Explore the most budget-friendly options for custom shirts with print on demand services.

When it comes to starting your own custom apparel brand or simply creating personalized shirts for a special occasion, finding a reliable print-on-demand (POD) service that offers cheap prices without compromising on quality is crucial. This article will guide you through the cheapest print-on-demand shirt options available, highlighting the best platforms, tips for saving money, and how to choose the right service for your needs.

1. What is Print on Demand and How Does It Work?
Print on demand is a business model that allows you to create custom designs for products like t-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and more, without holding inventory or upfront costs. When a customer places an order, the POD company prints the design on the product and ships it directly to the buyer. This means you don’t have to invest in large amounts of stock upfront, making it an ideal solution for small businesses and individual entrepreneurs.

The beauty of POD services is that they provide an easy and low-risk way to create and sell custom-designed shirts. All you need is a design and a platform to sell it through. Many POD providers also offer integration with online marketplaces like Etsy, Shopify, and WooCommerce, making it easy to set up an e-commerce store. While some POD companies are more expensive than others, there are several budget-friendly options for those looking to create high-quality shirts at the cheapest prices.

2. The Best Budget-Friendly Print on Demand Services
There are several print-on-demand services that offer cheap t-shirts without sacrificing quality. Some of the best budget-friendly options include:


Printful: One of the most popular POD companies, Printful offers a wide variety of products, including t-shirts. While their pricing may not always be the absolute lowest, their quality and ease of use make them a strong contender for those starting out.
Printify: Another major player in the POD space, Printify offers low-cost shirts and a vast catalog of products. They work with multiple print providers, giving you the option to compare prices and select the most affordable options. They also offer a free plan for entrepreneurs looking to get started on a tight budget.
TeeSpring: Known for its simplicity and ease of use, TeeSpring (now called Spring) offers cheap pricing on shirts and other custom apparel. Their platform is particularly geared toward creators and influencers looking to sell merchandise without upfront costs.
Apliiq: Apliiq focuses on unique, custom clothing options and offers competitive pricing for shirts and other apparel. While they specialize in custom embroidery and labels, they also provide affordable printed shirts.
T-Shirt Gang: This platform offers some of the lowest base prices for printed t-shirts. Their user-friendly interface allows you to design and sell shirts quickly, making them an excellent choice for those who need cheap options with good quality.


When choosing a POD provider, make sure to compare their pricing, product offerings, and shipping times to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your custom shirts.

3. Tips for Keeping Your Shirt Printing Costs Low
While choosing a cheap print-on-demand service is a great first step, there are also several strategies you can implement to keep your printing costs low. Here are some tips for saving money while getting the best value:


Order in Bulk (If Possible): Some print-on-demand services offer discounts when you order in bulk. Even though the premise of POD is that you don't need to hold inventory, if you plan to sell a large number of shirts in the future, ordering a batch upfront can save you money per unit.
Choose Lower-Cost Shirt Blanks: The type of shirt you choose will have a significant impact on the cost. Basic cotton shirts typically cost less than more premium materials like tri-blends or organic cotton. If you're looking to keep costs down, opt for basic, high-quality shirts that offer good value for money.
Limit Design Complexity: More complex designs that require multiple colors or larger prints can increase production costs. Try to simplify your designs to use fewer colors and smaller print areas, which will generally be cheaper to produce.
Use Free Design Tools: Many print-on-demand platforms offer free design tools that allow you to create shirts without needing expensive software like Adobe Illustrator. If you don’t have design experience, take advantage of these tools to create professional-looking designs on a budget.
Check for Promotions and Discounts: Many print-on-demand platforms offer seasonal discounts or promotions. Keep an eye out for sales or special offers that can help you save on your orders.


By applying these strategies, you can ensure that you’re keeping your costs low while still offering high-quality shirts to your customers.

4. How to Choose the Right Print on Demand Service for Cheap Shirts
While pricing is important, it’s also essential to consider other factors when choosing a print-on-demand service. Here are some key considerations to help you find the right provider for your needs:


Quality of Printing: A cheap price tag means little if the quality of the prints is subpar. Look for services that offer high-quality printing methods, such as direct-to-garment (DTG) printing, which provides crisp, vibrant prints that won’t fade over time.
Shipping Costs and Times: Even the cheapest POD service can become expensive when shipping fees are added. Compare shipping costs and delivery times to ensure your customers will receive their orders promptly and at a reasonable price.
Customer Support: Good customer service can make a big difference in your overall experience. Choose a POD provider that offers responsive customer support in case you run into issues with your orders or designs.
Product Variety: The more options you have, the better you can diversify your product range. Some POD companies offer a wider variety of products than others, so consider a provider with a broad selection of shirts, hoodies, and other custom apparel to expand your brand.
Integration with E-Commerce Platforms: If you plan to sell your shirts online, look for POD services that integrate with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, or WooCommerce. This can save you time and effort in managing your store and orders.


In conclusion, while there are many print-on-demand providers to choose from, the key to finding the cheapest shirts lies in balancing quality, price, and service features. By considering these factors and exploring different providers, you can start your own affordable custom t-shirt business with ease.


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