1. Travel accessories

People want to travel in comfort, seeking out accessories and gadgets to make their journeys smoother. This is definitely a market niche to keep an eye on.

Here are a few product ideas:

• Bags, luggage, and tags. Sturdy suitcases, backpacks, and personalized luggage charms for easy spotting.
• Water bottles and tumblers. Reusable and insulated to keep drinks hot or iced on the go.
• Towels and blankets. Soft bath towels, oversized beach towels, and cozy picnic blankets.
• Travel pouches. Things like satchels, hiking bags, and travel fanny packs.
• Portable chargers. High-capacity power banks and compact wireless chargers are always in demand.

2. Health products

In 2023, 74% of US adults took daily supplements – a consistent increase from previous years. If you need creative ideas for 2025, health products are a booming market niche worth exploring.

Some of the best health products to sell on Shopify include:

• Nutritional supplements. Vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies.
• Massage tools. Handheld massagers, foam rollers, and acupressure mats for recovery and relaxation.
• Activity trackers. Smartwatches and fitness bands to monitor health metrics.

Explore eCommerce marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, or Amazon for ideas, and check out Printify’s selection of white-label supplements from top print-on-demand suppliers.

3. Beauty products

With the thriving US beauty and personal care industry valued at $104.74 billion in 2025, it’s no surprise that these are some of the best-selling products driving online sales on Shopify.

Consider offering print-on-demand beauty products and check out these high-demand categories to sell online:

• Skincare products. Moisturizers, serums, and scrubs.
• Hair care products. Shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments.
• Oral hygiene. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, whitening kits, and floss.
• Bath essentials. Bath bombs, salts, oils, and towels.
• Fragrances. Perfumes, colognes, and scented candles.

4. Makeup

The cosmetics market is huge and expected to hit $139.29 billion by 2030, making it a prime opportunity for Shopify sellers to grow their online businesses.

Consider adding some of these makeup items to your online store:

• Makeup essentials. Cleansers, primers, foundations, and concealers.
• Highlighters. Powders, creams, and liquid formulas for a subtle glow.
• Lipstick and lip gloss. From bold matte lipsticks to shimmering lip glosses.
• Eye makeup. Eyeshadows, mascaras, and eyeliners.
• Beauty tools. Makeup brushes, facial rollers, cosmetic organizers.

5. Eco-friendly products

80% of shoppers worldwide are willing to pay up to 5% more for eco-friendly products, giving you higher profit margins for your Shopify store.

Here are a few sustainable trending products to sell online:

• Eco-friendly apparel. T-shirts, sweatshirts, and tanks.
• Reusable bags. Custom totes, mesh grocery bags, and jute shopping bags.
• Bamboo toothbrushes. Naturally antimicrobial brushes with biodegradable handles.
• Phone cases. Protective mobile phone accessories from sustainable materials.
• Eco-friendly stationery. Recycled paper notebooks, plantable seed paper cards, and soy-based ink pens.

6. Vegan products

Vegan options are a growing niche – find these items anywhere from local supermarkets to skincare labels. Many shoppers are actively choosing ethical products for sustainable consumption.

Meet market demand by including these vegan products in your inventory:

• Vegan hygiene products. Cruelty-free toothpaste, deodorants, body wash, and hand soaps.
• Vegan beauty products. Ethical skincare, haircare, and makeup products.
• Faux leather goods. Wallets, handbags, belts, and accessories made from vegan leather.
• Vegan fragrances. Responsibly made candles, diffusers, and room sprays.

7. Pet products

65.1 million households in the US own a dog, while 46.5 million have cats. That’s a whole lot of furry friends – and spending power – under one roof.

If you’re looking for a simple yet effective method to increase your sales volume, consider adding custom pet gifts to your store.

Here are a few pet products to sell:

• Cozy pet beds. Plush beds, orthopedic mattresses, and elevated cots.
• Feeding stations. Non-slip mats and bowls to prevent spills and messes.
• Interactive toys. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing balls, and chew toys.
• Grooming pet supplies. Brushes, combs, nail clippers, pet shampoo, and conditioner.
• Pet apparel and accessories. Hoodies, tank tops, collars, and leashes.

8. Sports and fitness products

Health is big business. The US sports and fitness industry’s $41.8 billion market size is driven by fitness apparel, accessories, apps, and wellness trends. 

This gives you an excellent opportunity to profit from fitness gear and start selling quality products on Shopify.

Here are a few high-demand items to add to your store:

• Athletic apparel. Breathable and moisture-wicking t-shirts, shorts, leggings, and sports bras.
• Home fitness equipment. Yoga mats, weights, and resistance bands for at-home strength training.
• Foam rollers. High-density, textured, or vibrating rollers to aid muscle recovery.
• Fitness trackers. Smartwatches, heart rate monitors, and step counters to track workouts and daily activity.
• Water bottles. Reusable stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and collapsible bottles for hydration on the go.

9. Garden products

From vibrant flowers to delicious fruits and veggies, people love turning their spaces into organic sanctuaries. Home and garden products are ripe with opportunities to profit.

Here are a few items to add to your Shopify online store:

• Seeds and plants. Flowers, vegetables, herbs, and succulents.
• Pots and planters. Ceramic, hanging, self-watering, and biodegradable pots for indoor and outdoor.
• Gardening tools. Shovels, trowels, pruners, and shears.
• Outdoor furnishing. Lounge chairs, patio sets, blankets, and pillows.
• Lawn decorations. Garden gnomes, yard signs, and wind chimes.

10. Home office equipment

With a growing number of people working remotely, products that support comfortable and functional workspaces are in demand.

Here are a bunch of great options to add to your online store:

• Ergonomic equipment. Adjustable desks, monitor stands, and ergonomic chairs.
• Audio tools. High-quality headphones and earbuds for crystal-clear sound and noise cancellation.
• Desk items. Pencil cups, drawer dividers, and monitor stands with slide-out compartments.
• Cord organizers. Clips and sleeves to deal with messy cords and cables.
• Office decor. Custom-printed wall art, plants, and coasters.

11. Electronics

Gadgets and tech accessories never go out of style. They’re always in demand, creating a sustainable revenue stream for your Shopify store.

Products to offer from this category include:

• Wireless charging pads. Fast-charging pads and stands compatible with smartphones, earbuds, and smartwatches.
• Portable Bluetooth speakers. Compact, waterproof, and high-fidelity speakers for indoor and outdoor use.
• Lighting. LED bulbs, smart light strips, desk lamps, and standing lamps.
• Smart home devices. Smart plugs, light bulbs, thermostats, and other tech gadgets that can be controlled remotely.
• Gamer accessories. Keyboards, mice, controllers, headsets, and other gamer merch.

12. Smartphone accessories

From cases to charging cables, these everyday must-haves keep customers’ phones powered, protected, and personalized. 

Want in on the smartphone market? Start with these top-selling accessories on Shopify:

• Phone cases. Think transparent, glossy, and matte custom phone cases for different phone models.
• Screen protectors. Tempered glass and anti-scratch films for iPhones, Androids, and tablets.
• Charging pads and cables. Wireless charging pads and lightning, USB-C, and micro USB chargers.
• Phone stands. Adjustable desktop stands, foldable travel stands, and magnetic holders for hands-free use.
• Car phone mounts. Dashboard, air vent, and magnetic mounts for safe and convenient navigation while driving.

13. Jewelry

Whether as a personal treat or a gift, people love adding a fashionable accent to any outfit. Grow your small business into a successful Shopify store with stunning, shining pieces.

Need tips for getting started? Take a look at what kinds of jewelry other Shopify stores sell:

• Necklaces. Delicate and woven chains with various pendants and statement pieces.
• Earrings. Studs, hoops, and drop earrings.
• Bracelets. Charm bracelets, bangles, and cuffs.
• Rings. Minimalist bands, gemstone rings, and stackable designs in gold, silver, and other finishes.
• Personalized jewelry. Engraved necklaces and bracelets with special dates or monograms.

14. Car and bike accessories

From quick errands to weekend road trips, the right add-ons can upgrade any ride. Bike and car accessories aren’t just practical – they’re popular.

Here are some high-demand bike and car products to sell:

• Seat covers. Leather, fabric, and waterproof materials for car seats and motorcycles.
• Front and rear lights. LED headlights, taillights, fog lights, and underglow kits.
• License plates. Custom license plates, frames, and vanity plates.
• Stickers. Bumper stickers and other custom stickers.
• Repair tool kits. Compact tool sets with wrenches, screwdrivers, and tire repair essentials for quick fixes.

15. Apparel

Clothing remains one of the best ways to attract repeat customers and build a brand that sticks. It’s among the most profitable product categories to offer on your Shopify store.

Here are some hot apparel product ideas to start selling online:

• Everyday wear. Custom t-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, sweatpants, and leggings.
• Formal wear. Suits, dresses, blouses, skirts, and tailored pants.
• Outerwear. Coats, jackets, and custom hoodies.
• Footwear. Custom sneakers, boots, sandals, flip-flops, dress shoes, and heels.
• Headwear. Baseball caps, beanies, sun hats, bucket hats, visors, and wide-brim hats.

16. Arts and crafts

Want to carve out a unique niche for your Shopify store? Hobby items and DIY craft supplies help customers connect with their creative sides.

Here are some trending products you can start selling online:

• DIY kits. Knitting, embroidery, candle making, and painting kits.
• Art supplies. Paints, brushes, sketchbooks, canvases, and modeling clay.
• Crafting tools. Glue guns, scissors, cutting mats, and crafting knives.
• Sewing supplies. Sewing machines, threads, needles, and patterns.
• Scrapbooking materials. Decorative paper, notebooks, journals, stickers, stamps, pens, markers, and colored pencils.

17. Drinkware

Everybody needs glasses, coffee cups, and portable tumblers for their favorite drinks. Why not capitalize on this high-demand market by offering drinkware in your store?

Check out these best-selling Shopify products:

• Water bottles and tumblers. Spill-proof Tritan and stainless steel water bottles and insulated tumblers.
• Mugs. Design custom mug prints on classic ceramic, enamel, or travel options.
• Wine and whiskey glasses. Think stemmed crystal glasses and tumblers.
• Pint glasses and beer mugs. Customized pint glasses, steins, and novelty-shaped beer mugs.
• Glassware sets. Water, highball, and cocktail glass sets are perfect for holiday sales.

18. Kids clothing

Kids grow quickly and constantly need new clothes, opening up another excellent profit source for online selling on Shopify.

Add some of these trending products for children to your shop:

• Baby apparel. Onesies and rompers.
• Kid shirts. T-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies.
• Dresses and skirts. Floral dresses, tutu skirts, and casual frocks.
• Bottoms. Stockings, leggings, shorts, jeans, and dress pants.
• Outerwear. Jackets, coats, and raincoats.

