Do you need a business license to sell on Etsy?
Once your Etsy store starts making a consistent profit in sales, you can be legally obligated to apply for a license through your local government.
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]]>Side hustle made easy – Print, sell, profit.
Tired of the 9-to-5 grind? Wondering how to make a living without a job and actually enjoy what you do? Print on Demand (POD) might be the answer. With just a few dollars, some creativity, and a computer, you can build your own business, earn money from home, and take control of your time.
In this guide, you’ll discover what Print on Demand is, why it’s a smart way to start earning without a job, how to launch your own POD business, and which products are best for getting started.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Key takeaways
- POD is one of the easiest ways to make money without a traditional job. No inventory, no shipping logistics, and no big upfront investment required.
- Marketing is key to success. Use SEO, social media, and targeted ads to drive traffic and turn browsers into buyers.
- Freedom and flexibility come built in. A print-on-demand business lets you work from anywhere, set your own schedule, and build steady income streams at your own pace.
- With smart strategies and consistent effort, you can grow your brand, get paid, and take real steps toward financial freedom.
What is Print on Demand
Print on Demand is a business model where you create custom designs and sell them on products like tees, bags, phone cases, and more – without holding any inventory. Your POD partner prints, packs, and ships each item after it’s sold.
Here’s how it works:
- Upload a design to your supplier’s platform.
- Add the product to your website or online store.
- When a customer purchases, your supplier prints and ships it directly to them.
- You earn a profit on every sale. For example, sell a shirt for $25, pay $9 to your supplier, and keep the $16 difference.
Why Print on Demand is a great way to make a living without a job
Whether you’re looking to earn extra cash, launch a side hustle, or eventually replace your 9-to-5, here’s why POD is a smart way to make money without a traditional job:
- Work when you want – No clocking in, no boss. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, you control your free time and set your own hours.
- Start from home – All you need is a laptop and an internet connection. Yes, you can build your store in pajamas and slippers.
- Low cost, low risk – Unlike a regular job or traditional business, there’s no need for a big upfront investment. Sell t-shirts, mugs, and more – you only pay for what you sell.
- Focus on what matters – Forget packing boxes or managing stock. Your POD partner handles the logistics so you can focus on designing, marketing, and making money.
- Room to grow – Start small and scale at your own pace. Over time, your side hustle can become a reliable source of income and even replace your regular job.
Tip
Check out the best side hustles and other ways to make money on our blog.
Pros and cons of starting a POD business
POD can be a powerful way to earn money without a job, but like any business model, it comes with trade-offs.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low startup costs – Start your own business for under $100, without holding inventory. | Takes time to learn – Finding the right niche, supplier, and designs requires research and effort. |
| Quick to launch – No need to hire a web designer. Use themes, plugins, and tools to get started fast. | High competition – With a low barrier to entry, the market can get crowded, and many sellers may offer similar products. |
| No inventory space needed – Your supplier handles printing, packing, and shipping. | Returns can be tricky – You have to align your return policy with your Print Provider. |
| Easy to test new designs – Switch products or styles without losing money. | Extra costs may add up with a domain, plugins, and ads. |
| Sell globally – Most suppliers ship worldwide, giving you access to international customers. |
Make it happen today!
How to make a living without working a 9-to-5 job with Print on Demand – 6 steps
To help you succeed, here are six practical steps to launch and grow your own POD business, showing you how to live without a job, from setting up your shop to creating products and driving sales.
Step 1 – Choose your niche and products wisely
Start with market research and think about what you love – it could be fitness, pets, gaming, or even something as niche as mushroom art.
List your interests, then look them up on social media, Google Trends, or online marketplaces such as Amazon and Etsy to see what people are buying and talking about. You can also check online communities or focus groups to find real opinions from potential customers.
The more specific your niche, the easier it is to stand out and start earning extra cash. Once you’ve narrowed it down, pick products that match your audience. Popular options include t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, hats, and hoodies – all great for generating income.
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. If you’re an artist, designer, or already have your own clients, start with what you know. Focus on products that sell, keep experimenting, and don’t worry about being perfect.
Tip
Check out the most profitable Instagram niches on our blog.
Step 2 – Create or source your product designs
Once your store is live, it’s time to focus on what drives sales – great design. This might come naturally if you’re an artist, photographer, or designer. Creating content can turn everyday items into bestsellers you can list for sale online. But even if design isn’t your thing, you still have options. Hire freelancers through platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Design Pickle to bring your ideas to life.
Just remember: originality matters. Never copy someone else’s artwork or reuse copyrighted content. Not only is it illegal – it can hurt your brand in the long run.
Your designs are what will set you apart in a competitive market. They’re the key to building brand recognition, attracting your ideal customers, and creating products that generate passive income.
Step 3 – Set up your online store
Once you’ve locked in your niche, products, and designs, it’s time to bring your shop to life. This is where most people will discover your brand, explore your products, and start buying – so it needs to be clean, clear, and easy to use.
Start by picking a platform. Popular options like Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, Etsy, WooCommerce, and PrestaShop all support POD and offer different levels of flexibility. If you’re using WooCommerce with WordPress or building your store with PrestaShop, you’ll also need to register a custom domain through providers like GoDaddy, Hostinger, or Namecheap. With platforms like Shopify, Wix, or Squarespace, that part’s already taken care of.
Once your store is set up, customize it with a template that fits your brand. Set up essential pages like your homepage, product listings, shipping info, and a contact page. Keep the layout simple and make navigation easy – confused visitors rarely become customers. To help recover abandoned carts and earn extra money, consider adding plugins or apps that remind customers to complete their purchase.
This is your own website and the face of your brand. A smooth shopping experience builds trust and puts you in a strong position to make money.
Step 4 – Choose your POD partner
With your store built and designs ready, the next step is choosing a reliable POD provider.
When you connect your store to Printify, you gain access to Print Providers in over 100 locations and more than 1,300 customizable products, including everything from classic t-shirts to home goods and accessories.
The best part? You get to choose your Print Provider based on what fits your business. Want faster shipping? Choose a provider in the same country as your customer base. This helps save money on delivery, avoid customs delays, and provides a better experience – which leads to more sales and higher ratings.
With Printify, you can compare suppliers by product availability, pricing, shipping speed, and customer feedback. We even make it easy to order samples, so you can check quality before listing anything in your store.
If you’re serious about earning money, building passive income, and turning this into a long-term business, choosing the right Print Provider is one of the most important steps.
Step 5 – Promote your store to maximize sales
Now that your online store is live, it’s time to spread the word. Without marketing, your products might just sit and collect dust on the digital shelf. To earn money and build real income streams, you need to get your store in front of the right people.
- Social media is your friend. Set up branded social media accounts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest – you don’t need to be everywhere, just where your audience is. Share engaging content, use the 80/20 rule (80% fun or helpful, 20% promotional), and encourage followers to tag you when they post about your products.
Partnering with niche influencers can also help earn cash, and even small ad budgets can go a long way if you test and tweak your strategy.
- Don’t forget your site. Use SEO to bring web traffic and make your store easier to find – include relevant keywords in product titles, descriptions, and blog posts. Add reviews to boost trust and help clients feel confident buying from you.
- Try blogging. A simple blog with quality content can drive long-term traffic and help establish your store as a go-to spot in your niche. It’s one of those underrated income tools that builds value over time.
Marketing doesn’t have to be expensive – just consistent. The more visible you are, the faster you’ll start making money without a job.
Step 6 – Monitor performance, experiment, and improve
Once your store is up and running, the real fun begins – tweaking, testing, and growing. To turn your POD hustle into a long-term income stream, you need to track what’s working and what’s not.
Start by checking your analytics. If you’re using Shopify, WooCommerce, or Etsy, each platform has built-in reports to show your traffic, sales, and conversion rates. Look at which products are selling, where your visitors are coming from, and where they’re dropping off.
If something isn’t selling, try adjusting the price, changing the product image, or improving your description. Test out new t-shirt designs, add a bundle offer, or launch a limited-time discount to bring in extra cash.
Don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s how you grow. Try new ad creatives, update your homepage layout, or test different suppliers on Printify to compare quality and shipping times. What works for one audience may not work for another, and that’s okay.
Keep an eye on your store’s performance. Small changes can lead to more money, better reviews, and a more sustainable online business.
Make it happen today!
Can you actually make a living with a POD store? Mistakes to avoid
Yes – with the right approach, POD can become one of the most reliable ways to make money. However, success depends on effort, creativity, and smart planning.
Let’s say you spend around $200 per month on essentials like a Shopify subscription, plugins, designs, and ads. If you earn $10 per sale, you’ll need to sell 20-30 products a month just to break even – that’s roughly one sale per day. Everything beyond that is profit, and with time, it can grow into passive income or even replace your traditional job.
But like any business, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- No marketing = no sales. Products won’t sell themselves. You’ll need to promote them through social media, SEO, and ads to drive traffic to your store.
- Skipping market research. Selling what you like is great – as long as other people want it too. Validate your niche and designs before you go all in.
- Using low-quality blanks. Your products reflect your brand. Always test Print Providers and order samples through Printify to ensure quality.
- Weak designs. A strong design makes all the difference. If you’re not a designer, invest a few dollars in hiring one.
- Underestimating delivery times. Shipping can take a couple of weeks, depending on the provider. Set clear expectations to avoid disappointing your customers.
None of these are dealbreakers – just things to be aware of. With preparation, consistency, and a bit of trial and error, you can turn your POD store into a solid source of passive income.
10 Products to make a living without a job with Print on Demand
One of the best things about POD is the variety of products you can customize and sell without holding inventory.
1. T-shirts
T-shirts are a staple in any shop. They’re low-cost, high-demand, and perfect for anyone looking to earn cash while building a brand. With endless design possibilities – from niche humor to art-forward statements – you can easily turn this classic product into a reliable source of income.
2. Cute and funny socks
Whether it’s bold patterns, silly puns, or cozy vibes, socks are fun to design and simple to sell. They make great gifts and impulse purchases, helping you bring in extra cash. Pair them with tees or hats to raise your average order value.
3. Trendy phone cases
Phone cases are a great way to start selling fast. Lightweight, affordable, and always in demand, they let you reach a wide market. If you’re targeting tech lovers or fashion-forward buyers, these can be a solid income stream.
4. Bags
From canvas totes to backpacks and fanny packs, bags are ideal for daily use and personalization. They appeal to eco-conscious shoppers and travelers alike, and they’re perfect for creating your own business that supports long-term, sustainable income.
5. Moody candles
Candles are a top seller in home decor and gift categories. With creative labels and original artwork, they become more than just scented wax – they’re aesthetic mood-setters that help you make money online while offering something your customers will actually love.
6. Seasonal ornaments
Looking for a way to make more money during the holidays? Seasonal ornaments are a fantastic opportunity to launch limited-time designs and test new income streams. You can tap into the festive season year after year to earn cash from returning buyers.
7. Blankets
Blankets are soft, versatile, and loved by just about everyone. Whether you’re offering personalized baby blankets or art-inspired throws, they can add serious value to your store and generate income almost all year round.
8. Water bottles and tumblers
Reusable drinkware is more than a trend – it’s a lifestyle. With water bottles and tumblers, you can save money on packaging, reduce waste, and appeal to customers who care about both style and sustainability. Plus, they’re great add-ons to increase average order value.
9. Stylish hats
Whether it’s dad hats, beanies, or snapbacks, stylish hats allow you to showcase bold logos, slogans, or artwork. They’re an easy win if you want to earn income with eye-catching designs that people can wear every day.
10. Canvas prints
Turn art into income with canvas prints. These are ideal for photographers, illustrators, or creatives who want to sell high-quality, gallery-style products. Perfect for building long-term passive income streams.
Tip
Check out more ways to make money without a job on our blog.
Final thoughts: Make a living without a job with Print on Demand
If you’re looking for a realistic way to make a living without a 9-to-5 job, POD is one of the smartest places to start. With low upfront costs, no inventory, and the freedom to run your own business on your terms, it’s ideal for anyone ready to become self-employed and work toward long-term financial stability.
We covered what POD is, why it works, and the steps to launch your shop – from choosing a niche and creating designs to promoting your products and scaling up.
It takes effort, but with clever planning and the right tools, you can earn extra cash by exploring alternative ways to work without being tied to a traditional job.
Make it happen today!
The post How to make a living without a job with Print on Demand appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post How to start a stationery business in 9 steps appeared first on Printify.
]]>Start your custom printing business today!
Ready to turn your passion for paper into profit? If you dream of selling greeting cards, calendars, wedding invitations, or art prints, this guide will walk you through how to start a stationery business in nine simple steps.
From choosing a niche, registering your business, and crafting a solid plan to researching market demand, picking stationery products to sell, and setting up your store, you’ll learn everything you need to successfully launch and grow a stationery business.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Key takeaways
- The stationery industry is booming, with billions in annual revenue and growing demand for planners, journals, art prints, and more.
- Finding your niche is crucial – whether it’s eco-friendly notebooks, wedding invites, or gamer-themed planners, your niche defines your brand and target audience.
- A solid business plan lays the foundation for success, covering everything from product ideas and pricing to marketing strategies and budget planning.
- Choose high-demand stationery products like custom notebooks, calendars, and greeting cards – and consider Print on Demand for a hassle-free setup.
- Pick the right sales channel – from Etsy and Amazon to your own Shopify or Wix store – based on your goals and resources.
- Printify makes it easy to start with no upfront costs, built-in design tools, and seamless integrations for online selling.
Start a new stationery business and join a big-buck industry
Think stationery is just dusty notebooks and boring pens? Think again. The stationery industry is thriving – and it’s not just riding the wave of back-to-school vibes. In fact, the office stationery segment alone brought in a whopping $81.5 billion in 2024. That’s right, billion. With a B.
What’s fueling this paper-powered empire?
- More young adults are heading to college and stocking up on planners, journals, and highlighters like their GPAs depend on them.
- Due to the rise of curated spaces and aesthetic-driven lifestyles, people are splurging on premium goods like luxury pens, custom calendars, and desk accessories that scream, “I have my life together.”
- Oh, and let’s not forget the $1.15 billion global diaries and planners market – because everyone loves a fresh start on fancy paper.
Businesses are also stepping up their game, investing in high-quality office supplies to amp up productivity and keep their spaces Instagram-worthy.
From wedding invitations and art prints to greeting cards and marketing materials, the stationery world is full of creativity, nostalgia, and profit potential. It’s a low-barrier, high-flexibility business with endless ways to make your mark – literally.
Start your stationery business with Printify today. No upfront costs.
Start a successful stationery business in 9 easy steps
Now that you know more about the stationery industry, let’s break down the entire process of becoming a new business owner in the office space.
1. Start with selecting a niche
Finding your niche is non-negotiable if you want to start a stationery business that actually sticks (pun 100% intended). Without a niche, you’re throwing glitter in the wind and hoping it lands somewhere profitable.
A niche shapes your target audience, your products, your marketing strategy, and even where you sell (hello, online store vs boutique stationery shops).
Need inspiration? Here are some stationery niche ideas that are more specific than just “cute notebooks”:
- Eco-friendly personal stationery made from recycled materials
- Wedding invitation business with hand-painted art prints
- Pet-themed planners and greeting cards
- Stationery for gamers: pixel-perfect designs, to-do lists, and sticker packs
- Witchy, zodiac-inspired stationery design and spell-tracking journals
- Graduation and college-themed organization kits
- Minimalist branding kits for small businesses
How to narrow it down:
Start with a broad category like “wedding stationery business” or “custom office supplies,” then stalk the data.
- Use Google Trends to see what’s hot, or tools like Semrush and eRank (great for Etsy sellers) to uncover search volume, trending keywords, and what’s popping in the invitation business or wedding industry.
See what potential customers are looking for – not just what you think they want. Find the overlap between what people search for and what lights you up. That’s your stationery sweet spot.
2. Write a business plan (aka your stationery empire blueprint)
Okay, so you picked your niche – woohoo! Now, it’s time to map out your business plan. Think of it as your GPS for how to start a stationery business without spiraling into “how did I lose money selling cute planners?” territory.
Your business plan helps you stay focused, realistic, and ready to attract customers. It’ll also help when applying for a business license, business insurance, or opening a business bank account (all the grown-up stuff).
Your stationery business plan should include:
- Your niche and dream target audience
- Market research (What’s trending? Who’s buying?)
- Products and pricing (and any printing equipment needs)
- Budget, ongoing expenses, and startup costs
- Sales channels (Etsy? Own website? Brick-and-mortar store?)
- Marketing magic (influencer marketing, social media, more)
- How you’ll be managing inventory and spending money wisely
Simple, powerful, and totally worth doing.
Learn in depth how to write a business plan in our blog. You can also find templates from the US Small Business Administration.
3. Register your business
Registering your new business isn’t just a formality. It protects your personal assets, builds trust, and unlocks doors to things like loans, partnerships, and insurance.
First, pick your business structure. In the US, here are your main options:
- Sole Proprietorship – Simple and fast, but no liability protection for your business plans.
- Partnership – Good for teams, sharing responsibilities and risk.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Flexible and protects your assets (a favorite for stationery businesses).
- Corporation – Best for big plans and investors.
You’ll likely need:
- A business license
- An EIN (Employer ID Number) for taxes and banking
- Registration with your state or country
Some companies, like ZenBusiness, assist in registering LLCs and declaring taxes. Also, check our Help Center for FAQs about taxes worldwide.
Bonus tip
Open a business bank account and get insurance early – especially if you’re storing inventory.
4. Create a brand identity (your stationery, your vibe)
Your stationery business isn’t just what you sell – it’s how you make people feel. A strong brand identity sets you apart from other stores and gives customers a reason to spend money with you.
Start with market research:
- What do other stationery companies look like? How do they speak? What colors, fonts, and vibes do they use?
- Check their online stores, read customer reviews, and see how they connect with your target market – especially if you’re offering niche goodies like wedding invitations or working with wedding planners.
