How does Print on Demand work?

The print-on-demand model makes it super simple to sell custom products. Here’s how it works:

• Find a POD platform – Use trusted print-on-demand services like Printify to connect with reliable suppliers.
• Select products – Choose from customizable apparel, home decor, accessories, and more without needing to store a single item.
• Create or upload designs – Apply unique visuals to the product with easy-to-use design tools.
• List online – Sync your store with a sales channel like Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, or your own website.
• Start selling – Once a customer orders, the POD supplier automatically handles production and shipping.
• Scale like a boss – Easily add new designs, expand your product range, and tap into a new target market without financial risk.

The bottom line? POD lets you sell products with minimum effort. No space to store products and no seed budget? No problem – get started for free.

Pros and cons of Print on Demand

Print on Demand lets you keep more profits in your pocket.

Since you’ll rely on third-party suppliers, that means less hands-on control over production. But if you prioritize freedom over logistics? It’s worth it.

How does the traditional inventory model work?

You’ll need to handle everything yourself, from storing inventory to shipping. Here’s how the process works:

• Forecast market demand to determine the required stock volume.
• Purchase products in bulk or manufacture them upfront to keep supply ready.
• Store inventory in a warehouse, stockroom, or dedicated storage space.
• Manage stock levels to track what’s available and restock when needed.
• Fulfill customer orders by packing, shipping, and handling logistics directly.

Pros and cons of a traditional inventory model

The inventory model offers complete control over product handling and quality.

But unlike Print on Demand, it requires a large initial investment to begin the manufacturing process, making it less flexible for testing new products or rapid scaling.

Costs

Print on Demand

POD keeps initial costs low with on-demand production. There’s no need to buy in bulk, rent storage, or handle shipping – making it a low-risk, high-reward model. And since you’re not sinking money into unsold stock, profits stay solid.

Inventory-based model

Traditional inventory models require money for purchasing, storing, and managing stock. Some sellers bulk-buy to lower per-unit costs, but this comes with the risk of excess supply, storage fees, and the added workload of handling packaging and shipping.

Set up difficulty

Print on Demand

Launching a print-on-demand business is fast and simple – pick products, upload your designs, connect an online store, and start selling. Your provider handles printing, packing, and shipping, so you can focus on growing your store instead of dealing with time-consuming tasks.

Inventory-based model

Running an inventory-based business takes more time and effort. You’ll need to find reliable suppliers, order stock, manage storage, and oversee fulfillment. This means more expenses and more ongoing responsibilities to keep products moving.

Quality control

Print on Demand

POD merchants trust third-party suppliers for production and fulfillment. Printify vets Print Providers for you and helps resolve issues if something’s not up to par. Plus, you can always order samples to check product quality before adding them to your store.

Inventory-based model

Even with a reliable supplier, sellers who manage inventory must physically inspect every item before it ships. This lets you maintain a consistent customer experience, but it also means more work to make sure the quality measures up.

Product range flexibility

Print on Demand

Partnering with a provider like Printify means unlocking a wide variety of customizable products without ever straining your wallet. Test new designs, target niche markets, and adapt to seasonal trends – all without worrying about wasted inventory.

Inventory-based model

With inventory-based selling, adding new products means spending money before knowing whether there’s any business there. Expanding a product line requires careful forecasting to avoid unnecessary stock.

Scalability

Print on Demand

POD makes scaling easy. Expand into new markets without dealing with warehousing or logistics. This low-risk business model makes it perfect for growing without sacrificing your savings.

Inventory-based model

Scaling an inventory-based business means having the financial capacity for more storage, larger stock orders, and a bigger team. As a result, growth is often slower and more expensive due to fulfillment challenges.

Who should use Print on Demand?

The print-on-demand model is all about speed, flexibility, and creativity. If you don’t want stocking constraints, this is the best choice. It’s low commitment but high potential, letting you launch and scale easily.

• Entrepreneurs, online businesses, and artists looking to sell customized products without the hassle of stock management.
• Brands testing new markets or launching fresh designs fast to keep up with trends.
• Small businesses that want to focus on marketing and branding instead of logistics.
• Seasonal or niche sellers who want to avoid excess inventory between sales cycles.
• Companies offering personalized products or needing merchandising for events.

Who should use an inventory-based model?

If you want total control over every aspect – from product quality to fulfillment – the traditional inventory model might be the way to go. 

• Businesses with the financial capability to manage production and warehousing.
• Sellers with consistent, high-demand products that justify the cost of bulk ordering.
• Brands that want hands-on control over every detail, from sourcing to packaging.
• Companies manufacturing their own goods that need full oversight on quality control.

Both business models have their pros. If you want low risk, high flexibility, and easy scaling, Print on Demand is the clear winner. But if you prefer to run a tight ship with total control, then the inventory model is worth considering.

Start selling custom products without inventory in 5 easy steps

1. Choose a print-on-demand platform

Here’s what to consider:

• Print quality: Look for sharp designs, vibrant colors, and durable materials. Order samples to evaluate the product quality before committing.
• Product range: Opt for platforms with a wide selection of products. For example, Printify offers a Catalog of over 1,300 items to customize.
• Production and shipping speed: Choose platforms that can deliver products within 2-5 days, raising customer satisfaction, though international orders may take slightly longer.
• Pricing: Select a platform with competitive pricing that allows for healthy profit margins. Printify is free to use and a great option for newcomers to POD.
• Printing options: Ensure the platform provides flexibility with options like direct-to-garment (DTG), screen printing, and sublimation.
• Customer support: Reliable 24/7 support with quick response times via email, chat, phone, or social media is one of the key factors for ensuring smooth operations.