19. Home decor

Everyone loves adding a touch of coziness, individuality, and color to their space, making home decor goods the perfect addition to your store. They’re also a go-to gift category for special occasions like birthdays and Mother’s Day. 

Best-selling home decor items include:

• Wall art. Posters, canvases, and framed artwork.
• Pillows and blankets. Cushions, throw pillows, bean bags, Sherpa blankets, and knitted throws.
• Candles and diffusers. Scented candles, essential oil diffusers, and wax melts.
• Lighting. Custom lamps, fairy lights, and lanterns.
• Storage solutions. Decorative baskets, boxes, and fabric bins.

20. Seasonal items

Cash in on seasonal items. People seek out beach accessories in the summer, Christmas decorations in the winter, and personalized gifts for holidays like Valentine’s Day.

Offer the hottest trending products for every season, such as:

• Holiday decorations. Printed Christmas tree ornaments, Halloween and Easter decorations, and festive lights.
• Outdoor decorations. Custom flags and welcome signs.
• Winter apparel. Coats, scarves, hats, gloves, and thermal wear.
• Summer essentials. Beach towels, swimwear, sunglasses, and picnic baskets.
• Gifts for special occasions. Greeting cards and personalized items like matching tees and jewelry.

21. Toys and games

Sell games and toys on your Shopify store to bring fun and laughter to customers. This is a unique niche that’s sure to make your shop stand out.

Products to sell from this category include:

• Classic games. Board games, card decks, puzzles, and coloring books.
• Educational toys. STEM kits and interactive books.
• Collectibles. Action figures, dolls, and plushies.
• Modeling kits. Model airplane, car, and ship kits with paints and tools for assembly and customization.
• Outdoor toys. Kites, frisbees, and pickleball kits.

Quick and easy setup

Launching your online store with Shopify doesn’t require advanced technical skills. The platform is beginner-friendly, and there are many free Shopify apps and free Shopify themes to help you set up and sell online quickly. 

Plus, you can easily sync print-on-demand products to your store with Printify’s Shopify integration.

Secure and reliable

Sell online with peace of mind. Shopify includes a free SSL certificate to encrypt customer data and built-in fraud analysis tools to keep your store safe.

It handles all server maintenance and upgrades and even offers its own secure payment processor – Shopify Payments.

Customer support

If you have any questions, need guidance, or encounter issues while setting up or running your online store, Shopify’s dedicated support team provides 24/7 assistance.

Mobile-friendly

Through responsive website templates, Shopify supports a seamless browsing experience across all devices, letting you optimize your storefront for maximum sales.

Check product demand

Start with tools like Google Trends, Semrush, and Google Keyword Planner to see what shoppers are actively searching for.

Then, review your own store metrics and data from social media platforms to spot top-performing products and rising trends.

Seasonality

Some products experience peak demand during specific times of the year, meaning that your Christmas tree decorations will likely only see a sales surge in December.

Update your catalog with seasonal trends and use effective marketing strategies to promote new releases and attract online shoppers.

Review your competition

Check other stores within your potential niche market. Look at competitors for insights into market demand, potential profit margins, and market gaps.

Identify the main players, review their offerings and product descriptions, and note their pricing and promotion strategies to help guide you.

Secure low production costs

The easiest and most affordable way to start selling is by dropshipping products or using Print on Demand. This reduces overheads and frees you from inventory management.

In either case, find reliable suppliers to source affordable products without compromising quality. Consider important factors like shipping costs and bulk order discounts.

For example, Printify vets all its Print Providers worldwide, guaranteeing high-quality items and seamless fulfillment. 

100% Free

Sign up to Printify to start creating and selling products immediately. There are no hidden fees – your customers’ orders will cover production and shipping costs.

Large product selection

From apparel and accessories to home decor and party supplies, Printify offers over 1,300 customizable items – the biggest Catalog in Print on Demand.

No order minimums

Order just one t-shirt or 500 customized products – whatever you need. All items are made to order, and there are no order limits or minimums.

24/7 Merchant support

Join over ten million merchants who trust us to power their business. We’re here round-the-clock to help you grow, thrive, and reach your eCommerce goals.

Domain availability

Your Shopify store name should match an available domain so customers can find you easily and remember your site. Pick a relevant domain that’s not already taken and fits your budget.

• Check availability: Before choosing a catchy store name, see if you can buy and register a matching domain. Find options directly through Shopify domains.
• Stick to .com: While many domain extensions are available, a .com is still the most trusted and widely recognized, making it the best choice for credibility.
• Keep it simple: Avoid long, complicated domain names with unnecessary words or hyphens. A short and clear domain is more memorable and less likely to be misspelled. 

Uniqueness

Unique and unusual store name ideas help set your business apart in a crowded market. They grab attention, spark curiosity, and make your brand more recognizable. While creativity is key, the name should still align with your target audience and niche.

• Avoid overused names: Generic names like “Trendy Fashion” or “Best Beauty” don’t leave a lasting impression. Instead, explore ideas that reflect your brand’s distinct personality.
• Consider your target audience: The name should speak your audience’s language. Fashion and clothing store names, quirky lifestyle shop name ideas, and professional business-to-business (B2B) store names all have different tones.
• Play with language and style: Combine words, use alliteration, or create new terms that fit your niche. Blend niche-specific terms with unexpected words or tweak spellings to create something fresh.

Branding

Your store name is a core part of your brand identity. It represents your business values and is the foundation of everything your brand is and can be. Your store name should reflect your mission, products, and overall aesthetic, providing consistency across all marketing channels.

• Convey brand values: Whether running a cute and crafty store or a professional, luxurious shop, your name should align with your products and business principles.
• Prepare for adaptability: A name that works well on packaging, logos, and promotional materials will help establish a cohesive brand presence.
• Maintain consistency across platforms: Using a store name that matches your domain and social media handles enhances credibility and brand recognition.

Keeping your store name short

Short, concise names are easier to remember, type, and integrate into branding materials, making them more effective for marketing and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Good store names for Shopify don’t have to be long. In fact – the shorter, the better.

• Make it memorable: The best Shopify store names are simple yet impactful, helping customers instantly remember and recognize your brand.
• Secure a strong domain name: Short and sweet names – like mashups, unique word combos, or slight tweaks to real words – are more likely to have an available domain.
• Enhance usability: Shorter names fit well on product labels, business cards, and digital ads.

Easy pronunciation

A store name that’s easy to pronounce is better for brand recognition and word-of-mouth marketing. If customers struggle to say it, they’re less likely to remember it or recommend it to others.

 Here’s what to consider when generating store names that read and pronounce well: 

• Avoid complicated words: Difficult-to-pronounce names can confuse customers and reduce memorability. Keep it simple and clear, even when using unfamiliar words.
• Steer clear of foreign phrases: Unless your Shopify business specifically targets speakers of a particular language, avoid names that might be difficult for a global audience.
• Test it out: Find a name for your business that’s easy to say aloud, ask friends or family to pronounce it, and see if it can flow naturally in a conversation.

International appeal

If you plan to expand your online store to international markets, your store name should work well across different languages and cultures. A name that sounds good in one country might have an unintended meaning elsewhere.

• Avoid cultural misunderstandings: Be mindful of words with harmful or inappropriate meanings in other languages.
• Think beyond regional trends: While drawing inspiration from trends is okay, a name that’s too localized may limit global appeal.
• Keep it neutral: Choose a flexible name that works across different markets.

Your online presence

Your Shopify store name should match your digital footprint – especially your social media handles and domain. Consistency on all platforms makes your brand easier to find.

• Check availability across platforms: Search Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to ensure nobody else is using the name you want.
• Be consistent: Using the same name across all platforms strengthens brand recognition and makes it easier for customers to find you.
• Think long-term: A name that works on different channels makes future growth and marketing easier.

Scalability

As your Shopify business grows, your store name should remain relevant and adaptable to potential expansions in product categories or geographic reach.

• Consider future growth: Even if you start with one product type, pick a name that leaves room to expand into other items later.
• Think big: A broad, adaptable name can grow with your business – no need for a rebrand if you decide to branch out into new markets.

Keywords

Including relevant keywords in your Shopify store name to indicate what you sell can improve search engine visibility and attract the right audience.

• Boost SEO rankings: A well-optimized name helps customers find you when searching for specific products.
• Keep it natural: Don’t force keywords. Integrate them smoothly into your content, product descriptions, and marketing materials.
• Use an AI business name generator: Tools like the Shopify business name generator can help you come up with new ideas using a keyword related to your niche.

Brainstorm and test ideas

Not every name will click immediately. After preparing fresh ideas post-brainstorm, write them down, consider how they fit with other branding elements, and test them out with potential customers or friends and family to get feedback.

Ask yourself:

• Does this business name fit your brand? 
• Is it easy to pronounce?
• Would it stand out among other Shopify businesses?

Use AI generators to help name your business

Free AI generators are a helpful tool for getting unique ideas based on your input, making testing different branding options quicker and more efficient.

Some of the best artificial intelligence name generators include:

• Shopify Business Name Generator. Designed with Shopify sellers in mind, this tool gives you name ideas for eCommerce business based on your prompts.
• Squarespace Domain Name Generator. Checks domain status in real time and makes it easy to register a name on the spot.
• Oberlo Business Name Generator. Great for those who have a keyword in mind that they want to be included in their business name or that summarizes the vibe they want their name to give off. 

Get inspired by examples and competitors

Need a little inspo to get started? Browse online store name examples from existing Shopify brands. Check our lists of the best Shopify store examples for 2025, Shopify store name examples, and the 15 most successful Shopify stores to get some ideas.

Then, look at other top competitors in your shared niche. Study their branding, products, and tone to spot patterns that work and gaps you can fill.

Just don’t copy – use what you find to inspire something original.

1. Custom t-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts

Custom t-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts are among the top-selling items – especially as print-on-demand products – due to their versatility year-round.

They cater to various audiences, from streetwear fans and sports enthusiasts to businesses, influencers, and event organizers. 

Whether it’s a bold graphic, witty quote, or minimalist design, custom apparel helps people express themselves while staying stylish and comfortable.

Selling custom clothing online also offers seasonal opportunities. Lightweight t-shirts dominate as top summer products, while custom hoodies see spikes during fall and winter. Many buyers purchase them as gifts, making them excellent for steady sales.

Unisex Heavy Blend Crewneck Sweatshirt

By Gildan · 18000

From $17.63 From $11.92 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 38 colors 17 print providers

Unisex Heavy Cotton Tee

By Gildan · 5000

From $8.61 From $5.89 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 70 colors 22 print providers

Unisex Heavy Blend Hooded Sweatshirt

By Gildan · 18500

From $21.24 From $15.51 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 39 colors 17 print providers

Unisex Jersey Short Sleeve Tee

By Bella+Canvas · 3001

From $10.87 From $8.69 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 126 colors 21 print providers

2. Mugs

Custom mugs fit any niche, from office humor and motivational quotes to pop culture references and artistic illustrations. They make perfect gifts, which means repeat seasonal sales for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions.