Next, craft your own brand:
- Name: Use the Shopify Name Generator or DomainWheel to brainstorm.
- Logo and visuals: Try Placeit or hire a professional on Fiverr.
- Tone of voice: Are you playful? Classy? Minimalist? Make sure it fits your vibe.
Keep it cohesive across your own website, socials, and packaging. Consistency builds trust – and trust is the base of a successful stationery company.
5. Choose products for your custom stationery business
When we say stationery, we’re talking about a whole world of creative tools – not just paper. Think journals, greeting cards, posters, pens, markers, and sticky tape.
- Our Bestsellers page highlights demand for custom notebooks, journals, and posters.
- While industry data claims writing instruments and organizational supplies to be top choices.
If these products fit your niche, consider adding them to your catalog.
Next, decide on your approach. Will you start a stationery business with hands-on production and inventory?
If so, you’ll need reliable suppliers – try UPrinting for custom paper goods or Paper Source Wholesale for high-quality basics. Just know: this route means more ongoing costs and time managing stock since you’ll have to print and ship products yourself.
Want an easier, low-risk path? Choose Print on Demand and partner with Printify!
With over 1,300 products – including customizable stationery staples – you can design for free, launch your online store, and sell without printing or packing a thing.
Our Catalog features calendars, custom notebooks, posters, sticky notes, and other accessories – all made to order.
Do a little market research, choose products your target market will love, and build a standout stationery company.
6. Design your stationery items
With products picked, it’s time to bring your ideas to life. This step is all about designing one-of-a-kind stationery products that will wow the market. How?
- Use design software. If you’re a Photoshop pro or an Illustrator ace, go wild. Professional tools like Adobe give you complete creative control and top-tier polish.
- Digitize your own art. Got sketchbooks full of doodles, watercolors, or lettering? Scan or snap them, clean them up, and boom – instant unique designs for your stationery company.
- Hire a professional. No time or design mojo? No problem. Browse platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to find talented designers who can make your vision a reality.
- Use Printify’s Product Creator. No expertise? No stress. Our free tool lets you design directly in your browser – complete with an AI image generator, pattern tool, multi-language text editor, hundreds of fonts, and a massive free graphics library. It’s beginner-friendly and ridiculously fun.
Your stationery items are your brand’s voice – so make them bold, beautiful, and totally you.
Starting a stationery business with Printify
Start a stationery business with Printify – no startup costs or inventory needed. Sign up today, select and customize products, and publish them in your store.
7. Decide where to sell and set up a store
You’ve got a stationery business – now, where’s it gonna live? Good news: you’ve got options.
Brick and mortar. Love the idea of a local shop? Set up a cozy corner or pop-up in your city. Great for connecting with local schools and establishments, event hosts, and folks who need that perfect wedding invitation ASAP.
Marketplaces. Sites like Etsy, eBay, and Amazon are excellent for reaching ready-to-buy shoppers. They bring the traffic – you bring the charm. Ideal if you’re just starting out or testing new products.
Standalone online stores. Want total control over your brand? Build your own site using platforms and builders like Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce. It’s your space, your rules, and your chance to shine with a fully customized online store.
Not sure where to begin? Check out our step-by-step guides:
- How to start an Etsy shop
- How to start a Shopify store
- How to set up WooCommerce
- How to set up an eBay store
- How to set up an Amazon storefront
Whatever sales channel you choose, make sure it fits your vision, your lifestyle – and your stationery goals.
Read more
Explore the best online selling sites and our comparison articles to make the right choice between Etsy vs Squarespace, WooCommerce vs Shopify, Wix vs Shopify, eBay vs Shopify, Shopify vs Amazon, Etsy vs eBay, and BigCommerce vs Shopify.
8. Price your custom stationery products and optimize your listings
Let’s talk money – because even the cutest stationery business won’t run on glitter alone.
- If you’re creating and selling products yourself, make sure your pricing covers all the costs – materials, packaging, shipping, time, and any sneaky overhead costs like studio rent and printer ink.
- Using Printify? You’re in luck. You get to set your own prices and profit margins (we recommend at least 40%). Your listings sync directly to your store – just pick a product, design it, and boom, you’re live. No inventory, no stress.
But great prices won’t matter if your listings get lost in the internet void. So, let’s make them pop.
Listing optimization tips:
- Titles: Make them clear, descriptive, and searchable (e.g., “Custom Floral Wedding Invitation Set” instead of just “Stationery”).
- Descriptions: Tell a story. Mention product details, materials, use cases, and what makes it unique.
- Tags and keywords: Use specific terms shoppers search for (e.g., “bridesmaid gift,” “pastel planner,” “study supplies”).
- Photos: Use high-quality mockups and lifestyle images showing your designs in real-world settings.
The goal? Make your product irresistible and easy to find. Optimize, test, and update regularly.
Quick tip
Read our eCommerce SEO guide to master key strategies for increasing your store’s visibility, attracting targeted traffic, and driving substantial sales growth.
9. Develop a marketing plan
Your stationery business is live – now it’s time to shout it from the (digital) rooftops.
Marketing turns your cute designs into loyal customers. Here’s how to make that happen:
Social media – Share product photos, customer reviews, and creative videos on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. Use relevant hashtags, post consistently, and engage with your followers to grow a community around your brand.
Email marketing – Collect emails with pop-ups, freebies, or discount codes and send newsletters, product launches, and promos using tools like Mailchimp or MailerLite. Keep it short, visual, and full of personality.
Read more
Wix email marketing and Shopify email marketing to master built-in tools and resources for your small stationery business.
Content marketing and SEO – Monetize a blog or add content to your product pages with helpful tips (like wedding invitation trends or productivity hacks). Use keyword research tools like Google Trends or Semrush to find what your audience is searching for.
Paid ads – Launch targeted ads on Google, Instagram, or Etsy using product photos, reviews, or short videos. Use tools like AdScale, set a small daily budget to test what works, and scale what converts.
Influencer and affiliate marketing – Find micro-influencers on Instagram or TikTok using hashtags or platforms like Collabstr or Upfluence. Reach out with a clear pitch and offer free products, affiliate commissions, or collab deals.
The key? Stay consistent, be real, and focus on what your dream customers care about.
Quick tip
Read our Etsy marketing, Shopify marketing, and affiliate marketing guides to create a marketing strategy that’s guaranteed to succeed.
How to start a stationery business with Printify
Ready to turn your stationery dreams into a real business – minus the inventory, stress, or 4 a.m. packing sessions? That’s where Printify comes in.
With global delivery, automated order fulfillment, a huge Catalog of customizable products, and 24/7 support, Printify is your behind-the-scenes partner that does the heavy lifting – so you can focus on the fun stuff (like designing cute planners or sarcastic notebooks).
Here’s how to get started in five easy steps:
- Register for free and set up your Printify account with your brand name and basic info.
- Browse our Catalog and explore stationery gems like notebooks, stickers, journals, and more.
- Click Start designing and use our Product Creator – add graphics, text, patterns, or even generate AI-powered designs.
- Connect your store – whether it’s on Etsy, Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce, we’ve got integrations for all the big players.
- Publish your products and let the orders flow in.
Once a customer buys, our Print Providers print and ship directly to them – leaving you free to market, grow, and design your next bestseller.
Read more
How to start a stationery business: FAQs
- Do a competitive analysis and select a niche – wedding, personal, or commercial, to mention a few.
- Create a business plan – traditional/detailed or lean.
- Register your business as a legal entity.
- Create a brand identity – name, logo, visual identity, and tone of voice.
- Pick and design products – use Printify’s Product Creator to customize your goods.
- Decide on your setup and where to sell – physical location, hybrid, or online. Choose Printify and Print on Demand to sell custom stationery without inventory or risk.
- Develop and implement a marketing plan with social media accounts and other channels.
Yes. Stationery businesses can return high-profit margins and cash flow – especially when you outsource printing services and embrace digital innovation to keep expenses low.
Yes – if done right. Create a profitable stationery business by innovating, tapping into online resources, and sourcing quality products. Avoid oversaturated niches – creating a local print shop, for example.
Yes – especially with Printify. With Print on Demand, you design once, and our partners handle the rest: printing, packing, and shipping. Pair that with an Etsy, Shopify, or Wix store, and voilà – your passive income pipeline is ready to roll.
Easy peasy:
- Set up your Etsy store (you’ll need a name, banner, and payment info).
- Join Printify and create your free account.
- Browse our stationery collection – think journals, notebooks, and stickers.
- Click Start designing and customize with your art, AI, or our free graphics.
- Connect your Etsy store to Printify for automatic product syncing.
- Polish your mockups, titles, and tags, set prices, and publish your listings.
- When someone buys, our Print Provider prints and ships – so you sit back and collect profits.
Start with good old research. Explore trending items and niche ideas directly on Etsy or Amazon. Tools like eRank, EverBee, or Semrush can show you hot keywords and what’s selling fast. Still stuck? Ask AI for trend-based suggestions or design prompts.
Those vary by your chosen business model. Doing everything yourself? Factor in materials, equipment, premises, packaging, and shipping. But if you go the Printify route, starting costs are minimal. Creating your account and launching products is totally free – you’ll just pay for optional fees for your chosen sales platform and marketing.
Final thoughts
You’ve now learned how to make your own stationery business from scratch – from fulfilling products with no startup costs to going digital and marketing your brand with confidence.
Now, it’s up to you to create your own business and enjoy the freedom of being in control of your time. Count on Printify to assist and support you throughout the journey while making it profitable.
Start a profitable business selling stationery products today!
The post How to start a stationery business in 9 steps appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post Shopify dropshipping: A comprehensive 9-step guide for 2025 appeared first on Printify.
]]>Sell custom products with Printify
Shopify dropshipping is one of the easiest ways to start selling online without dealing with inventory or managing supply chains.
Whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or an eCommerce pro, starting a dropshipping store on Shopify is a low-risk way to build a profitable business.
This guide will show you how to start dropshipping on Shopify, covering everything from market research and choosing suppliers to store design and marketing strategies.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Key takeaways
- Dropshippers don’t hold inventory but source products for their business from dropshipping suppliers, who also handle order fulfillment.
- To start selling successfully, you’ll need to pinpoint your customer niche and find reliable suppliers.
- Drive organic traffic to your dropshipping store with high-quality content and search engine optimization (SEO).
- Promote your dropshipping products through email marketing campaigns, social media, influencer partnerships, and paid ads.
- Go beyond generic dropshipping items and use Printify to create custom products for free. Start selling worldwide with no order minimums.
What is Shopify dropshipping?
A dropshipping Shopify store lets you sell online without managing inventory. Instead, you list products from multiple suppliers. When you start making sales, the supplier or manufacturer ships orders directly to your customers.
Since you, as a seller, won’t have to handle products yourself, the dropshipping business model reduces processing times and eliminates upfront costs.
It’s a scalable business model that lets you sell pre-made products worldwide.
How to use Shopify for dropshipping:
- Set up your Shopify account and choose a Shopify pricing plan.
- Pick a niche and source products from reliable suppliers.
- Use Shopify dropshipping apps to import products to your store.
- Optimize product descriptions, images, and pricing for better conversions.
- Market your store through SEO, social media, and influencer partnerships.
Pro tip
Learn the difference between Print on Demand vs dropshipping. While both help you sell without inventory, POD lets you create custom products – helping you stand out against generic dropshipping items.
Why dropship on Shopify?
Shopify powers more than four million websites, and 12.3% of Shopify stores have at least one product that’s fulfilled through dropshipping.
With its customizable templates and intuitive Shopify dashboard, it’s easier than ever to create a professional Shopify store that stands out.
The Shopify App Store offers tools for everything from email marketing to product catalog management. Plus, you can reach customers worldwide with Shopify Payments for seamless transactions.
Here are some key benefits for independent sellers and entrepreneurs wanting to start a dropshipping business with no inventory on Shopify.
Low initial investment
Shopify offers a variety of pricing plans starting at $5 per month for its Starter plan. Choose the best option for your budget and dropshipping business needs.
Easy Shopify store customization
With customizable templates, free themes, and the beginner-friendly Shopify dashboard, you can create a professional store design in minutes.
Apps for everything
Easily add Printify and other dropshipping, marketing, and SEO apps to your eCommerce website.
No need for stock
Simply install a dropshipping app, add products to your store, and start selling. Your dropshipping supplier will take care of inventory and deliveries.
Global coverage
Expand to international markets with Shopify Payments, integrated shipping options, and multi-currency support.
9-Step guide for starting a dropshipping business on Shopify
Step 1 – Calculate upfront costs
Before you start dropshipping, it’s crucial to understand Shopify pricing plans, domain costs, and marketing expenses.
- Sign up for a free trial to explore Shopify and test its features. Whether you’re using a dropshipping app or integrating other sales channels, the free period lets you experiment before committing to a paid plan.
- Factor in marketing strategy costs, including paid ads, SEO tools, and email marketing software.
- Budget for product samples to guarantee customer satisfaction before launching.
Here are some possible expenses to keep in mind.
Your subscription plan
Shopify is freefor three days when you sign up for a trial. Then, you’ll be charged $1 for the first three months, and the following costs will depend on your chosen pricing plan.
| Plan | Pricing (monthly) | Pricing (annual – 25% off) | Transaction fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $39/month | $29/month | 2.9% plus $0.30 |
| Shopify | $105/month | $79/month | 2.7% plus $0.30 |
| Advanced | $399/month | $299/month | 2.5% plus $0.30 |
Check out our comparison of all Shopify pricing plans to find the best option for your dropshipping store.
Your domain name
All Shopify plans offer a free subdomain. This will be your store name plus .myshopify.com.
However, if you want your own custom store URL, you’ll need to purchase it separately.
You can buy a domain name directly on Shopify or head to NameCheap for a .com domain starting at $6.49/year.
Ordering product samples
For dropshippers, it’s important to set some money aside to check the quality of your suppliers’ products before you start selling online. Beyond looking for defects, use samples to take beautiful product photos that stand out from generic mockups.
If you’re dropshipping custom products, place sample orders with your designs and make sure the placement and print quality meet your expectations.
Quick tip
Looking for an easy start? Use Printify to sell custom products with no minimum order requirements, no upfront costs, and higher profit margins.
Marketing and advertising
Want to keep expenses to a minimum? Focus on proven marketing strategies that offer the highest return on investment.
SEO and content marketing are best for improving your search engine rankings and driving organic traffic for free.
If you have the budget to spare, consider paid advertising with Google Ads or social media platforms to enhance your store’s visibility and grow your business quickly.
Step 2 – Target a niche
Before launching a store, you’ll need to do market research to evaluate the viability of your dropshipping strategy. Segment potential buyers and analyze consumer behavior to align your products with marketable trends.
Base your dropshipping idea around a niche subject or theme that interests you, like jewelry inspired by mythology or thematic specialty coffee beans with unique flavor profiles.
Determine your ideal target audience and discover what’s in high demand by analyzing a potential niche through the following research methods.
Social media networks
Analyzing social platforms is an excellent way to discover a potential target audience and determine the marketing channels people use most often.
Join niche communities, interact with current trends, and find out what product features customers look for when purchasing.
Keyword research tools
Use analytics tools like Semrush or Google Trends to find keywords to incorporate in your business name, product titles, descriptions, and marketing content.
These tools help you analyze how online users interact with your niche based on keyword search volume, trends, competition, regional traffic, and related search terms.
Evaluate the scope of your Shopify store’s potential target audience and align your dropshipping products and content with the customer search intent.
Reviews and focus groups
Understanding the market by analyzing reviews and seeking insights from other merchants is extremely valuable when deciding your dropshipping niche.
Start with family, friends, and dropship community members – like the Printify POD Rockstars Facebook group.
Check competitors and pay attention to customer reviews to identify pain points that your products could address. Think in terms of product range, customer support, and even personalization.
Additional resources
Learn more about picking a niche and finding profitable products.
Dropshipping niches
What to sell on Shopify
Step 3 – Decide what products to sell
Although you can start making sales with any best-selling item, focus on dropshipping products that align with your store niche while offering strong profit margins. This will help you build a profitable business and establish customer loyalty.
Dropshippers can leverage social media platforms, forums, and communities for ideas. Look at what potential customers are discussing, buying, recommending, or trying to find.
Analyze trends and identify what products generate the most sales, whether hoodies or custom stickers. See if there’s an opportunity to cash in and add a new item to your product range.
Step 4 – Find a dropshipping supplier
Start with a quick search online or go to the Shopify App Store to find popular apps for dropshipping. Partnering with multiple suppliers can help you diversify your product selection and achieve faster shipping times.
Before selecting a dropshipping app, read the reviews and make sure the supplier offers the types of products you need. Look at their catalog and see if the costs line up with your pricing strategy.
From Spocket to AliExpress, there are tons of top eCommerce dropshipping suppliers to choose from. If you want to have a curated selection with your own custom designs, go for a print-on-demand dropshipping app like Printify.
Quick tip
Be sure to choose products from vetted suppliers to maintain quality and credibility for your brand. This will help you create a compelling product lineup that drives repeat sales.
Step 5 – Pick a name and domain for your Shopify dropshipping store
Your Shopify store name should be simple, memorable, and easily brandable.
Look at other successful Shopify stores for inspiration. Pay attention to the simplicity and marketability of their names and how the domains align with their brand identity.
Use Shopify’s free domain name generator to get a unique name and check if the associated domain is available.
While Shopify offers a free subdomain, we highly recommend getting a custom domain to improve SEO and help market your dropshipping site. This will make your Shopify store look more professional, giving your brand more value.
Step 6 – Create a Shopify account
Head to the Shopify website and click Start free trial to create a seller account. Once on your Shopify admin panel, navigate to Settings to add your store name, phone, email, and billing information.
Then, fill out these important details to make sure your dropshipping business runs smoothly upon launch:
- Payments. Activate Shopify Payments, select Shopify-approved providers, or add manual payment methods. Additionally, choose a capture method.