2. Niche selection and SEO optimization

Choose a specific niche that aligns with your passions and has demand. Consider trending niches like health and wellness, travel, books, mental health, or food. While seasonal trends can increase sales, remember they may decline after the season. For inspiration, explore 15 Print-on-demand niches for 2025.

After selecting a niche, focus on SEO tailored to your platform (Etsy, Amazon, Shopify). To optimize:

1. Analyze bestsellers’ descriptions, tags, and hashtags.
2. Use tools like Alura, Sale Samurai, or eRank to find low-competition keywords.
3. Check marketplace search bar suggestions for trending terms.
4. Add keywords to titles, descriptions, image filenames, and make the most of tags.

3. Create designs 

Producing high-quality product designs is essential when it comes to attracting customers. Focus on clear, polished visuals that resonate with your target audience. For beginners, Canva is a great choice – its intuitive tools make it easy to create designs from scratch.

If you want a more polished look, consider hiring freelance designers from platforms like Upwork to bring your ideas to life. For more tips, check out our graphic design guide for print-on-demand businesses. 

4. Upload the designs

Once your designs are ready, upload them to your chosen print-on-demand platform. Each platform has specific requirements for file types and image resolutions, so make sure your designs meet those standards.

Use mockup tools to create realistic product images. For example, demonstrate how a design will look on a t-shirt or how wall art might appear in a room. Realistic mockups give your customers a clear idea of what to expect, which can increase their confidence in your product.

5. Set your prices

Research pricing in your target market and niche to remain competitive. Your pricing strategy should cover all expenses – including design, production, shipping, taxes, and platform fees – while leaving room for a profit margin of about 40%.

Here’s a simple pricing formula:
Product cost (design, production, shipping, taxes) + Profit margin = Retail price

For example, if your wall art costs $6 to produce and you sell it for $10, your net profit is $4 per piece. Selling 100 pieces a month would generate $1,000 in revenue and $400 in profit.

6. List high-quality products

Connect your chosen POD platform to your own store on Shopify or marketplaces like Etsy, or Amazon. Fill out all required fields and include as much detail as possible about each product to increase its visibility and appeal.

7. Order and fulfillment 

When a customer places an order, the details are automatically sent to your print-on-demand partner, who handles the printing and shipping. You earn a profit after deducting fulfillment and shipping costs for each item sold.

8. Market your product

With your print-on-demand partner handling fulfillment, focus your energy on marketing efforts to reach your target audience and increase profits.

• Promote your products across multiple platforms through social media marketing to attract customers and grow your audience. Join relevant Facebook groups, create Instagram reels, and engage in Reddit threads to naturally highlight your POD business or listings. 
• Focus on less competitive keywords that may have a smaller search volume but will help your products get noticed.
• Influencer marketing is a powerful marketing strategy for quick results. On average, businesses earn over $6 for every $1 spent.
• Paid advertising is another option to generate traffic and sales. Start with social media advertising like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, or Google ads, then explore marketplace ads on platforms such as Etsy or Amazon.
• Email marketing campaigns are powerful tools for nurturing relationships with your audience, driving repeat sales, and keeping customers informed about new products, promotions, and updates.
• Encourage customers to leave reviews by including a review request card with each product and following up with order confirmation emails. Responding to both positive and negative feedback shows your commitment to customer satisfaction, builds a loyal customer base, and helps establish a strong, positive reputation for your online business.

1. Take action and set achievable goals

Start by signing up for platforms, designing, and listing products. Set small, realistic goals, like making your first sale. Celebrate these wins as they build momentum toward bigger goals, like scaling to $1,000 a month.

2. Stick to one product 

Go to the bestseller page on Printify and choose a product to focus on. Perfect that one item and keep testing it to optimize your sales. Once you identify which designs are resonating with customers, you can expand by repurposing those designs onto other products.

3. Avoid overwhelming customers with excessive color options

Offering too many color options can overwhelm your customers and lead to choice paralysis. Plus, some colors may run out of stock. 

Stick to a few popular, versatile colors, such as black, white, sand, navy, and sport gray,  as they tend to sell better.

4. Learn from failures 

Examine poorly performing listings by scrolling to the bottom or later pages of search results. These items often haven’t generated many sales. Take note of potential issues like poor design, lack of information, or other factors that could have impacted their performance. Learning from these mistakes helps you improve your listings.

5. Add more quality listings 

It’s important to regularly publish well-optimized products with quality designs.

Take AntiqueWhiteArt on Etsy as an example. They opened their store back in February 2023 and consistently posted around 1,200 listings (about two per day) since then. While their sales started slowly, they didn’t give up. 

After posting about 360 listings in 6 months, their sales began to take off. Today, they have generated nearly $400,000 in revenue.

Remember – your listings need to be authentic, well-researched, and detailed, with top-notch designs. Posting poor-quality listings won’t work, no matter how many you upload.

