Print Designs – Printify

How to start a print-on-demand business in 2025

Vita Stevens — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:08:00 +0000

Start a print-on-demand business today

The Print on Demand model is a game-changer. All you need is inspiration and some free time to add your own unique designs to custom products and list them online.

Print-on-demand sites will handle inventory, production, and shipping – freeing up your time to focus on growing your brand and revenue.

Follow our simple step-by-step guide to learn how to start a print-on-demand business with no money in 2025.

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.

What is the print-on-demand business model

Print on Demand (POD) is a business model that involves printing products after a customer orders.

Many print-on-demand companies like Printify offer additional services like door-to-door shipping, online design tools, and seamless integrations with popular eCommerce platforms and marketplaces like Shopify and Etsy.

This means you can quickly launch your online store and focus on marketing while your printing partners handle the rest.

With the global print-on-demand market value set to reach $48.4 billion by 2032, now is the perfect time to enter this thriving industry.

Stick with us as we explore how to create a print-on-demand business with no upfront costs and go through the pros and cons of this business model.

Make it happen today!

Start selling

How to start a print-on-demand business in 2025

Print on Demand is one of the best ways to start selling custom products online. Jump on board for free with a wide range of customizable, high-quality items.

Follow these simple steps to turn your business idea into profits.

1. Pick a niche

A niche is a specialized market segment for products, and defining a market has many benefits, like higher profits, lower competition, and less money spent on advertising.

Choosing a profitable niche is one of the biggest tasks you’ll face in your eCommerce journey. It determines your target market, shapes your product offerings, and directly impacts your potential for long-term success.

If you’re unsure what niche to pursue for your brand, start with something you’re passionate about – like fitness, camping, or cats.

Where should you look for that profitable niche idea? Start by:

Looking for the best-selling products in 2025. Start by checking out what’s trending on platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and TikTok Shop by typing “trending” or “best-seller” in their search bars.

Keep an eye on popular categories like tech gadgets, sustainable products, and personalized items. Tools like TikTok’s Creative Center, or eCommerce analytics tools like Jungle Scout can help you dive deeper into search and sales data. Don’t forget to browse industry blogs, scroll through social media hashtags, and read product trend reports for even more inspiration.
Using Google Trends. Explore trending topics across platforms and quickly assess their popularity. It visualizes search queries in various languages and regions.
Finding relevant keywords. Finding relevant keywords is easier than you think. Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Semrush’s free eCommerce Keywords Analytics, and Ahrefs’ free Amazon Keywords tool can help you uncover what people are searching for. These are great for exploring keywords not just for ads or SERPs but also for marketplace-specific trends.

2. Decide what to sell

The variety of print-on-demand products goes beyond custom backpacks, t-shirts, and coffee mugs. Printify empowers you to print your own designs on phone cases, consumer products, personalized games, and even custom-printed pint glasses.

Check out some of the most popular items in our Product Catalog:

Whatever you decide to sell, the products should align with your niche. Keep your customers in mind so your items don’t get lost in an overcrowded market.

These are some of the best places to kick off your research and see what sells:

Amazon. Browse bestsellers and trending categories for top product ideas.
eBay. Spot popular items through active listings.
Etsy. Find unique and gift-worthy merch ideas.
Printify’s Bestsellers page. Updated regularly with our top-performing products.

Check out Facebook, X, Reddit, and other relevant social media platforms and print-on-demand websites to see what people are saying and buying.

If discussions around a particular product segment in your niche are quiet, pick one that’s more lively for better sales opportunities.

3. Create designs

Although POD relies heavily on unique designs, you don’t need to have artistic skills or be an experienced designer to start a print-on-demand store and create custom products.

Printify’s Product Creator offers free use graphics for quick and easy product customization. We also provide an AI Image Generator and Shutterstock integration to take you from designing to selling in a few clicks.
Alternatively, hire a professional designer through popular freelancer sites like Fiverr or Upwork to bring your vision to life.
Of course, you can always design your own illustrations if you have an artistic eye. Tools like Adobe are perfect for this.