- Markets. Add all the regions where you plan to sell, adjusting the language, currency, product, tax, and shipping settings.
- Deliveries. Adjust domestic and international shipping rates for each method or create custom shipping profiles for different product categories. If you use Printify, see how to set up shipping for your Shopify store.
- Taxes and duties. Configure each shipping zone where you plan to collect taxes. Follow our guide on understanding sales tax and comply with local regulations to avoid legal issues.
- Store policies. Set your shop policies and add them to your store’s settings. You can also link it in the footer of your online store or your checkout page.
Step 7 – Customize your Shopify store
The homepage of your Shopify store is the first impression you give to potential customers. With intense competition from other eCommerce sellers, well-designed dropshipping websites have more chances of success.
From your Shopify admin panel, navigate to Sales Channels → Online Store → Themes and choose a professional and attractive template that aligns with your brand.
The platform offers a large selection of free and paid customizable themes for every kind of dropshipping business idea, from Shopify clothing stores to pet supplies.
Add high-quality visuals, make sure your website is easy to navigate, and optimize for mobile devices to enhance the customer experience.
And don’t forget your dropshipping store logo. A well-designed logo is a crucial part of your brand identity, building recognition among customers and setting your store apart.
To create a memorable store icon, use a graphic design tool like Photoshop or its free alternatives, or try out Shopify’s free logo maker.
Discover
Need ideas? Go through the best Shopify store examples to see what other stores are doing right.
Step 8 – Create and list products on your Shopify store
To list your dropshipping products, go to your Shopify admin panel → Products. Add or import items to your store and manage your inventory and product collections from here.
Integrating your Shopify store with Printify makes things even easier, since you can create and publish products, and optimize your product descriptions, directly from your Printify dashboard.
Create products with Printify
Use our Product Creator to quickly upload or create unique designs for a large selection of customizable products.
With access to free graphics, fonts, an AI Image Generator, and beginner-friendly editing tools, you can craft designs that perfectly represent your brand.
Publish products to your Shopify store
Select variants, edit product details, set retail pricing and shipping rates, and then click Publish to create a product listing.
Edit titles, descriptions, mockup images, Shopify categories, and other details for all your listings on your Printify dashboard → My products.
Quick tip
Want more information on how to create products and what items to sell on Shopify? Check out these articles:
How to add products to Shopify?
Create your first design: Graphic design tips for POD
What to sell on Shopify?
Best custom products to sell from home
Use collections
Shopify collections are an excellent way to group your dropshipping products into categories. This simplifies store management, letting you easily edit products in bulk and even apply discounts to specific product categories.
It also helps customers navigate your store quickly for better engagement.
The Shopify Starter plan doesn’t support this feature, so you need to use Basic Shopify, Shopify, Advanced Shopify, or Shopify Plus subscriptions.
Go to the Shopify admin panel → Products → Collections → Create collection.
Then, choose from two types of collections for your eCommerce store:
- Automated collections. Select up to 60 conditions (including product type, title, tags, and vendor) to sort products. All new products that fit the specified conditions will automatically be added to a collection, saving you time.
- Manual collections. While this method is more time-consuming, it can be useful if you have a small selection of products, want to feature seasonal items, or hold limited-time promotions.
Step 9 – Market your online store and sell your merch
Now that you’ve built your Shopify store, integrated it with Printify and other dropshipping suppliers, and listed your products, it’s time to launch it and start promoting.
Apply these marketing strategies to attract customers and drive sales for your Shopify store.
Social media marketing
Create social media content and advertise your Shopify business on multiple platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Here are a few approaches to consider:
- Share high-quality content. Anything from images and videos of your products and customer testimonials to behind-the-scenes glimpses, blog articles, and industry news.
- Keep to a schedule. Plan your posts ahead of time and stick to a regular publishing timeline to keep your audience engaged.
- Use hashtags. Add popular and relevant hashtags to increase the visibility of your posts. This will help you gain new followers and generate more sales for your eCommerce business. Check out our guide on how to succeed with TikTok hashtags.
- Engage and reward your audience. Promptly respond to comments and messages, and consider running contests, giveaways, and exclusive promotions to build excitement around your brand.
- Use paid advertising. Target specific demographics based on factors like age, location, and interests. Follow our guides on using Facebook and TikTok ads to get the most out of your advertising efforts.
- Collaborate with influencers. Find social media influencers and set up partnerships to promote your products and Shopify dropshipping store to their followers. Influencers can add credibility to your brand and help you reach a larger audience.
Email marketing
Shopify email marketing is a great way to stay top of mind, re-engage past visitors, and turn abandoned carts into sales.
Make sure to do the following:
- Create a mailing list. Share links and add sign-up forms to your website, encouraging visitors to subscribe to your content.
- Send regular newsletters. Share information on new products, special offers, and discounts.
- Personalize email campaigns. Tailor your emails to different customer segments based on their interests, behavior, and past purchases.
- Automate email campaigns. Set up welcome messages, abandoned cart reminders, and order confirmations to prompt customer engagement.
Content marketing and SEO
Drive organic traffic to your product pages and enhance your brand’s visibility on search engines like Google.
Follow these strategies to maximize exposure:
- Create high-quality content. Produce valuable content related to your products, like blog posts, articles, videos, and infographics, that address the needs and interests of your target audience.
- Use relevant keywords. Add them to your titles, headings, metadata, product descriptions, and throughout your Shopify website content.
- Increase site speed. Compress high-resolution images, limit the number of apps, turn off features in your theme that may slow loading time, or switch to a Shopify 2.0 theme that’s optimized for performance.
- Improve site navigation. Organize products into logical categories and subcategories, add a search bar, and use descriptive text with keywords for internal links and images.
- Build backlinks. Earn backlinks from reputable websites to increase your site’s authority and improve its search engine rankings.
Quick tip
Check out more tips and ideas for improving your Shopify SEO.
Shopify apps for marketing
Shopify offers a vast selection of apps that’s perfect for growing your online store. Streamline your marketing efforts with these popular and free apps:
- Promo.com. Create engaging promotional videos, social media ads, and product showcases.
- Thank You Email Auto Tool. Run campaigns, use templates to send automated emails, and gain access to detailed reports.
- Yotpo. Add a customizable and AI-powered widget to collect product reviews on your website.
- Instafeed. Integrate a minimalistic Instagram feed into your store to showcase photos, videos, and Reels, and create shoppable Instagram feeds.
- Google and YouTube. Connect your store to Google Merchant Center and YouTube to run targeted ads and display products and exclusive deals.
See our list of the best free Shopify apps to streamline your marketing strategies.
Why dropship with Shopify and Printify?
Opening a Shopify dropshipping store with Printify is an easy way to sell products without managing stock or shipping yourself.
With tons of print-on-demand merch in various niches and streamlined eCommerce services, leveraging Printify is the best way to stand out with beautiful custom products.
Why choose Printify among countless other Shopify dropshipping apps?
Over 1,300 dropshipping products
Our growing Catalog offers customizable items from apparel and accessories to home goods and consumer products.
Simple mockup design tools
Our beginner-friendly Product Creator lets you customize products with unique designs and generate high-quality mockups to add to your Shopify dropshipping store.
Easy Shopify integration
Import products into your Shopify store seamlessly and let us automatically process and fulfill incoming customer orders.
Global suppliers
Our network of vetted Print Providers allows you to find the right solutions for your Shopify dropshipping store with some of the lowest product and shipping costs.
24/7 Customer support
Facing issues while setting up your Shopify dropshipping business? We have a dedicated support team and Help Center to answer all of your questions and concerns.
FAQ: How to dropship on Shopify
Yes. Dropshipping with Shopify is a low-risk way to sell products. It’s one of the most popular eCommerce platforms and offers integrations with various dropshipping apps.
If you want to partner with a dropshipping supplier for free, choose Printify. Start dropshipping on Shopify with custom print-on-demand products and stand out against other sellers.
While it’s possible to achieve high revenue, success depends on factors like your niche, marketing strategy, and product selection.
As a seller, you should focus on finding winning products, optimizing your profit margins, and using effective marketing strategies like social media ads and influencer partnerships.
Yes, you can start with a small budget. Choose Shopify’s Starter plan for $5 per month and sign up for Printify for free. This combo is the best for dropshipping, helping you create and list products quickly and seamlessly.
We also recommend allocating some funds for marketing and product samples to attract customers and maintain quality.
$500 is a solid starting budget for dropshipping. Use it for your Shopify subscription, domain name, and initial marketing efforts.
With the Printify dropshipping app, you can avoid upfront inventory costs and:
- Import products in a few clicks.
- Build a stellar product catalog with multiple suppliers worldwide.
- Maintain customer satisfaction with quality merch.
- Provide excellent customer support.
Plus, Printify’s integration means you don’t have to worry about minimum order quantities, so you can test different product samples anytime.
Dropshipping on Shopify made easy with Printify
Now that you know how to set up a dropship store on Shopify, it’s time to get started.
Printify makes dropshipping on Shopify a breeze with a massive product selection, easy integrations to multiple sales channels, and zero upfront costs. No inventory, no stress – just endless opportunities to profit.
Want to explore other ways to sell? Check out our top Shopify alternatives for more options.
How to start a dropshipping business on Shopify? Try Printify!
The post Shopify dropshipping: A comprehensive 9-step guide for 2025 appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post 16 Best Shopify clothing stores of 2025: Insights and inspiration appeared first on Printify.
]]>Sell custom products with Printify
First impressions matter – especially for Shopify clothing stores. They determine whether a digital passerby becomes a customer.
Top Shopify clothing stores captivate visitors with an intuitive design, provide a seamless shopping experience, and build trust with powerful marketing.
We’ll explore successful examples that blend functionality with compelling branding – helping you create a Shopify store that’s visually appealing, user-friendly, and profitable.
Shopify fashion store examples
The global apparel market is expected to hit an impressive $2.04 trillion by 2029, with much of this growth driven by online sales. As one of the largest direct-to-consumer platforms, Shopify plays a big role in helping brands capitalize on this trend and thrive.
So, what sets successful Shopify stores apart? They design custom clothing that resonates with their audience. Explore these top Shopify clothing stores to see how strategic design and clever marketing drive eCommerce success.
Asphalte
Asphalte is a trailblazer in the fashion industry, known for its unique business model of gathering customer feedback before manufacturing. By using these insights, the brand launches its clothing lines through pre-order campaigns.
Specializing in high-quality everyday wear, Asphalte offers t-shirts, hoodies, jeans, and more.
Their homepage features a sleek, modern design and stunning product photography, instantly setting the tone for their premium apparel. Asphalte has become a standout example of a thriving Shopify clothing store for stylish clothing.
Proozy
Proozy, a Minnesota-based wholesaler, is an online outlet store that specializes in clothing, footwear, and accessories. With its clever email marketing, informational pop-ups, and high-quality product photography, the company focuses on driving sales while guaranteeing customer satisfaction.
Wondering what to sell on Shopify? Proozy has great ideas – from activewear brand apparel and luxury accessories to bedroom, kitchen, and electronic products.
What makes this store great?
- Simplicity with substance. Their products and discounts speak for themselves.
- Pick of the day. Daily discount offers that encourage shoppers to buy.
- Product zoom. High-quality images and zoom features give customers a detailed view of products.
Quick tip
Like Proozy, any store can increase sales with the power of Shopify email marketing.
The Frankie Shop
The Frankie Shop is one of the best stores on Shopify, offering a curated selection of on-trend clothing items, beauty products, and accessories.
What makes this a great Shopify store example?
- User-friendly design. Simple, clean, intuitive, and reliable.
- Simple navigation. Effortlessly browse through different collections.
- Fully responsive. Seamless display across any device.
With its neat interface, slide-down menus, easy checkout, and a full-width banner image leading to its Instagram feed, The Frankie Shop delivers a fantastic customer experience.
Faherty Brand
Faherty is a family-run lifestyle brand that’s become a popular Shopify clothing store. It offers high-quality products like shirts, hoodies, outerwear, and much more.
With its stylish design, easy navigation, and beautiful product photography, Faherty captivates store visitors to explore further, making it one of the best eCommerce stores out there.
Inspired by these top clothing stores? Learn how to sell on Shopify and start a print-on-demand business today. Use Printify to design t-shirts, hoodies, shoes, and over 1,300 other products in our bestselling eCommerce Product Catalog.
Check out some of our top product categories to customize and start selling on Shopify today:
Make it happen!
Marine Layer
Marine Layer is one of the best examples of Shopify apparel stores. To promote sustainability, they make their own fabric using eco-friendly materials.
They sell casual apparel for men, women, and children, perfect for a laid-back look. The clothes look naturally broken in, are slow to wrinkle, and incredibly soft to the touch.
Why is Marine Layer a successful Shopify clothing store?
- Visual storytelling. The landing page showcases the brand value with a beautiful California-inspired collage and video.
- Stunning imagery. The homepage features multiple collections and categories complemented with high-resolution product photography.
- Sticky navigation. As you scroll down, the menu stays fixed at the top of the page, allowing for easy navigation.
To further improve customer experience, Marine Layer offers free delivery and returns, gaining social proof by standing by their products and their quality recycled materials.
Natural Life
Natural Life is a Shopify store with a bohemian vibe. Initially planned as a photography business, it grew into a store offering free-spirited, bright, and uplifting products.
This Shopify clothing website sells unique and colorful clothing, accessories, home decor, and gifts.
Natural Life’s website reflects its playful spirit with eye-catching product images taking center stage. The rest of the homepage features various collections, specific items, and an invitation to check out their unique vintage shoppable Instagram feed.
As one of the best Shopify store examples for a free-spirited, style-focused customer demographic, Natural Life’s design is perfect for showcasing vibrant products and trendy clothing collections.
Quick tip
Learn more about top Shopify t-shirt stores and how to create your own.
I SAW IT FIRST
I SAW IT FIRST is a one-stop shop for all fashion lovers. Their online store uplifts and inspires customers, encouraging body positivity while offering all the latest styles in the fashion industry.
This Shopify store has everything from t-shirts to knitwear to swimwear. They also offer accessories, footwear, and beauty products, as well as carefully selected offers from women’s clothing dropshippers.
Why is I SAW IT FIRST one of the most popular Shopify stores?
- Rich in discounts. The site features product collections with professional images showcasing their low prices.
- Easy navigation. Easily browse collections – New in Today, Festival, Dresses, and many others.
- Homepage slideshow. The store showcases products and discounts at the top of the homepage.
I SAW IT FIRST is an excellent Shopify store example for entrepreneurs looking to offer an assortment of clothing products and other brand offers in a flashy way.
Big Bud Press
Big Bud Press is a small but rapidly growing clothing brand based in Los Angeles, specializing in everyday essentials. The company focuses on producing high-quality, size-inclusive clothing for all body types, proudly emphasizing local and ethical manufacturing practices.
This Shopify store sells size-inclusive clothing – colorful jackets, form-fitting jumpsuits, comfortable underwear, and more.
Big Bud Press has built a simple, beautiful, and colorful website that mirrors the vibe of their physical stores in Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and Chicago.
With clear navigation, unique style, eco-friendly products, and a consistent theme in photography, it’s impossible to confuse it with any other online clothing store on Shopify.
Fashion Nova
With millions of followers, Fashion Nova is a clothing brand renowned for delivering the season’s most-wanted styles.
Fashion Nova offers collections for men, women, and children, always ahead of the trends and regularly introducing new products.
As one of the best Shopify clothing stores driven by active fashion designers, Fashion Nova is a true inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Easy to navigate. Easily access different collections – Trending, Most Wanted, Essentials, and others.
- A wealth of content. The site features high-quality photography and a variety of product collections.
- Large discounts. Fashion Nova offers discounts on most of its products, encouraging online shoppers to take advantage.
Quick tip
Try free Shopify apps to reach a wider audience and supercharge your sales.
Make it happen today!
Fitness Shopify clothing store examples
As awareness of health and fitness grows, gyms, sportswear, and fitness gear continue to gain popularity. The sports and swimwear market in the US is set to generate $24 billion in 2025, making it the largest global market.
Explore these top Shopify fitness stores to see how niche branding, quality designs, and strategic marketing drive eCommerce success.
Gymshark
Gymshark is one of the best examples of an eye-catching Shopify clothing store that has grown into a multimillion-dollar business.
The company sells a wide range of fitness gear and apparel, emphasizing performance, quality, and comfort. Gymshark expertly uses social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where their feed is filled with people proudly wearing their products.
The website is easy to navigate via product categories. In addition to its professional design, Gymshark provides detailed product descriptions for all items.
The company increases its store’s visibility with smart search engine optimization (SEO).
Quick tip
Take a look at our Shopify SEO guide to optimize your Shopify clothing store.
Alo Yoga
With a mission to bring yoga to the world, Alo Yoga inspires, encourages, and supports people’s wellness journeys – an excellent example of top Shopify stores with good messaging.
The brand sells yoga clothes, leggings, and accessories for the studio, street, and everywhere in between.
With physical shops in New York and California, Alo Yoga’s online clothing store mirrors their modern design, bringing outdoor voices inside and capturing the visitor’s attention at first glance. Their stunning website provides an easy browsing experience.
YoungLA
YoungLA is one of the best Shopify clothing stores headquartered in Los Angeles. They take pride in creating unique products designed with quality and fitness in mind.
Their website has a modern vibe with professional images showcasing their collections. YoungLA’s online store is beautifully designed and works well on desktops, smartphones, and tablets.
With a section for customer reviews and user-generated content, it’s clear that social proof is not an issue for YoungLA. It’s one of the best Shopify clothing stores for fitness enthusiasts looking to update their gym gear and keep their style fresh.
Beyond Yoga
Beyond Yoga, naturally, sells yoga apparel, workout clothes, and activewear, including leggings, joggers, tops, and bras.
It also promotes inclusivity by featuring models of all shapes and backgrounds, showing that beauty comes in many forms.
