T-shirt Business – Printify

How to start a t-shirt business that makes money in 2025

Vita Stevens — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:20:00 +0000

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.”

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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	Brick-and-mortar shop. You need a physical location to store and sell goods.	eCommerce Website. No need to store goods if you use dropshipping or print-on-demand.
Accessibility	Limited to location and specific working hours.	24/7
User experience (UX)	Customers have immediate access to products and the support staff. Finding products takes time.	Access to products via photos, descriptions, reviews, and online support. Finding the right product is easier.
Delivery	Customers can get their purchases immediately or by arranging a delivery.	Receiving a product takes time and has shipping costs.
Business costs	Rent, utilities (warehouse, physical store), products, staff, and sales tax.	Depends on the chosen eCommerce platform and sales channel.
Setup difficulty	Months of preparation and a large investment.	An online t-shirt store can be up and running in minutes with no upfront costs.

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.

From $10.87 From $8.69 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 126 colors 21 print providers

From $8.61 From $5.89 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 70 colors 22 print providers

From $7.71 From $5.78 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 66 colors 22 print providers

From $10.73 From $7.90 with Printify Premium

7 sizes 21 colors 5 print providers

From $13.05 From $9.60 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 28 colors 3 print providers

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
Lower to no initial cost Loyal customer base	Fewer customization options Lack of control Marketplace policies Fees

eCommerce platforms (Shopify, BigCommerce):

Pros	Cons
Comprehensive eCommerce features Vast customization options Full control over promotions	Growing expenses with subscriptions and fees Requires lots of work on marketing

All-in-one website builders (Wix, Squarespace)

Pros	Cons
Beginner-friendly editors Blogging capabilities Good search engine optimization (SEO) options	Subscription and app fees No pre-existing traffic

Printify API, open-source platforms, CMS, and plugins (WordPress and WooCommerce, PrestaShop)

Pros	Cons
Full customization and control Relatively low annual costs (hosting, domain name, and plugins) compared to other platforms	Technical skills required Steep learning curve

Printify Pop-Up Store

Pros	Cons
Free and easy to set up Launch your store in minutes No need for developer assistance	Fewer customization options

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!

Start selling

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

How profitable is a t-shirt business?

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%.

Can you really make money selling t-shirts?

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.

What do you need to start an at-home t-shirt business?

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.

How can you start your own t-shirt business with no money?

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

Start selling

The post How to start a t-shirt business that makes money in 2025 appeared first on Printify.

How to start a Shopify t-shirt business – The ultimate guide (2025)

Leon Walker — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:46:00 +0000

Starting a Shopify t-shirt business is the perfect way to tap into the $857.5 million US custom t-shirt printing market. As an affordable staple for all ages, t-shirts are always in demand and can quickly become your next bestseller with the right strategy.

Read on to discover how to make your Shopify t-shirt business profitable, from selecting a niche and creating stunning designs to finding the perfect printing partner.

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

Understanding your target audience and focusing on a specific niche to attract loyal customers are important to succeed in your Shopify t-shirt business.
Partner with Printify for high-quality t-shirts and seamless Shopify integration, guaranteeing smooth print-on-demand (POD) fulfillment.
Use Printify’s Product Creator or hire freelancers to craft original t-shirt designs that align with your niche and resonate with your audience.
Build a professional Shopify store by selecting the right plan and adding a custom domain to build credibility and trust.
Focus on finding customers and increasing sales by using social media marketing, email campaigns, and Shopify’s tools to drive traffic and engage your audience.

Step 1: Identify your audience and choose the right niche

To succeed with your online t-shirt business, it’s crucial to understand your target audience and niche. This sets you apart in a competitive market and helps you focus on customers most likely to visit your store and make a purchase.

Identify your target audience

Start with market research and discover who your potential customers are:

Who are they? Consider age, gender, location, and lifestyle.
What are their interests? Think about hobbies, values, or trends they follow.
How big is your target market? Assess demand for specific designs or themes.

Gather insights from social media, forums, blogs, and product reviews. Tools like Google Trends, Reddit, and Facebook Audience Insights help you track customer interest and behavior.

Why finding a niche matters

A niche is a smaller, specific segment within a broader market. By narrowing your focus, you can stand out from competitors and build a loyal customer base.