Conduct market research to find profitable design ideas for print-on-demand products. Draw inspiration from sites like Designious, Pinterest, and Dribbble.

A word to the wise – only use your research as a starting point to create original designs. Never plagiarize or claim another creator’s work as your own.

Don’t forget to test-run ideas by sharing designs on social media, online forums, or within your personal network.

Quick tip

Check out our article on Adobe Illustrator for print-on-demand design tips, insights, and inspiration.

4. Decide where to sell

The easiest way to sell your print-on-demand products online is by integrating a dedicated marketplace or eCommerce platform.

What’s the difference?

An online marketplace like Amazon, Etsy, or eBay functions just like an offline market, where merchants gather to sell their goods to a steady flow of shoppers.

The only difference is that you list your products on a website and use targeted keywords to help potential customers find you.

Meanwhile, using a dedicated eCommerce Platform like Shopify or WooCommerce lets you build your own standalone website to sell custom products.

This gives you complete control over your brand identity, marketing materials and strategy, and customer experience, enabling you to create a potentially more engaging shopping experience.

No matter your choice, Printify offers integrations with some of the world’s most popular sales channels:

Quick tip

Skip connecting to sales channels and sell products through your own unique store link by opening a Printify Pop-Up Store.

5. Set up a store

Although online store setup differs for each platform, it often starts with you gaining access to a finished platform or pre-built and customizable templates.

Enable essential features like payment gateways, shipping options, and customer service channels to build a smooth shopping experience for your customers.

Taking the time to set up your store properly is crucial for the success of your online business. This includes uploading high-quality product images, writing informative descriptions, and integrating SEO keywords for better visibility.

Quick tip

For detailed steps on setting up your eCommerce store, read our guides for Shopify, eBay, Amazon, and Etsy.

6. Pick your supplier

A successful print-on-demand business depends on a reliable supplier to fulfill all incoming orders.

The importance of finding a trustworthy print-on-demand company to do this can’t be overstated – your reputation as an entrepreneur depends on it.

This is where Printify comes in. Whatever you aim to achieve, our mission stays the same – to help merchants make more money with less effort.

Our easy-to-use print-on-demand and dropshipping platform helps anyone, regardless of background or experience, design and sell custom products without worry. Once you make a sale, our Print Providers do all the heavy lifting to print and ship your custom products.

Trusted by over ten million merchants worldwide, our team works tirelessly to give you the highest quality products, best prices, and lowest shipping costs in the industry.

100% free

Sign up and use our platform without any upfront investment. Customers cover the cost of the product only after they purchase it.

Seamless integrations

Publish your merch on some of the world’s most popular eCommerce marketplaces and platforms.

1000+ products

Our Product Catalog has a large selection of superior quality products, from t-shirts to home decor, for you to customize with unique designs.

No minimum order quantity

Thrive without limitations – order as few or as many products as you like and get a special shipping discount on bulk orders.

24/7 merchant support

Our expert team is ready anytime to help you succeed in your POD journey.

Not sure how to choose the best supplier for your business? Compare the biggest players in the market:

7. Set a price

The profit you make depends on how high you set your product prices.

Consider these factors when setting a retail price to stay competitive in the market:

Shipping and production costs. Account for all the expenses of creating your products, including taxes and service fees. If you offer free shipping, factor in delivery costs into the retail price.
Average price of similar products. Research current market trends and compare product costs for similar items among competitor online stores.
Location of your customers. Cut down on delivery time and global shipping costs by choosing a local Print Provider.

Competitive prices set your print-on-demand store up for success. Check out our blog for more on how to price a product.

8. Check the quality of your products

Delivering high-quality products is fundamental for building customer satisfaction and trust. If your products meet customer expectations, securing repeat sales will be easier.

The primary step to delivering valuable products is choosing a reliable print-on-demand service.

Printify partners with a global network of carefully vetted and trusted Print Providers to guarantee high-quality production and timely delivery.