Their website is easy to navigate, neatly displaying all their products with beautiful and inclusive imagery.
The best Shopify clothing stores for babies
Parents prioritize comfort, safety, and quality when shopping for baby clothing. In 2025, the baby clothes market worldwide generated $45.13 billion in revenue, highlighting the growing demand for well-made, stylish infant apparel.
With more consumers shopping online, Shopify baby clothing stores are capitalizing on this trend by offering unique, high-quality designs. Explore some of the best brands using Shopify to sell baby apparel and see what makes them stand out.
Posh Peanut
Whether you’re after practicality or fashion, Posh Peanut has it all. The brand is committed to providing high-quality products at affordable prices while emphasizing customer experience.
They offer a variety of fashionable children’s clothing, useful accessories, and lovely matching outfits for the whole family.
Posh Peanut is a beautiful Shopify store example due to its simple, elegant, and modern design. Their website is easy to navigate and features quality lifestyle images, letting parents see the clothing items in real life.
Blooming Baby
Blooming Baby is a Shopify clothing store with a bright motto: “Inspiring dreams one night at a time.” They offer baby swaddles, pajamas, and the Zipadee-Zip – a wearable blanket for babies.
Their persuasive homepage showcases bestsellers, customer stories, and trust badges from top outlets like Forbes, Shark Tank, Parents, and Good Morning America. With a reputation for excellence, Blooming Baby stands out among the best Shopify clothing stores for babies.
Gerber Childrenswear
Gerber Childrenswear offers collections infused with of-the-moment trends without sacrificing quality, comfort, or functionality.
They sell a huge selection of baby clothes for newborns and toddlers, including bodysuits, sleepwear, swimwear, and outfits made of both organic cotton and stretchy spandex.
Their Shopify store design is simple, clean, and fully responsive. It has everything a Shopify clothing store needs: a functional design, easy navigation, and professional product photos to highlight their quality materials.
Make it happen today!
Start a Shopify clothing store with Printify
Printify is a print-on-demand platform that seamlessly connects with Shopify. Easily sell one-of-a-kind products with your unique designs and no inventory requirements.
Whatever your ambitions, our mission stays the same – to help you make more money with less effort. With just a few clicks, learn how to sell on Shopify easily.
After you design products, publish to Shopify, and make a sale, we do the rest – printing, packaging, and shipping directly to your customer’s doorstep.
Join millions of print-on-demand stores that trust our platform worldwide, and take advantage of a carefully curated network of global suppliers and professional Print Providers.
100% Free
Sign up and use our platform for free. No need for any upfront investment.
Large selection
The Printify Catalog has over 1,300 high-quality products at affordable prices to personalize to your heart’s content and instantly add to your Shopify clothing store.
Worldwide delivery
Join top Shopify clothing stores by fulfilling orders quickly with a global network of over 90 carefully vetted Print Providers.
Beginner-friendly design tool
Apply your designs with our easy-to-use Product Creator tools to create and publish custom products.
24/7 Merchant support
Whatever your questions, we’re here to help. Our professional Support Team, eCommerce guides, and marketing resources are always available.
The beauty of the print-on-demand business model is that you can design, create, and sell your own personalized products without any inventory, equipment, or worries. Switch between products and try experimental designs without any risk.
Quick tip
If you’re looking for Shopify alternatives, BigCommerce is a great choice, too. Take a look at our BigCommerce vs Shopify comparison to see whether it’s a better fit for your clothing store.
What makes a good Shopify clothing store?
Clothing is one of the most competitive niches among Shopify stores. Apart from coming up with a good Shopify store name and selling stylish apparel, there are several aspects an entrepreneur should consider.
A beautiful Shopify store design
As soon as the page loads (fast page load speeds are a huge factor in user retention), the store should welcome visitors with a beautiful layout, theme, and imagery, clearly conveying the brand’s value proposition and intriguing them to explore further.
Intuitive navigation
Visitors should be able to seamlessly browse through the store with as few clicks as possible, and navigate back with ease.
Eye-catching offers
All the top Shopify clothing stores share a common characteristic – they capture the visitor’s attention from the very beginning. When designing your Shopify clothing store, focus on the content any customer would enjoy: sales, discounts, and free shipping.
Great customer service
Whoever your customers are, whichever social media platform they frequent, make it easy for them to reach you and be ready to offer support. Include customer-focused shop policies and resolve any issues as quickly as possible to maintain buyer loyalty.
High-quality product pages
Use professional photography to reflect the heart and soul of your clothing brand. The images should inspire trust and give customers all the information they need to feel comfortable purchasing from you.
An effective marketing strategy
If you want to build a truly successful Shopify store and reach your target audience effectively, don’t neglect marketing. Whether it’s social media, influencer, or email marketing, using a variety of channels is highly beneficial for any business.
Apps used by top Shopify clothing stores
Top Shopify clothing stores use powerful apps to automate tasks, improve search rankings, boost conversions, and simplify customer interactions.
From AI-driven customer support and SEO optimization to email marketing automation and advanced sizing guides, these apps help merchants scale their businesses efficiently.
Below are some of the most popular apps used by top Shopify clothing stores:
Juphy – AI-powered customer support
Juphy’s AI assistant engages visitors from their first interaction to checkout, answering product questions, handling FAQs on sizing, shipping, and returns, and offering personalized recommendations.
By automating responses and providing real-time support, Juphy increases conversion rates and helps merchants provide timely assistance – even outside business hours.
SEOAnt – All-in-one SEO optimization
SEOAnt simplifies SEO management by improving page rankings, boosting site speed, optimizing images, and automating keyword research. The app helps identify and resolve SEO issues quickly, helping your store follow best practices while saving you time and effort.
Booster SEO – Automated SEO and image optimization
Booster SEO enhances search engine visibility by automatically optimizing ALT text, URL structures, and image compression. It oversees that images load quickly while improving metadata for better discoverability, helping clothing brands attract organic traffic with minimal effort.
Omnisend – Email and SMS marketing automation
Omnisend helps merchants grow and engage their customer base with powerful email and SMS marketing tools. It offers landing pages, pop-ups, and pre-built email templates to increase conversions.
The app’s automation workflows for abandoned carts and welcome emails help keep customers engaged and coming back for more, which keeps your revenue growing.
Vitals – Conversion optimization and AI tools
Vitals is an all-in-one marketing and optimization app that helps increase conversions without slowing down your site.
With features like product reviews, upsells and bundles, pop-ups, and back-in-stock alerts, it helps merchants nurture leads and maximize sales while automating key marketing functions.
Kiwi Sizing – Smart size charts and fit finder
Kiwi Sizing reduces returns and increases customer satisfaction by providing accurate, product-specific size recommendations. Its machine learning-powered fit finder tailors sizing guidance for various apparel, accessories, and even pet products.
The app offers unlimited customization for size charts to help customers always select the right fit.
FAQ
Yes, Shopify is one of the best online store platforms for selling clothing. Many top Shopify clothing stores use it to create eco-friendly apparel lines, launch unique vintage collections, and scale their fashion brands.
Its customizable themes, built-in marketing tools, and seamless integrations make it ideal for both new and established clothing businesses.
There are many top Shopify clothing stores generating millions in sales, whether leading in sales figures, audience loyalty, or store optimization. Some of the most successful brands specialize in eco-friendly apparel, custom streetwear, and unique vintage fashion.
The best-performing stores stand out by offering high-quality products, strong branding, and optimized online store experiences.
Yes, sell clothes on Shopify by setting up an online store with customizable themes and integrations. Shopify provides the tools needed to start, market, and scale your business.
Many of the top Shopify clothing stores use print-on-demand to supply and design custom products quickly, minimize inventory risks, and increase profit margins.
The best Shopify clothing stores: Closing thoughts
Making a great Shopify clothing store is as much about the products as it is about the experience. The best Shopify stores create an atmosphere that draws the right customers in, from seamless navigation to standout branding and product imagery.
The examples we’ve explored show how design, marketing, and customer engagement come together to create thriving online brands. Whether you’re launching a new store or refining an existing one, take inspiration from these stores for your own success story.
Ready to start your own eCommerce journey? Start with Printify to go from design inspiration and store creation to publishing and selling products on Shopify fast.
Start selling today!
The post 16 Best Shopify clothing stores of 2025: Insights and inspiration appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post How to start a greeting card business with Print on Demand: A 5-step guide appeared first on Printify.
]]>Start a custom printing business with Printify
The greeting card industry is thriving, with the market valued at $16.6 billion in 2024. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your creativity into a small business, now’s the perfect time to start selling greeting cards.
We’ll show you how to start a greeting card business step by step, from finding your niche market to launching your store with Print on Demand.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Key takeaways
- Start a greeting card business with no upfront costs using Printify’s Print on Demand, eliminating the need for inventory or bulk printing.
- Choosing a niche, such as funny, minimalist, or personalized greeting cards, helps you stand out in a competitive market and attract the right customers.
- Registering your business provides legal protection and credibility, making it easier to manage finances and build trust with customers.
- Selling online is simple with options like a Printify Pop-Up Store, eCommerce platforms (Shopify, Wix, Squarespace), and marketplaces (Etsy, eBay, Amazon).
- Marketing is key to success. Social media, email marketing, SEO, and influencer collaborations help increase visibility and grow sales.
Step 1: Brainstorm your design ideas
A successful greeting card business idea starts with thoughtful, creative designs that resonate with your audience. Do market research, analyze competitors, and refine your ideas to create greeting cards that stand out.
Pick a niche
Focusing on a niche market helps your greeting card business attract the right audience and reduce competition. Think about the themes and styles that excite you – funny birthday cards, minimalist holiday designs, or sarcastic messages.
Identify industry trends and review customer feedback on popular eCommerce platforms like Etsy, Amazon, and eBay to pinpoint gaps in the market. Use Google Trends to analyze the popularity of different card themes and styles over time.
Do a competitor analysis
Understanding your competition gives you an edge. Look at popular greeting card companies and analyze their best-selling designs, pricing strategies, and customer reviews. What do they do well? What can be improved?
Use tools like Semrush and Ahrefs to analyze trending keywords and search demand. Social media hashtags can also reveal what’s gaining traction.
Then, study competitors’ social media presence – where they post, how often, and what type of content they share – to find opportunities to engage with potential customers more effectively.
Write down design ideas
Start brainstorming your designs by considering the styles, color schemes, and messaging that align with your target audience. Browse trending cards on Etsy or Pinterest for inspiration.
Sketch rough concepts or use digital tools like Procreate, Canva, or Adobe Illustrator to map out your ideas.
Tip
For inspiration on how to design an online store that drives conversions, check out our article on the most successful Shopify stores.
Start your own greeting card business today
Step 2: Plan and register your greeting card business
Before you start selling, map out your business structure. Planning now will save you headaches later and help set you up for success.
Create a simple business plan
Outline a game plan for your greeting card business – it doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should have the essentials:
- Business name and brand identity – Choose something that reflects your style and niche.
- Target market analysis – Who are your ideal customers? What kind of greeting cards will they love?
- Pricing and products – How much will you charge for your greeting cards, and how will you fulfill orders?
- Marketing plan – How will people find your cards? Social media? Local gift stores?
If you’re considering getting small business funding, adding a cash flow statement helps track money coming in and out, which is useful for loan applications.
Tip
See our blog for more tips on business licenses and small business administration.
Register your business
Apply for a business license to get benefits like legal protection or business insurance options.
Check what’s required from a new business owner in your area – some companies operate as sole proprietorships, while others register as a limited liability company (LLC). You’ll also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
Why register?
- Keep your own money separate – It makes bookkeeping easier.
- Tax advantages – You may qualify for deductions or small business tax breaks.
- Build trust – Potential customers and business partners take registered businesses more seriously.
Tip
Visit the US Small Business Administration page or your local government’s website to check the legal fees and requirements for your business type.
Disclaimer – Not professional or legal advice
The content presented is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.
Any actions taken based on the information presented are at your own risk. Printify and its representatives are not liable for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from the use of the information provided.
We strongly encourage you to conduct further research and consult with the appropriate legal, financial, or other experts when making decisions that may have legal or financial implications.
Step 3: Select your cards
The right card size, material, and printing method can make all the difference in how your designs look and feel. Whether you want bold and vibrant or soft and elegant, these choices will impact the final product.
Decide on sizes
Greeting cards come in different dimensions, and the best choice depends on your design and target audience. Some popular options include:
- A7 (5″ x 7″) – A classic choice with plenty of space for detailed artwork and messages.
- A6 (4.5″ x 6.25″) – Slightly smaller but roomy enough for creative designs.
- Square (5.25″ x 5.25″) – A modern option that stands out from traditional rectangular cards.
- Mini (2.5″ x 3.5″) – Perfect for short notes, gift tags, or minimalist designs.
Types of cards
The paper type and finish affect the look and feel of your greeting cards. Here are three main options:
- Matte – A smooth, non-shiny material that works well for text-heavy or artistic designs.
- Glossy – Adds a reflective finish, making colors pop and images stand out.
- Semi-gloss – A mix of both, offering a subtle sheen without overpowering the design.
Printing methods
Your custom greeting card printing method impacts the card’s quality, cost, and production time:
- Digital printing – Great for small batches, offering sharp colors and flexibility.
- Offset printing – Best for large orders, providing consistent, high-quality prints at a lower cost per unit.
- Foil stamping and embossing – Adds a luxury feel with metallic accents or raised textures.
Print on Demand services use high-quality digital printing, so you can sell professional-finish cards without investing in bulk production.
Tip
Explore successful card stores such as SketchyPrintCo to get ideas on how to organize your product listings and design a user-friendly shop.
Step 4: Customize your designs
Time to bring your greeting card ideas to life. Whether you create your own designs, hire a professional, or use ready-made templates, customizing your cards helps your brand stand out.
Hire professionals or buy designs
If you want an expert touch, outsourcing designs can save time and effort. Here are a few options:
- Hire a freelancer – Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork help you find skilled artists who can create custom greeting card designs based on your ideas.
- Buy pre-made designs – Websites like Creative Market and Envato Elements offer ready-made graphics, illustrations, and fonts that you can customize.
This approach is perfect if you want high-quality designs but don’t have the time or skills to create them from scratch.
Use design software or our Product Creator
If you prefer a hands-on approach, design software and online tools make it easy to create greeting cards. Check out these popular options:
- Adobe Illustrator – A powerful tool for professional-grade vector illustrations.
- Canva – A beginner-friendly platform with drag-and-drop features and greeting card templates.
- Printify’s Product Creator – A free, easy-to-use tool that lets you upload designs directly onto customizable greeting cards before selling them.
This approach offers creative control, letting you tweak your designs precisely to match your brand’s style.
Digitize your own art
If you’re an artist, turning your handmade drawings, paintings, or calligraphy into digital greeting cards gives them a one-of-a-kind, handmade charm. Here’s how:
- Scan your artwork – Use a high-resolution scanner to capture every detail.
- Edit using design software – Enhance colors, adjust contrast, and remove imperfections using Photoshop, GIMP, or other image-editing tools.
- Convert to print-ready files – Make your images high resolution (300 DPI) and format them correctly (PNG, JPEG, or PDF) for professional printing.
Whichever method you choose, focus on creating designs that resonate with your audience while maintaining a strong brand identity.
Step 5: Start selling your cards
Choosing the right sales channels, creating compelling product listings, and marketing your cards are crucial for attracting customers and growing your online business.
Decide where to sell
The right platform connects you with your ideal customers to maximize online sales. Here are your main options:
- Printify Pop-Up Store – A fast and hassle-free way to start selling with zero commission fees. No need to manage a separate website – just upload your designs and start processing orders.
- eCommerce platforms – Build your own online store using Shopify, Squarespace, or Wix. These give you more control over branding but require active marketing to drive traffic.
- Online marketplaces – Sell on Etsy, eBay, or Amazon to tap into a large, established audience. However, expect more competition and marketplace fees.
- Social commerce – Platforms like TikTok Shop, Instagram Shopping, and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to sell directly to engaged followers.
- Open-source solutions – Use the Printify API to integrate with WooCommerce or PrestaShop for advanced tools to create custom storefronts.
Each option has its pros and cons, so choose based on your business goals, budget, and the time you can dedicate to store management.
Set up your listings
Your product listings will turn browsers into buyers, so making them stand out is important.
With Printify, setting up and optimizing your greeting card listings is quick and easy.
1. Create eye-catching images
Use our Product Creator to upload your designs, adjust layouts, and generate high-quality mockups. These stunning, realistic previews let customers see exactly what they’re getting, making them more likely to buy.
2. Write descriptions that sell
A compelling product description proactively answers customers’ questions. Be clear and specific about the value of your greeting card:
- Size and paper quality – Include product dimensions and let customers know if the card is matte, glossy, or textured.
- Customization options – If buyers can add a personal touch, highlight it!
- Sustainability and unique features – Selling eco-friendly cards? Mention that they’re printed on recycled or FSC-certified paper.
3. Price your cards for profit
Pricing isn’t just about covering costs – you want to profit while staying competitive.
Check similar greeting cards on Etsy or Amazon to find the sweet spot that works for your niche market. Then, easily set your profit margins from the Printify dashboard so you know exactly how much you’re earning per sale.
4. Enhance reach with SEO
Want your cards to show up in searches? Use keywords that buyers actually look for.
Phrases like funny birthday cards, handmade cards, or personalized greeting cards help your listings rank higher on Google and marketplaces. Incorporate them naturally into your titles, descriptions, and tags to improve visibility.
Launch and market your cards
It’s time to get your greeting cards in front of the right audience. A mix of online and offline marketing strategies will help attract customers and grow your business.
- Social media marketing – Post regularly, use trending hashtags, and experiment with short-form videos to grab attention. Collaborate with influencers for giveaways, unboxing videos, or sponsored posts to increase your reach.
- Email campaigns – Use your website or social media to encourage sign-ups, then send newsletters featuring new designs, holiday promotions, and exclusive discounts. Automate and personalize your emails with tools like Mailchimp and Klaviyo.