For example, a general audience might like “funny slogans on t-shirts,” but your niche audience could prefer a “funny anime-inspired t-shirt.”

You can also refine broad categories like pets into niches like “t-shirts for dachshund lovers.”

How to choose the perfect niche

Start with your own passions or interests and test their market potential. If you’re a fitness fan, consider niches like “gym humor” or “yoga-inspired t-shirts.”Use tools like Google Trends to gauge interest and AnswerThePublic to find related questions and topics with profit potential.

Check out our in-depth article on what a niche is to spark inspiration.

Step 2: Find a printing partner

Choosing the right print-on-demand service is essential for running a successful Shopify t-shirt business. Finding the right materials and printing partners for your t-shirts means satisfying customers with high-quality products and fast shipping.

What to look for

Printing methods: Choose partners offering various production methods like direct-to-garment (DTG) for vibrant designs or industrial screen printing machine options for bulk orders.
Product collection: Look for a range of t-shirt styles, fabrics, colors, and sizes to cater to diverse customers.
Global shipping: Having multiple providers in different regions means faster, cost-effective delivery.
Shopify integration: Save time by automating product uploads and order fulfillment.

Why Printify?

Printify simplifies Shopify shirt printing and selling by handling all order fulfillment for you. Other benefits include:

No upfront costs.
1,000+ customizable products.
A free and beginner-friendly Product Creator.
A global network of Print Providers.
Popular methods for printing, including high-quality DTG.
Seamless Shopify integration.

Want to see samples to test product quality or order t-shirts in bulk for an event? No problem – you can do it all with Printify.

Choose Printify and start your t-shirt printing business today! Sign up now.

Step 3: Select your t-shirt

Choosing the right t-shirt is key to creating products your customers will love. T-shirts differ in fabric, fit, weight, and graphic design placement options, so pick styles that align with your target audience’s preferences.

Consider the following factors.

Fabric

This impacts the feel, durability, and overall look of the t-shirt. Common options include:

Cotton: Soft and breathable, like the Unisex Jersey Short Sleeve Tee by Bella + Canvas, it’s a versatile choice for everyday wear.
Polyester: Lightweight and durable, such as the Unisex Zone Performance Tee by Team 365, this is perfect for activewear.
Blends: Combine comfort and durability with the Gildan Softstyle T-Shirt, which mixes ringspun cotton and polyester for a soft yet resilient feel.

Weight

The t-shirt weight (measured in GSM) determines its thickness:

Lightweight (120–140 GSM): Ideal for summer, such as the Next Level Unisex Triblend Tee for a breezy, casual look.
Midweight (140–180 GSM): Year-round options like the Unisex Heavy Cotton Tee by Gildan balances comfort and durability.
Heavyweight (180+ GSM): Premium shirts, such as the Unisex Garment-Dyed Tee by Comfort Colors, offer a sturdy, luxurious feel.

Fit

The way a t-shirt fits determines how it looks and feels on the wearer:

Classic fit: Relaxed and roomy, like the Fruit of the Loom HD Cotton Tee, this is suitable for a wide range of customers.
Slim fit: Tailored and modern pieces, such as the Bella + Canvas Women’s Slim Fit Tee, are great for a younger or fashion-focused audience.
Oversized: A trendy and casual option perfect for streetwear, such as the Unisex Oversized Boxy Tee by Bella + Canvas.

Design placement

Consider how your final design will look on the shirt:

Front and back: Great for versatility and standard designs.
Sleeves: Adds a creative branding touch.
All-over prints: Products like the Unisex Cut & Sew Tee (AOP) are excellent for bold, full-coverage designs on sublimation-ready fabrics.

Make it easy with Printify

Explore our Catalog to find the perfect match for your Shopify t-shirt printing needs.

Find detailed descriptions for every t-shirt, including its fabric, fit, weight, and print areas. You can also filter products by brand, Print Provider location, or special features like eco-friendly materials or bulk discounts.

Step 4: Make your t-shirt designs

A great design is essential for your Shopify t-shirt business, whether you’re creating graphics yourself, using ready-made images, or hiring a freelancer.

Create your own t-shirt designs

Use tools like Canva, Pixlr, or Adobe Photoshop to create t-shirt design ideas that stand out. Research trends on Pinterest, Etsy, or Behance for inspiration, but don’t plagiarize work. Remember to balance colors, fonts, and alignment for a polished look.