To establish a good reputation for your eCommerce store, we recommend placing sample orders to check the print, style, colors, and overall print quality of your product before listing it for sale.

9. Market your products

Your marketing efforts can make or break your business. The goal is to get noticed, drive traffic to your site, provide people with reasons to buy from you, and convert visitors into customers.

Here are a few ways to market your business:

Social media marketing. Find and engage with your target audience by maintaining a social media presence. Create new content and hop on trends to grow your business.
Influencer marketing. Collaborate with social media influencers to gain exposure to a broader audience and build trust. Look for influencers with similar brand values and followers that match your ideal customer profile.
Content marketing. Create and publish blogs, videos, and product reviews to establish authority in your niche. High-quality content can drive traffic to your site, convert visitors, and offer opportunities for content monetization.
Email marketing. Make a mailing list to send customers personalized offers, updates, and newsletters. Fine-tune your messages for different customer demographics to improve the relevance and performance of your email marketing campaigns.
Paid ads. Invest in targeted ads to reach a broader audience and drive more traffic to your store. Use Google Ads for search engine advertising or Facebook Ads for highly specific audience targeting.

10. Monitor your online store performance

Monitoring your store’s performance is key to growing your business and making smarter decisions. Use analytics tools like Google Analytics and Hotjar to track metrics like customer traffic, conversion rates, which products are selling, user engagement, and cart abandonment rates.

These insights can show you what’s working, highlight areas where customers are dropping off, and help you tweak your strategies to boost sales and improve the shopping experience.

And pay attention to customer feedback. Encourage buyers to leave reviews and share their customer testimonials, giving you insights into what people love and what might need improvements.

Pros and cons of Print on Demand

As a tried-and-true way of printing for profit, print-on-demand services offer many benefits for budding entrepreneurs.

Let’s go over some of the perks.

Pros:

Easy to start
You don’t need extensive entrepreneurial, marketing, or artistic experience. Print-on-demand services make things as easy as possible and offer beginner-friendly guides to streamline onboarding.
Low risk
When you partner with a print-on-demand company, you avoid the financial risk of traditional retail models. There’s no need to rent premises, hire staff, invest upfront, or worry about logistics.
No inventory
When you make a sale, a third-party supplier handles order fulfillment and ships products directly to your customer’s doorstep. You don’t need to keep your own inventory and spend money on storage space.
Global reach
Print-on-demand helps you effortlessly sell both locally and internationally for optimal reach and maximum profits.

The advantages of Print on Demand far outweigh the negatives, but you should still be aware of some of the downsides.

Cons:

You can’t control quality
You’ll have limited control over print and product quality. The best way to counter this is to find a reliable print-on-demand partner with various trusted Print Providers and order product samples.
Longer production time
Since orders are only printed after a sale goes through, they can’t be packaged and shipped immediately. However, companies like Printify offer express and priority delivery to address this.
Lower profit margin
Due to the nature of the print-on-demand business model, costs per product will be higher than if you purchase products through wholesale. With Printify, you can still set your own profit margins freely.
Split responsibility
While Print Providers handle order fulfillment, your customers will turn to you whenever there is an issue. You’ll be responsible for providing excellent customer support to resolve any problems.

If you plan to sell products through a Printify Pop-Up Store, we’ll handle customer support for you.

Quick tip

Check our blog for up-to-date articles and information on how to start a POD business.

FAQ – How to start a successful print-on-demand business

How to start a print-on-demand business?

Sign up for a free Printify account and choose products from our Catalog to add to your store. Then, design your custom merchandise and connect your account to popular eCommerce platforms or marketplaces to start selling online.

Is a print-on-demand business profitable?

Yes, as long as you set good profit margins for your product line. When pricing items, keep all associated tax and service fees in mind. Working with a print-on-demand company like Printify that offers competitive pricing is also beneficial.

Does anyone make money with Print on Demand?

Absolutely! Many sellers successfully make money with Print on Demand by creating unique designs that resonate with specific niches.