Aim for 1-2 high-quality listings per week. Consistency is key, but quality always comes first.

6. Use paid ads only on proven designs 

Organic growth builds traffic and sales over time, but once you identify successful designs, consider using paid ads to scale.

While ads can increase visibility, they come with risks. For instance, you might run ads to promote a product, but if visitors don’t like the design, you lose money without making sales.

Start by posting multiple designs, track which ones sell, and only invest in ads for proven winners to make the most of your ad budget.

1. Print durability and quality

• DTF printing produces highly durable designs that maintain their integrity even after multiple washes. The adhesive powder ensures the ink binds firmly to the fabric, preventing cracking and peeling over time.
• DTG printing excels in creating sharp, high-resolution images. The inks blend seamlessly with the fabric fibers, delivering smooth prints. However, DTG prints on synthetic fabrics may not be as long-lasting, and designs can fade after frequent washing.

2. Color vibrancy

• DTF offers unmatched print color on all fabric types, including dark garments. The process ensures bright, eye-catching hues, making it ideal for bold designs.
• DTG produces stunningly rich colors on cotton and light garments. Pretreatment is required to enhance vibrancy when printing on dark-colored fabrics.

3. Fabric suitability

• The DTF printing technique is highly versatile, letting you print on a wide range of fabrics, including polyester, nylon, and blends. It’s perfect for creating designs on custom apparel like blank t-shirts and jackets or accessories like hats and tote bags, giving you more product flexibility.
• DTG is best suited for natural fibers like cotton and cotton blends. The inks bond well with these fabrics, ensuring high-quality results. However, direct-to-garment printing is less effective on synthetic materials, limiting its versatility.

4. Eco-friendliness

• While DTF provides flexibility, the process involves adhesive powders and transfer films, which may generate more waste. These materials are not as environmentally friendly as those in direct-to-garment printing.
• DTG printing is a greener option, using eco-friendly water-based inks. It produces minimal waste, making it an excellent choice for businesses prioritizing sustainability. However, pretreatment solutions for dark garments can add some environmental impact.

5. Order quantity

• DTF printing is suitable for both small custom orders and bulk production. The process is efficient and produces consistent quality across multiple items. It’s a cost-effective option for businesses scaling their product offerings.
• DTG is ideal for small to medium-sized orders. It excels at creating intricate details for custom orders but may not be the most time-efficient method for large-scale production due to slower printing speeds.

6. Production costs

• The initial investment for DTF equipment is relatively low compared to DTG. The materials, including transfer films and adhesive powders, are affordable, making direct-to-film printing a cost-effective solution for businesses starting out.
• DTG printing involves a higher upfront cost for specialized printers and water-based inks. DTG printers range from $10,000 to $30,000. Despite such a large investment, DTG is an excellent choice for creating high-detail, intricate designs. 
  
  Over time, the cost per print may balance out for smaller orders or custom one-off designs, especially for businesses prioritizing quality and customization.

7. Production time

• The production process for DTF includes multiple steps, such as applying adhesive powder and using a heat press. While efficient, it takes slightly longer compared to DTG. This makes direct-to-film printing more suitable for planned production schedules rather than last-minute orders.
• DTG’s print time is faster for single garments like one t-shirt, especially when printing directly onto cotton. The lack of a transfer process streamlines production, making it ideal for on-demand printing or rush orders.

Both DTF and DTG printing methods shine in their respective domains, catering to different business needs. 

Deciding between DTG and DTF printing depends on your priorities – fabric type, print detail, order volume, and sustainability. Whether you need the adaptability of direct-to-film printing or the precision of direct-to-garment printing, both offer unique strengths for growing your eCommerce business.

When to choose DTF printing

Direct-to-film printing is a fantastic choice if you want to diversify your product offerings. 

DTF inks work exceptionally well on synthetics like polyester, nylon, and fleece, as well as blended materials. It’s also perfect for non-garment items such as hats, bags, and home textiles. Its versatility makes it perfect for businesses catering to a wide range of customer needs. 

The DTF process can handle a large printing volume with consistent quality, ensuring suitability for businesses of all sizes. DTF’s lower equipment costs and flexibility in printing various designs can be a game-changer for startups or businesses with lower budgets. 

If you’re aiming to tap into markets requiring custom prints on unique materials, DTF is the best printing method for you.

When to choose DTG printing

Direct-to-garment printing is a great alternative to DTF and screen printing for businesses focusing on high-quality designs on natural fibers like cotton and cotton blends. 

If your primary products are t-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags, DTG delivers exceptional results with sharp details and vibrant colors, especially for more intricate custom designs.

DTG inks are more eco-friendly, making this the right printing method for brands that prioritize sustainability.

For businesses with smaller order volumes or those targeting premium-quality apparel markets, direct-to-garment printing is the ideal choice. Its ability to produce high-detail prints quickly on demand can help you cater to customers seeking unique and personalized products.

Tips for choosing between these popular printing methods

1. Consider your target audience and the materials they prefer

Think about who you’re selling to and the types of products they want. Direct-to-film printing is great for customers looking for vibrant designs on diverse materials like hats, tote bags, or jackets.

In contrast, DTG printing works best for customers who prefer soft, natural fabrics like cotton t-shirts. If your audience values intricate, photo-quality designs on light garments, direct-to-garment printing may be the ideal solution.