Use ready-made designs

Save time with platforms like Creative Fabrica or Envato. You can also access Printify’s free designs from the Product Creator, which are fully customizable and print-ready.

Hire a freelancer

Freelance networks like Fiverr, 99designs, and Upwork connect you with professional designers. Browse portfolios to find the right fit for your t-shirt brand.

Tip

If hiring a freelancer sounds like the right option for you, check out our in-depth article on how to find and hire the best t-shirt designer. It provides valuable insights on navigating the market and finding the talent you need.

Make your own t-shirt today!

Start designing

Tip

If you don’t want to make custom products, Shopify dropshipping is a great option for entrepreneurs to sell online without designing.

Step 5: Upload your designs and create mockups with Printify’s Product Creator

Designing t-shirts is easy with Printify’s Product Creator. It makes the creative process intuitive and lets you preview how your final product will look before publishing it on your online t-shirt store.

The high-quality mockups generated in the tool also serve as eye-catching marketing materials, helping your Shopify store attract customers.

Product Creator features

Easy uploads: Upload your design files in seconds, whether PNGs with a transparent background, JPEGs, or SVGs.
Customizable elements: Add multiple layers, including text and images, and arrange them exactly how you want.
Real-time previews: Instantly see how your design looks on different t-shirt styles, sizes, and colors.
Precision tools: Adjust the placement, scaling, and alignment to perfect every detail.

Tip

Get tips and resources on designing products for POD.

How to use the Product Creator

Follow these steps to create t-shirt designs in minutes:

Select a t-shirt from our Catalog and click Start designing.
Upload your design or create one directly within the tool.
Position your design on the front, back, or sleeves, depending on the t-shirt style.
Preview the final product to check colors, placement, and overall appearance.
Order a sample and make sure your designs look as good in reality as they do on screen.

Tip

Your shop’s design is as important as the look of your graphic tees. When adding images to your online store, consider Shopify’s image size requirements for the best results.

Start selling t-shirts online today!

Start designing

Step 6: Validate your design ideas

Testing your ideas is crucial when you start a t-shirt business. There are a few ways to make sure that your t-shirt designs will resonate with customers and succeed on Shopify:

Family and friends: Your inner circle is one of the best ways to get honest feedback and advice on whether changes are required.
Social media platforms, online communities, and forums: Post your designs on relevant Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and Pinterest to gauge interest from potential buyers.

Never be afraid to ask for candid feedback and don’t underestimate its value. Even if the critique is minor, it’s worth considering to get your t-shirt store ready to impress.

Pro tip

Explore our article on how to sell on Shopify, and check out our blog for an in-depth look on Shopify SEO and email marketing to prep your Shopify t-shirt store for success.

Step 7: Start selling t-shirts online with Shopify

After partnering with a print-on-demand service and finalizing your t-shirt design, it’s time to launch your Shopify t-shirt business.

Choose a Shopify plan

Shopify offers flexible pricing to match your needs:

Basic Shopify: $39/month (or $29/month with annual billing).
Shopify: $105/month (or $79/month annually).
Advanced Shopify: $399/month (or $299/month paid yearly).

Start with a free3-day trial to explore the eCommerce platform before choosing the best plan for your t-shirt business.

Register a domain name

Domains start from $2.49 per month, depending on the extension (like .com or .net) and provider. While Shopify offers free subdomains, investing in a custom website address is ideal for building your brand credibility.

Set up your Shopify store

Choose a theme: Shopify provides over 200 free and paid customizable themes to fit your brand.
Add t-shirts: Upload your product images, set prices, and write engaging product descriptions tailored to your target audience.
Configure settings: Set up payment gateways, shipping options, and taxes for smooth order processing.

Tip

Learn how to sell shirts on Shopify and get inspired by other successful Shopify t-shirt stores.

Connect with Printify

Printify simplifies running a print-on-demand t-shirt business on Shopify by streamlining integration. Here’s how to activate it:

Install Printify: Add the Printify app to your online store from the Shopify App Store, or integrate via Printify.
Publish to Shopify: Sync your finished products directly to your online store in just a few clicks.
Automate fulfillment: When customers order, we’ll immediately handle printing, packaging, and shipping – so you can focus on growing your business.