- Content marketing – Start a blog or share behind-the-scenes insights to build brand trust and attract customers organically. Writing about greeting card trends or customization ideas can position you as an expert in the industry.
- Paid ads – Platforms like Google Ads and Meta Ads let you target specific demographics, making it easier to connect with people who are more likely to buy your cards.
- Sell in physical locations – Local craft fairs, boutique gift shops, and retail outlets can help introduce your brand to in-person shoppers. Partnering with local businesses is a great way to get your cards on store shelves.
Tip
Check out our guide on selling greeting cards on Etsy.
Starting a greeting card business has never been easier
With our print-on-demand services, you can design, create, and sell your own greeting cards with no upfront costs or inventory management.
Starting a greeting card business from home is easy with Printify.
1. Sign up
Register for a free account to start a card business in just a few clicks.
2. Select greeting cards
Explore over 1,300 products in our Catalog and find the best cards for your store. We offer different finishes and only use high-quality card stock for a premium feel.
3. Create greeting cards
With our easy-to-use Product Creator, upload or design your cards with free graphics, patterns, fonts, and our AI Image Generator.
4. Sell cards and profit
Use our high-quality mockups for your product listings, connect your sales channel, and let us handle printing and shipping while you cash in.
Start selling greeting cards with Printify
How to start an online greeting card business: FAQ
Yes! The greeting card industry is valued at $16.6 billion in 2024, and demand remains strong.
With Printify’s Print on Demand, you avoid upfront costs and only pay for production when you sell, making it easier to build a profitable business. Success depends on your niche selection, card designs, pricing strategies, and marketing efforts.
Starting a new greeting card business is easy with Printify:
- Sign up for free – Create an account and explore greeting card options.
- Design your cards – Use our Product Creator to upload designs and customize layouts.
- Connect your store – Sell on your preferred eCommerce platform or open a Printify Pop-Up Store (no commission fees).
- Price for profit – Set margins to cover costs while staying competitive.
- Start selling – Promote through social media, email marketing, and paid ads.
With Print on Demand, you can start with zero inventory. The best part? We handle all printing and order fulfillment.
Top-selling greeting card ideas focus on:
- Birthdays and holidays – Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day drive high sales.
- Weddings and anniversaries – These are always in demand.
- Funny and sarcastic cards – Humor sells for any occasion.
- Personalized designs – Custom messages and names drive interest.
With Printify’s Print on Demand (POD), you can start a greeting card business with minimal upfront costs. There’s no need for inventory or bulk printing – just create designs and start selling.
Since customer orders will cover production, POD is one of the most affordable ways to start. Your main costs may include:
- eCommerce platform fees – Mainly for channels like Etsy, Shopify, or Wix, or sell for free with a Printify Pop-Up Store.
- Design tools – If you choose premium solutions like Adobe Illustrator.
- Marketing – While organic promotion is free, paid ads can enhance sales.
Determine your costs for production, marketing materials, shipping, and taxes. Then, set a price that covers those expenses while leaving room for profit.
Check what other businesses are charging for similar cards to maintain a competitive pricing strategy. Also, consider factors like location – using closer Print Providers can lower shipping costs and speed up delivery.
Wrapping up
Now that you know how to start a greeting card company, it’s time to start creating.
Make card designs that resonate with your target audience, adapt to trends, and use effective marketing strategies to grow your handmade greeting card business.
Elevate your business success with Printify. Start for free, avoid upfront investment, and enjoy seamless fulfillment – all while managing your store from home.
Make it happen today!
The post How to start a greeting card business with Print on Demand: A 5-step guide appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post How to start a candle business in 6 steps appeared first on Printify.
]]>Your business, your way – sell with Printify
Learning how to start a candle business is an excellent way to monetize your creativity and tap into the $588.6 million scented candle market.
With a projected growth rate of 4.1% from 2023 to 2030, selling candles is a profitable small business opportunity.
Keep reading to learn how to start a candle-making business at home or with Print on Demand – no upfront costs necessary.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Step 1: Decide on your business model
Sell custom candles without handling production
Breaking into the candle industry has never been easier, thanks to the flexibility of print-on-demand (POD) services.
Instead of making candles yourself, partner with a print-on-demand service like Printify to handle the production for you.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Little to no startup costs. Forget investing in candle-making supplies or equipment. With POD, you only pay for what you sell.
- Grow your business quickly. POD lets you scale seamlessly without worrying about inventory or storage space.
- Convenience. Focus on marketing, customer service, and refining your brand identity while your POD partner handles production and shipping.
Print on Demand suits both new entrepreneurs and established brands looking to expand into the lucrative candle market.
Enjoy the benefits without the complexities of traditional candle making and start selling candles in four steps with Printify.
1. Sign up and explore
Create a free account and browse our scented candle Catalog, featuring a variety of eco-friendly soy candles.
2. Apply your design
Use our beginner-friendly Product Creator to upload your logo or create custom labels. Personalize your candles to perfection, choose the scents, and check out the auto-generated product mockups.
3. Let Printify do the rest
Sit back and profit! Our global Print Providers take care of production, packaging, and shipping, so you can focus on growing your business – saving on startup costs while refining your designs.
Quick tip
Learn more about Print on Demand and starting a print-on-demand business.
Making candles yourself
Learning the candle-making process from scratch is a fulfilling way to build your home-based candle company.
While it requires more effort and skill than a print-on-demand model, you get full control over the production process to sell unique scented candles for a niche target market.
Essential waxes and materials
Small-scale candle makers will need to determine the right wax for their needs:
- Soy wax. Perfect for eco-conscious buyers, soy candles burn longer and work well as mid-market candles.
- Paraffin wax. Commonly used by brands like Yankee Candle, it’s affordable and produces strong scents but burns faster.
- Other waxes. Coconut, beeswax, or hybrids are premium options for small businesses aiming to create luxury candles.
Tools for candle making
To learn how to start a candle company at home, you’ll need:
- A double boiler to safely melt the candle wax.
- Thermometers for proper blending of fragrance oils.
- Custom labels for packaging to tell your brand story.
- Custom containers, wicks, and various fragrance oil blends.
Make candles in 3 steps
- Melt the wax. Use a double boiler or microwave, heating in small intervals. For soy wax, heat to around 180°F/80°C but avoid exceeding 200°F/90°C to prevent yellowing. Paraffin wax melts best at 150°F/65°C to 190°F/85°C.
- Add scents. Cool the wax to 150°F/65°C before adding fragrance or essential oils. Stir thoroughly for at least one minute.
- Pour and set. Pour the wax into containers at 150-170°F/65-75°C for soy or around 170°F/75°C for paraffin. Align your wicks using centering devices and let the candles set naturally for 24-48 hours for paraffin or up to a week for soy.
Costs and scalability
A home-based candle business start-up cost typically ranges from $100 to $200.
As your small candle business grows, consider expanding your distribution to local markets, farmers’ markets, or retail stores. Unlike with Print on Demand, scaling your candle-making business may eventually require you to hire employees or explore other fulfillment options.
Quick tip
Enable order routing with Printify to avoid out-of-stock issues, or upgrade to Printify Choice to let us automatically connect you to the closest Print Provider for the best prices.
If you’re handling your own fulfillment, most website builders offer resources to manually create shipping profiles by location and carrier.
Start selling candles today!
Step 2: Find your niche
Regardless of your production method, choosing a niche helps attract customers who connect with your brand.
Whether you offer eco-friendly, decorative, or uniquely scented candles, focus on what defines your brand and its audience.
Are you passionate about different fragrance oil blends or specific styles like luxury candles?
Quick tip
Discover the best niches for print-on-demand.
Analyze competitors and research the market
Before launching your own candle business, conduct thorough market and competitor research.
Analyze their candle wax quality, customer reviews, and marketing strategies.
Explore various channels like local markets, farmers markets, or even pop-up shops to see how other candle business owners engage with their target audience.
Identify any gaps your product line could fill. Use insights from the National Candle Association to pinpoint emerging trends in the candle market.
Do keyword research
To make your online store rank higher, research what potential customers search for online and offer candles that match their searches. Find keywords with high search volume but low competition.
These top industry tools give insights into which keywords people are looking for:
- Google Trends: Type keywords related to your product and niche, pick a country or state, and the tool will return results and related queries for free.
- Semrush: Research up to ten keywords per day with the free plan. Paid plans with advanced features start from $139.95 monthly.
- Ahrefs: Use SEO tools like the Keyword Generator and Content Explorer. Paid plans begin at $129 monthly.
- Ubersuggest: Conduct free keyword research, domain analysis, and track top SEO pages. Paid plans start at $29 monthly or $290 for a one-time purchase.
Step 3: Choose a business name
Choose a name for your candle business that reflects your brand personality. Keep it short and easy to spell and remember, and check if a matching domain is available with tools like GoDaddy.
Use AI-based name generators such as Namelix to brainstorm different candle business ideas, and don’t forget to trademark your business name.
Step 4: Write a business plan
A business plan describes your candle company’s goals, budget, purpose, strategic objectives, business structure, and main competitors. As a business owner, this lets you prepare for any challenges ahead.
Include a clear target market, sales strategy, and marketing plan.
Open a business bank account to keep your small business funding and personal finances separate – this helps with getting a business license and a standard business loan.
Don’t forget to list all expenses to price your candles competitively while maintaining a solid profit margin.
Disclaimer
This is not financial advice. Please consult a finance professional for advice tailored to your business needs.
Pro tip
Download a free business plan template from the US Small Business Administration website.
Start selling today!
Step 5: Set up your store and list your products online
Create your candle shop’s eCommerce site by choosing from the leading eCommerce sales channels.
- Marketplaces like Etsy or eBay are easy to set up and have massive traffic, but come with strict internal compliance policies. They often involve additional expenses like transaction or listing fees.
- eCommerce platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce have built-in functionalities that let you sell online fast. However, they can be costlier and more time and skill-intensive than marketplaces.
- Open-source platforms like WooCommerce for WordPress and PrestaShop are free to use. They require technical skills and additional web hosting, but you’ll have full control without being tied to a platform membership.
- All-in-one solutions like Wix or Squarespace are user-friendly and provide solid eCommerce and blogging capabilities. They provide stunning built-in website templates to get your candle store up and running quickly.
Step 6: Monitor your performance
Monitor your store’s performance and make improvements as necessary. Check which candles sell most, who buys them, and which keywords bring in the most traffic.
Google Analytics is the standard tool for acquiring this sort of data. It has a learning curve but provides great insights into traffic, demographics, candle sales, and conversion sources.
Other free or freemium eCommerce analytic tools to monitor website data include Matomo, Hotjar, and Smartlook.
Candle business FAQ
The average cost to start a candle business varies, depending on your approach. For a small, homemade candle line, you can begin with around $100-$200 for essential supplies and equipment.
New business owners opting for Print on Demand can start selling custom candles without upfront costs since there’s no need to buy inventory or handle shipping.
Starting a candle business makes for a profitable side hustle, especially with the rising popularity of candles as both decor and self-care items.
The global luxury candle market was valued at $497.7 million in 2022, and is expected to grow annually at 10.1% through 2030. This mass market growth is driven by the demand for luxury candles, particularly among younger consumers.
Yes, candles can be a lucrative venture, particularly for those who establish a strong brand presence. Candle entrepreneurs who carve out a unique niche tend to see more success, whether with homemade candles or print-on-demand candles.
Selling through various outlets, such as your own business website, a local farmers market, retail stores, a local craft store, or gift shops, expands your reach and can increase sales.
Closing thoughts
There are many ways to make and sell candles from home with affordable supplies and a passion for candle making. But if you want to enter the candle industry quickly and start selling without upfront costs or inventory risks, choose Print on Demand.
Follow our candle business tips and create your own candle line with Printify. Launch your own website or sell on marketplaces to build a thriving candle brand and grow long-term profits.
Start selling today!
The post How to start a candle business in 6 steps appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post How to make money on Etsy: Complete guide (2025) appeared first on Printify.
]]>Printify + your favorite platform = more sales!
Etsy is an eCommerce goldmine with 96 million active buyers hunting for unique, handmade, and custom products.
Ready to cash in? Earning on Etsy starts with standing out – and Printify makes it easy. Skip the DIY hustle and sell personalized products without ever touching inventory. From setup to sales, our guide shows you exactly how to launch and grow your Etsy business.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Key takeaways
- Print-on-demand platforms like Printify let Etsy sellers create and sell custom products without managing production or inventory.
- Selecting a niche and conducting market research helps Etsy store owners develop products that appeal to their target audience.
- Effective SEO practices, including relevant keywords and well-crafted product descriptions, improve product visibility on Etsy, leading to more traffic and potential sales.
- Marketing strategies like email campaigns, social media posts, and Etsy ads can help increase store traffic and attract more customers.
- Monitoring store performance through tools like Etsy Stats helps successful Etsy shop owners remain competitive by making informed adjustments to product listings, pricing, and marketing efforts.
Pick a profitable product category
Most Etsy shop ideas start with choosing a niche and product category. A niche is a group of specific people with shared traits or interests your store targets. It can be broad or highly specific, from pet owners to Komodo dragon enthusiasts. Ultimately, your niche will affect what you sell and how you sell it.
Dig deep into your interests
Finding something you’re skilled at or passionate about is key to staying motivated long-term. If you’re not genuinely invested in your niche, you’ll find it difficult to stay engaged and thrive among other Etsy stores.
Consider your personal experiences, goals, and interests. If you want to make money as an artist, your niche will naturally be tied to your work.
Pinpoint customer needs
Determine your target market potential by analyzing consumer search behavior, traffic trends, interests, and opinions within your customer niche.
Use online keyword research tools like Etsy’s search bar, Semrush, and Google Trends. Explore social media platforms like Quora to spot emerging trends and product gaps in the market.
Research the market and competition
Analyze your competitors and other successful shops by reviewing their product offerings, pricing strategies, and customer feedback.
Look at what sells well and what their Etsy customers like and dislike. Determine how to distinguish your products from others and consider how you could offer something unique.
Prepare your Etsy shop and products
Once you’ve decided on your business niche and strategy, it’s time to set up your Etsy shop.
As you build your storefront, focus on creating a catalog of custom products tailored to your customers and pricing strategy.
So, let’s create some click-worthy listings.
Step 1: Pick products and designs
Choose best-selling items that align with your niche. Design your own tote bag collection, personalize candles, or try custom mug printing. Focus on customizing or uniquely designing products to make them stand out in the marketplace.
Partner with Printify and access our Product Catalog with over 1,300 white-label products (from custom-printed pint glasses to apparel and accessories), as well as our beginner-friendly Product Creator tool.
Use it to customize clothing and accessories, or try decor, games, and kitchen supplies. You can even sell printables featuring your artwork on Etsy.
Tip
If you’re offering personalized products, Printify’s Automated Personalization for Etsy makes the process even easier. This free feature lets customer inputs – like names or custom messages – automatically appear in your design, so all you have to do is review and approve the order. It saves time, keeps things simple, and works great for personalized gifts, home decor, and more.
Explore more about the Etsy automation on our Help Center.
Step 2: Calculate the numbers
To start making money on Etsy, add up all your overhead expenses and Etsy fees. The right product price should guarantee that each Etsy sale maintains sustainable profit margins.
What are the most common expenses for Etsy sellers?
- Production costs: Expenses associated with sourcing and manufacturing your products, including packaging materials, shipping, and taxes.
- Listing fees: You pay a small amount for each product listing you create. The fee is currently set at $0.20.
- Transaction fees: Etsy charges a 6.5% transaction fee for each sale you make, calculated based on the total cost of your product and shipping.
- Payment processing fees: Issued by your credit card processor, most stores automatically enroll in Etsy Payments for this during store setup.
Etsy charges a 3% plus $0.25 payment processing fee per transaction for US-based customers.
On average, Etsy takes between 10% and 20% per sale. As part of a print-on-demand business model, your chosen Print Provider will already prepare your production and shipping costs, simplifying the calculation process.
Try out our handy Etsy calculator – just enter the selling price, product costs, and shipping fees to get a clear breakdown of Etsy’s fees and your potential profit.
Quick tip
Is selling on Etsy worth it? Absolutely. But to find success and make more money online, you’ll need the right approach and a well-planned strategy.
Step 3: Open your own Etsy store
How to sell on Etsy? Start by creating an Etsy account with a business email, then follow the onboarding process to open your own Etsy shop.
Open a free Printify account to create a custom product and use our Etsy integration to publish your first listing.
- Submit basic information about your store: Provide your store name, shop language, and currency.
- Add your first product listing: Upload your Printify mockup photos, edit a description, and set the price and shipping details of your listing.
- Register your bank account: Link your bank account to your Etsy store and manage Etsy Payments to receive funds from your sales.
How to enhance your Etsy store
- Add essential store details
Write an engaging shop description, upload an eye-catching banner, and include necessary business information in the About section. - Organize and showcase
Upload more listings, create clear product categories, and use high-quality images that accurately display your offerings. - Create compelling listings
Write detailed and engaging descriptions for each product listing, using relevant keywords and tags to improve your Etsy search visibility.
Create a marketing strategy
After setting up your store, optimize your listings and develop an Etsy marketing strategy to increase customer retention and drive sales effectively.
Define your target customers
Craft a buyer persona to tailor your listings for a specific customer base. Who will be interested in your offers and why? Where do they spend most of their time online? How much will they be willing to spend on your offers?
Define your buyer persona by age, location, income, interests, and hobbies to understand their needs, preferences, and purchasing behavior.
Select effective marketing channels
While Etsy’s search engine provides merchants with traffic, marketing your listings and brand is essential for successfully increasing your store’s visibility.
Consider using these marketing channels:
- Email marketing: Set up an email list and share promotions, sales, purchasing information, and updates to attract potential customers.