Target specific audiences, such as pet lovers, readers, or remote workers, by designing mugs tailored to those interests or occupations. 

Personalized mugs are also popular for corporate branding, making them an excellent option for offering bulk sales to businesses.

The best part? Mugs are affordable, lightweight, and easy to ship, making them cost-effective products with high profit margins. Printify’s wide range of ceramic, enamel, and travel mugs means you can offer multiple styles to suit your target market.

Ceramic Mug, (11oz, 15oz)

By Generic brand

From $4.61 From $3.50 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 print providers

Accent Coffee Mug (11, 15oz)

By Generic brand

From $5.52 From $4.47 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 9 colors 2 print providers

Insulated Travel Mug, 40oz

By Polar Camel

From $32.81 From $24.14 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 8 colors Fulfill Engine

Enamel Camping Mug

By Generic brand

From $10.39 From $7.88 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

3. Personalized phone cases

There’s always demand for custom phone cases. Buyers can easily refresh their devices with stylish, high-quality, and unique designs – whether it’s bold artwork, initials, monograms, or trendy patterns.

Phone cases are highly customizable, perfect for niche markets like fashionable shoppers, gamers, or small business owners who want branded merch. Sellers can also capitalize on seasonal trends, such as holiday-themed cases or trending colors.

Custom phone cases pair well with stickers, tote bags, and notebooks, creating opportunities for higher profits with bundled sales.

Tough Cases

By Generic brand

From $14.77 From $11.20 with Printify Premium

73 sizes WOYC

Magnetic Tough Cases

By Generic brand

From $17.19 From $12.64 with Printify Premium

16 sizes Casestry

Slim Phone Cases

By Generic brand

From $9.38 From $7.11 with Printify Premium

31 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

Flexi Cases

By Generic brand

From $10.17 From $7.71 with Printify Premium

85 sizes WOYC

4. Water bottles

Custom water bottles are a practical, in-demand product that appeals to a broad audience, from athletes and travelers to students and office workers. With the rise of eco-conscious shopping, more consumers are choosing reusable water bottles over disposable plastic.

Personalized water bottles are a great canvas for catering to specific niches, whether it’s motivational quotes for fitness enthusiasts or minimalist branding for professionals. They also make excellent promotional items for companies.

Our Catalog has a ton of options, including vacuum-insulated stainless steel bottles that keep drinks hot or cold for hours and lightweight plastic sports bottles designed for an active lifestyle.

Copper Vacuum Insulated Bottle, 22oz

By Generic brand

From $24.86 From $18.29 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 8 colors SwagRabbit

CamelBak Eddy® Water Bottle, 20oz\25oz

By CamelBak · Eddy

From $18.75 From $13.79 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 colors SwagRabbit

Maars Maker Skinny Matte Tumbler, 20oz

By Maars

From $23.58 From $17.34 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 7 colors Fancy Fanny

Stainless Steel Water Bottle

By Generic brand

From $8.34 From $6.14 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Duplium

5. Stickers

Custom stickers are a low-cost, high-margin product that lets customers showcase their personality, interests, and creativity. Popular among artists, businesses, content creators, and collectors, this product idea is highly versatile.

Businesses often use branded stickers for promotions, while content creators sell them as part of their influencer merch. 

Stickers are lightweight and easy to ship, increasing profitability. Designs can cover multiple niche markets, from internet memes and aesthetic patterns to motivational quotes and custom illustrations.

Boost sales with product bundles and sticker packs featuring seasonal or themed designs. These are perfect for encouraging repeat purchases for your eCommerce business.

Kiss-Cut Stickers

By Generic brand

From $1.38 From $1.01 with Printify Premium

4 sizes 2 print providers

Kiss-Cut Vinyl Decals

By Generic brand

From $1.17 From $0.86 with Printify Premium

4 sizes Stickers & Posters

Bumper Stickers

By Generic brand

From $4.22 From $3.10 with Printify Premium

3 sizes Printed Simply

Die-Cut Stickers

By Generic brand

From $3.67 From $2.70 with Printify Premium

5 sizes Printed Simply

6. Posters and canvases

Custom posters and canvases are a booming product category, especially for customers looking to personalize their homes, offices, and creative spaces. 

Whether showcasing modern artwork, motivational quotes, nature photography, or abstract designs, posters and canvases reach a wide target market of art enthusiasts, interior designers, and gift buyers.

Monetize your art by selling products like high-quality canvas prints, or use posters to create branded merchandise for your online business.

Wall art is one of the best high-ticket dropshipping products since you can upscale it with premium pricing opportunities, especially for large-format prints and framed canvas pieces.

Matte Vertical Posters

By Generic brand

From $4.66 From $3.59 with Printify Premium

46 sizes 2 print providers

Matte Canvas, Stretched, 1.25"

By Generic brand

From $10.55 From $8.10 with Printify Premium

60 sizes Jondo

Framed Vertical Poster

By Generic brand

From $34.64 From $26.68 with Printify Premium

7 sizes 3 colors 2 print providers

Matte Canvas, Framed (Multi-color)

By Generic brand

From $21.53 From $15.84 with Printify Premium

57 sizes 3 colors Jondo

7. Candles

Custom candles are well-loved in the home decor and self-care market. They appeal to gift buyers, wellness enthusiasts, and home decorators, making them excellent for seasonal and year-round sales.

Eco-friendly scented candles are particularly popular, with customers buying multiple scents for different moods and occasions. Tap into this growing market by offering custom labels, personalized messages, or themed candle collections.

Candles also have a high repurchase potential, making them a fantastic business idea for building customer loyalty. To attract even more shoppers, bundle your candles with blankets, mugs, or skincare items for the perfect relaxation package.

Scented Soy Candle, 9oz

By Lumient

From $10.94 From $8.76 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Lumient

Scented Soy Candle (Multi-Size, Amber Jar)

By Lumient

From $7.46 From $6.10 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 1 colors Lumient

Scented Candles, Coconut Apricot Wax (4oz, 9oz)

By Printed Mint

From $9.63 From $8.06 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 colors Printed Mint

Scented Candles, 9oz

By Candle Builders

From $11.72 From $9.15 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Candle Builders

8. Pillows and blankets

Custom pillows and personalized blankets are bestsellers in home decor for personalizing living spaces or bedrooms. These unique product ideas are a good starting point for offering cozy interiors and seasonal promotions.

Create pillows that match your audience’s vibe – whether it’s bold designs, pop culture nods, or abstract graphics. Pair them with warm fleece or woven blankets for an irresistible product duo.

These bestsellers shine during the colder months, making them great winter product ideas. Want to increase revenue? Offer bundles with candles or mugs for the ultimate cozy combo.

Spun Polyester Square Pillow

By Generic brand

From $13.73 From $10.10 with Printify Premium

4 sizes MWW On Demand

Velveteen Plush Blanket

By Generic brand

From $12.86 From $9.44 with Printify Premium

3 sizes 3 print providers

Custom Shaped Pillows

By Generic brand

From $9.38 From $7.11 with Printify Premium

4 sizes 1 colors Smart Printee

Woven Blanket

By Generic brand

From $25.67 From $19.77 with Printify Premium

3 sizes MWW On Demand

9. Tote bags

Custom tote bags are eco-friendly, stylish, and practical, making them a top choice among students, professionals, and travelers. 

This simple product idea is a great addition to your spring catalog. Totes are reusable, lightweight, and versatile – perfect for daily use, branding, and gifting.

Target fashion-conscious consumers, businesses, and influencers with artistic designs, typography, patterns, or brand logos. Custom tote bags are also a top choice for promotional products, with brands and event organizers ordering in bulk.

Men's Mesh Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $35.94 From $26.44 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 2 colors Smart Printee

Women's Low Top Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $28.91 From $21.92 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 2 colors Smart Printee

Men's High Top Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $31.25 From $23.70 with Printify Premium

11 sizes 2 colors Smart Printee

Women's Classic Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $40.63 From $30.81 with Printify Premium

11 sizes 1 colors ArtsAdd

10. Skincare products

The skincare industry is booming, with buyers looking for clean, high-quality, and personalized products. 

Private-label skincare items help you build your own beauty brand with well-loved products like moisturizers, serums, and cleansers.

Many skincare customers are repeat buyers, meaning sellers can generate long-term revenue by establishing a strong product line. Address specific concerns, such as anti-aging, hydration, or acne care, to attract loyal customers.

This category works perfectly for wellness brands targeting self-care influencers and eco-conscious shoppers. Make sure to partner with high-quality skincare suppliers that provide vegan and cruelty-free products made with natural ingredients.

Gentle Face and Body Cleanser, 6oz

By Formula Labs

From $12.81 From $9.72 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Formula Labs

Hyaluronic Acid Complex Serum, 1oz

By Formula Labs

From $21.72 From $16.47 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Formula Labs

Hair Growth Tonic, 2oz

By Formula Labs

From $19.14 From $14.08 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Formula Labs

Daily Moisturizer, 1.7oz

By Formula Labs

From $13.13 From $9.95 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Formula Labs

11. Custom shoes

Custom shoes have gained popularity as buyers seek one-of-a-kind, artistic, and branded footwear. They appeal to streetwear enthusiasts and sneaker collectors looking for bold statement pieces to complete their outfits.

Popular designs include abstract art, pop culture references, and minimalist aesthetics. Personalized footwear also works well for merch drops, influencer branding, and exclusive limited-edition collections.

From boots and sneakers to flip flops, custom shoes are a high-value product – giving sellers a unique opportunity to set premium pricing and strong profit margins.

Men's Mesh Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $35.94 From $26.44 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 2 colors Smart Printee

Women's Low Top Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $28.91 From $21.92 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 2 colors Smart Printee

Men's High Top Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $31.25 From $23.70 with Printify Premium

11 sizes 2 colors Smart Printee

Women's Classic Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $40.63 From $30.81 with Printify Premium

11 sizes 1 colors ArtsAdd

Sign up

Create a free Printify account – no subscription or setup fees required.

Choose and design your products

Browse high-quality apparel, accessories, home decor, and more in our Catalog. Use the Product Creator to upload your designs, generate mockups, and personalize your listings.

Decide where to sell

Connect Printify to Etsy, Shopify, eBay, Wix, or other eCommerce platforms and marketplaces, and list your products in just a few clicks.

Market and profit

Once a customer places an order, our global network of Print Providers will handle printing, packing, and shipping so you can focus on marketing and growing your business.

1. Reusable water bottles

A high-quality custom water bottle is one of the most appreciated and high-value swag items at any conference. It’s stylish and sustainable and keeps your brand visible long after the event.