Start selling

Once your online store is ready, promote it through your social media accounts, email campaigns, and Shopify’s built-in marketing tools.

Check out our resource on all things Shopify marketing to attract customers and drive sales.

Tip

Not sure if this platform is right for you? Consider Shopify alternatives and explore our comparison articles to see which one works best for your business:

Wix vs Shopify
BigCommerce vs Shopify
WooCommerce vs Shopify
Shopify vs Squarespace

Start your own Shopify shirt business today!

Start selling

How to sell custom t-shirts on Shopify – FAQ

How to start an online t-shirt business using Shopify?

Start a t-shirt business on Shopify and maintain low startup costs with Printify’s print-on-demand services.

Sign up for a free Printify account, connect it to your Shopify store, and use our Product Creator to design custom t-shirts. Publish your shirts online and start selling without worrying about inventory or shipping.

Which is the best Shopify theme for a t-shirt business?

The best Shopify theme depends on your audience and style. Popular options for t-shirt businesses include Venue and Streamline, but there are hundreds of other free and paid Shopify themes – all customizable to fit your needs.

How often should I update my Shopify t-shirt business?

Update your shop whenever you add new products, change branding, or feel the website design needs improvement. Regular updates help keep your online store fresh, enhance the customer experience, and make sure your business stays competitive.

Align your online store updates with customer feedback and market trends for the best results.

Do I need a business license to sell shirts on Shopify?

You don’t generally need a business license to sell t-shirts online, but requirements may vary based on your location.

Check your local laws to see if a license is needed to operate an online business. Regardless of the requirement, setting up a legal entity like an LLC can help protect your personal assets.

Can you make money with a t-shirt business?

Yes, you can make money with an online t-shirt business! Partnering with print-on-demand services make selling t-shirts quick and easy – no need to purchase an expensive screen printing machine.

Just pick a niche, create unique t-shirts, and choose a print-on-demand partner like Printify to minimize upfront costs and focus on marketing your t-shirt store.

How much do you make selling shirts on Printify?

Your profit depends on how you price your shirts and manage costs. If a t-shirt costs $10 to produce and you sell it for $25, you make a $15 profit per shirt. Printify’s transparent pricing and benefits, like bulk discounts and global printing, help you maximize earnings.

Is Shopify good for selling t-shirts?

Absolutely. Shopify is one of the best platforms for making money selling t-shirts. It’s user-friendly, integrates seamlessly with Printify, and offers powerful tools for managing your store, marketing, and scaling your online shirt business.

With the right designs and printing partner, you can produce full-color images that captivate your audience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seller, Shopify is a top choice for starting and growing a t-shirt business.

Wrapping up

From finding a niche and creating standout designs to choosing quality products and setting up your store, you’re now ready to master how to sell t-shirts on Shopify.

With Printify’s print-on-demand tools and Shopify’s easy-to-use platform, starting a small business has never been easier. Take the first step today and turn your t-shirt ideas into a thriving business.

Make it happen today!

Start selling

The post How to start a Shopify t-shirt business – The ultimate guide (2025) appeared first on Printify.

T-shirt printing business start-up cost breakdown

Zane Bratuskina — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 11:32:11 +0000

Make a shirt with Printify today

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Thinking about jumping into the thriving world of t-shirt printing? Good call! It’s a fantastic way to let your creative juices flow, build a brand, and make some serious cash.

But before begin, let’s break down the costs of starting a t-shirt business.

Spoiler alert: Print on Demand is the most budget-friendly option for bringing your custom t-shirt company to life.

Key takeaways

Print-on-demand (POD) services mean low startup costs and eliminate the need for inventory management.
Printify offers a user-friendly platform with a vast Catalog of over 1,000 products and integration with major eCommerce platforms.
Starting a small t-shirt business means considering operational costs, profits, and financial planning.
Starting a t-shirt business with Printify is accessible and affordable, even for those with no initial capital.

Understanding t-shirt business models

When starting a t-shirt business, there are two main options: holding your own inventory or using Print on Demand.

Print on demand vs own inventory

POD is a business model that eliminates the need for large upfront investments in inventory. Instead of purchasing and storing bulk quantities of t-shirts and investing in costly embroidery machines, screen-printing equipment, or heat transfer setups – you partner with print-on-demand platforms like Printify.

