Explore cost-effective options for custom shirts with print-on-demand services that fit your budget

When it comes to custom shirts, print-on-demand (POD) services have become increasingly popular, especially for those looking to create personalized clothing without breaking the bank. With the rise of e-commerce, many small business owners, artists, and even individuals are turning to POD to create affordable, high-quality custom t-shirts. In this article, we will explore the world of cheap print-on-demand shirts, including how these services work, the factors affecting prices, and some of the best platforms to consider for cost-effective options.

What is Print-on-Demand and How Does It Work?

Print-on-demand (POD) is a business model where products, such as t-shirts, are printed and fulfilled only when an order is placed. This eliminates the need for large upfront investments in inventory and allows sellers to offer a wide range of designs without taking on the financial risk associated with traditional manufacturing methods. Essentially, POD services print a design on a shirt after a customer places an order, and then ship the shirt directly to the customer. This process makes it a great option for small businesses or individuals looking to sell custom shirts without significant overhead costs.

The POD model works through an online platform where designers or entrepreneurs upload their artwork or design files. The print-on-demand company then uses this design to print on shirts in different sizes and colors. Some popular POD companies even offer a variety of products, including hoodies, mugs, and phone cases. This flexibility allows sellers to create custom merchandise without worrying about stock or shipping logistics. All you need to do is market your designs and drive traffic to your online store.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Cheap Print-on-Demand Shirts

While the concept of print-on-demand shirts sounds appealing, there are several factors that can affect the cost. Understanding these can help you choose the right platform and products for your budget.


Base Price of the Shirt: The price of the shirt itself is a key factor in determining the overall cost. Basic t-shirts from POD companies can range from $5 to $15, depending on the brand, fabric quality, and shirt style. For cheaper options, it's best to opt for standard cotton tees rather than premium or eco-friendly fabrics.

Printing Method: Different printing methods can affect the cost. The most common methods are screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, and heat transfer. DTG tends to be the most affordable for small orders and highly detailed designs, while screen printing is often used for bulk orders but can become more expensive with intricate designs.

Order Volume: Although print-on-demand models usually cater to one-off orders, some platforms offer discounts on bulk orders. The more shirts you order, the lower the per-shirt price tends to be. However, keep in mind that for individuals and small business owners, ordering in bulk might not always be necessary or cost-effective unless you plan to sell the shirts in large quantities.

Shipping Costs: Shipping fees can add up quickly, especially for international orders. Many POD companies offer free or discounted shipping for bulk orders, but it’s essential to account for these fees when pricing your products. Additionally, the location of the POD provider can influence the shipping cost and delivery time.

Design Complexity: Simple designs typically cost less to print than highly detailed ones. If your design involves multiple colors or intricate artwork, it might cost more to produce. Consider streamlining your designs or opting for minimalistic artwork to keep costs low while maintaining a stylish look.


Best Platforms for Cheap Print-on-Demand Shirts

There are several print-on-demand services available, each offering different price points and features. Here’s a look at some of the most affordable and reliable platforms for creating custom shirts:


Printful: Printful is one of the leading POD companies, known for its high-quality products and wide range of options. While not always the cheapest, Printful’s pricing structure is competitive, especially when you consider its printing quality and integrations with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Etsy. They offer a variety of t-shirt styles, including options for organic cotton and eco-friendly fabrics. Their base prices for basic shirts start around $8 to $10.

Printify: Printify is another popular choice for affordable POD shirts, with a vast network of print providers across the globe. Their pricing is transparent, and they offer competitive base prices that often start as low as $6. Printify also provides options for customized apparel, including premium and eco-friendly t-shirts, and integrates easily with e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce, Etsy, and Shopify.

TeeSpring: TeeSpring is ideal for those looking to sell custom shirts without upfront costs. TeeSpring offers easy-to-use tools for creating and marketing your designs. Their platform allows users to set their own prices and control profit margins. The base cost for a basic shirt on TeeSpring is around $10, and shipping is generally reasonable, with free shipping available in certain regions.

Gooten: Gooten is another POD service offering affordable t-shirts and other customizable products. Their platform is easy to navigate, and they offer a competitive pricing structure. Base prices for t-shirts typically range from $7 to $12. Gooten also provides a wide range of integrations with e-commerce platforms, making it a solid choice for entrepreneurs looking to scale.


Tips for Saving Money on Cheap Print-on-Demand Shirts

If you’re looking to maximize your savings while producing custom shirts, here are a few strategies to keep in mind:


Use Simple Designs: As mentioned earlier, more complex designs usually incur higher costs. Consider creating minimalist designs or using fewer colors to lower printing costs without compromising on style.

Leverage Bulk Discounts: While POD services generally focus on small orders, some offer discounts for larger quantities. If you’re planning to sell a batch of shirts, consider ordering in bulk to lower the per-shirt cost. Some platforms also offer discounts for long-term users or when you hit specific sales targets.

Watch for Special Offers: Many POD services offer seasonal discounts, promotions, or deals on shipping. Keep an eye out for these offers to save money on your orders, especially during holidays or special events.

Choose the Right Provider: While some POD services may seem like the best choice due to low base prices, the overall cost can be affected by hidden fees, shipping costs, and other factors. Always research and compare different providers to find the best balance of price, quality, and service.


Print-on-demand shirts offer an excellent opportunity for creating affordable, personalized clothing without upfront costs or significant risks. By understanding the factors that affect pricing and selecting the right platform, you can easily create and sell custom t-shirts that fit both your budget and your style. Whether you’re an entrepreneur launching a new brand or simply looking for a way to print your designs, there are plenty of affordable options available that won’t break the bank.