Choose from lightweight sports bottles from top manufacturers, everyday stainless steel canisters, insulated bottles for hot or cold drinks, or compact styles that fit into any swag bag.

Copper Vacuum Insulated Bottle, 22oz

By Generic brand

From $24.86 From $18.29 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 8 colors SwagRabbit

Slim Water Bottle

By Generic brand

From $18.83 From $13.85 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Chill

CamelBak Eddy® Water Bottle, 20oz\25oz

By CamelBak · Eddy

From $18.75 From $13.79 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 colors SwagRabbit

20oz Insulated Bottle

By Generic brand

From $19.81 From $14.57 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

2. Personalized tech accessories

Techy attendees will love swag that enhances their devices. Find practical tech accessory swag items and add stylish designs to have your logo in front of potential customers daily.

Technology accessories like wireless chargers, Bluetooth speakers, and AirPod cases are some of the best conference giveaways.

Blackwater Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker

By Generic brand

From $17.84 From $14.16 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors SwagRabbit

AirPod Cases

By Generic brand

From $13.43 From $10.34 with Printify Premium

5 sizes 1 colors WOYC

Wireless Charger

By Generic brand

From $35.94 From $26.44 with Printify Premium

1 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

3. Custom t-shirts

Branded t-shirts are a classic conference favorite for any demographic. Fun, comfortable, and stylish, they turn attendees into walking advertisements for your organization.

Whether you opt for soft cotton basics or trendy oversized fits, custom t-shirts are a great way to maintain long-term visibility.

Unisex Heavy Cotton Tee

By Gildan · 5000

From $8.61 From $5.89 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 70 colors 22 print providers

Unisex Jersey Short Sleeve Tee

By Bella+Canvas · 3001

From $10.87 From $8.69 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 126 colors 21 print providers

Unisex Garment-Dyed T-shirt

By Comfort Colors® · 1717

From $12.18 From $10.67 with Printify Premium

7 sizes 61 colors 10 print providers

Unisex Softstyle T-Shirt

By Gildan · 64000

From $7.71 From $5.78 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 66 colors 22 print providers

4. Luggage tags

For travel-focused businesses, custom luggage tags are a great addition to any swag bag. Durable and stylish, they help attendees keep track of both their belongings and your company.

Explore our options for glossy plastic tags and acrylic tags to personalize with employees’ names or your brand logo.

5. Tote bags

A spacious tote bag is an awesome swag item to hand out at any event. Totes are ideal for carrying other event gifts, brochures, food, candy, and other items.

Custom totes also serve as a walking billboard for your company long after the conference ends. Add your logo or customize the entire bag with our all-over-print options.

Cotton Canvas Tote Bag

By Liberty Bags · OAD113

From $9.22 From $7.00 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 2 colors 2 print providers

Tote Bag (AOP)

By Generic brand

From $11.09 From $8.41 with Printify Premium

3 sizes 5 colors MWW On Demand

Weekender Bag

By Generic brand

From $29.22 From $21.49 with Printify Premium

1 sizes MWW On Demand

Canvas Shopping Tote

By Bagmasters · A250

From $8.98 From $6.81 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Duplium

6. Drawstring bags

Custom drawstring bags are a great lighter alternative to totes. They’re compact, versatile, and perfect for attendees to store their other swag giveaway items.

With ample space for a logo or event branding, custom drawstring bags serve as mobile advertisements, extending your brand visibility beyond the conference venue.

7. Branded socks

Unique and fun, custom socks are a creative way to get people talking about your brand. 

Whether they’re colorful sublimation socks or professionally-branded crew socks, these customizable items are a great addition to any raffle or giveaway prize bag.

8. Mugs and tumblers

A high-quality custom mug or tumbler is a gift that folks will use daily. Whether it’s a morning coffee at the office or a cold drink on the go, these conference giveaways remain a valuable item filled with design potential.

Ceramic Mug, (11oz, 15oz)

By Generic brand

From $4.61 From $3.50 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 print providers

Tumbler 20oz

By Generic brand

From $19.31 From $13.57 with Printify Premium

1 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

Accent Coffee Mug (11, 15oz)

By Generic brand

From $5.52 From $4.47 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 9 colors 2 print providers

Ringneck Tumbler, 20oz

By Generic brand

From $20.16 From $14.83 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 3 colors Chill

9. Phone cases

Phone cases and grips are some of the best swag items for tech-friendly attendees because they put your logo right into people’s hands.

There are many options, like tough cases with a durable and hard shell or biodegradable cases made from sustainable bamboo fiber.

Tough Cases

By Generic brand

From $14.77 From $11.20 with Printify Premium

73 sizes WOYC

Magnetic Tough Cases

By Generic brand

From $17.19 From $12.64 with Printify Premium

16 sizes Casestry

Clear Cases

By Generic brand

From $11.72 From $8.89 with Printify Premium

35 sizes Casestry

Biodegradable Cases

By Generic brand

From $15.63 From $11.85 with Printify Premium

52 sizes WOYC

Phone Click-On Grip

By Generic brand

From $13.28 From $10.07 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors WOYC

10. Stickers and magnets

Easy to distribute and fun to collect, custom stickers and magnets are cost-effective yet high-impact promotional items.

Popular options include kiss-cut stickers, bumper stickers, sticker sheets, and custom magnets like our custom shape magnets and car magnets.

11. Notebooks and journals

A sleek custom journal or notebook is a practical conference giveaway that attendees will appreciate. Perfect for jotting down notes during presentations or organizing work tasks, these desk accessories keep your brand visible in everyday workspaces.

Spiral Notebook – Ruled Line

By Generic brand

From $8.05 From $5.81 with Printify Premium

1 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

Hardcover Journal Matte

By Generic brand

From $9.30 From $6.84 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

Softcover Journal (with Inside Prints)

By Generic brand

From $7.19 From $5.29 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

Journal – Blank

By Generic brand

From $14.08 From $10.36 with Printify Premium

1 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

12. Branded caps

One of the best swag for conferences, stylish and practical custom-branded caps are a great item to promote your business in a swag giveaway. Whether it’s a simple baseball cap, trucker cap, or classic dad hat, these conference gift items help your brand stand out in a crowd.

Sign up

Create a free Printify account in seconds.

Choose and design your products

Browse our Catalog of over 1,300 products to find the perfect one for your swag bags. Choose a product and open the Product Creator to add your logo, artwork, or other designs. Preview them on high-resolution mockups to ensure they look just right.

Order and let us do the rest

Place a bulk order, and our international network of Print Providers will handle the printing and shipping, ensuring your branded conference giveaways are ready in time for your company event or trade show – no matter where in the world it takes place.

Print on Demand

Selling custom merchandise through a print-on-demand business eliminates the need for manual inventory management and product fulfillment, making it a highly automated model.

How it works:

1. Research trending things to sell and choose a profitable market niche.
2. Sign up for a free print-on-demand platform and choose your merchandise.
3. Create, upload, and add original designs to your products.
4. Connect an online store to the POD platform and list your products for sale.
5. When a customer buys your product, they pay for production, and the supplier automatically fulfills the order, while you earn a profit from the markup on the retail price.

Before starting a print-on-demand business, you should know how to set up an online store, use design software, and manage online marketing tools. Identifying trending products and effectively promoting them will improve your chances of success.

Start an automated print-on-demand business for free with Printify. Explore our selection of quality white-label products and automate order fulfillment with our reputable Print Providers.

Dropshipping

Another similar option for a business with no upfront costs is dropshipping. In this hands-off eCommerce model, a merchant selects products from a third-party supplier, which manages stock and shipping, letting the seller focus solely on sales.

How it works:

1. Choose a niche and set up an online store using a platform like Shopify.
2. Partner with dropshipping suppliers to source ready-made products.
3. List the products in your store without purchasing inventory upfront.
4. When a customer places an order, they pay for production, and the supplier ships the order directly to the customer while you earn a profit from the price markup.

Automated dropshipping success often relies on product selection, competitive pricing, and the ability to drive traffic through advertising.

Affiliate marketing

Affiliates earn sales commissions by promoting products from sponsors. Instead of selling their own products, affiliate marketers use their content to advertise offers from other businesses.

How it works:

1. Sign up to partner with an affiliate program like Printify’s Affiliate Program.
2. Create blog posts, YouTube videos, or social media posts.
3. Promote relevant affiliate links from your partner within your content.
4. Earn commissions whenever someone purchases through your referral link.
5. Scale by expanding content reach and increasing traffic to your affiliate links.

Affiliate marketing greatly benefits from strong content creation skills, an understanding of search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing, and the ability to analyze audience engagement. AI automation can significantly streamline many of these processes.

Digital products

Selling digital products like software, templates, printables, music files, or other downloadable items is a popular low-cost business idea with high-profit potential.

How it works:

1. Research market demand and create digital assets – printables, templates, etc.
2. List the digital products for sale on your own website or online marketplaces.
3. Automate order confirmation so customers receive instant downloads upon purchase.
4. Promote your products and grow your brand through social media or paid advertising.

While much of the sales process can be automated, creating digital products requires proficiency in whatever skill is necessary for your chosen product type. Understanding digital marketplaces, pricing strategies, and marketing techniques will also help maximize sales.

Online courses

Online courses make a great part-time business, allowing you to sell pre-recorded video lessons or instructional guides on course platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or even YouTube through a paid channel membership plan.

How it works:

1. Identify a topic and create structured course content based on your expertise.
2. Upload your course to the platform of your choice.
3. Automate course enrollment, payments, and content delivery.
4. Promote your course through SEO, social media, or paid advertising.

Creating an online course is a great way to build a passive income stream, but it requires strong communication skills, content planning, and knowledge of online education platforms. Success also depends on effective marketing and audience engagement.

Blogging with ad revenue

Online bloggers earn money by writing content that attracts traffic and generates revenue through ads and sponsorships. Successful bloggers focus on producing evergreen content that stays relevant year-round.

How it works:

1. Choose a niche and create a blog using platforms like WordPress or Medium.
2. Publish high-quality, SEO-optimized articles to attract organic traffic.
3. Monetize with display ads, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing.
4. Automate content promotion with email marketing and social media scheduling tools.

Bloggers can easily automate their revenue stream as long as they have strong writing skills, SEO knowledge, and the ability to research and create engaging content. Long-term commitment and traffic-building strategies are a significant part of blogging full-time.

eBook publishing

Authors write and self-publish books for passive income through platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Once published, selling books becomes a fully automated process.

How it works:

1. Write and format an eBook on a topic with existing demand.
2. Design a professional cover and prepare branding or marketing materials.
3. Publish the eBook on Kindle, Apple Books, or other digital platforms.
4. Automate sales and distribution while earning royalties.