With an effective marketing strategy, a profitable niche, and a focus on customer engagement, it’s possible to turn Print on Demand into a profitable business. Check out our merchant Success Stories for real examples.

Is there still money to be made in Print on Demand?

Yes, the print-on-demand industry continues to grow and offers plenty of opportunities. Carve out a profitable space in the market by finding a niche and using relevant content to reach your audience.

Printify’s high-quality products and accessible platform let you launch your own store with minimal upfront investment, helping you focus on increasing revenue and expanding your reach.

Does Print on Demand pay well?

Print-on-demand earnings vary based on factors like niche selection, design quality, and pricing strategy.

While it may take time to build up, successful sellers who price their products well and provide a smooth shopping experience find that Print on Demand can generate substantial income over time.

How do I become a print-on-demand supplier?

Becoming a print-on-demand supplier requires setting up reliable printing operations and maintaining a high product quality.

Explore becoming a Printify Print Provider by applying through our network. Suppliers must have strong quality control, prompt order fulfillment, and a good understanding of the print-on-demand model.

Closing thoughts

When done right, Print on Demand can be a very profitable endeavor. It’s a go-to eCommerce business model for entrepreneurs, artists, and content creators worldwide.

Launch a new business or scale your existing one without any financial risk by choosing Printify as your print-on-demand service.

Make it happen today!

Start selling

The post How to start a print-on-demand business in 2025 appeared first on Printify.

Direct-to-garment printing: A quick guide (2025)

Leon Walker — Sun, 13 Oct 2024 15:03:00 +0000

Create a custom shirt with Printify

Get started

Whether you’re new to direct-to-garment (DTG) technology or have been wearing DTG-printed clothing for a while, understanding this innovative printing method can be highly beneficial – especially when starting a print-on-demand business.

In this article, we take a closer look at direct-to-garment printing – its strengths and weaknesses, how it works, and which fabric is the best to print on.

We also provide some practical tips for creating a successful direct-to-garment design and explore some of the best print-on-demand products that are the perfect canvas for DTG printing.

Key takeaways

High-quality designs made easy: DTG printing offers unmatched detail and vibrant colors, making it ideal for bringing your creative vision to life on custom t-shirts and apparel.
Perfect for small businesses and on-demand printing: With no minimum order requirements, DTG printing is meant for entrepreneurs and artists who want to print small batches or test new designs.
Eco-friendly and sustainable: Unlike traditional printing methods, DTG uses water-based inks and minimizes waste, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
Versatility on fabrics: While DTG printing works best on natural fabrics like cotton, technological advancements allow for customization on a wider range of materials, offering greater flexibility for your project.

What is DTG printing?

Direct-to-garment (DTG) is a printing process that uses modified inkjet technology to spray water-based inks onto apparel. It allows for intricate full-color designs with minimal setup. Unlike screen printing, the DTG process requires minimal setup time and is less labor-intensive, making it ideal for small-quantity orders.

As a cost-effective way to create detailed designs, DTG is a go-to printing method for many businesses and entrepreneurs worldwide.

The cherry on top? There are no order minimums, allowing people to order as few or as many products as they like.

How does DTG printing work?

Although DTG printers and their models may vary, a few basic steps should always be followed when it comes to the DTG printing process.

Pre-Treatment Process

Pretreatment for DTG shirt printing is essential. With it, multi color designs in DTG inks are going to adhere better to the garment. On top of that, it’ll prevent the ink from washing off and enhance the vibrancy of colors.

Here are two ways it’s applied:

Hand spraying. Involves manually pre-treating with a sprayer, which should be done as evenly as possible, using a smooth back-and-forth motion.
Pre-treatment machine. A device that you put your shirt into and have it pre-treated automatically.

Printing Process

After the pre-treatment has dried, it’s time to place the garment in the DTG printer and begin the digital printing.

All garments – except white ones – have a white underbase applied first to enhance the vibrancy of the final print.

As soon as the underbase is printed, the DTG printer adds the rest of the colors. Like an inkjet printer, it uses a mix of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black.