Printify’s network handles everything from printing to shipping, allowing you to focus on design and sales.

No need to purchase equipment or stock up on blank t-shirts, saving you serious cash upfront.
With no inventory to manage, you won’t get stuck with unsold products.
Spend your time designing instead of worrying about production and logistics.
Easily test new designs and experiment with different products without any financial risk.

In contrast, holding your own inventory gives you more control over the production process. Use various printing techniques for customization and potentially increase your profit margin per item.

However, this approach requires a significant initial investment in equipment and inventory, and you’ll need space to store your products.

Online vs physical storefront

Operating an online t-shirt business reduces startup and operational costs compared to a physical storefront. An eCommerce business, using platforms like Shopify or Etsy integrated with a t-shirt printer like Printify, can launch quickly without the overheads of rent, utilities, and a large workforce.

It also offers the flexibility to sell globally, reaching a broader audience with your t-shirt designs.

While a physical storefront provides the tangible customer experience that some shoppers prefer, it involves higher ongoing expenses than selling t-shirts online and limits your customer base geographically. It’s suitable for established brands or those in high-foot-traffic areas but can be financially challenging for small t-shirt businesses just starting out.

Make it happen today!

Start selling

Operational costs

Understanding the operational costs of different business models can significantly impact your bottom line. Let’s break down these costs for the POD and traditional inventory model.

Inventory management costs

Print on Demand

With Print on Demand services, there are no inventory storage costs, as products are printed and shipped directly to customers after a sale. However, you still need to factor in sales channel fees, which can include:

Etsy – $0.20 per listing, plus 6.5% transaction fees.
Shopify – Starts at $29/month for the basic plan, plus 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction.
Amazon – $39.99/month for a professional plan, plus referral fees ranging from 8%-15% per sale.

Own inventory

For inventory-based models, costs include purchasing blank t-shirts in bulk (typically $3-$6 per unit) and investing in storage solutions or renting a warehouse (starting at around $50-$150/month for small-scale storage). Additionally, you may need to buy shelves, racks, or bins for better organization.

Production costs

Print on Demand

When you start your own business with POD, production costs are included in the product’s price. For example:

A standard cotton t-shirt from Printify’s Catalog costs between $6 and $15 (depending on the brand and print method).

Because these costs only apply after a sale, there’s minimal upfront financial risk.

Own inventory

For businesses managing their own production, expenses include:

Heat press machine – $150-$500 for entry-level equipment.
Screen-printing kits – $250-$1,000, depending on the number of screens and inks.
Direct-to-garment printers – $10,000-$20,000 for professional-grade equipment.

These costs can quickly add up, making POD a more affordable option for beginners.

Shipping costs

Print on Demand

Shipping costs vary based on the product, destination, and Printify’s production partners. On average, expect to pay between $4-$10 per order. You can either pass this cost on to the customer or include in the product price.

Own inventory

If you’re managing shipping yourself, factor in:

Packaging materials – $0.30-$1 per order (e.g., poly mailers, boxes).
Postage – $4-$15 per shipment, depending on size and location.

You’ll also need to account for time spent packing and delivering orders.

Additional costs

Print on Demand

POD eliminates the need for staffing or physical premises. Your primary costs are platform subscriptions, marketing, and design software.

Own inventory

Running a traditional inventory-based t-shirt business may require additional expenses, such as:

Renting a store or workspace – $500-$1,500/month depending on location.
Hiring staff – Average hourly wage of $15-$20.

These costs can significantly increase your overhead, so you should plan for them carefully.

Marketing costs

Marketing is crucial to running a successful t-shirt business because it helps you reach your target audience, build brand awareness, and drive sales. Let’s break this down into free and paid advertising so you can plan your strategy effectively.

Free advertising

Free marketing strategies are best for tight budgets and help you build brand awareness organically.

Social media marketing – Create business accounts on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest to post engaging content. Focus on trends like reels, user-generated content, and hashtags.
SEO – Optimize product titles and descriptions with keywords like “custom t-shirts” and “graphic tees.” Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner to find relevant terms.
Email marketing – Build an email list using sign-up forms on your website and offer exclusive discounts or early access to new designs.
Content marketing – Write blog posts or create how-to videos related to your brand, such as “How to style graphic t-shirts.”