With strong writing and a well-researched subject, eBook publishing becomes easy, especially when combined with automated marketing tools. Successful authors often invest in keyword research, paid promotions, or collaborations to increase visibility.

Stock images and videos

Photographers can sell stock photos and videos to businesses and content creators through stock platforms like Shutterstock, iStock, Getty Images, and Adobe Stock.

How it works:

1. Capture high-quality images or videos in trending niches.
2. Edit and optimize content for licensing.
3. Upload to stock photo/video sites such as Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.
4. Earn royalties each time someone licenses your media.

This automated business idea is perfect for those who want to earn passive income through royalties while minimizing human intervention. Growing social media accounts and using marketing automation can help attract a wider audience and increase consistent online visibility.

Automated YouTube channel

YouTubers can automate content creation by monetizing videos without appearing on camera – instead, using AI-generated content, preparing animations, or managing outsourced production.

How it works:

1. Choose a niche with monetization potential (e.g., finance, tech, education).
2. Create or outsource videos, potentially with the help of freelance editors.
3. Upload and optimize content with SEO-friendly titles and descriptions.
4. Monetize with YouTube ads, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing.
5. Automate video scheduling and content promotion for continuous engagement.

Many YouTubers outsource video production and focus on content strategy and automation. Still, managing consistent communication with the target audience and posting on active social media channels can improve engagement and increase passive income.

Mobile app development

Programmers with extensive technical expertise can build mobile apps with automated monetization, generating revenue through in-app purchases, ads, or subscriptions.

How it works:

1. Identify an app idea that solves a problem or fulfills a demand.
2. Develop the app or hire developers to streamline operations.
3. Publish the app on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
4. Automate revenue through ads, paid downloads, or subscriptions.
5. Maintain and update the app to retain users and improve monetization.

With a solid app idea, monetization strategy, and the skills or resources to put it together, a mobile app can generate income passively through sales, ads, or in-app purchases. Some maintenance may be needed, but automated updates, payment processing, marketing automation, and customer management software can help reduce manual involvement.

Social media management

Automating social media content for clients is a great business model in high demand as more influencers or brands seek ways to communicate consistently with their target audience.

How it works:

1. Choose a target audience and social media platforms.
2. Set up automated tools for post scheduling and engagement.
3. Offer managed growth services to businesses and influencers.
4. Charge clients a recurring fee for ongoing social media managment.
5. Scale by onboarding multiple clients and outsourcing content creation.

Social media managers need a solid understanding of platform algorithms, engagement strategies, and automation tools. This service-based business thrives on marketing automation, requiring strong branding, audience targeting, and trend monitoring.

Membership site

Creating or using a members-only website to offer exclusive content or services on a subscription basis can be a great strategy with many of the previously described automated business examples.

How it works:

1. Choose a niche and develop premium content or tools.
2. Set up a membership platform using WordPress, Kajabi, or Patreon.
3. Offer tiered subscriptions with different access levels.
4. Automate content delivery and member billing.
5. Scale by growing your community and adding new perks.

Membership sites often rely on web hosting services that easily let sellers share their content, niche expertise, or other forms of engaging with their audience. These sites are an appealing option for those seeking top automated business ideas that generate passive income.

Sign up

Create a free Printify account to access a network of global Print Providers and a wide selection of customizable products.

Select and design your products

Choose from various print-on-demand products from our Catalog and upload your designs using Printify’s intuitive Product Creator design tools.

Decide where to sell, and we’ll do the rest

Connect Printify to an eCommerce platform like Shopify, Etsy, or WooCommerce. Once a customer places an order, our Print Providers handle production and shipping while you focus on growing your business.

Business operation license

Many Etsy sellers need a business operation license to meet local government requirements. Whether you need a business license to sell on Etsy depends on your business structure, location, and the type of products you sell.

Operating a business online is licensed by either municipal and county requirements, state ordinances, or federal laws. Be sure to contact your local taxing authority or Small Business Administration (SBA) to follow the steps to legally register your Etsy shop.

Federal level: The US federal government doesn’t require a business license just for selling on Etsy, but you may need one on a federal level depending on your business structure (e.g., LLC, corporation), your sales volume, or the type of products you sell (e.g., food, cosmetics).

State level: Some states require a business license for any online business, while others only require a seller’s permit to collect sales tax on physical and digital products. For example:

• California requires a seller’s permit regardless of income.
• Oklahoma mandates a permit if annual sales exceed $10,000.
• Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon don’t charge state sales tax, but local rules may still apply.

Local level (county/city): Many cities and counties require a business operation license to pay taxes, including for those selling on online marketplaces like Etsy. This varies widely, so check with your local government or county clerk’s office.

A license to operate and sell typically costs between $50-$100 per year. Online sellers should also consider opening a business bank account to separate finances and simplify tax reporting.

Employer Identification Number

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a tax ID the IRS uses for business reporting, but not all Etsy sellers need one. If your Etsy business is registered as a sole proprietorship, you typically report earnings on your personal tax return, using your own assets for liability.

As a sole proprietor, an EIN is not required.

However, you’ll face requirements if you register your Etsy shop as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Partnership. An LLC separates your business model from your personal finances, which can protect against business debts and award eligibility for business insurance.

As an LLC or a Partnership business, you will need an EIN.

If you sell on Etsy and plan to scale, getting an EIN will make it easier to open a business bank account, apply for a business license to sell, and meet legal requirements. Some states require an EIN to obtain an Etsy business license and comply with licensing requirements.

Home occupation permit

If you run an Etsy business from home, you may need a business license, otherwise called a home occupation permit. This requirement varies by state and city, so check with your local government before selling.

Many areas regulate home-based businesses so they don’t disrupt residential neighborhoods. Home occupation permits may be required if your business:

• Uses a certain percentage of your home for operations.
• Involves regular shipments or customer visits.
• Requires special equipment beyond typical household tools.

Some states may also require additional business licenses or permits, especially if you sell food or other regulated products. If your city or county enforces zoning laws, you may need to apply for a business license to sell from your home.

Seller’s permit

Some states require a seller’s permit to collect sales tax. This permit registers your business with the state and is typically necessary for selling taxable goods. Whether you need a business license or a seller’s permit depends on your location and the type of products you sell.

Some states base this requirement on sales volume or gross income:

• Oklahoma requires a seller’s permit if your store earns more than $10,000 per year.
• California requires a seller’s permit for all sellers, regardless of income.

Five states – New Hampshire, Oregon, Alaska, Montana, and Delaware – don’t charge state sales tax, so they don’t require a seller’s permit at the state level. Local laws may still apply, so check for any local licensing requirements before you start selling.

The type of products you sell can also affect licensing. Craft supplies and digital products usually have fewer restrictions, but if you sell food or health-related items, you may need additional permits, which you should check with your local health department.

1. Sign up for Printify

Create an account and access our print-on-demand services for free.

2. Choose products

Select from over 1,300 products in our Catalog, including t-shirts, mugs, and accessories.

3. Add your designs

Use our Product Creator to easily upload your artwork or create designs from scratch.

4. Connect to Etsy

Link your Etsy shop and publish your products in minutes through our partnered integration.

5. Start selling

When a customer buys from your shop, Printify automatically fulfills the order

Check out our Help page for more payment, billing, and tax resources. We also offer guides and articles to help you make informed choices, like our Etsy vs eBay sales channel review, how to integrate Printify with Etsy, and 90 profitable Etsy shop ideas.

Canceling an order without an Etsy account

Did you buy a product as a guest without logging in and can’t access your purchase history? You can still submit an Etsy cancellation request from a guest purchase.

Link your order to a new or existing Etsy account. Locate the email receipt from when you placed the order and click View your order.

Follow the steps to sign in or create a new account on Etsy – it has to be the same email address used for your guest order. Once connected, submit a request by following the steps outlined in the previous section.

If necessary, contact Etsy’s transaction service for missing order details via transaction@etsy.com.

Seller tips for smooth cancellation processes

Order cancellations are never ideal – but there are some things you can do to make the process as seamless as possible for both you and the buyer.

Have clear order cancellation policies

Add a store policy for cancellation processes through your Etsy Shop Manager under the Cancellations tab. 

Tick the checkbox to show that your store allows cancellations. Then, choose from a list of Etsy’s cancellation templates, available in English, French, and German.

Make sure you outline clear instructions for when a customer cancels an order. Try to include answers to the following questions:

• Is there a time limit for receiving order refunds?
• Is disliking the product a valid reason for cancellation?
• What are the conditions for returning a damaged item?
• Does your store offer refunds for return shipping costs?

Issue timely refunds

If a buyer requests cancellation and doesn’t receive a timely answer, they may open a case against the seller and get Etsy involved as a moderator. 

Resolve customer issues promptly to maintain store credibility and minimize any fees and penalties resulting from inaction.

Communicate promptly and professionally

Respect each customer’s concerns and respond professionally and quickly. Communicate that you’re doing everything you can to get the issue resolved, and buyers will be more likely to leave positive reviews.

Keep track of your cancellations

View all cancellations in your Orders & Shipping tab. Look for patterns in refund requests and find ways to prevent similar issues in the future.

1. Be understanding

Respond with patience and professionalism. If a buyer changes their mind or has concerns, ask what went wrong. Understanding their reason helps you improve your customer service.

2. Offer solutions and alternatives

Suggest alternatives like a different size, color, or another product. If shipping delays are an issue, provide an updated timeline. A proactive approach can turn cancellations into successful sales, maintaining customer satisfaction.

3. Ask for feedback

Even if the order is canceled, request feedback. This insight helps you refine your product, listing descriptions, and customer experience. A polite follow-up message shows you care about their opinion.

4. Special offers or discounts

Encourage future purchases by offering a discount or free shipping on their next order. This turns a lost sale into an opportunity to retain a potential repeat customer.

5. Improve product descriptions and policies

If multiple customers cancel for the same reason – like sizing issues or shipping times – adjust your product descriptions and shop policies. Set clearer expectations to reduce future cancellations.

6. Stay in touch and nurture customer relationships

Just because they canceled doesn’t mean they’re gone forever. Send a friendly message and offer customers to join your email list to notify them about new products, sales, or restocks.

The pros and cons of tariffs

Why prices may increase

Tariffs increase the cost of imported goods, raising expenses for businesses providing those products or services. 

For the print-on-demand industry, these tariffs could impact several key areas:

• Blank products: Many domestic suppliers rely on imported textiles, steel, aluminum, and other materials. Tariffs on these items may drive up production costs.
• Fulfillment and logistics: Increased customs duties can raise shipping costs and cause delivery delays, impacting customer satisfaction.
• Production costs: Manufacturers depend on international markets for equipment and raw materials. Higher tariffs could raise expenses for our Print Providers.

