Your Guide to Starting a Print-on-Demand Business with Ease

Print-on-demand (Print on demand) websites have become an essential tool for entrepreneurs and creatives looking to sell custom products online without the hassle of inventory management. These platforms allow users to design and sell a variety of products such as t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases, only producing the item when an order is placed. This business model significantly lowers the barriers to entry for those seeking to start an online store with minimal upfront costs. In this article, we will explore the top print-on-demand websites, how they work, and the key features to consider when choosing the best platform for your needs.

What is Print on Demand?

Print on demand refers to a business model where products are only created once an order is placed, eliminating the need for bulk manufacturing. This process works by connecting with a print-on-demand service that handles production, printing, and fulfillment. Print on demand services integrate directly with your online store, and they will ship the product directly to your customers without you ever handling it. This model is highly popular among small businesses, artists, and designers due to its low-risk nature and scalability. By utilizing Print on demand websites, entrepreneurs can focus on marketing and design while leaving the production and logistics to the service provider.

Top Print on Demand Websites

There are numerous print-on-demand platforms available, each offering different features, pricing, and product options. Some of the most popular websites in the Print on demand space include:


Printful: Known for its high-quality products and seamless integration with major ecommerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce. Printful offers a wide range of customizable items and is highly praised for its global fulfillment network.
TeeSpring (Spring): Specializes in apparel but also offers various other products like mugs and tote bags. It’s easy to use and allows for direct sales through its own marketplace, making it ideal for creators looking to reach a large audience.
Printify: Provides an extensive catalog of products with access to a network of print providers worldwide. Printify offers more flexibility when choosing manufacturers, which can be beneficial for users looking to diversify product options.
Redbubble: A marketplace-driven Print on demand website where artists can sell their designs on a variety of products. Unlike other platforms, Redbubble offers a community and a built-in audience, making it a great choice for independent designers.


Choosing the right print-on-demand platform depends on factors such as your target audience, product preferences, and integration needs. Each platform has its own strengths, so it’s essential to do thorough research before committing to a specific service.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a print-on-demand website, there are several important features to consider that will impact the efficiency and success of your online business. Here are some key factors to look for:


Product Variety: Different platforms offer various product categories. Some specialize in apparel, while others offer accessories, home decor, or even stationery. Ensure the platform offers products that match your niche and target audience.
Customization Options: The more customizable the products are, the better. Look for websites that allow you to add your unique designs with high-quality print capabilities, such as embroidery, all-over prints, and vibrant colors.
Pricing & Profit Margins: Analyze the pricing structure of each platform. The cost per product will directly affect your profit margins, so it’s important to select a provider with competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
Shipping & Fulfillment: Fast and reliable shipping is crucial for customer satisfaction. Ensure that the platform offers shipping options that can meet your customers' needs, including international shipping if you plan to reach a global audience.
Integration with Ecommerce Platforms: A smooth integration with platforms like Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce is essential. This will make it easier for you to manage orders and automate the process without having to manually update your store every time a sale occurs.


Choosing a print-on-demand platform that meets your business goals requires careful consideration of these factors to ensure that your online store runs smoothly and efficiently.

Getting Started with a Print on Demand Business

Once you’ve selected the print-on-demand website that best suits your needs, it’s time to get started. Here are some steps to help you launch your Print on demand business:


Create Your Designs: The core of any Print on demand business is the design. If you’re not a designer, you can hire a freelance designer or use design tools like Canva to create professional graphics.
Set Up Your Online Store: Choose an ecommerce platform to host your Print on demand store. Shopify and WooCommerce are popular choices, as they integrate easily with most Print on demand services.
Connect to Your Print on demand Platform: After setting up your store, connect it to your chosen Print on demand platform. This will enable seamless order fulfillment, tracking, and customer service.
Market Your Products: Once your store is live, focus on marketing your products. Use social media platforms, email marketing, and influencer collaborations to generate traffic and sales.


Starting a print-on-demand business is an exciting opportunity for creatives and entrepreneurs. By choosing the right Print on demand website and investing in high-quality designs and marketing, you can turn your passion into a successful online business with minimal risk and effort.

In conclusion, print-on-demand websites have democratized the world of e-commerce, allowing anyone with a creative idea to launch and run a successful online store. With so many options available, it’s important to choose the right platform that aligns with your business goals and offers the features you need to grow your brand. Whether you’re an artist, designer, or entrepreneur, the print-on-demand business model offers a flexible and profitable way to sell custom products to a global audience.