2. Evaluate your budget for equipment and supplies

If you’re starting on a smaller budget, DTF printers and supplies are more affordable. The process involves less upfront investment, making it beginner-friendly.

However, if you’re ready to invest in high-quality DTG printers, you’ll benefit from superior print resolution and eco-friendly inks. While the initial costs are higher, garment (DTG) printing can deliver unmatched detail for premium pricing.

3. Estimate your expected order volume and turnaround time

For businesses handling high-volume orders, DTF printing offers consistency and durability across multiple products. The heat press process ensures vibrant, long-lasting designs, making it ideal for bulk production.

If you focus on small-batch, personalized orders or need faster printing for single t-shirts, DTG printing shines with its streamlined process and faster production times for on-demand services.

4. Factor in the type of products you want to offer – garments or accessories

DTF printing stands out for its versatility, letting you print on accessories like tote bags, hats, and even shoes. If you want to diversify your catalog with non-garment products, film (DTF) printing is the better option.

On the other hand, direct-to-garment printing is commonly preferred for high-quality apparel, particularly cotton-based garments like t-shirts and hoodies. If your focus is on perfecting wearable designs with vivid colors and photo-like precision, DTG is the way to go.

When deciding between DTF vs DTF printing, spend time evaluating these factors to choose the method that aligns with your business goals and customer expectations.

T-shirts – The kings (and queens) of comfort and cool

Let’s start with the undisputed POD champs: t-shirts. According to Printify’s data, these comfy classics are global bestsellers year-round. Target niches? Literally everyone. Design ideas? Think endless possibilities.

• Funny slogans for the meme-lovers.
• Bold graphics for streetwear fans.
• Minimalist designs for trendsetters. 
• Got seasonal vibes? Halloween prints or festive Christmas tees are surefire hits. 

With printing techniques like DTG, sublimation, or AOP, the sky’s the limit for customization. T-shirts are also lightweight, keeping shipping expenses low while maximizing your profits. Check out Printify’s guide to mastering t-shirt designs for your niche.

Unisex Heavy Cotton Tee

By Gildan · 5000

From $8.61 From $5.89 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 70 colors 22 print providers

Unisex Color Blast T-Shirt

By Comfort Colors® · 1745

From $20.64 From $15.65 with Printify Premium

6 sizes 6 colors 3 print providers

Women's Flowy Cropped Tee

By Bella+Canvas · 8882

From $29.30 From $22.37 with Printify Premium

5 sizes 5 colors 2 print providers

Hoodies – Fashion meets functionality

Hoodies are not just clothes – they’re a lifestyle. Whether it’s a classic pullover, a trendy hoodie dress, or a stylish cropped option, this top three POD product has universal appeal. Target niches? Skaters, students, homebodies – you name it. 

Need design ideas? Add cool AOP designs or bold slogans to stand out. Try pet-themed hoodies for animal lovers or matching sets for couples. 

Bonus: Hoodies make amazing gifts, especially in fall and winter. Curious about how to create epic designs? Printify’s hoodie design guide has all the tips you need.

Three-Panel Fleece Hoodie

By Lane Seven · LS14001

From $23.89 From $17.57 with Printify Premium

7 sizes 20 colors 8 print providers

Unisex Zip Hoodie (AOP)

By Generic brand

From $56.38 From $42.75 with Printify Premium

6 sizes MWW On Demand

Sweatshirts – The cozy classics

Meet the sweatshirt: your ticket to ultimate coziness and a bestseller in the print-on-demand business. From relaxed crewnecks to trendy cropped styles, there’s a sweatshirt for every vibe. Target niche markets like fitness enthusiasts (think gym logos), book lovers (hello, literary quotes), or even gamers with custom pixel art designs. 

Want a seasonal twist? Create winter-themed graphics or Valentine’s Day motifs. With options like DTG and all-over printing, you can tailor designs to every target audience. Pair these with joggers or leggings for upselling opportunities. 

Not sure where to start? Check out Printify’s hoodies vs sweatshirts guide for inspiration.

Unisex Heavy Blend Crewneck Sweatshirt

By Gildan · 18000

From $17.63 From $11.92 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 38 colors 17 print providers

Unisex Heavy Blend Hooded Sweatshirt

By Gildan · 18500

From $21.24 From $15.51 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 39 colors 17 print providers

Unisex Garment-Dyed Sweatshirt

By Comfort Colors® · 1566

From $29.72 From $22.99 with Printify Premium

6 sizes 20 colors 4 print providers

Phone cases – Express yourself with phone safety

From sleek and minimal to bursting with personality, phone cases are the ultimate pocket accessory to customize with POD. Popular print-on-demand niches? Tech enthusiasts, artists, pop culture fanatics. Design ideas? Attract customers with abstract designs, nature photography, vintage illustrations, or funny quotes – the choice is yours. 

Feeling inspired? Printify has some killer phone case design ideas to spark your creativity.

Tough Cases

By Generic brand

From $14.77 From $11.20 with Printify Premium

73 sizes WOYC

Flip Cases

By Generic brand

From $21.41 From $16.23 with Printify Premium

38 sizes WOYC

Flexi Cases

By Generic brand

From $10.17 From $7.71 with Printify Premium

85 sizes WOYC

Tote bags – Eco-friendly and effortlessly stylish

Ditch the plastic, and say hello to totes. These reusable bags are a must-have for eco-conscious consumers and urban trendsetters. With custom products like cotton totes, AOP designs, and minimalist prints, the possibilities are endless. 