Printify is committed to keeping prices stable. We’re strengthening relationships with domestic producers and streamlining fulfillment processes to reduce shipping disruptions and avoid unnecessary price increases.

If there are any price changes, we’ll notify you as early as possible so you have time to update your product listings.

Which products will have tariffs?

In most cases, none because of de minimis – the value of goods that can be imported without incurring customs duties or tariffs. 

This is important for print-on-demand sellers because products shipped directly to customers in other countries may qualify for duty-free entry if their value falls below the applicable de minimis threshold. 

For example, the de minimis threshold for goods being imported into the US is $800, meaning print-on-demand items under this value can enter without additional tariffs. However, thresholds vary by country, so understanding these limits helps you manage costs and pricing for customers.

However, it’s important to note that President Trump has asked the US Secretary of Commerce to find a way to revoke the duty-free treatment of de minimis shipments. So, while the de minimis exemption remains in force for now, we are closely monitoring the situation, and our internal teams are doing their best to prepare for any potential changes.

What you can do as a merchant

There are a few things you can do to protect your profits and keep your prices competitive:

• Monitor pricing: Keep track of any cost changes and adjust your pricing and margins accordingly.
• Choose domestic production: Use US-based Print Providers if your primary customer base is in the US and likewise with Canadian Providers if your target audience is Canadian.
• Stay transparent: Let customers know where their items are being produced so they know of any potential tariffs on their orders before purchasing.

Canada

On February 1, 2025, the US announced a 25% tariff on non-USMCA-compliant Canadian imports, except for energy products (crude oil, natural gas, coal, and critical minerals), which face a 10% tariff. These tariffs were imposed on April 2, following a month-long pause.

The definition of energy resources is based on Trump’s National Energy Emergency Executive Order, but there is no clear list of affected product codes, creating uncertainty for importers.

Canada implemented retaliatory tariffs on American goods in March 2025 in response to new US tariffs. Effective March 4, the first round imposed a 25% tariff on CAD $30 billion worth of US imports, including items like food and drinks, apparel, cosmetics, and appliances.

On March 13, a second round of retaliatory tariffs was introduced on an additional CAD $29.8 billion of US products, including steel and aluminum, sports equipment, and computers. 

It appears that Canada’s goal with these tariffs is to counteract the US tariffs and protect Canadian industries.

Mexico

On February 4, 2025, President Donald Trump put a 25% import tariff on all goods from Mexico, similar to the Canadian tariffs. These tariffs were temporarily paused for USMCA-compliant products until April 2.

Unlike Canada, there are no exemptions for energy products. These tariffs add to existing duties and are expected to significantly impact industries reliant on cross-border trade, particularly manufacturing and agriculture.

Mexico has already indicated plans to impose retaliatory tariffs.

China

On February 4, 2025, the Trump administration increased tariffs on all Chinese goods (including those from Hong Kong) from 10% to 20%, expanding on the tariffs first introduced in 2018. Officials state that the goal is to counter unfair trade practices and reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains.

The administration introduced new tariff rates – set to go into effect on April 9 – to increase import tax rates of Chinese goods to 54% (this includes the previously announced 20% plus the reciprocal tariffs of 34%) on top of the pre-existing tariffs on Chinese goods.

On April 10, the total tariff on Chinese goods increased to 145%. The duty percentage on Chinese goods changes frequently, so we recommend monitoring your chosen news source for real-time updates.

These tariffs remain in effect indefinitely. This move directly impacts consumer goods from China, including items sold by print-on-demand businesses.

The de minimis exemption has also been eliminated, meaning low-value imports are now subject to tariffs.

Marketing and sales optimization AI tools

1. Jasper

Jasper is a content generation tool designed to help businesses create high-quality, SEO-optimized text. It can generate product descriptions, blog posts, ad copy, and social media captions to produce content faster and improve search engine ranking potential.

Best for: Writing product descriptions, marketing content, and blog posts.

Key features:

• Generates SEO-friendly content for marketing and improved search rankings.
• Provides tone and style customization for brand consistency.
• Supports multi-language content creation for international markets.
• Integrates with Surfer SEO to improve search engine rankings.

Jasper helps eCommerce businesses scale content production without hiring additional writers. It can help maintain brand consistency and engage customers.

2. Persado

Persado is a marketing language optimization tool that helps businesses craft compelling ad copy, email subject lines, and landing page text. It analyzes customer behavior and sentiment to generate messages that increase engagement and conversions.

Best for: Optimizing marketing copy for user engagement.

Key features:

• Generates email subject lines, ad copy, and landing page content.
• Uses predictive analytics to determine the best-performing words.
• Adjusts messaging based on customer sentiment analysis.

Persado improves open rates, click-through rates, and conversions by analyzing trends and customer data, generating highly effective messaging tailored to customer emotions.

3. ChatGPT

ChatGPT is a popular AI chatbot and content assistant capable of generating various types of text, including product descriptions, landing pages, blog content, and marketing copy. It’s a powerful AI tool that seamlessly integrates with other solutions, such as retail chatbots.

Best for: Content creation and virtual assistance.

Key features:

• Generates content for product descriptions, blogs, and ad copy.
• Automates customer support responses through chatbot integration.
• Assists with writing emails, FAQs, and sales messaging.

Besides being a useful writing tool, ChatGPT can improve customer interactions by handling inquiries and reducing response times, freeing up human agents for complex issues.

4. Printify’s AI-driven product customization tools

Printify’s AI product customization tools help eCommerce merchants design unique print-on-demand products using an AI image generator and automation. These tools are part of our Product Creator software that helps create product designs and mockups for fulfillment.

Best for: Product design and fulfillment for print-on-demand stores.

Key features:

• Custom product designs for t-shirts, mugs, accessories, and more.
• Real-time product mockup previews before production.
• Integrates with eCommerce platforms like Shopify and Etsy.

For print-on-demand businesses, Printify’s AI helps increase product variety by generating custom product design ideas. The Printify Product Creator lets merchants prepare designs, enabling businesses to sell custom-print products through automated order fulfillment.

5. Canva Magic Studio

Canva’s Magic Studio is an AI-powered content assistant that helps businesses create marketing visuals, ad graphics, and social media posts. It lets eCommerce store owners design high-quality promotional materials without needing design expertise or a large budget to hire professionals.

Best for: Generating marketing graphics, promotional visuals, and ad creatives.

Key features:

• AI-assisted image generation and smart design suggestions.
• Creates visual content for social media posts, product banners, and email graphics.
• Provides instant copy suggestions for captions and marketing messages.
• User-friendly drag-and-drop editor for effortless design.

For online retailers, Magic Studio increases customer engagement by quickly creating eye-catching marketing materials. It simplifies content creation for ads, emails, and product promotions, ensuring consistent branding across all sales channels.

6. Copy.ai

Copy.ai is an AI writing assistant that generates text for marketing copy, ad text, product descriptions, and email content. It helps eCommerce businesses generate high-quality content quickly while maintaining brand consistency and persuasive messaging.

Best for: Writing marketing copy for websites, ads, and email campaigns.

Key features:

• Generates SEO-optimized ad copy, email sequences, and product descriptions.
• Offers templates for social media, blogs, and landing pages.
• Helps refine tone and style for brand consistency.

For eCommerce store owners, Copy.ai helps boost sales by delivering engaging and high-converting marketing content in minutes. It reduces writer’s block and ensures businesses maintain consistent, high-quality messaging across all platforms.

7. Crayon

Crayon is a competitive intelligence platform that tracks competitor marketing strategies, pricing changes, and website updates to provide actionable insights. It helps businesses monitor industry trends and refine their strategies based on real-time market data.

Best for: Competitive analysis and marketing strategy optimization.

Key features:

• Monitors competitor website changes, ad campaigns, and promotions.
• Provides real-time data on pricing adjustments in the market.
• Uses AI-driven insights to refine marketing campaigns.

Crayon helps online stores stay ahead of competitors by analyzing industry trends and pricing strategies. 

8. MarketMuse

MarketMuse is a search engine optimization (SEO) content tool that helps businesses improve their search engine rankings by identifying high-performing topics and content gaps. Based on dynamic keyword generation, MarketMuse gives you a formula for what to write.

Best for: SEO-driven content strategy and optimization.

Key features:

• Identifies keyword opportunities and topic gaps for SEO.
• Provides AI-generated content briefs for better optimization.
• Analyzes competitor content to find areas of improvement.

By analyzing keyword trends and customer preferences, MarketMuse helps optimize product pages, blogs, and landing pages for better search rankings and increased organic traffic.

9. Hostinger AI Assistant

Hostinger AI Writer is a content generation tool that helps create SEO-optimized website content, such as blog posts, landing pages, and product descriptions, specifically for online websites and eCommerce stores.                                                                                                                                                                    

Best for: Writing website content and product descriptions.

Key features:

• Generates SEO-friendly blog posts and product pages.
• Customizes content based on brand voice and industry-specific needs.
• Provides AI-assisted content formatting to enhance readability and structure.

By automating content creation, Hostinger AI Writer enables businesses to scale their websites efficiently, ensuring a steady flow of high-quality, optimized content.

10. Picsart AI Content Generator

Picsart AI Content Generator is a design and content creation tool that lets users and businesses create images, marketing visuals, and social media posts. It helps online retailers maintain a consistent brand presence across digital platforms.

Best for: Creating social media graphics and product marketing visuals.

Key features:

• Generates AI images for social media, ads, and product pages.
• Provides automated background removal and photo enhancement.
• Includes customizable templates tailored for eCommerce platforms.

By enhancing visual content, Picsart AI helpsdrive sales by making product listings more engaging and appealing. By implementing AI tools like Picsart, businesses can create personalized content that streamlines workflows, allowing them to focus on other key tasks.

11. Perplexity AI

Perplexity AI is a research assistant that helps companies gather insights, analyze market trends, and make data-driven decisions for marketing and sales. With its integrated API, it can also function as an AI shopping assistant, particularly through its Shopify integration.

Best for: Conducting market research and content strategy.

Key features:

• Uses artificial intelligence to analyze market trends and customer behavior.
• Provides instant news outlet insights for informed decision-making.
• Helps eCommerce businesses optimize product positioning and pricing strategies.

Perplexity AI guides decision-making by providing actionable insights based on real-time market trends. It optimizes marketing efforts and helps drive sales.

12. Justdone

Justdone is a content generator for businesses that need quick, high-quality text for marketing, customer service, and sales. Based on manual input prompts, it creates blog articles, email campaigns, and product descriptions for stores that need fresh content regularly.

Best for: Generating listing descriptions, ads, and marketing emails.

Key features:

• Uses artificial intelligence to generate SEO-friendly content.
• Provides pre-built templates for eCommerce platforms.
• Creates automated email sequences and product descriptions.

Justdone helps eCommerce companies scale content production without needing extra resources. Online stores can generate marketing messages, sales emails, and engaging product descriptions in minutes.