- Search engine optimization: Use Etsy SEO to improve product listings with high-ranking keywords. Use keyword tools like eRank and Ahrefs.
- Social media: Promote your shop on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Use trends, hashtags, and posts to raise customer loyalty.
- Online ads: Use search engines or social media display ads, banners, and pop-ups to drive traffic directly to your best-selling listings.
- Content marketing: Build trust through blog posts, articles, videos, and other content marketing strategies.
- Influencer marketing: Partner with social media influencers to promote your Etsy shop through sponsored posts, giveaways, and reviews.
Promote with paid Etsy Ads
Pay for in-platform advertising to expand your store’s visibility and keep your existing audience through Etsy search results using Etsy ads.
How does Etsy advertising work?
- Go to your Etsy Shop Manager.
- Click on marketing: In the left-hand sidebar, select Marketing, then click Etsy Ads.
- Set your daily budget: Choose how much you’ll spend daily on ads. Etsy will promote your listings based on your set budget.
- Select listings to promote: Pick the product listings you want to advertise. Etsy will automatically suggest top-performing products, but you can customize this selection.
- Launch your ads: Once your budget and listings are set, click to activate your Etsy Ads.
Etsy will begin promoting your products on the platform, charging a cost per click (CPC), meaning you only pay if a user clicks on the promoted listing.
Analyze and adjust your strategy
Monitor your Etsy store’s performance regularly, collect data and insights, and adjust your product listings to maximize profit.
Collect data
Use tools like Etsy Stats to track store visits, clicks, orders, and performance metrics. Analyze this data to understand Etsy’s algorithm and improve your listings, titles, and tags for better visibility and organic traffic.
Optimize your store
Focus on SEO and learn how to take pictures for Etsy to create eye-catching listings.
Optimize product descriptions and your store layout for discoverability. If you partner with Printify, use our high-quality product mockups and create your own detailed descriptions to enhance your store’s performance.
Monitor all processes
Review your store’s analytics regularly and monitor trends. Stay updated on the Etsy search algorithm to improve listings. Ongoing analysis and attention help you surpass other sellers and maintain long-term growth for your store.
Top-selling products on Etsy
While you can sell anything that complies with the Seller Policy, focusing on best-selling product categories and researching successful Etsy Shops will help you offer products that resonate with Etsy’s audience and drive sales.
So, what sells on Etsy?
1. Jewelry
One of Etsy’s top categories, offering everything from minimalist designs to bold statement pieces. Buyers love unique jewelry, making it a highly profitable niche.
- Necklaces
- Earrings
- Bracelets
- Handmade jewelry
- Jewelry boxes
2. Crafts and supplies
Crafters flock to Etsy for unique materials to complete their DIY projects. Selling directly to artists with your own craft supplies lets you tap into a large market of creative enthusiasts.
- Beads and gems
- Fabric
- Wrapping paper
- Knitting and crochet supplies
- Stickers
3. Wedding and party supplies
Personalized decor and party favors are in demand for special events. This category thrives as people seek one-of-a-kind items to make their celebrations unforgettable.
- Balloons
- Napkins
- Greeting cards and invitations
- Yard signs
5. Stationery supplies
Shoppers love personalized stationery for both work and home. It’s an ideal category for creative sellers offering custom items for personal use or business branding.
6. Home decor
This category sells well, especially personalized items that add a creative touch to living spaces. Buyers love custom, artisanal pieces to enhance their homes.
7. Art and collectibles
Yes, you can make money on Etsy by selling art. Offer original works, digital downloads, or handmade pieces to attract buyers looking for personal, unique items.
- Digital art and other digital downloads
- Canvas prints and posters
- Handmade crafts
- Artisanal pottery
- Sculptures and figurines
8. Baby items
A popular category that attracts parents and gift-givers seeking unique, personalized baby products with special meaning.
9. Kitchen supplies
Offer stylish and functional kitchen supplies to cater to home cooks and bakers. This is a large category among home chefs and hobbyists.
11. Shoes
Selling custom shoes allows you to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Buyers seek custom, personalized footwear with designs that differ from large brands.
12. Toys and games
Custom games and toys offer entertainment for all ages. Perfect for sellers wanting to provide fun, creative, and profitable products for families.
13. Electronics and accessories
Tech-savvy shoppers love custom, stylish accessories that enhance their gadgets. This category can encourage sales from those looking for creative alternatives to mass-produced items.
14. Vintage items
Profit by focusing on the retro or vintage-inspired item trend, appealing to buyers who love nostalgic designs with a modern twist.
Note
Selling vintage products on Etsy requires they are at least 20 years old.
How to make money on Etsy without making anything yourself – The Printify way
![How to make money on Etsy: Complete guide ([bp_year]) 1](https://printify.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/How-to-make-money-on-Etsy-without-making-anything-yourself-1024x768.png "How to make money on Etsy without making anything yourself")
Partner with Printify for our automated Etsy integration and the largest POD Catalog with top-selling items. Join creative entrepreneurs and sell custom-design products while our Print Providers handle the rest – printing, packaging, and shipping to your global customers.
Why should you sell Etsy products with Printify?
100% Free
Our services are free, making it easy for anyone to get started. Monitor your online store, products, and orders – all in one place.
Global printing network
We’ve partnered with Print Providers in the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe, and China to fulfill and ship your orders worldwide, fast.
Quality Product Creator
Our free and beginner-friendly Product Creator is the perfect tool for creating designs to sell on the Etsy marketplace.
Outstanding customer support
Our Merchant Support Team will help you every step of the way. Message them via chat or email and receive guidance 24/7. For more resources, browse our blog, Help Center, and YouTube channel with valuable articles, tips, suggestions, and updates on all things eCommerce.
How to make money on Etsy: FAQ
Absolutely! Many Etsy sellers build profitable businesses by offering unique products in this popular online marketplace. Success comes down to choosing the right niche, setting up a memorable shop, and using smart strategies to encourage sales – like great product photography, detailed descriptions, and a strong social media presence. Whether you’re selling handmade goods, vintage items, or digital downloads, there’s plenty of opportunity to turn your passion into profit.
Etsy has several fees, including a 6.5% transaction fee on the sale price (including shipping) and a payment processing fee (which varies by country but is typically around 3% + $0.25). For a $100 sale, expect Etsy to take roughly $9-$10 in fees, leaving you with around $90 before material and shipping costs. Offering free shipping or bundling items can help offset these fees and encourage sales.
Yes, but it takes time, strategy, and consistency. Successful Etsy sellers often reach this milestone by selling high-demand items like digital products, craft supplies, or popular handmade goods like jewelry and wall art. Scaling your Etsy business might involve working with production partners, offering free shipping, and building a standalone website or social media presence to drive more traffic to your shop.
Digital downloads – like printable wall art or planners – often have the highest profit margins since you only create the product once and can sell it infinitely. Vintage items, craft supplies, and personalized handmade goods also perform well. The key is to find products that align with your skills and what other successful Etsy sellers are offering, while adding your own twist to stand out in the online marketplace.
Turn your passion into profit and start your own Etsy shop
Turning your creativity into cash on Etsy? Totally doable. Find your niche, set up shop, and start selling – Printify takes care of the rest. No inventory, no stress, just endless possibilities. How to make money on Etsy? Follow our guide, grab the right tools, and watch your side hustle take off. Let’s turn your ideas into bestsellers – start today with Printify!
Make it happen today!
The post How to make money on Etsy: Complete guide (2025) appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post How to set up WooCommerce: 7 Easy steps to open your WooCommerce store in 2025 appeared first on Printify.
]]>Sell custom products with Printify
Wondering how to set up WooCommerce and start selling in 2025? You’re in the right place. This quick, no-fluff guide breaks it down into seven simple steps.
WooCommerce makes it easy to build, customize, and take full control of your online store, so let’s get started and launch your eCommerce empire.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Key takeaways
- Install WooCommerce manually for complete control or use the WooCommerce setup wizard for a guided process.
- Compare hosting providers carefully, considering both initial and renewal costs. Options like Hostinger, Bluehost, and SiteGround offer WooCommerce-optimized plans.
- To optimize your store, pick a fast, mobile-friendly theme, install important plugins, and configure settings like taxes, shipping costs, and payments.
- Easily connect WooCommerce with Printify to create and sell custom products without managing inventory.
- Use WooCommerce SEO, email marketing, social media, and abandoned cart recovery to attract customers and grow your store.
What is WooCommerce?
WooCommerce is an open-source eCommerce plugin developed by Woo.
It integrates seamlessly with WordPress websites, empowering eCommerce businesses to sell physical and digital products. Compared to hosted platforms, WooCommerce offers full customization, flexibility, and no site restrictions.
Why choose WooCommerce?
- Unlike closed platforms, WooCommerce gives you complete ownership and lets you control your store’s data, design, and pricing models.
- Choose from thousands of WooCommerce templates and plugins to personalize your store.
- Whether you’re selling a few products or managing a large catalog, WooCommerce can grow with your business. Start small and expand with paid extensions and third-party integrations.
- The WooCommerce plugin is free and cost-effective. You only pay for hosting, a domain, and any optional paid extensions you choose.
- As of Q4 2024, WooCommerce achieved widespread adoption with a 39% market share among eCommerce platforms worldwide.
Setup and activate WooCommerce in 7 easy steps
If you’re starting fresh or migrating from another platform, follow these seven steps to easily install WooCommerce, configure your online store, and start selling.
Step 1 – Understand your options and choose the right setup
There are several ways to set up WooCommerce, but no matter which route you take, these three steps are always required:
- Getting a hosting provider – This is where your eCommerce website will be stored. Your hosting provider will also help you register a domain name (your online store’s web address). While you can purchase a domain separately, most web hosting services make the process easier by offering it as part of their plans.
- Installing WordPress – This is where you’ll build your site, create pages, customize layouts, and add features through themes and plugins.
- Installing the WooCommerce plugin – WooCommerce is what adds eCommerce functionality to your WordPress site, enabling you to sell products, accept payments, and manage shipping.
Important considerations before you choose web hosting
Before committing to a provider, be sure to compare pricing – for the first year and for renewal costs. Many providers offer discounted rates for new customers, but prices often increase upon renewal. Checking future pricing now will help you avoid surprises down the line.
Also, consider purchasing hosting when setting up WooCommerce, as many providers offer discounts when bundling hosting, domain registration, and SSL certificates.
Popular providers for WooCommerce
- Hostinger – Affordable WooCommerce-optimized hosting, starting at $2.49/month.
- Bluehost – Officially recommended by WordPress for WooCommerce, starting at $7.45/month.
- SiteGround – Known for fast speeds and strong security, starting at $2.99/month.
Once you’ve chosen a hosting provider, you’re ready to install WordPress and set up your WooCommerce store.
Step 2 – Install WooCommerce from scratch (recommended method)
Now that you’ve done your research and chosen a provider, it’s time to set up your online store. The easiest and most flexible way to do this is by installing WooCommerce from scratch. It might sound technical, but don’t worry – most hosting providers simplify the process with clear instructions and one-click installations.
This method gives you full control over your store while letting you compare hosting prices and renewal costs before committing. Plus, you’ll have a clean setup without any unnecessary extras.
Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a provider and register a domain – Sign up with a Woo-friendly host like Hostinger, Bluehost, or SiteGround. Many providers offer free domain registration when you purchase a hosting plan. For this WooCommerce tutorial, we’ll use Hostinger as an example to walk you through the process.
- Install WordPress – Log in to your hosting account and look for the one-click WordPress installation option (usually in the dashboard or cPanel).
- Enter your login details to create a WordPress account or log into an existing one, select your domain name, follow the prompts, and wait for the installation to finish.
- Access your WordPress dashboard – Once WordPress is installed, log in by visiting yourdomain.com/wp-admin and entering your login details.
- Install WooCommerce: In the WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New, search for WooCommerce, then click Install Now and Activate. This process is the same as installing any other WordPress plugin.
- Go to the WooCommerce tab and follow the setup checklist. WooCommerce will launch a quick setup guide, where you’ll enter your store details, industry, product types, business settings, and payment options. More on that later.
Step 2 (alternative) – Use the WooCommerce setup wizard
Woo simplifies the store setup process with a setup wizard that guides you through choosing a hosting provider, installing WordPress, and configuring everything manually.
You still have to choose a provider, domain name, and WordPress account.
Here’s how to set up WooCommerce using the setup wizard:
Go to WooCommerce’s setup page and click I want to start selling online.
Choose a provider from Woo partners (WordPress.com, Bluehost, Pressable, SiteGround, Nexcess, WordPress VIP):
Follow the setup prompts – Set up a WordPress account, pick a domain name, and install the WooCommerce plugin, just like in the standard WooCommerce setup.
Important!
WooCommerce’s setup wizard includes WordPress.com and WordPress VIP, both owned by Automattic (the company behind WooCommerce). While these options simplify store creation, they offer less control and cost more than self-hosted WordPress.org setups.
For full ownership and flexibility, choosing separate hosting and installing WooCommerce manually (as outlined in the previous step) may be the better choice in the mid and long term.
Step 3 – WordPress setup
Before setting up WooCommerce, let’s make sure your WordPress site is ready to go. The first thing you’ll need is a WooCommerce theme – this gives your store its look and feel.
A good theme isn’t just about looks, though. It should be fast, mobile-friendly, and SEO-optimized so your store loads quickly and ranks well on search engines.
There are plenty of options, both free and premium. Here are some great picks:
- Astra – Super lightweight and customizable, excellent for performance.
- Flatsome – A top choice for eCommerce with built-in design tools.
- Neve – Fast, modern, and built for WooCommerce.
- Storefront – WooCommerce’s official theme, designed for seamless integration.
Tip
Need more ideas? Check out our full guide on the best WooCommerce themes.
Next, let’s add a few WordPress plugins to improve your store’s functionality:
- Yoast SEO – Helps your store show up on Google.
- Wordfence – A security plugin to keep hackers out.
- WP Rocket – Speeds up your store so pages load faster.
Tip
Want to improve your store’s visibility and get more traffic? Check out our guide on WooCommerce SEO.
Step 4 – Configure the WooCommerce plugin settings
Now that your theme and plugins are set, it’s time to fine-tune WooCommerce settings to make sure your store runs smoothly.
Go to the WooCommerce tab in your WordPress dashboard, then click Settings.
Here, you’ll configure important areas, including:
- General – Set your store location, currency, and default customer settings. These basics help WooCommerce apply the right tax, shipping, and payment rules based on your customers’ location.
- Products – Choose measurement units, set default placeholder images, and decide whether to enable product reviews for customer engagement. Most importantly, select where to link your main shop page in the website menu – WooCommerce will automatically display products there.
New users often look for this page in the WordPress dashboard without success, as it’s managed in WooCommerce settings, not the regular WordPress “Pages” section. - Tax – WooCommerce includes built-in tax options, allowing you to automate tax calculations or manually configure tax rates. Choose whether to include tax in product prices or calculate it separately based on the customer’s shipping address. Keeping pricing consistent from product pages to checkout avoids confusion and builds trust.
- Shipping settings – Define shipping zones and shipping methods based on where you sell. Set different rates for various regions, depending on your fulfillment provider. The shipping tab also lets you enable a calculator at checkout, so customers can see costs before finalizing their purchase.
- Payments – Manage payment processors like PayPal, Stripe, and bank transfers. Add more options from the WooCommerce extension store, including Buy Now, Pay Later services, or cryptocurrency payments. Sort the order of payment options to prioritize the most commonly used methods. Note that the proprietary WooCommerce payment method is available in selected countries.
- Accounts and privacy – Control how customer accounts work, including guest checkout options, privacy policies, and data retention settings.
- Emails – Customize order notifications, customer emails, and admin alerts to keep communication clear.
- Advanced options – Configure checkout behavior, REST API settings, and additional eCommerce features.
Once these settings are in place, your WooCommerce store is fully functional! Next, it’s time to add products and start selling.
Step 5 – Integrate Printify with WooCommerce
Let’s connect your store to Printify and start selling custom products.
- Log in to your Printify account.
- Click on the user icon in the upper-right corner and select My stores.
- Click Add new store, then select WooCommerce from the list. All available integrations are also listed under Integrations at the bottom of any Printify page.
- Enter your WooCommerce store URL, then click Connect.
- When prompted, click Approve and wait for the connection to complete.
That’s it! Your Printify store is now linked to WooCommerce, and you can start adding products.
Make it happen
Sell physical goods with Printify and Woo – no inventory management.
Step 6 – Manage products in WooCommerce
While Printify lets you tweak designs and product details before publishing, WooCommerce gives you full control over pricing, descriptions, product categories, tags, and visibility.
Add products from Printify to WooCommerce:
- Log in to Printify and pick a product from our Catalog.
- Upload your design using the Product Creator.
- Customize product details, including title, description, and pricing.
- Click Publish, and the product will sync to WooCommerce.
Once your products are in WooCommerce, fine-tune them further.
Tip
Check out our blog article for more information on product pricing.
Edit WooCommerce product details:
- In the WordPress dashboard, go to Products and select the item you want to edit.
- Adjust the product name and refine the description – use Printify’s details as a base, but make it unique and engaging.
- Scroll down to edit product data, including pricing, stock status, and shipping costs. Printify products don’t require manual inventory management since stock updates automatically.
Tip
Want to sell digital products on WooCommerce? Get inspiration for selling downloadables on our blog.
- On the right-hand side, assign categories and tags to help customers find your products. For example:
- Categories: Apparel (t-shirts, hoodies), Accessories (hats, bags), Home Decor (posters, rugs).
- Tags: Seasonal designs, funny quotes, minimalist, vintage.
- Click Set product image to upload a high-quality product photo. Good visuals make a huge difference in sales – make sure images are clear, well-lit, and accurately represent your product.
Tip
Check our blog for a complete guide to taking good product photos.
Control product visibility:
Before publishing, decide how your product will appear in your store:
- Shop and search results – Visible everywhere (best for most products).
- Shop only or search results only – Limits visibility to one or the other.