Target niches? Fashionistas, bookworms, or sustainable living advocates. Go bold with graphic designs, or keep it classy with monograms. Tote bags are affordable to produce and align perfectly with today’s consumer demand for eco-friendly goods. 

Want to start selling custom products? Printify has a guide to help you launch your tote empire.

Tote Bag (AOP)

By Generic brand

From $11.09 From $8.41 with Printify Premium

3 sizes 5 colors MWW On Demand

Cotton Canvas Tote Bag

By Liberty Bags · OAD113

From $9.22 From $7.00 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 2 colors 2 print providers

Organic Canvas Tote Bag

By Econscious · EC8040

From $20.44 From $15.50 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 3 colors Ink Blot

Candles – Set the mood and sales on fire

Light up your POD business with candles. These cozy best-sellers are perfect for adding a little ambiance to work and living spaces. Made of high-quality materials and delicious scents, candles are perfect for eCommerce businesses targeting spa enthusiasts, home decor fans, or aromatherapy lovers. 

Design ideas? Keep it sleek with minimalist labels, or add botanical illustrations and witty names like “Burning Ambition” or “Netflix & Flame.” Custom candles are great for gifting occasions, too – think weddings, housewarmings, or holidays.

Ready to ignite your business idea with these top-selling print-on-demand products? Discover how to sell candles on Etsy and watch your profits soar.

Scented Soy Candle, 9oz

By Lumient

From $10.94 From $8.76 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Lumient

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

By Printed Mint

From $9.63 From $8.06 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 colors Printed Mint

Tin Candles

By Printed Mint

From $9.42 From $6.93 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 3 colors Printed Mint

Journals – Where ideas come to life

Journals are the perfect way to turn blank pages into big profits. From sleek hardcovers to flexible spirals, there’s a style for every target audience. What’s the niche market? Create custom products for bullet journaling fans, students, or even wedding planners.

Add inspiring quotes, floral patterns, or quirky graphics to give your designs a unique twist. Journals are also perfect for gifting, especially during back-to-school or holiday seasons. 

Bonus: Pair them with customized stationery goods for upsell opportunities and watch your online store thrive. Want more journal-selling ideas? Explore how to start your own print-on-demand business.

Hardcover Journal Matte

By Generic brand

From $9.30 From $6.84 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

Spiral Bound Journal

By Generic brand

From $11.17 From $8.22 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

Hard Backed Journal

By Generic brand

From $10.11 From $7.44 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Prodigi

Mugs – Sip, smile, repeat

Any reputable print-on-demand company offers mugs for your online business. Why? Because those babies sell like hotcakes due to their versatility and practicality. How much? $25.65 billion in revenue in 2024 alone. Potential customers? Coffee addicts, tea lovers, or quirky gift shoppers are always looking for customized mugs.

For design ideas go with bold graphics, funny quotes, or artsy patterns. Think seasonal, too – Christmas-themed mugs or Valentine’s Day designs are always a hit. With sturdy durable materials and low shipping weight, mugs are cost-effective to produce and guarantee happy customers. 

Ready to put your own branding on an evergreen bestseller? Check out Printify’s guide for customizing black coffee mugs.

Ceramic Mug, (11oz, 15oz)

By Generic brand

From $4.61 From $3.50 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 print providers

Accent Coffee Mug (11, 15oz)

By Generic brand

From $5.52 From $4.47 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 9 colors 2 print providers

Black Mug (11oz, 15oz)

By Generic brand

From $6.64 From $5.07 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 5 print providers

Ornaments – Seasonal stars

Ornaments are the superstars of the holiday season, making them a must-have for your POD business. From classic round designs to snowflakes and heart shapes, there’s a huge market for every style and a growing demand for personalization. 

Target niches? Families, holiday enthusiasts, or DIY fans. Design ideas? Think personalized names, baby’s first Christmas, festive patterns, or even pets. These little keepsakes are perfect for the holidays but can also shine during weddings or baby showers with custom designs. 

Bonus tip: Market these as a collectible series to encourage repeat purchases year after year. Get started with Printify’s ornament guide.

Ceramic Ornament, 4 Shapes

By Generic brand

From $6.03 From $4.44 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Imagine Your Photos

Metal Ornaments

By Generic brand

From $4.52 From $3.32 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Pic the Gift

Acrylic Ornaments

By Generic brand

From $10.92 From $8.03 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Printed Mint

Blankets – Wrap up the comfort

Successful print-on-demand sites offer a variety of customized products to increase repeat business and appeal to a larger niche market. Blankets can be just the thing you need to broaden your POD horizons if you’re already selling cozy aesthetics like candles, pillows, or socks.

Think plush fleece, Sherpas, and even hooded blankets. Target niches? Homebodies, parents (baby swaddles), or decor lovers. Design ideas? All-over prints featuring bold patterns, inspirational quotes, or seasonal designs like fall leaves or winter snowflakes. 

Blankets are also ideal for gift-giving occasions like housewarmings and holidays. With their high-quality materials and premium feel, they’re an easy way to amp up your profits. Add blankets to your product line and watch the sales roll in.