Paid advertising

Investing in paid advertising can accelerate your reach and bring targeted traffic to your store.

Social media ads – Facebook and Instagram allow you to set daily budgets as low as $5. Average cost per click (CPC) ranges from $0.50 to $2, depending on targeting.
Influencer marketing – Collaborate with influencers in your niche for sponsored posts. Rates can range from $50 for micro-influencers to over $500 for those with larger followings.
Google ads – Paid search campaigns can drive traffic to your store. CPC averages $1-$2 for competitive keywords.
Etsy and Shopify ads – Promote your products using in-platform advertising tools. Costs vary depending on your campaign budget.

Combine free and paid strategies for a balanced marketing approach that fits your budget.

Focusing on creating high-quality content, building relationships with customers, and leveraging the right marketing channels can help you create a thriving t-shirt business.

Profit margins and financial planning

Let’s talk numbers. Figuring out your profit margins and creating a solid business plan are important steps to building a sustainable t-shirt empire.

Calculating profit margins

Profit margin is the percentage of your selling price that’s pure profit after deducting all expenses. The average profit margin for POD t-shirts is 40%, but it can vary depending on several factors:

T-shirt quality – A higher quality t-shirt often means higher costs, so adjust your prices accordingly.
Pricing strategies – Experiment with different models, like tiered pricing or bundling, to find what works best for your target audience.
Target market – Your audience’s spending habits will influence how much they’re willing to pay for your tees.

Quick tip

Use our handy t-shirt pricing calculator to find the perfect price for your custom t-shirts.

Developing a t-shirt business plan

A business plan is like your t-shirt business’s GPS – it helps you map out your goals, strategies, and financial projections.

Here are some key elements to include:

Executive summary – A brief business overview, including your mission, vision, and target audience.
Company description – Details about your business structure, ownership, and legal requirements (like a business license and sales tax regulations).
Products and services – Describe your t-shirt designs, target audience, and pricing strategy.
Marketing and sales plan – Outline how you’ll reach your target market and promote your products.
Financial projections – Estimate your startup costs, operating expenses, and projected revenue.

Check out these helpful tools to streamline the process of developing your t-shirt business plan:

Printify’s t-shirt business plan guide – A comprehensive handbook with templates and examples tailored to t-shirt businesses.
LivePlan – A user-friendly platform to help structure and draft a professional business plan with real-time financial tracking.
Google Sheets – Ideal for creating financial projections and tracking expenses in an easily shareable format.
Hootsuite – Integrate your marketing plan by scheduling social media posts to align with your business goals.

Starting a t-shirt brand with Printify

Ready to enter the world of custom tees? Printify is your one-stop shop for launching and growing your t-shirt business without the hassle of inventory or expensive equipment.

Free design tool

Printify’s free Product Creator is a game-changer for new and seasoned entrepreneurs alike. The user-friendly interface allows you to create t-shirt designs quickly and visualize the final product. Experiment with:

The AI image generator
Colors and placements
Text edit tool
Background remover
Pattern creator
Shutterstock library
And more amazing features

This accessible approach makes designing custom shirts easy, even for those without graphic design experience.

Extensive product Catalog

Printify boasts the largest product Catalog in the market, offering various t-shirt options alongside other apparel and accessories. This diversity enables you to start a clothing line beyond t-shirts whenever you’re ready, increasing the potential for additional revenue streams.

Our Print Providers offer popular t-shirt printing options like direct-to-garment, direct-to-film, and all-over print to launch your clothing brand.

Integrations with eCommerce platforms

Have your eyes on Etsy, Shopify, or another platform? Great! Printify integrates seamlessly with all the major sales channels, making adding custom products to your store easy.

This integration ensures a smooth workflow from product creation to sales, inventory management, and fulfillment. By automating these processes, Printify helps you save time and focus more on your marketing strategy and business growth.

How to start a t-shirt business for free with Printify?

Sign up

Create your account on Printify. It’s quick, easy, and free, allowing you to explore all the features immediately.

Pick a product

Choose from the extensive Catalog of t-shirts and other products. Select different styles, materials, and Print Providers to find the perfect base for your designs.

Design your t-shirt

Use Printify’s intuitive Product Creator to upload your designs onto the t-shirts you’ve selected. Experiment with placement, colors, and graphics until you’re satisfied.