- Hidden – Only accessible via direct links (useful for exclusive products or pre-launch items).
Manage orders, coupons, and customers:
Beyond adding products, WooCommerce gives you full control over store operations:
- Orders – In WooCommerce > Orders, view and manage all customer purchases. Each order has a unique ID with details like the purchase date, status, and total price. You can update order status, issue refunds, edit shipping options, or adjust sales tax rates if necessary.
- Coupons – Create and manage discount codes in Marketing > Coupons. Click Add coupon, generate a unique code, choose a discount type (fixed, percentage, or free shipping), and set an expiry date. Share the coupon code via email or social media, and customers can apply it at checkout.
- Customers – Keep track of your buyers in WooCommerce > Customers. See order history, spending habits, email addresses, and average order value to better understand your market and fine-tune your marketing strategy.
- Reports – Get insights into your store’s performance in WooCommerce > Reports. Track sales, product popularity, and customer behavior over time to identify trends and improve your offerings.
Step 7 – Promote and grow your WooCommerce store
A great-looking store won’t bring in sales if no one can find it. Promotion is key to driving traffic and turning visitors into customers. Here are some effective ways to grow your WooCommerce store.
Optimize your store for a great user experience
Most shoppers decide within seconds whether to stay or leave your WooCommerce website. To keep them engaged, make sure your store is:
- Fast – Use a lightweight theme like Astra or Neve to improve loading times. Compress images with tools like Smush or Imagify to further speed up your site.
- Easy to navigate – A clear menu, search bar, and well-organized categories help customers find what they need.
- Mobile-friendly – Over half of online shopping happens on phones. Choose a responsive WooCommerce theme like Flatsome that adapts to different screen sizes, ensuring your store looks great and functions smoothly on all devices.
- Clear about what you sell – Your homepage should instantly tell visitors what your store is about and why they should buy from you.
Leverage social media marketing
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your products. Use:
- Instagram and Pinterest for showcasing product images and customer photos.
- Facebook and Twitter for store updates, announcements, and promotions.
- TikTok and YouTube for video content, product demos, and behind-the-scenes looks.
To automate and manage social media posts, consider plugins like Blog2Social or Revive Social, which let you schedule and share content across multiple platforms.
Use email marketing and abandoned cart recovery
Email marketing helps amp up sales and build customer loyalty. Set up automated emails for:
- Abandoned carts – Remind customers to complete their purchases using a plugin like CartFlows.
- Exclusive discounts and promotions – Reward subscribers with special offers through tools like MailPoet.
- Product updates and recommendations – Keep customers informed about new arrivals or trending items with Omnisend.
A well-crafted email campaign keeps customers engaged and brings them back to your store.
Improve SEO and create content
SEO (search engine optimization) helps your store appear in Google searches, bringing in free, organic traffic. Here’s how to improve it:
- Use an SEO plugin like Yoast SEO to spruce up product pages.
- Add a blog to share useful content related to your products (e.g., styling tips for fashion stores or gift guides for home decor).
- Use relevant keywords in product descriptions to improve search rankings.
Wrapping up
Setting up a WooCommerce store is easier than ever with the right tools and approach. From choosing a hosting provider to customizing products and promoting your brand, you now have everything you need to launch a successful online store.
The next step? Take action! Start building your store today, connect it with Printify, and bring your unique designs to life. If you’re selling custom apparel, home decor, or accessories, your online business is just a few clicks away. Ready to turn your ideas into sales? Let’s make it happen!
Make it your way!
The post How to set up WooCommerce: 7 Easy steps to open your WooCommerce store in 2025 appeared first on Printify.
]]>The post How to start a t-shirt business that makes money in 2025 appeared first on Printify.
]]>Start your custom printing business today!
T-shirts are a classic, beloved part of everyone’s wardrobe, so it’s no wonder the t-shirt market is competitive. There’s fantastic profit potential if you have the right approach. We’ll explore how to start a t-shirt business that makes you big money, from market research and choosing an eCommerce platform to marketing and pricing strategies.
Let’s dive in and discover tips for creating custom t-shirts and earning passive income!
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Key takeaways
- The t-shirt market is expected to grow by 11.5% annually from 2025 to 2030, making now a great time to start a successful t-shirt business.
- Partnering with a print-on-demand service like Printify reduces upfront costs, streamlines operations, and lets you focus on creating and marketing your t-shirts.
- Choosing a specific niche, like chinchilla lovers or pickleball enthusiasts, helps you stand out and target a defined audience.
- Effective marketing and business strategies, including social media, influencer partnerships, and SEO, are essential to driving traffic and increasing sales.
- Tracking sales data and customer feedback lets you refine your t-shirt designs, pricing, and marketing to ensure steady business growth.
“Keep going and never give up. One day, you’ll look back at the numbers and realize people have spent $30,000 in your shop. The whole concept is amazing, though I still find it hard to believe sometimes.”
Why sell t-shirts?
The global custom t-shirt printing market was worth about $5.16 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow by 11.5% annually from 2025 to 2030. Securing even a tiny piece of that pie would bring in a lot of profits for your online t-shirt business.
When learning how to sell print-on-demand t-shirts, you must decide what kind of business you’ll build. Let’s look at your two main options.
Retail vs eCommerce business
In 2023, global online sales were around 5.8 trillion. Experts predict they will grow by 39% in the next few years, reaching over 8 trillion by 2027. This shows just how popular online shopping has become and why it’s likely the better choice for your shirt business.
Let’s look at the differences between physical and online stores.
| Traditional retail | eCommerce | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | ||
| Accessibility | ||
| User experience (UX) | ||
| Delivery | ||
| Business costs | ||
| Setup difficulty |
Tip
Learn more about business models like Print on Demand and how to start a print-on-demand business.
How to start a t-shirt business: Step-by-step guide
Let’s start your clothing line, one step at a time.
1. Do market research
What do you need to start a custom t-shirt printing business? First, find out what’s going on in the market – what other clothing brands and t-shirt businesses are selling, who’s buying t-shirts, and what qualities people look for in their apparel.
Tip
Take a look at successful Shopify t-shirt stores for inspiration. What are their strengths and weaknesses, and what can you do better than them?
Start with the search engines of huge online retailers like Amazon. Look for terms like trending t-shirts, best-selling, or popular tees.
Narrow down those searches by adding terms connected to your target market. For example, tennis player t-shirts or t-shirts with Italian Greyhounds.
Look up these products with tools like Google Keyword Planner or Google Trends. These will provide more detailed information, like similar searches, your customers’ secondary interests, demographics, and location.
Tip
Learn more about how to sell t-shirts on Amazon and Etsy.
2. Choose a niche
Now that you’ve researched what’s popular in the t-shirt market, you’ll need to find your niche. This is the particular group of people you want to tailor your products to.
It’s fundamental for your success. There’s a lot of competition, and if you try to sell to everyone, you’ll end up selling to no one.
Let’s say you are interested in selling to women who have pets. Look for keywords related to different pets, explore all the related queries, and gather any information that helps you understand your target audience. Then, narrow down your niche based on all the data gathered.
For example, sell t-shirts to women in California who own Labrador Retrievers.
Tip
Learn more about print-on-demand niches on our blog and YouTube channel.
3. Write a business plan
A business plan includes:
- Your company’s goals
- How and when you plan to achieve them
- Your chosen business model (for example, Print on Demand)
A traditional plan is very detailed and describes the business idea, product, target market, and the company’s structure, including staff and locations. Financial institutions will require a business plan if you’re applying for loans or financing.
Small business owners may prepare a lean plan. It’s a more flexible road map with essentials like key activities, revenue streams, assets, and partners. Remember to make your unique selling proposition very clear.
Tip
The US Small Business Administration provides templates for preparing different business plans.
4. Partner with a POD company
Wondering how to start a t-shirt business online without worrying about efficient inventory management, fulfillment, and initial investment? Use a print-on-demand (POD) service.
Why choose POD?
- Low startup costs: There’s no need to buy inventory upfront.
- Scalability: Easily add new products without worrying about stock management.
- Testing: Quickly experiment with different t-shirt design ideas to see what sells.
- No risk: T-shirts are customized after your customer makes a purchase.
Once you sell a t-shirt online, a POD company will print, package, and ship it to your customer. This leaves you with plenty of time to focus on creating new designs and marketing your t-shirts.
Printify and Printful are the best choices for starting your t-shirt company.
Here are Printify’s main benefits:
- No upfront production cost. Create an account and start selling t-shirts online for free.
- Largest selection in POD. Explore our Catalog of over 1,300 items, including high-quality t-shirts from popular brands.
- Worldwide shipping. Our international network of Print Providers will ship your orders all around the globe
- 24/7 Support. Our Support Team is always here to help you with any questions.
- Design tools. The free Product Creator has tons of valuable design tools, like a pattern creator, a text editor, an AI Image Generator, a graphics library with free t-shirt designs, and more.
- Integrations. We offer integrations with all the popular eCommerce channels to streamline listing and order management.
5. Pick a t-shirt
Not all t-shirts are equal – they come in a range of fabrics, styles, and fits. You need to choose the t-shirt models that your customers will like most.
Here’s a quick t-shirt 101:
- T-shirts are made from various fabrics. The most popular ones among consumers are cotton, polyester, or blends.
- Some fabrics and designs are more compatible with specific printing techniques. For example, the popular direct-to-garment printing (DTG) prints look best on 100% cotton or polyester-cotton blend shirts. In contrast, all-over-print (AOP) shirts only work on polyester and other synthetic fabrics.
- Eco-friendly options made from organic and sustainable materials will be a hit with your environmentally conscious shoppers.
Pro tip
Always order product samples to ensure the t-shirt design and fabric quality match your expectations.
How to choose a t-shirt from Printify:
- Browse our Catalog for women’s, men’s, and kids’ t-shirts to find one your target audience will love.
- Choose from over 20 quality brands, including Bella+Canvas and Gildan.
- Choose a Print Provider, considering their score, location, and production time.
Tip
Watch this comparison video between the Bella+Canvas 3001, Gildan 64000, and Gildan 5000, and check out our article on the best t-shirts for printing.
5. Create your own t-shirt designs
A good design is the key factor influencing customers to buy from your online t-shirt business.
Here are some quick tips for creating a best-selling t-shirt design:
- Conceptualize: Brainstorm t-shirt design ideas that resonate with your target audience and brand identity.
- Find your design style: Explore online resources and tools to create your own t-shirts, or consider collaborating with freelance artists on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
- Prioritize quality and simplicity: Keep your t-shirt designs clean and professional, using high-quality visuals and easy-to-read fonts. Limit the number of colors for a more polished look.
How to apply your t-shirt design:
- Use our Product Creator to upload and adjust your design placement on the t-shirt. Use features like the AI Image Generator to create something entirely new without hiring professional designers.
- Create product mockups to visualize your designs.
- Order samples to ensure quality before adding products to your store.
Explore
Find more graphic design tips in our blog to take your t-shirt line to the next level.
6. Create an online store
Once you’ve created some custom t-shirts, you’ll need a place to sell them.
The easiest and fastest way is to create an eCommerce store. Printify easily connects with the most relevant platforms – simply pick the one best suited for your online t-shirt business.
Marketplaces (Etsy, eBay, Amazon):
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
eCommerce platforms (Shopify, BigCommerce):
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
All-in-one website builders (Wix, Squarespace)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Printify API, open-source platforms, CMS, and plugins (WordPress and WooCommerce, PrestaShop)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Printify Pop-Up Store
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Tip
Check out the best sites to sell online and decide which one is the right fit for you.
7. Set prices
When you sell t-shirts online, pricing can make or break your online business.
First, consider your variable costs, fixed costs, and competitor pricing. Then, pick the best pricing strategy for your business.
1. Cost breakdown
Before setting your price, analyze all of your costs.
Variable costs:
- Blank shirts: Printify partners with several Print Providers to offer a variety of t-shirt styles and materials at different price points. Choose based on your target audience and design needs.
- Printing: Cost varies depending on the printing technique (e.g., DTG, screen printing).
- Shipping: Factor in both domestic and international shipping rates based on your target market.
Fixed costs:
- Design software subscription (optional): Look for free design tools or low-cost subscription plans.
- Online store platform fees: Many platforms offer free trials or tiered plans. Don’t forget about transaction fees.
- Marketing and advertising costs: Budget for social media ads or influencer marketing if needed.
2. Competition research
Take a look at how competitors price their products in your t-shirt niche. Monitor how often they have sales and what their average prices are, and look for ways to get the upper hand.
Pricing below your competition can attract new customers while maintaining healthy profit margins. If your designs or materials are of higher quality, consider a premium pricing strategy.
3. Popular pricing strategies
Explore these popular pricing strategies to find the best fit for you:
- Cost-plus pricing is a straightforward approach in which you add a desired profit margin to your total costs (variable + fixed) to determine your selling price.
- Keystone pricing: This business strategy involves doubling your wholesale cost (t-shirt + printing) to set your retail price. While simple, it might not always align with market competition.
- Value-based pricing: Set your price based on the perceived value your t-shirt offers the customer, considering factors like design, brand identity, and material quality.
- Competitive pricing: Analyze competitor pricing and adjust yours slightly higher or lower based on your value proposition.
Tip
Check out our t-shirt pricing calculator to simplify the process.
8. Promote your products
Creating designs and setting up your store is just the beginning. To make sales, you’ll need effective marketing strategies. Take a look at these tips to reach potential customers.
- Utilize social media platforms: Use Instagram and TikTok to connect with millennials and Gen Z, as well as Facebook for older generations. Focus on where your niche audience spends most of their time online.
- Leverage influencer marketing: Partner with influencers in your niche. They can help you reach a larger audience and build credibility.
- Search engine optimization (SEO): Learn about SEO to improve your online t-shirt store visibility. Use relevant keywords in product descriptions and consider starting a blog to drive more traffic to your store.
- Paid advertising: If your budget allows it, invest in paid ads to increase your visibility and attract more customers.
- Creative marketing campaigns: Plan creative marketing campaigns to catch your target audience’s attention. Think outside the box to make your t-shirt brand stand out.
Focus on these strategies to effectively market your t-shirt business and increase sales.
Tip
Explore our articles on WooCommerce SEO, Shopify SEO, Wix SEO, and Etsy SEO.
9. Analyze your performance
Most eCommerce platforms provide analytics to help you manage your store’s performance. Track which products sell best and where your audience is from to create more bestsellers and effective selling strategies.
Some platforms connect to Google Analytics to see your traffic, conversions, and other important metrics, like location and demographics.
Instagram and Facebook also have integrated analytics to help you plan the best marketing campaigns.
Make it your way!
Get inspired
Every merchant knows that starting a t-shirt business can sometimes feel overwhelming.
We spoke with three successful business owners to share their stories and offer advice to newbies so they can take the most straightforward path to profits.
Rich Khun
Running a successful online t-shirt business comes naturally to online entrepreneur Rich Khun. From making over $500,000 annually to being a successful YouTuber, Rich is a true inspiration for business owners.
We’re not only fans of Rich as a Printify merchant but also hooked on his YouTube channel, Hustle Ninjas, where he shares valuable advice and experience on selling t-shirts online.
Read Rich Khun’s full story.
Cassiy Johnson
Anyone learning how to start a t-shirt company can learn a lot from Cassiy Johnson. She lost her job during the pandemic and plunged into the world of print-on-demand services, soon discovering that POD was way more fun than her 9-to-5 job.
Instead of focusing on a specific niche, Cassiy has an Etsy store with products across various niches. She also teaches how to start a t-shirt business from home and much more on her YouTube channel.
Investing in custom mockups, Cassiy makes the most of holiday sales to expand her business and sell t-shirts and other apparel. She uses Pinterest and Etsy ads for marketing, but most of her sales come from organic searches.
Read Cassiy Johnson’s full story.
Lindsey Ferris
Lindsey lost her 12-year corporate event production business, but this didn’t stop her from becoming a successful eCommerce entrepreneur.
Lindsey runs an Etsy shop with over 9,300 sales of t-shirts, print-on-demand notebooks, custom mugs, and other POD products. This business model is great for anyone wanting to start their own t-shirt printing business.
Her merchandise features inspiring and empowering messages alongside calming and fun designs, making her a standout in the market.
Read Lindsey Ferris’s full story.
FAQ
Not sure if a t-shirt business is profitable? It definitely can be but depends on factors like niche selection, design quality, marketing efforts, and pricing strategies. Focusing on these aspects can lead to healthy profit margins. Typically, t-shirt businesses aim for profit margins between 30% and 50%.
Yes, you can make a lot of money selling t-shirts! The expanding market offers ample opportunities to carve out a niche and attract a loyal customer base. Use print-on-demand services like Printify or Printful to eliminate upfront costs and scale efficiently, maximizing profit potential.
If you’re asking yourself, “What do I need to start a t-shirt business,” the beauty of Print on Demand is that you don’t need a lot to get started.
Here are the basic necessities:
- A computer with design software (free or paid options available) to create your unique t-shirt designs from home.
- A Printify account (free) to access our global network of Print Providers, beginner-friendly POD design tools, and over 1,000 high-quality products.
- An eCommerce store (various free and paid options) where customers can browse and purchase your t-shirt designs.
- A marketing strategy (social media platforms, email marketing, etc.) to spread the word about your brand and drive traffic to your store.
POD eliminates the need for upfront inventory purchases. Focus on creating t-shirts, use free store creation platforms during their trial periods, or create a completely free Printify Pop-Up Store.
Then, leverage social media marketing for organic reach. As your business grows, reinvest some profits into paid advertising, subscriptions, and website development.
Final thoughts – Sell custom t-shirts today
Starting an online t-shirt business with Printify and POD is very profitable. Minimize costs, focus on designs, and drive sales with strategies like social media marketing and SEO. Monitor your performance and grow continuously with Printify.
Start your custom t-shirt printing business today, and our printing network will handle the rest!
