by then ;D)

Mark

[1954homemade]

Hi Mark,

Great that you are sending some merchandise across for the East Coast. I will get my T-Shirt then - thanks.

Mark, Reddo, Sutcac.
As for selling them, I have a lockable money tin that I can bring along if you want for the stall?

I am also happy to do up bright For Sale signage and signage that lists the items and their prices to help attract people to the stall.i.e.
T-Shirts $20
Polo Shirts $35
Calendars $20
Stickers $10
etc etc.

Before I do that, can someone please confirm if you want me to add a dollar or 2 etc to the prices to accommodate the cost of Mark having to send them all over here in the first place?

Cheers
Regards
Diane

[lulu]

Ok Honest opinion for the next time if you decide to do the t-shirts again, this is might be an option


V-Neck only..because they are comfy, not hot around the neckline and are flattering on everyone.

Side splits on the hips...so your butt doesnt look big and you can wear different thickness material for your bottom half like jeans for eg.

Logo...its BRILLIANT the design as is, but change the front one to the long vv website logo as it's too much with the vv & car again (its already on the entire back) which is enough and looks great!

Colours...Black, White and instead of grey maybe a 50's mint green colour with either light pink or blue writing. Blue writing better as the blokes would wear it too.

Material...If not 100% cotton then maybe breathable fabric, like i use for my shirts for my cleaning business. They don't fade, are light & design stays on without peeling/cracking ect. They are very affordable too.

LuLu

[don257]

Mark, hopefully we will have our shirts in time for cora lynn show,and we ''WILL BE WEARING THEM'' any inquires about them will be past on to you. Doug&Vick.---

[Deleted]

Unfortunately Doug & Vicki, you won't receive the shirts in time.

I left last Sunday for a few days away, and left the "express posting" of your shirts to Ditzy .....it was supposed to have been done on Tuesday.

......she let me down ......the shirts didn't get posted .....

my apologies,

Mark

[tinnie]

Thanks Mark,
Got my T-shirt today and very happy with it, reckon I will live in it!
I will order another in a week or so pls, just need to confirm with the director of finance what size she wants ;D
Pity they aren't in kiddie sizes or I would have a couple more (I know that's waaay too hard).
Quality is good ,fit is good, style is good - me
Cheers and thanks

Gristy

[thethreebears]

Thanks Mark - Received the shirts this week. Very pleased with the product - will wear them with pride.

Calendar is superb - vintage vans - all year!!!

Cheers
Barb & Brian