13. QuillBot

QuillBot is a writing and paraphrasing tool that helps writers and businesses refine and enhance marketing content, customer emails, and product listings. It restructures sentences, suggests better word choices, and corrects grammar to make content more professional and engaging.

Best for: Editing and refining listings, emails, and blogs.

Key features:

• Rewrites text while keeping the original meaning.
• Suggests synonyms and alternative phrasing for clarity.
• Checks grammar and improves content readability.

Clear, well-written descriptions help eCommerce websites rank higher in search results and increase customer satisfaction. Online retailers use QuillBot to make more persuasive product pages and improve customer interactions.

14. Writesonic

Writesonic is a writing tool that generates marketing copy, descriptions, blogs, and ad text. It uses natural language processing to create concise, engaging, and SEO-friendly content.

Best for: Writing eCommerce listing descriptions, blogs, and ads.

Key features:

• Creates SEO-optimized text for product pages, emails, and social media captions.
• Provides templates for ad copy and landing pages.
• Uses artificial intelligence to adjust tone and readability.

eCommerce platforms rely on Writesonic to create content that keeps messaging clear, persuasive, and search-friendly. It helps businesses increase conversion rates by having product pages communicate key features effectively.

Customer service AI tools

15. Zendesk AI

Zendesk AI improves customer service automation by using AI chatbots and machine learning algorithms to handle support tickets, live chat, and customer interactions.

Best for: AI-powered customer service and ticketing automation.

Key features:

• Uses natural language processing (NLP) to understand customer inquiries.
• Automates ticket management and chatbot responses.
• Provides sentiment analysis to improve support quality.

Automated customer service reduces wait times and operational costs. eCommerce businesses use Zendesk AI to provide quick, personalized responses, improving customer service and user retention.

16. Drift

Drift is a conversational marketing platform that connects businesses with potential customers in real time using chatbots and automated messaging. It helps qualify leads, assist shoppers, and improve conversions.

Best for: AI-powered live chat for customer engagement.

Key features:

• AI chatbots engage customers and answer inquiries instantly.
• Automates lead qualification and sales follow-ups.
• Personalizes customer interactions based on browsing behavior.

Drift reduces drop-off rates and improves the customer journey by offering live responses. It helps businesses boost sales by providing instant support to hesitant shoppers.

17. Chatfuel

Chatfuel is a no-code AI chatbot builder for Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp. It automates customer interactions, order tracking, and FAQ responses.

Best for: Automating AI-powered chatbots for social media and messaging apps.

Key features:

• Automates responses to customer questions and order updates.
• Integrates with Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
• Uses AI to deliver personalized recommendations.

eCommerce businesses use Chatfuel to offer 24/7 support, reducing manual customer service workload, while improving the customer experience through quick, accurate responses.

18. Intercom

Intercom is a customer messaging platform that combines AI-powered chatbots, live chat, and automated workflows to deliver personalized customer support.

Best for: Customer engagement and support automation.

Key features:

• AI chatbots manage live chat and support tickets.
• Custom chat flows respond to customer behavior and past purchases.
• Integrates with CRM and eCommerce platforms.

Online retailers use Intercom to improve response times and offer proactive support, making customer interactions more efficient and personalized.

Inventory and pricing management

19. Blue Yonder

Blue Yonder is an inventory and supply chain management tool that helps businesses predict demand, optimize stock levels, and prevent overstocking or stockouts.

Best for: Demand forecasting and inventory management.

Key features:

• Tracks sales trends to predict inventory needs.
• Prevents stock shortages and excess inventory.
• Automates inventory restocking based on demand.

Blue Yonder is a great eCommerce tool for reducing storage costs, preventing lost sales, and keeping inventory at optimal levels through automated tracking software.

20. Prisync

Prisync is a real-time competitor price tracking tool that helps businesses adjust their pricing strategies based on market trends and competitor pricing.

Best for: Competitive pricing intelligence and dynamic pricing.

Key features:

• Tracks competitor prices and adjusts pricing automatically.
• Uses machine learning algorithms to suggest pricing strategies.
• Provides pricing reports and analytics.

By analyzing real-time pricing trends, Prisync helps eCommerce businesses stay competitive with their pricing while maximizing profit margins.

21. Pricefx

Pricefx is a cloud-based pricing optimization tool that helps businesses set data-driven prices based on customer demand, competitor activity, and historical sales data.

Best for: Price optimization and revenue management.

Key features:

• Uses predictive analytics to recommend optimal price points.
• Adjusts prices dynamically based on market conditions.
• Integrates with major eCommerce platforms for automated pricing updates.

Pricing impacts conversion rates and revenue. Pricefx helps eCommerce websites find the right price balance to increase sales without sacrificing profitability.

Personalization tools

22. OptiMonk

OptiMonk is a website personalization tool that delivers targeted pop-ups, banners, and product recommendations based on customer behavior.

Best for: Personalizing shopping experiences.

Key features:

• Tracks visitor behavior to display relevant offers.
• Creates exit-intent pop-ups to reduce cart abandonment.
• Suggests product recommendations based on browsing history.

Personalized shopping experiences increase conversion rates. OptiMonk helps eCommerce businesses keep visitors engaged by displaying offers that match their interests.

23. Insider

Insider is a customer engagement platform that tailors marketing campaigns across email, SMS, push notifications, and the web, based on customer behavior.

Best for: Multi-channel marketing automation and personalization.

Key features:

• Segments customers by behavior and purchase history.
• Automates email, SMS, and push notification campaigns.
• Integrates with eCommerce platforms for omnichannel engagement.

Personalized marketing improves customer lifetime value. Insider helps eCommerce companies send relevant promotions, leading to higher engagement and repeat purchases.

Design and creativity tools

24. MidJourney

MidJourney is an AI image-generation tool that creates custom visuals from text prompts to generate ads, branding materials, and product designs for items like custom t-shirts without needing a designer.

Best for: AI-generated product images and branding.

Key features:

• Produces high-resolution images from text descriptions.
• Customizes visuals for marketing and product displays.
• Works for ads, social media, and product pages.

MidJourney helps eCommerce brands create unique visuals, eliminating reliance on stock photos. Using MidJourney is one of the easiest ways to generate AI images.

25. Adobe Firefly

Adobe Firefly is a promotional design tool that generates logos, banners, and social media graphics for businesses using AI-driven suggestions.

Best for: AI-assisted design and branding content.

Key features:

• Generates marketing images based on text prompts.
• Enhances branding visuals for ads and campaigns.
• Works with Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

Consistent, high-quality visuals increase brand trust. Firefly helps eCommerce businesses create professional graphics quickly.

26. Looka

Looka is a logo generator that creates custom brand identities based on user input.

Best for: Logo and branding design.

Key features:

• Generates unique logos based on preferences.
• Provides branding kits with fonts, colors, and templates.
• Creates ready-to-use marketing assets.

Strong branding helps eCommerce businesses stand out. Looka simplifies the process with AI-generated designs.

27. Runway

Runway is a video editing platform that automates motion tracking, background removal, and special effects for marketing videos.

Best for: AI-assisted video creation and editing.

Key features:

• Automates video effects and scene transitions.
• Enhances product videos with AI-generated visuals.
• Works for ads, product demos, and social media content.

Personalized video content increases engagement and conversions, leading to more sales and enhancing customer satisfaction. Runway helps brands create high-quality video content quickly.

Sign up

Create a Printify account for free and start integrating AI into your workflow.

Choose your products

Select from over 1,300 customizable products for your online store from the Printify Catalog.

Apply your designs

Use our Product Creator and AI tools to generate unique, high-quality designs in minutes.

Decide where to sell, and let us do the rest

Sync with top eCommerce sales channels from our list of integrations. Once you make a sale, our Print Providers will handle the fulfillment and shipping so you can focus on growth.

Camera

Don’t have a top-tier DSLR for professional photography? No problem.

A smartphone camera or a simple point-and-shoot will work just fine. That said, if you’re looking to up your game, a DSLR or mirrorless camera gives you:

• Sharper details for those crisp, zoomed-in close-up shots.
• Better control over depth of field and lighting.
• Multiple lens options (wide-angle lenses work great for some products).

But remember, gear won’t save a bad product photography setup. Your lighting, background, and angles matter just as much.

Tripod

Want sharp, professional-looking product photography? Stop holding the camera.

A tripod keeps your shots steady, maintains consistency across multiple images, and lets you adjust angles without shaky hands ruining your shot. Even a cheap $30 tripod from Amazon will do the trick.

Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in your product photos. Too dark? Details disappear. Too bright? Colors get washed out. The key is finding the right balance to make your product shine.

You have two main options – natural light (free but unpredictable) and artificial light (controlled but requires setup). Both have pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your product, camera, setting, and budget.

Natural lighting

Natural light is free and universally flattering, making it perfect for lifestyle shots, clothing, and accessories. It creates a warm, inviting look that connects with customers.

Here’s where natural light shines:

• Soft ambient light shots – Perfect for capturing details and textures, requiring minimal edits.
• Outdoor shots with scenic backgrounds – Ideal for eco-friendly products or nature-inspired designs for an authentic feel.
• Photos with a person wearing or holding the product – Adds relatability and context.
• Thematic photos that tell a brand story – Think cozy coffee cups by a window or a tote bag on a city street.

How to get the best natural light for product photography?

• Time it right – Midday often casts harsh shadows, so aim for early morning or golden hour in the late afternoon.
• Use indirect sunlight – Direct sun can create glare. Position your setup in the shade or indoors near a large window.
• DIY light diffusion – If the sunlight is too strong, tape thin white sheets, parchment paper, or a sheer curtain over your window for a softer glow.
• Consider a white backdrop – A white wall, large sheet of paper, or poster board can help reflect light evenly back onto your product.

Artificial lighting

If you can’t rely on daylight or need consistent lighting for multiple shoots, artificial lighting is the way to go. It works anytime, anywhere, and eliminates color inconsistencies caused by shifting natural light.

Here are the best artificial lighting options for product photography:

• Softbox light kits – These mimic daylight, create soft shadows, and prevent glare. Softboxes on each side of your product will provide even lighting.
• LED panel lights – Adjustable brightness and color temperatures let you match the lighting to your brand’s aesthetic.
• Ring lights – Best for small products, jewelry, or beauty items, providing a clean, even glow without intense shadows.
• White foam boards – Bounce light back onto the product to reduce harsh shadows and keep details sharp.
• Clip-on desk lamps with daylight bulbs – A budget-friendly hack for smaller product shoots.

How to set up artificial lighting for product photography?

• Position your key light – This is your main light source, typically placed 45 degrees to the left or right of the product.
• Add a fill light or reflector – This helps soften shadows. If you don’t have a second light, use a foam board or white poster board to bounce the light back.
• Use a light tent – Also known as a lightbox, this encases the product in soft, even light. You can buy one or DIY it with a plastic storage bin lined with white fabric.