Connect your store

Easily integrate your Printify account with popular eCommerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, or WooCommerce with just a few clicks, allowing you to manage products and sales from one place.

Publish, market, and sell t-shirts online

It’s time to publish! Leverage digital marketing strategies to promote your t-shirts. Use social media, SEO, and online advertising to attract customers to your store and convert visits into sales.

Start your own t-shirt business with Printify

Enter the t-shirt industry today with Printify’s free, easy-to-use platform and watch your designs come to life.

Start designing

FAQ

How much money do you need to start a t-shirt printing business?

With a print-on-demand platform like Printify, start for free – the customer pays for the shirt, Printify takes the Catalog price, and you keep the profits. As your business evolves, budget $100-$300 for platform fees and marketing.

Managing your own inventory requires $2,000-$5,000 or more for equipment, like an ink-jet printer, bulk shirts, and storage. POD is a low-risk option, while inventory offers more control but comes with higher upfront costs.

How profitable is t-shirt printing?

T-shirt printing can be highly profitable, with margins often around 40%, depending on your pricing strategy and production method.

How much does it cost to produce one t-shirt?

The cost to produce a t-shirt varies by method:

POD: The cost varies but ranges from $6 to $10 per shirt, depending on the quality, print method, and Printify’s production partner.
Own inventory: Bulk blank shirts typically cost $3-$6 each, with additional costs for printing equipment and supplies, like ink or screens.

POD includes printing and fulfillment, while inventory-based production may lower per-unit costs but requires upfront investment.

What is the cheapest way to start a t-shirt business?

Using a POD platform like Printify minimizes upfront costs and eliminates the need for inventory management.

A custom t-shirt business is within arm’s reach

Ready to start selling t-shirts? Launching an online t-shirt business is easy, especially with Printify’s printing services by your side. Whether you’re dreaming of a side hustle or a full-fledged fashion empire, we’ve got the tools and resources to help you succeed. Start designing and selling t-shirts today!

Make it happen today!

Start selling

The post T-shirt printing business start-up cost breakdown appeared first on Printify.

T-shirt Business – Printify

How to start a t-shirt business that makes money in 2025

Key takeaways

Why sell t-shirts?

Retail vs eCommerce business

How to start a t-shirt business: Step-by-step guide

1. Do market research

2. Choose a niche

3. Write a business plan

4. Partner with a POD company

5. Pick a t-shirt

Unisex Jersey Short Sleeve Tee

Unisex Heavy Cotton Tee

Unisex Softstyle T-Shirt

Unisex Classic Tee

Beefy-T® Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

5. Create your own t-shirt designs

6. Create an online store

7. Set prices

8. Promote your products

9. Analyze your performance

Make it your way!

Get inspired

Rich Khun

Cassiy Johnson

Lindsey Ferris

FAQ

Final thoughts – Sell custom t-shirts today

Start selling t-shirts

How to start a Shopify t-shirt business – The ultimate guide (2025)

Key takeaways

Step 1: Identify your audience and choose the right niche

Identify your target audience

Why finding a niche matters

Step 2: Find a printing partner

What to look for

Why Printify?

Step 3: Select your t-shirt

Fabric

Weight

Fit

Design placement

Make it easy with Printify

Step 4: Make your t-shirt designs

Create your own t-shirt designs

Use ready-made designs

Hire a freelancer

Make your own t-shirt today!

Step 5: Upload your designs and create mockups with Printify’s Product Creator

Product Creator features

How to use the Product Creator

Start selling t-shirts online today!

Step 6: Validate your design ideas

Step 7: Start selling t-shirts online with Shopify

Choose a Shopify plan

Register a domain name

Set up your Shopify store

Connect with Printify

Start selling

Start your own Shopify shirt business today!

How to sell custom t-shirts on Shopify – FAQ

Wrapping up

Make it happen today!

T-shirt printing business start-up cost breakdown

Key takeaways

Understanding t-shirt business models

Print on demand vs own inventory

Online vs physical storefront

Make it happen today!

Operational costs

Inventory management costs

Production costs

Shipping costs

Additional costs

Marketing costs

Profit margins and financial planning

Calculating profit margins

Developing a t-shirt business plan

Starting a t-shirt brand with Printify

Free design tool