Velveteen Plush Blanket

By Generic brand

From $12.86 From $9.44 with Printify Premium

3 sizes 3 print providers

Sherpa Fleece Blanket

By Generic brand

From $30.54 From $23.52 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 print providers

Baby Swaddle Blanket

By Generic brand

From $26.02 From $19.14 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Printed Mint

Stickers – Small but mighty

Stickers are the ultimate print-on-demand product – tiny, versatile, and budget-friendly. From kiss-cut and die-cut to holographic singles and sticker sheets, they cater to every target audience, including small business owners (logo stickers), students, and journaling fans. 

Not convinced yet? Check this out: The stickers market was valued at $4.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit $7.1 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7%. Or, in simple terms – they sell like crazy!

Design ideas? Market demand shows interest in retro aesthetics, motivational quotes, or seasonal themes like Christmas. Lightweight and cheap to produce, they offer cost-effective shipping and high profit margins. 

Check out our guide and learn to make custom stickers that will wow customers.

Kiss-Cut Stickers

By Generic brand

From $1.38 From $1.01 with Printify Premium

4 sizes 2 print providers

Kiss-Cut Vinyl Decals

By Generic brand

From $1.17 From $0.86 with Printify Premium

4 sizes Stickers & Posters

Bumper Stickers

By Generic brand

From $4.22 From $3.10 with Printify Premium

3 sizes Printed Simply

Pillows – Cushion your sales

Pillows are where comfort meets creativity. Whether it’s decorative throw pillows or custom-shaped options for indoor and outdoor use, these print-on-demand products are perfect for sprucing up any space. 

Target interior design lovers, college dorm decorators, or even pet parents (hello, pet-shaped pillows). Design ideas? Go bold with patterns, minimalist with typography, or niche-specific like fandom graphics. Market these for holidays like Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day to maximize sales. 

With a print-on-demand service like Printify, you can easily customize matching blankets to add an irresistible bundle to your online store.

Spun Polyester Square Pillow

By Generic brand

From $13.73 From $10.10 with Printify Premium

4 sizes MWW On Demand

Custom Shaped Pillows

By Generic brand

From $9.38 From $7.11 with Printify Premium

4 sizes 1 colors Smart Printee

Tufted Floor Pillow, Round

By Generic brand

From $33.88 From $25.69 with Printify Premium

2 sizes MWW On Demand

Water bottles – Sell hydration with style

Stay hydrated and stylish with custom water bottles. From sleek stainless steel to fun plastic designs with straws, these are must-haves for eco-conscious consumers and fitness fans. 

Target niches? Gym-goers, travelers, office workers, and water connoisseurs. Design ideas? Motivational quotes (“Drink More Water”), minimalist patterns, or fun pop culture themes. These reusable items reduce waste and increase customer satisfaction with their practical appeal. 

Make hydration cool and profit big by starting a water bottle business with Print on Demand.

CamelBak Eddy® Water Bottle, 20oz\25oz

By CamelBak · Eddy

From $18.75 From $13.79 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 colors SwagRabbit

Tritan Water Bottle

By Generic brand

From $15.47 From $11.38 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 1 colors WOYC

Water Bottle, 32oz

By Polar Camel

From $23.21 From $17.87 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 17 colors Fulfill Engine

Hats – Top off the look

Hats are a stylish staple in the print-on-demand business, offering endless customization options. From embroidered dad caps and trendy bucket hats to snapbacks and cozy beanies, they suit every season, target audience, and personal style. 

Fun fact: The headwear market hit a massive $28.2 billion in 2023, making it a smart addition to your POD business model. 

Design ideas? Create hats with bold logos, witty phrases, or intricate patterns for sports fans, streetwear lovers, or outdoor enthusiasts. Lightweight with low shipping costs, hats ensure happy customers and healthy profit margins.

Classic Dad Cap

By Yupoong · 6245CM

From $19.48 From $14.32 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 11 colors 3 print providers

Bucket Hat (AOP)

By Generic brand

From $14.84 From $10.92 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 colors FYBY

Baby Beanie (AOP)

By The Laughing Giraffe

From $14.73 From $11.64 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Printed Mint

Canvases – Wall art that wows

Canvas prints are the go-to business idea for transforming photos and artwork into stunning wall art. Whether framed, matte, or glossy, canvases offer timeless appeal. Target customers? Art lovers, photographers, and home decorators looking for personalized living spaces.

Design ideas? Create custom prints with abstract art, family photos, or motivational quotes. Lightweight and easy to hang, canvases are ideal for eCommerce platforms and print-on-demand businesses aiming to tap into the thriving home decor market. 

Want to know more about selling canvas prints? Learn how to start a home decor business with Printify.

Matte Canvas, Stretched, 1.25"

By Generic brand

From $10.55 From $8.10 with Printify Premium

60 sizes Jondo

Matte Canvas, Framed (Multi-color)

By Generic brand

From $21.53 From $15.84 with Printify Premium

57 sizes 3 colors Jondo

Puzzles – Piece together fun and profits

Puzzles are the perfect print-on-demand product to engage audiences while driving revenue. From small sets for kids to intricate designs for adults, they’re fun, timeless, and a standout business idea that meets a growing market demand. 