Curing Process

When the DTG shirt is printed, it needs to dry for the final time to cure the ink. This helps the garments resist washing and prevent dulling after just a few washes.

Here are two ways DTG-printed apparel can be cured:

Conveyor dryer. Typically, most industrial manufacturers cure ink using a conveyor dryer.
Heat press. A good option for small businesses with only a few products to cure. If there are more, it becomes a rather labor-intensive and time-consuming endeavor.

DTG printing: Pros and cons

When it comes to printing for profit, it’s no surprise that DTG has become the preferred choice among entrepreneurs, artists, and other creatives.

However, to get the full picture and better understand digital printing, let’s look at some of its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros:

High-detail image quality, unlimited colors. DTG prints are exceptional in their quality. This method can recreate intricate designs in the full spectrum of colors, resulting in very detailed and high-quality prints.
No minimum order quantity. With DTG printing, order as few or as many products as you like. DTG printers offer a cost-effective way to print products on demand.
Environmentally friendly. Today’s technology has paved the way for using environmentally-friendly inks, and the process is highly energy-efficient.

Although DTG machines have revolutionized the apparel industry, they also have some disadvantages.

Cons:

Doesn’t work on every textile. Although it depends on the garment printer, blanks used for DTG printing should ideally contain at least 50% cotton to enhance absorption and improve print quality. That said, technology is advancing quickly and digital printing on a polyester textile is no longer a distant dream.
Limited application surfaces. Unlike sublimation printing, which allows all-over-prints, DTG print surfaces can be limiting. Additional print areas require a lot more manual setup.
Not optimal for bulk orders. DTG printing is slower than other printing methods. However, it’s ideal for print-on-demand and eCommerce businesses – easily print a few shirts and still make a profit.

Make it happen today!

Start selling

Best fabrics for DTG printing (with product examples)

Since DTG printers use water-based ink, natural fabrics produce the best results. They absorb ink well, creating vivid colors printed directly onto the garment.

These are the most suitable textiles for DTG:

Cotton
Ring-spun cotton
Combed and ring-spun cotton
Organic cotton
Linen, other natural textiles

Unleash your creativity with the power of direct-to-garment t-shirt printing. Browse our wide range of products below and see how your designs can come to life on various apparel and accessories. From classic t-shirts to cozy custom hoodies, the possibilities are endless.

From $9.88 From $7.63 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 61 colors 15 print providers

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DTG vs screen printing

Choosing the right printing methods for your custom apparel can be tricky. Here’s a quick breakdown of DTG and Screen Printing to help you decide.

Consider these factors before making your choice:

Upfront investment
Design complexity
Product quantity
Brand image

Here’s a table comparing DTG and Screen Printing:

Feature	DTG printing	Screen printing
Quality	Unrivaled photorealistic prints.	Vibrant, high-quality prints.
Durability	Withstands over 50 washes.	Best choice for long-lasting garments.
Design complexity	Excellent for intricate designs.	Limited to simpler designs.
Sustainability	Water-based inks, energy-efficient.	Uses more water, possible overproduction.
Minimum order	Print as few as one.	Minimums typically 5-100 units.
Production time	Slower, best for small orders.	Faster for bulk orders after setup.
Cost	Affordable for small orders, not ideal for bulk.	Expensive for small orders, cost-effective for bulk.

Key takeaways:

DTG excels in high-quality, small-batch, detailed designs.
Screen Printing is perfect for bulk orders, simpler designs, and maximum garment longevity.

Choose the printing method that best suits your business by considering your specific needs.

Explore

Compare DTG vs Screen Printing in detail on our blog.

Tips for your first DTG design

DTG printing allows great precision in image reproduction, meaning you can go as complex as you like regarding colors and details in your designs.

To create a great design, you should:

Search for inspiration online. Draw inspiration from Amazon, Etsy, Pinterest, and many other sites to see what designs other people are selling.
Provide high-resolution image quality. When creating designs for shirts or any other apparel, make sure you have a high-resolution image. This way, the DTG printer can create a clear, sharp, and colorful print.

