ME-Q (operated by MAW Co., Ltd., headquartered in Chuo Ward, Osaka), a print-on-demand service that lets anyone order original goods starting from a single item, has launched a new special page called the Oshi-Katsu Goods Creation Guide aimed at those new to the fan-support hobby.
The practice of "oshi-katsu" — showing support for a favorite idol, artist, or fictional character — has been growing rapidly, especially among younger generations. The oshi-katsu community reportedly numbers around 19.4 million people, with a market size estimated at approximately ¥4.1 trillion. Demand for oshi-katsu merchandise continues to expand alongside this trend.
Fan activities have become increasingly diverse, whether attending live events, posting photos on social media, or displaying collections at home. Along with this, items like acrylic stands (acrylic figures), acrylic keychains, can badges, trading card sleeves, and fan tote bags have all gained popularity.
At the same time, many newcomers to the hobby report feeling uncertain about what kinds of goods to make first, or which items are easiest to create as a beginner.
In response to these needs, the new oshi-katsu goods special page at ME-Q is designed to make it easier for beginners to find the right merchandise for their style.
What the Special Page Includes
The page features content structured to help beginners identify goods that match their own fan activities:
- Popularity rankings for oshi-katsu goods among beginners
- Recommended goods organized by intended use
- A full overview of available oshi-katsu merchandise types
- A guide to creating oshi-katsu goods with just a smartphone
- A showcase of real works shared by users on social media
The rankings highlight popular staples like acrylic stands, can badges, and acrylic keychains. Goods are also broken down by use case — "carrying around," "attending live events," "displaying," and "storage" — so beginners can quickly find options that fit their style.
Design from Your Smartphone
The special page also explains how to use ME-Q's web-based design simulator, which lets users create custom goods directly from a smartphone without installing any app. Uploading a photo is enough to get started, and features like adding text or adjusting layouts can be operated intuitively. Designing is free, and orders can be placed after previewing the finished look.
ME-Q supports orders from a single item, with product categories including acrylic goods, can badges, smartphone cases, bags, and more. Depending on the item, shipping as soon as the 4th business day after ordering is available, making it a practical option ahead of live events or meetups.
Key Features of ME-Q's Oshi-Katsu Goods Service
Order Original Goods from Just One Item
ME-Q lets users order a wide range of original goods — including acrylic stands, acrylic keychains, can badges, and smartphone cases — starting from a single piece, making it easy to create something just for yourself.
Design Easily with Just a Smartphone
No dedicated app required. Simply upload a photo or image from a smartphone, tablet, or computer to start designing. The web-based simulator makes it possible to create custom goods without any specialized knowledge.
Beginner-Friendly Popularity Rankings
A ranking of popular oshi-katsu goods helps first-timers choose items without feeling overwhelmed by the options available.
Browse by Use Case
Items are categorized by how fans typically use them — carrying around, going to live events, displaying, or organizing collections — so it's easier to find goods that suit different fan lifestyles.
Real User Works from Social Media
The page features works shared on social media by ME-Q users, offering a source of ideas and inspiration for anyone planning their first custom goods order.
Selling Handmade Goods with Zero Inventory Risk
Because ME-Q allows production starting from a single item, it also supports a made-to-order selling model — meaning creators can sell original goods without holding any inventory stock. The service is popular among handmade artists, independent creators, and those looking to start a small merchandise side business.
Created goods can also be listed directly on e-commerce platforms such as BASE, making it possible to set up an online shop and start selling with minimal overhead.
For more details, visit: https://www.me-q.jp/topic/original-goods-side-business
ME-Q: https://www.me-q.jp/