What to go for in terms of design? Landscapes, quirky illustrations, or branded images make custom puzzles irresistible. These durable, lightweight items offer easy shipping and excellent profit margins, perfect for family game nights or personalized gifts. 

With the right print-on-demand company, you can focus on creating designs that appeal to niche audiences, ensuring strong customer satisfaction and repeat orders.

Puzzle (110, 252, 520, 1014-piece)

By Generic brand

From $7.81 From $5.92 with Printify Premium

8 sizes District Photo

Kids' Puzzle, 30-Piece

By Generic brand

From $11.72 From $9.32 with Printify Premium

2 sizes District Photo

Jigsaw Puzzle with Tin

By Generic brand

From $17.13 From $13.20 with Printify Premium

6 sizes Imagine Your Photos

Kids clothes – Mini fashion, major potential

Parents love dressing their little ones in trendy, custom outfits, making kids’ clothes a must-have for any print-on-demand business. From cozy bodysuits to colorful tees and hoodies, there’s room to cater to every target market. 

Design ideas? Playful patterns, whimsical illustrations, or personalized names add charm. The kids’ fashion industry is thriving, ensuring steady market demand. Lightweight and small, these customized products ship affordably, increasing your profit margins. 

Add kids’ clothes to your POD business to delight parents, grandparents, and gift-givers while building your own brand with creative, high-quality designs that charm families everywhere.

Kids Heavy Cotton Tee

By Gildan · 5000B

From $7.00 From $6.60 with Printify Premium

5 sizes 33 colors 13 print providers

Youth Heavy Blend Hooded Sweatshirt

By Gildan · 18500B

From $19.77 From $14.54 with Printify Premium

5 sizes 19 colors 7 print providers

Infant Fine Jersey Bodysuit

By Rabbit Skins · 4424

From $10.23 From $8.24 with Printify Premium

5 sizes 40 colors 8 print providers

Posters – Big canvas, big opportunity

Posters are an online merchant’s dream – a highly versatile print-on-demand product that turns walls into galleries. Think bold motivational quotes, iconic pop art, or serene nature scenes. 

Posters come in various finishes and sizes, appealing to dorm dwellers, office decorators, or homeowners. Why sell them? Wall art is consistently in demand, offering incredible profits. 

With reliable print-on-demand companies like Printify, you can provide premium product quality and ship rolled or framed designs directly to customers. Tap into this booming market and let your designs transform spaces while promoting your POD business.

Matte Vertical Posters

By Generic brand

From $4.66 From $3.59 with Printify Premium

46 sizes 2 print providers

Rolled Posters

By Generic brand

From $2.63 From $1.93 with Printify Premium

38 sizes 2 print providers

Satin Posters (210gsm)

By Generic brand

From $4.17 From $3.07 with Printify Premium

26 sizes 2 print providers

Notebooks – Write your success story

Notebooks are functional, stylish, and the ideal print-on-demand product for students, professionals, and journaling enthusiasts. From sleek hardcover designs to trendy spiral-bound options, the possibilities are endless. 

Why sell notebooks? They’re compact, lightweight, and have low shipping rates, maximizing profits. Design ideas? Try minimalist monograms, motivational quotes, or vibrant custom covers. 

Notebooks appeal to a broad target market, making them a strong business idea in the print-on-demand industry. Offer customization options to attract customers who love personalized items, and watch your POD business thrive with every sale.

Spiral Notebook – Ruled Line

By Generic brand

From $8.05 From $5.81 with Printify Premium

1 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

Wirobound Softcover Notebook, A5

By Generic brand

From $8.17 From $6.01 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Harrier

Hardcover Notebook with Puffy Covers

By Generic brand

From $11.14 From $8.20 with Printify Premium

3 sizes Drukātava

Sportswear – Where style meets performance

Sportswear is a powerhouse print-on-demand category in the fitness and athleisure industry. With the global sportswear market valued at a jaw-dropping $313.22 billion in 2023 and still growing, this is a golden opportunity for your POD business.

Performance tees, leggings, and sports bras are always in demand, perfect for gym-goers and casual wear enthusiasts alike. Design ideas? Add sleek patterns, empowering slogans, or custom gym logos. With great profit margins and lightweight shipping, sportswear ensures your own brand is ready to flex in this thriving market.

Unisex Moisture Wicking Tee

By Sport-Tek · ST350

From $16.41 From $12.92 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 29 colors 2 print providers

High Waisted Yoga Leggings (AOP)

By Generic brand

From $33.59 From $25.47 with Printify Premium

6 sizes Miami Sublimation

Men's Mesh Sneakers

By Generic brand

From $35.94 From $26.44 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 2 colors Smart Printee

Pet products – Treats for the fur babies

The pet industry is flourishing, making custom pet products a genius business idea. Think printed bandanas, comfy pet beds, or stylish feeding mats. Why sell them? Pet owners adore spoiling their furry, feathery, and scaly friends, and unique print-on-demand products are perfect for that. 

Design ideas? Try fun patterns, pet names, or quirky sayings. With a reliable print-on-demand service and third-party supplier like Printify, you can offer quality, functional items while keeping shipping costs low. Tap into the multi-billion-dollar pet market and watch your profits grow with every wagging tail.