The key is to make sure your designs are saved in the highest resolution possible for the best print quality.

Ensure you follow the print file requirements to achieve the best DTG prints possible.

In the side panel of our Product Creator (formerly known as the Mockup Generator), view specific file requirements for each design area of the garment. Click here to learn more.

Create mockups to view how your printed garments will look in real life.

After you’ve finished your design, our Product Creator allows you to preview the final product and create realistic mockups that you can use on your digital storefront.

Whatever your goals, always strive to connect your brand and your customers. If you’re interested in tips, tricks, and resources on how to create your first design, our recent article will come in handy.

Printify has created a library of free and print-ready designs to make it easier for you. These designs range from Mother’s Day to Halloween and include the most popular sale seasons, such as Christmas and St. Valentine’s day.

The best part is that these designs can be used on products immediately because they’re under a Creative Commons license for commercial use.

Frequently asked questions

What is direct-to-garment printing?

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a method that uses specialized inkjet technology to print designs directly onto garments. It’s like printing on paper, but on fabric! DTG printers use water-based inks that soak into the fibers for a smooth, high-quality finish.

Is DTG cheaper than screen printing?

It depends on your order quantity. DTG is generally more cost-effective for small orders (up to 25 shirts) because there’s minimal setup involved. Screen printing has lower per-unit costs for larger orders (more than 100 shirts) due to economies of scale, but requires upfront setup fees.

Which is better – DTF or DTG?

DTF (direct-to-film) printing involves printing designs onto a film transfer sheet first, then heat-pressing it onto the garment. DTG printing applies ink directly to the fabric. Here’s a quick comparison:

DTG: Better for intricate designs and small orders. Offers a wider range of printable fabrics.
DTF: Faster production for larger orders on specific fabrics (like nylon). May offer brighter colors on dark fabrics.

What is the disadvantage of DTG?

The main disadvantage of DTG is that it’s slower than screen printing for large orders. Additionally, DTG inks work best on natural fabrics like cotton. While possible on some synthetics, results may vary.

How long does direct-to-garment printing last?

With proper care (washing inside-out on cold), DTG prints can withstand over 50 washes and maintain their quality.

What is better, direct-to-garment or screen printing?

The best method depends on your needs. Consider these factors:

Order quantity: DTG is better for small orders, and screen printing for bulk.
Design complexity: DTG excels at intricate designs, screen printing for simpler ones.
Fabric type: DTG works best on natural fabrics, screen printing on a wider range.
Turnaround time: DTG is slower for bulk orders, screen printing is faster once set up.

Closing thoughts

In the world of on-demand manufacturing, DTG printing remains unrivaled. If you’re just starting your entrepreneurial journey, DTG printing offers a hassle-free way to easily print one-of-a-kind products for your customers.

With many strengths, it’s the go-to printing method for print-on-demand entrepreneurs of all calibers. Here’s why:

Cost-effective. No investment is required, and anyone can start printing today.
High-detail print quality. With DTG, the entire design looks photorealistic.
No minimum order quantity. Order as few or as many products as you wish.
Environmentally-friendly. With eco-friendly inks, printing is more sustainable.

Whether you want to start a print on demand business, simply print something for yourself, or scale your existing venture, DTG printing offers something for everyone.

Make it happen today!

Start selling

The post Direct-to-garment printing: A quick guide (2025) appeared first on Printify.

25 things to sell for Christmas and make extra money

Baiba Blain — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 09:30:42 +0000

Create and sell unique gifts with Printify

Start designing

With bells jingling and people tingling with excitement for the upcoming Christmas holiday season, it’s time to shop and wrap some unique and special gifts.

This is the perfect opportunity to start or expand your online store with seasonal bestsellers for a local and global audience. From wooden Christmas crafts to mason jar designs and holiday home decor, help people fill their gift baskets with the top 25 things to sell for Christmas.

Why sell custom Christmas products?

The Christmas shopping season is the perfect time to add fun items to your virtual stock that will definitely sell. It’s your chance to cash in on seasonal income and explore new business ideas.