Start selling t-shirts
The post How to start a t-shirt business that makes money in 2025 appeared first on Printify.
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]]>Side hustle made easy – Print, sell, profit.
Hi, moms! Are you ready to take charge of your schedule and earn money on your own terms? From quick tasks you can tackle during nap time to opportunities for building a full-fledged business, there’s something here for every skill or for those motivated to learn.
Whether you’re looking to embrace your entrepreneurial side with a new business or just make some extra income as a side gig, we’ll discover how to make money as a stay-at-home mom with these 30 profitable ideas.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.
Ways to make money as a stay-at-home mom
There are countless flexible side hustles for women looking to launch an online business. From remote work like virtual assistance and online tutoring to creative ventures like selling handmade crafts, you can find something that fits your preferences.
1. Start a print-on-demand business
One of the quickest ways to start a business is by opening an online store to sell print-on-demand products, like custom t-shirts with your own designs (or even your kids’ doodles!) If you go with Printify, there are no upfront costs, and our Print Provider network will handle all the production and shipping for you.
Whether you want to design your own hoodies, custom candles, or personalized backpacks, this business model offers a flexible way to generate extra income and even grow a full-time job.
It’s easy to get started:
- Register. Sign up for a free Printify account.
- Choose a product. Select items from our extensive Catalog of over 1,300 popular products.
- Apply designs. Upload images or graphics to items with our free Product Creator tools. If you’re not feeling artsy, hire a freelancer on Fiverr to make your designs.
- Save and publish. Printify integrates with major eCommerce platforms like Etsy, Shopify, eBay, and Woocommerce to automate product listings and order fulfillment.
Check out a success story from a mom who turned a simple Etsy store into a thriving online business on her own schedule with Printify!
Make it happen today!
2. Try affiliate marketing
Have your own blog or a buzzing social media presence? Affiliate marketing could be an excellent way to work from home without a traditional job. You’ll promote other businesses online to your readers and followers using a unique affiliate link. Once someone purchases through the link, you’ll get a commission.
Find programs that match your interests to make the promotions more authentic. One great opportunity is the Printify Affiliate Program. Sign up, share info about Print on Demand with your audience, and earn a 5% commission on any sales from your referrals.
Quick tip
3. Do remote data entry
Data entry offers a straightforward and accessible option for stay-at-home moms seeking a flexible income stream.
The role involves inputting, organizing, and maintaining information in digital formats and doesn’t require much training.
Data entry is especially relevant today because businesses increasingly outsource administrative tasks to remote professionals. The simplicity of this work makes it an ideal starting point for moms re-entering the workforce or exploring remote work options.
Begin by building your skills and creating a professional profile on freelance platforms to find data entry tasks, such as Upwork, Freelancer, or FlexJobs.
4. Become a digital marketing specialist
Develop your digital marketing skills to become a specialist in a constantly growing and high-demand field. Start by taking online courses on social media marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising.
Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer comprehensive courses to help you build expertise.
Once you’ve gained the necessary knowledge, offer your services to small businesses or startups looking to enhance their online presence. Specializing in social media platform management or email marketing can help you stand out in the digital market.
5. Sell an online course
Many appreciate learning from the comfort of their homes. Providing eLearning courses lets busy parents earn money online with minimal investment. Choose a relevant and captivating topic and prepare a clear list of subjects to define and showcase in a structured presentation format.
Platforms like Skillshare and Teachable are priceless resources to hone your expertise or discover the latest learning trends.
Since courses are created once and sold many times, they’re an excellent way to earn passive income.
6. Become a virtual tutor
Tutoring is a fantastic way to make money as a stay-at-home mom. It offers flexible hours and the chance to share your knowledge. Before starting, invest time in mastering your subject through online courses, books, or videos.
Choose a niche like algebra for high schoolers, test prep for college entrance exams, foreign languages for professions, or advanced vocations to stand out from other tutors and attract a specific group of students.
Scout for opportunities on sites like Chegg and Wyzant to connect with students worldwide. As a stay-at-home parent, you get to choose your own hours and set competitive rates increasing your chances of making this a long-term income source.
7. Give babysitting a go
Consider babysitting for other family members or parents – experience is the best teacher, and you already have it in spades. Plus, your own child might like having an extra playmate during the day!
Check Healthline for babysitting tips and insights. Organize your schedule and establish clear communication with parents. Start with familiar faces, and as you gain confidence, advertise locally through parenting networks or post online for a tangible way to start earning.
8. Sell items you don’t need
Decluttering is a great way to make money as a stay-at-home mom. It only takes a few hours to pocket cash by selling items you no longer use while creating a more organized and peaceful home environment.
Kids outgrow things quickly, leaving behind lightly used treasures perfect for resale. Start with your kids’ outgrown baby gear, then consider other items like toys and car seats.
Yard sales, online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy, and social media are just some of the many avenues for turning clutter into cash.
9. Flip items
Find used items in thrift stores, flea markets, yard sales, and Facebook Marketplace to fix up a bit and resell them at higher prices.
People often put things up for sale when they move or renovate their houses, so swoop in while they’re cheap and turn them into extra cash in your pocket.
Fix any damage, give stuff a fresh coat of paint, or upcycle things to increase their appeal and value.
10. Open a pet daycare
Starting a pet daycare is like babysitting but for animal lovers. It’s super fun and has huge profit potential.
Here’s how to make money as a stay-at-home mom with a pet-sitting business:
- Specify what you can offer and what supplies you need from the owners.
- Create a routine, set rules, and keep the pet owners updated.
- Spend time making a safe, clean, and calming living space for the pets.
- If possible, offer outdoor areas for play and exercise.
- Understand each pet’s needs, from diet to their favorite toys.
Begin with friends and family pets to get the hang of things before expanding to the broader community. Once you have the experience, check out local job boards and websites like Trustedhousesitters and Rover. With a few loyal customers, you’ll make a substantial income.
11. Become a virtual assistant
Become a remote administrative professional supporting clients with various tasks while managing your household responsibilities. Virtual assistants often manage schedules, appointments, and social media accounts or do data entry, travel planning, and project coordination.
This role lets you leverage your organizational and multitasking skills to provide valuable support to businesses or entrepreneurs, all from the comfort of your home as a stay-at-home parent.
Before taking the plunge, research and learn as much as possible about the industry you plan to join. This will help you better understand the opportunities and challenges you may face when juggling this side hustle. Look for 100% remote work opportunities in job postings like remote.co.
12. Monetize your craft skills
Whether you’re into knitting, crocheting, or modeling clay, there’s a way for you to make money using your existing craft skills on your own time. This is perhaps one of the most flexible jobs on this list since you don’t need to set any sort of schedule – just work on your art when inspiration strikes.
Want to polish up your skills first? There are a ton of free educational videos on YouTube, so you won’t have to spend anything on courses.
Then, generate income by selling handmade goods online in an Etsy shop or your own website.
Read more
13. Become an influencer
If you have (or want to have) your own website or blog and a strong presence on social media platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, or Instagram, consider becoming a social media influencer. This has become one of the most popular part-time jobs for moms, as many people appreciate getting parenting tips and product recommendations straight from an expert.
Focus on a specific niche that aligns with your interests – childhood development, kids’ clothing, product reviews – and create high-quality and engaging content that people want to share.
Authenticity attracts followers. With strong commitment, you’ll turn your online influence into extra cash while staying true to yourself.
Quick tip
Monetize your following by selling custom kids’ clothing with Print on Demand.
14. Try freelance writing
Freelance writing is a fantastic option for stay-at-home work if you have a knack for storytelling or clear communication. Write blog posts, articles, marketing copy, or even ghostwrite books.
Start by identifying your niche – parenting, wellness, technology, or another area of interest – and build a small portfolio showcasing your skills.
Platforms like Upwork and ProBlogger’s job board offer many opportunities for beginners, but as you gain traction, consider creating your own site.
Keep an eye on deadlines and craft compelling content tailored to clients’ needs. Over time, you’ll establish long-term contracts and increase your rates as your reputation grows.
15. Become a customer support agent
Customer support jobs are highly flexible, making them ideal for balancing work with family responsibilities. Many companies hire remote customer service agents to handle phone, email, or live chat inquiries.
Look for opportunities on job boards like We Work Remotely or FlexJobs. This role is a great fit for those with a calm demeanor, good communication skills, and a knack for problem-solving.
Employers usually provide training and let you choose shifts that align with your schedule. This is a dependable way to earn a steady income without leaving your own home.
16. Complete online surveys
Online surveys offer a simple and flexible way to make money in your spare time. While not a full-time income source, surveys are a low-effort way to supplement earnings during your kids’ school hours or naptime.
Companies pay for consumer opinions to improve their products and services, and many platforms let you participate on your own schedule. Popular platforms include Survey Junkie, UserTesting, and Swagbucks, which pay in cash or gift cards.
To maximize your earnings, sign up for multiple platforms and dedicate a little time daily to completing surveys or testing products.
17. Become a remote recruiter
Becoming a remote recruiter could be your calling if you have strong interpersonal skills and a keen eye for talent. Recruiters help companies find and hire qualified candidates by sourcing resumes, conducting interviews, and managing the hiring process.
Many remote recruiters work part-time or freelance, making it easier to manage your family responsibilities while earning money online. Explore platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed for flexible job opportunities.
A background in HR or related experience is helpful but not always necessary.
18. Do in transcribing work
Transcription is a straightforward way to earn from home, especially if you have good listening and typing skills. Transcribers listen to audio recordings and convert them into written text, often for industries like media, legal, healthcare, or even proofreading AI transcribing interpreters.
Begin with platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, or GoTranscript, which provide beginner-friendly transcription tasks. Accuracy and attention to detail are key, and you can increase your rates as you gain experience.
Transcription is particularly suited for stay-at-home moms. It’s quiet and lets you earn money while remaining available for your family.
19. Participate in market testing and research
Market testing and research offer unique ways to earn money from the comfort of your home. Companies and organizations rely on consumer feedback to refine their products and services, creating various opportunities for stay-at-home moms.
- Website testing: Test websites for usability and functionality, providing valuable feedback on design and navigation. Platforms like UserTesting or job boards such as Indeed and Glassdoor frequently list opportunities for focus groups and testing.
- Research studies: Universities and research organizations often pay participants for studies ranging from consumer habits to health-related studies. Reach out to local universities or browse online research portals for openings.
20. Become a stock photographer or videographer
Are you passionate about photography and videography? Turn your creativity into cash by selling stock visuals. This job requires an eye for composition, lighting skills, and knowledge of current trends and demand.
Sell your visuals to businesses or individuals for diverse uses, from marketing to entertainment. Shutterstock, Getty Images, or iStock can link you with buyers.
This is true passive income: take photos and videos once and reap the benefits for years.
21. Become a blogger
Blogging, regardless of whether you’re an influencer or affiliate, is a very versatile way to generate extra income from the comfort of your home. You only need a knack for storytelling and experience in a popular niche, such as cooking, crafting, parenting, or other hobbies or skills.
To start, pick a niche you’re passionate about and create a blog using platforms like WordPress or Wix, which don’t require advanced tech skills to set up. Consistent, high-quality content is key to growing your audience, so plan a posting schedule that fits your family’s routine.
As your blog gains traction, set up subscription tiers that require readers to pay a monthly fee to access more exclusive content. Monetize your blog further by selling ad space or doing product reviews for brands that align with your audience’s interests.
22. Work as a freelance content creator
With flexible hours and the ability to work from home, freelance content creation lets you work in various industries, including marketing, education, and publishing. As businesses increasingly prioritize digital content, the demand for skilled writers and creators is high.
Begin by identifying your strengths, whether writing skills for blog posting, creating social media copy, engaging with followers, or producing video scripts. Look for freelance gigs on remote job posting sites and write directly to your favorite content creators to start networking.
23. Teach a language you’re fluent in
If you’re fluent in multiple languages, online language tutoring is a rewarding way to earn from home. With global demand for language learning on the rise, platforms like VIPKid and iTalki make it easy to connect with students eager to learn.
Sign up with a language tutoring platform and create a detailed profile showcasing your expertise. While a teaching degree isn’t always required, certifications for teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) can increase your credibility and attract more students.
You’ll also need a quiet workspace and a reliable internet connection for virtual lessons, so try to schedule them when your kids are at school or napping.
24. Take jobs proofreading or editing
With the rise of online publishing, there’s a growing demand for professionals who can perform quality assurance for different types of content and meet high standards every time.
Proofreading and editing are excellent options for stay-at-home moms with a keen eye for detail. These roles involve refining written content for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy, not unlike checking your kids’ school essays and offering creative assistance when needed.
Build a profile on freelance platforms like Freelancer or ProBlogger, or reach out directly to small businesses and writers needing editing services.
No formal qualifications are required, but strong language skills and familiarity with editing tools like Grammarly can be a huge plus.
25. Work as a private bookkeeper
Bookkeeping offers a stable income and flexibility, making it an excellent fit for stay-at-home moms with experience in finance. Small businesses and entrepreneurs often outsource bookkeeping – tracking expenses, reconciling accounts, and preparing financial records.
Learn bookkeeping through online courses on sites like QuickBooks or Coursera. Once you’re confident in your skills with basic accounting software knowledge and attention to detail, advertise your services through local business groups or freelance platforms.
26. Become a social media manager
Social media management is an engaging and creative job for moms who have an active social media presence. Modern businesses rely on social media as their main source of marketing, creating a high demand for skilled managers to create content, engage followers, and analyze campaign performance.
Managers are often tasked with running multiple social media accounts to attract potential clients through different channels. This usually requires a few hours per day per social media app, depending on the level of engagement required and the size of the business following.
Learn the basics of social media marketing through free or paid online courses. Tools like Hootsuite and Buffer can streamline your workflow.
Build a portfolio by managing accounts for local businesses or friends. Once you’ve got some experience under your belt, start pitching your services.
27. Get commissions as a graphic designer
If you have a creative streak and an eye for design, graphic design offers a flexible way to earn income from home. Many businesses and individuals need logos, marketing materials, and social media graphics, making it a high-demand field for commission-based work.
Get familiar with tools like Canva or advanced software like Adobe Creative Suite. Create a portfolio showcasing your work, even if it’s just mock-ups or personal projects.
Websites like Dribbble and Behance are excellent for networking and finding freelance gigs.
28. Provide translating services
Translation work is a fantastic alternative for bilingual stay-at-home moms who aren’t into language tutoring. Businesses and individuals often need documents, websites, and other content translated accurately into different languages. Translators are especially in demand in legal, healthcare, and education.
Identify your niche and create a portfolio of translation samples. Freelance platforms like Proz or TranslatorsCafe connect you with potential clients.
While formal certification isn’t always necessary, demonstrating your language proficiency and cultural knowledge can give you a competitive edge.
Translators enjoy flexible hours since projects are usually given with clear deadlines at least a few days in advance.
29. Start an event planning service
Event planning is a great way to combine organization and creativity. Whether virtual corporate events, birthday parties, or weddings, event planners help clients bring their visions to life – perfect for detail-oriented moms who enjoy managing schedules, budgets, and logistics.
Create a portfolio with examples of events you’ve organized (even personal ones). Network with local vendors and market your services through social media or community boards. Platforms like HoneyBook can help streamline client communications and project management.
30. Become a remote interior designer
Have an eye for design? Use it to earn some extra money!
Create functional and aesthetically pleasing interiors for homes and offices. Virtual consultations let you work from home and assist people with layouts, color schemes, and decor choices.
Start by taking online courses or gaining certifications in interior design to increase your credibility. Practice creating mock designs or offering discounted services to friends and family to build your portfolio.
Promote your expertise on platforms like Houzz or through social media, where clients can find and connect with you.
FAQ: How to make income as a stay-at-home mom
A stay-at-home mom can earn $2,000 a month by mixing different income streams.
Starting an online business venture, like a Printify print-on-demand store, can grow into a solid income source.
Freelance work like writing, virtual assistance, and graphic design lets you set your own rates, while part-time jobs like bookkeeping or social media management bring in extra cash.
Creating content and earning through affiliate marketing or commissions is another great way to make money while balancing family life.
The best job for a stay-at-home mom depends on her skills, interests, and schedule.
Freelance writing, virtual assistance, and tutoring work well for those with specific skills while reselling or babysitting are great practical options.
Creative moms can make money with graphic design, selling crafts, or blogging about their passions. If time is limited, more passive income streams like Print on Demand or affiliate marketing are perfect.
Making money as a stay-at-home mom without a full-time job is totally doable with the right plan. Start by identifying your skills, interests, and available time.
Flexible options like babysitting, pet sitting, freelancing, or online tutoring can bring in steady income.
For passive earnings, try dropshipping, affiliate marketing, or other eCommerce ventures with long-term potential.
The easiest way for a mom to start a business at home is by selling crafts in an online marketplace like Etsy or opening an online store with the print-on-demand business model.
When selling crafts, you’ll be responsible for making all your own products by hand, processing orders, holding inventory, and shipping. This can be a very fun way to earn money online, but it does require quite a bit of effort and storage space at home.
Print on Demand, on the other hand, doesn’t require any logistics on your side. Simply join Printify, put your designs on popular products, and list them in your online store using one of our eCommerce integrations. When a customer orders from you, our Print Providers handle production and shipping. All you have to do is market your store and come up with fun designs during arts and crafts time with your kids.
How stay-at-home moms make money: Closing thoughts
Stay-at-home parents can absolutely still earn money through jobs like freelance writing, creating digital products, social media management, and tutoring.
If you’re looking for something that lets you use your creative skills, consider starting a print-on-demand business with Printify or becoming an affiliate. It’s semi-passive, you create your own schedule, and there are minimal upfront costs. Our Print Providers handle all the production and shipping while you focus on family life and marketing your products.
Pick an option that fits your skills and start earning on your own time, by your rules.
Make it your way!
The post How to make money as a stay-at-home mom: 30 Ideas appeared first on Printify.
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