Pet Bandana

By Evergreen

From $12.34 From $9.08 with Printify Premium

3 sizes Printed Mint

Pet Bowl

By Generic brand

From $23.98 From $18.19 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Printed Mint

Pet Feeding Mats

By Generic brand

From $16.06 From $12.18 with Printify Premium

3 sizes 1 colors MWW On Demand

Socks – Walk your way to sales

Socks are the underdog of print-on-demand products – small, affordable, and wildly customizable. From cozy crew socks to bold AOP designs, socks make the perfect gift or statement piece. 

Why socks? With their low production and shipping costs, they offer unbeatable profit margins for your print-on-demand business. And design ideas? There is nothing a well-vetted Print Provider can’t handle. Try quirky patterns, inside jokes, or personalized prints to cater to niche target markets. 

Whether for athletes, pet lovers, or holiday shoppers, custom socks add personality to any wardrobe. Start your business selling custom socks and let your customers put their best foot forward with every purchase.

Sublimation Socks

By Generic brand

From $8.05 From $5.92 with Printify Premium

3 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

Recycled Poly Socks

By Generic brand

From $10.94 From $8.05 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Tribe Socks

Cushioned Crew Socks

By Generic brand

From $10.13 From $7.45 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors ThreadStudio

Travel mugs and tumblers – For those on the go

Let’s wrap up our list with something all print-on-demand companies highlight, promote, and recommend – travel mugs and tumblers. Sure, selling t-shirts is a classic, but the POD business model lets you diversify and cater to on-the-go lifestyles. 

These reusable drinkware items are perfect for commuters, gym-goers, and adventure lovers. Design ideas? Add quirky coffee quotes, scenic illustrations, or sleek branding for eco-conscious niches. 

With rising demand for sustainable products, travel mugs and tumblers offer impressive profits and endless customization possibilities, making them an essential addition to your print-on-demand business lineup.

Insulated Travel Mug, 40oz

By Polar Camel

From $32.81 From $24.14 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 8 colors Fulfill Engine

Ringneck Tumbler, 20oz

By Generic brand

From $20.16 From $14.83 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 3 colors Chill

Chill Wine Tumbler

By Generic brand

From $17.19 From $12.64 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Chill

1. Pick your niche

A niche is your target audience – the specific group of people who’ll love your print-on-demand products. Think beyond generic crowds. How about rollerblading moms who love 80s aesthetics? Or coffee-obsessed cat lovers? 

To find your niche, list your passions, research trends on platforms like Pinterest, and explore customer feedback from similar businesses. You can also check trending topics using tools like Semrush and eRank.

A strong niche makes your marketing easier and your brand unforgettable. Here are additional resources:

• 15 Print-on-demand niches for 2025
• Trending t-shirt niches to try in 2025
• 15 Dropshipping niches to try and 5 to avoid

2. Decide what to sell

From t-shirts to wall art, the options for print-on-demand services are endless. Use our product list above to start with proven top performers, or explore other popular items on Printify’s Bestsellers page or big marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon. 

Look for what’s trending and matches your niche – functional, stylish, and customizable products are key.

3. Create designs

No designs? No problem. You can 

• digitize your own art, 
• hire freelance designers on sites like Fiverr, 
• or use professional design software like Adobe.

Want some free and user-friendly tools? Check out Printify’s Product Creator. With features like AI, a text editor, a pattern tool, and a free graphics library, craft beautiful visuals for your print-on-demand business in minutes. 

Think about what resonates with your niche: retro patterns, motivational quotes, or seasonal themes. With print-on-demand services, your creativity is the only limit.

4. Decide where to sell

Want to build your own business or tap into established audiences? You can create a standalone store on platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, or sell on marketplaces like Etsy or Amazon. 

The best part? Printify integrates seamlessly with all the top sales channels, so your inventory management and product listings stay stress-free.

5. Set up a store

This step involves choosing your store’s business model, selecting a subscription plan, and deciding on its aesthetics and layout. To make a great first impression, add a professional banner, a catchy tagline, and intuitive navigation. 

Make sure your store reflects your own brand and aligns with your niche. For a detailed, step-by-step process, check out our guides on setting up stores with Etsy or Shopify.

6. Pick your print-on-demand supplier

The right supplier ensures great print quality and reliable shipping. Look for high-rated providers offering products that match your vision. With a global network of print-on-demand companies, Printify is a top choice for its wide product range, ease of use, and stellar customer satisfaction.

7. Start selling

Once your store is live, it’s time to market your products. Optimize listings with keywords, promote on social media, and reach your target market with paid ads. Build momentum with great designs and responsive customer service – and watch your print-on-demand business grow.

1. Sign up

Register for free, create your account, and start exploring our beginner-friendly print-on-demand platform.

2. Select a product from our Catalog

Browse more than 1,000 unique products. Filter by location, printing technique, price, and other criteria, pick your favorite, then click Start designing.

3. Place your logo or design

Use our free Product Creator to upload a ready-made design file or create one from scratch with clever design tools and convenient integrations.

4. Integrate your online store

Printify integrates with all the leading sales channels like eBay, Etsy, Shopify, Wix, Amazon, and more. Link your store in a few clicks.

5. Make your brand popular

List your products online and spread the word via social media and paid ads while our Print Providers do the rest – printing, packaging, and shipping products directly to your customers.