Worksurface

A wobbly table equals blurry photos. You need a stable, spacious surface that keeps your products steady and gives you room to experiment with angles. 

No fancy setup? No problem. Here are some alternatives:

• Folding table – Affordable, portable, and easy to adjust.
• Desk or countertop – Works if it’s clean, flat, and sturdy.
• DIY fix – Push a chair against a wall and cover it with a sheet for a quick, makeshift setup.
• Photo shooting table – If you’re serious about successful product photography, a dedicated photo table with a built-in backdrop is worth considering.

White backdrop

A crisp, white background eliminates distractions, enhances product focus, and simplifies editing. A plain wall might seem like a shortcut, but even the best-painted surfaces show shadows, uneven tones, and textures that can ruin your shots.

Best backdrop options:

• Seamless white paper roll – The gold standard for clean, pro-level shots. It’s cheap, smooth, and easy to replace.
• Vinyl backdrops – Durable and wipeable, they’re great for food, cosmetics, or anything messy.
• DIY poster board or craft paper – Budget-friendly but flimsy. Expect creases and wear and tear.
• Photography lightbox – An all-in-one setup that handles lighting and background in one go.
• Product photo stand – If you want stability without the hassle, this is a go-to.

Whatever method you choose, a distraction-free background makes your product pop and gives your store a polished look.

1. Set up a product

Think about the types of product photography you need. Different product shots serve different purposes, so set up accordingly:

• White background product shots – Clean and professional, these make your product stand out and are essential for product listings.
• Lifestyle shots – Show the product in real life to help customers imagine using it. Add models, props, or staged environments.
• Close-up shots – Focus on textures, materials, or intricate design details to highlight key features.
• Group shots – Ideal for product images that include bundles, variations, or collections.
• Packaging shots – Customers want to see what they’re getting, so showcase the final product, including branded packaging.
• Reference shots – Place your product next to familiar objects to provide a sense of scale.

If you’re shooting print-on-demand apparel, make sure it looks crisp and polished:

• Steam or iron shirts before photographing to eliminate wrinkles.
• Stuff fabric with thin cardboard or tissue for a structured look.
• Use mannequins, hangers, or flat lays to give shape.

For white background photos, position your product in the center, leaving enough space around it for cropping and shooting different angles. Even with a minimalist backdrop, you can use subtle props or textures to create a premium look.

2. Set up a background

Your product photography setup plays a huge role in the final look of your product images. Get this right, and you’ll instantly improve the quality without needing much editing.

Use natural light strategically – Position your work surface near a large window to take advantage of soft ambient light. Use a thin curtain or sheer fabric to diffuse or add more natural light.

Stabilize your backdrop – If you’re using a white background, secure it properly:

• Clamp a paper roll to the backrest of a chair for a quick DIY setup.
• Tape it against a wall, making sure the edges are straight and level.
• Use a photo studio backdrop stand for a more professional setup.

Optimize your light tent setup – If using this approach, line the back wall with white material and trim the backdrop to fit perfectly, preventing visible seams.

3. Adjust the lightning

A well-lit setup makes all the difference in product photography, resulting in high-quality photos that accurately showcase your items. 

Whether you’re doing a lifestyle photo or a white background product shot, here’s how to optimize your lighting setup for a stunning final result.

Natural lighting

• Experiment with angles (45-90 degrees from the window) to soften shadows and improve image quality.
• Turn off house lights to prevent mixed-color contamination that could distort your product images.
• Watch for ambient changes. Shifting sunlight, electronic screens, or streetlights can impact your final shot.
• For outdoor shots, find an open space without obstructions. Shoot before midday for the best clarity and softer light, but be mindful of unpredictable weather.

Artificial lighting

• Use two light sources – one as the primary light source, the other as fill lighting to minimize dark areas.
• Add white foam boards or a reflector card to diffuse light evenly across the product.
• If using a light tent, adjust the light intensity to prevent overexposure and maintain color accuracy.
• Record your setup for reference. Getting the perfect angles and light balance takes trial and error, but a consistent setup will speed up future shoots.

4. Use a tripod and adjust the camera

A solid camera setup separates amateur shots from professional-looking product photos. A shaky hand can ruin the sharpness of your product images, so let’s eliminate the guesswork.

Set it and forget it

• Place your tripod directly in front of the product, adjusting the height and distance until the entire frame looks balanced.
• Attach your camera or smartphone securely – you don’t want a sudden tilt ruining your perfect composition.
• Make sure the legs are level – a lopsided shot can throw off the whole visual perspective.

Frame it like a pro

• Leave some space around the product for easy cropping during editing.
• Play with different camera angles to highlight the product’s best features. A simple shift can make an item look sleek, cheap, or high-end.

Angles that sell

• Eye-level shots – A straight-on, direct view that works for almost anything.
• Low-angle shots – Looking up to add dominance and presence to the product.
• High-angle shots – Facing down for a compact, stylish aesthetic.
• Bird’s-eye shots – Great for flat-lay photography.

5. Choose the right settings

If you want high-quality product photos, your camera settings need to be on point. 

Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone, tweaking a few settings will sharpen your images, reduce noise, and enhance colors.

Here’s what you should be looking out for:

• Optimize your storage space – Nothing’s worse than running out of memory mid-shoot. Leave enough space for plenty of high-resolution images.
• Enable scene view grid lines – These help you frame the product properly and keep it centered and aligned.
• Turn off flash and color filter settings – Your lighting setup will do the work. Artificial flash can create shadows and overexposure.
• Use the highest-quality image setting – Shoot in RAW or your camera’s highest JPG setting to capture maximum detail.
• Set white balance to auto – This works well when using a white background, but you can tweak it manually for dynamic lifestyle shots.
• Keep ISO as low as possible – This limits grain for a clean, sharp image.
• Use optical zoom – Digital zoom can distort quality, while optical zoom keeps the clarity intact.
• Use manual exposure – It lets you control the brightness and contrast better than auto settings. If you’re unsure, use Aperture Priority mode to adjust the depth of field.

6. Take multiple images of your product

Don’t settle for just one photo. Capture various angles and compositions to give customers a complete view of your product.

• Start with a clean, well-lit still shot, then experiment with close-ups, overhead shots, and side perspectives.
• Fine-tune your lighting and focus as you shoot to highlight key features and avoid harsh shadows.
• Check composition and framing to maintain straight, balanced shots with no awkward cropping.
• Upload images to a computer for a proper quality check – small camera screens won’t reveal imperfections.

7. Edit the pictures

A great photo can become a stunning product image with the right edits. 

Since first impressions are everything in eCommerce, now’s the time to refine, enhance, and perfect.

• Upload your pictures – Choose your preferred photo editing software, like Lightroom or Adobe Photoshop.
• Fix white balance – Your backdrop should be crisp and clean, but not artificially stark. Keep some subtle shadows to add depth.
• Tweak brightness, contrast, and sharpness – Be careful not to overdo it. Customers expect real-life accuracy, not over-processed perfection.
• Remove distractions – Dust spots, stray fibers, or uneven edges can make your product photo look unprofessional.

8. Optimize pictures for your online store

Beyond high-quality product photography, make sure your images are ready for web use. The goal of image optimization is to maintain quality while reducing the file size.

One of the biggest factors is loading speed. Large images slow down websites, hurting both the user experience and SEO rankings. 

Find the right image dimensions

Before resizing, determine the exact image container size your website uses:

1. Inspect the web page – Right-click anywhere on your site and select Inspect to open the HTML source code.
2. Locate the container – In the layout tab, hover over image elements until the pixel dimensions appear.
3. Take note of the size – This helps your images fit perfectly without distortion or unnecessary cropping.

Resize and compress your images

To match your container size:

• Use built-in tools like Mac Preview or Windows Photos, or opt for online image editing software.
• Choose pixels for the dimensions.
• Enable scale proportionally to maintain the aspect ratio.

Here’s how it looks in Mac Preview:

You can stick with the precise size or take the pixel ratio up to 1.5 for a sharper display on high-resolution screens. Save the image as a JPEG at 100% quality.

After resizing, compress your images to reduce the file size without sacrificing image quality. Photoshop and online tools like TinyPNG or Squoosh can help.

Final check

Resize each product image individually to avoid distortions and cropping issues, even if they feature the same product. Then, review these points before publishing:

• Preview the image on your website.
• Adjust if necessary and make sure all key elements and features are visible.
• Test load speed to confirm your website’s user-friendliness.

With these strategies, your eCommerce store will deliver fast, high-quality product images that drive customer engagement and conversions.

1. Adobe Express

Formerly known as Photoshop Express, this app brings powerful editing tools to your fingertips. Adjust brightness, contrast, exposure, and hue, remove unwanted objects, and apply professional-looking filters without sacrificing quality. 

It’s perfect for quick edits that make your product photos pop and ready for an online store.

2. Lightroom

If you’re serious about product photography, Adobe Lightroom is the gold standard. This photo editing powerhouse lets you fine-tune colors, balance lighting, and apply custom presets. 

Its AI-powered tools help with automatic adjustments, making it ideal for achieving high-quality product photos. Plus, it syncs seamlessly with Lightroom’s desktop version for consistent brand visuals across all platforms.

3. VSCO

Best known for its trendy filters, VSCO is great for enhancing product images with subtle edits. It offers precise controls for color grading, sharpness, and texture, helping you achieve a polished, aesthetic look.

If you’re selling on social media or an online store, VSCO is a popular and beginner-friendly option to help your product photography stand out.

Enhance your store’s reach and traffic

Great product photography isn’t just for your website – it improves SEO and engagement on social media, ads, and marketplaces. 

A/B tests show that larger, high-quality photos lead to higher click-through rates and more sales. Search engines also favor original product images, increasing your store’s visibility.

Provide a better shopping experience

Customers want a 360-degree view before committing to a purchase. Including different angles, close-ups, and lifestyle shots helps highlight key product features to convert buyers. 

Different types of eCommerce photography like studio shots, white background images, and in-context lifestyle photos create a more immersive shopping experience.

Improve brand perception and professionalism

Your brand image relies on consistent, well-styled product photos. A sleek backdrop, good lighting, and high-quality editing help establish credibility and differentiate you from competitors. 

Using a mix of signature lifestyle shots and standard product images builds a recognizable brand identity.

Encourage faster decision-making

People process visuals faster than text, and compelling images hold attention longer. The first few seconds are critical – if your images don’t immediately engage potential buyers, they’ll bounce off the page. 

Strong product photography hooks visitors, while detailed product descriptions reinforce the purchase decision.

Using different types of product photography strategically – with optimized images, different angles, and clear product details – improves customer trust and ultimately drives more conversions.