People are on the lookout for discounts, sales, and great Christmas gift deals. They turn to you specifically for unique product ideas for their Christmas gifts and home decor.

And Christmas crafts and goods sell like hotcakes during the holiday season.

Holiday shoppers spent more than $957 billion over last year’s holiday season. That’s an impressive number of shoppers looking for Christmas-themed merchandise. Gift-giving is a part of the tradition that people aren’t ready to let go of, and something personalized definitely qualifies as the perfect present.

What sells the most during Christmas?

In short, everything. But that’s not the answer to expanding your sales or helping you pick things to sell during the Christmas shopping frenzy. That’s where festive season facts come in handy.

The top six retail categories booming during the Christmas season are:

Clothing (56%)
Gift Cards (44%)
Toys (37%)
Books and Videogames (31%)
Food and Candy (29%)

Clothing, custom shoes, and books are among the top-selling Christmas items.

When putting together your holiday collection, include products from these best-selling categories to make sure your Wix, eBay, or Etsy shop succeeds during the Christmas period.

Top 25 things to sell for Christmas in 2024

Sell Christmas wreaths, homemade ornaments, and other handmade crafts, but remember that creating these items requires time and resources you don’t want to waste. The beauty of Print on Demand (POD) is the freedom to customize anything, making the holiday season all the more profitable.

Here are the top things to sell for Christmas from the Printify Catalog.

1. Christmas stockings

Hanging Christmas stockings is a sure way to create a festive atmosphere. Whether filled with candy and small Christmas gifts like bath bombs, gift cards, and toys, or serving as holiday home decor, these soft, cute, and appealing accessories are a great idea to sell online.

Add holiday patterns, images, symbols, or text to design top-selling stockings online.

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1 sizes 2 colors Imagine Your Photos

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1 sizes MWW On Demand

2. Christmas ornaments

Personalized Christmas ornaments are among the best-selling Christmas crafts. People love to dazzle their Christmas trees and houses with customized decorations, and these are fun ideas for stockings, secret Santas, or holiday gifts.

Sell ornaments with names, Christmas patterns, characters, symbols, or heartwarming text designs for every taste and occasion.

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1 sizes Pic the Gift

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1 sizes 2 print providers

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Check out our blog for more ideas on Christmas ornaments to make and sell.

3. Christmas cards

A personalized card is a great craft idea to make the holidays extra special. They’re top-selling Christmas items – always in demand, so make your own holiday cards to spread joy and profit.

From Christmas miracles and beloved symbols to important announcements within the design. Get creative with unique Christmas cards and make cherished keepsakes your shoppers will love.

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4. Ugly Christmas sweaters

Increase your income throughout the holiday season by selling ugly but adorable Christmas sweaters.

These seasonal staples are must-haves in every home for big and small enthusiasts. Make and sell ugly Christmas sweaters with quirky puns, funny imagery, or holiday patterns that make them hideously cute – they’ll sell like hotcakes.

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5. Christmas pajamas

Create the ultimate cozy Christmas feeling by snuggling on the couch in comfy custom pajamas, a hot cup of cocoa, and your favorite Christmas movie.

Pair your customized pajama pants with a comfortable short or long-sleeve tee for the perfect holiday combo. Add Christmas characters, patterns, or imagery and delight your target audience by selling comfort and style in the shape of a pajama.

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8 sizes Miami Sublimation

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4 sizes 1 colors Subliminator

From $32.81 From $24.14 with Printify Premium

8 sizes Miami Sublimation

From $27.34 From $20.11 with Printify Premium

4 sizes Miami Sublimation

6. Christmas wrapping paper

No Christmas is complete without the joy of giving and receiving gifts, but it’s not just what’s inside that counts. The best Christmas gifts are often the ones wrapped with love and thoughtfulness. Custom Christmas wrapping paper offers a unique and personal touch that elevates any present, turning a simple gift into something truly special.

Why settle for generic store-bought designs when you can create and sell personalized wrapping paper that resonates with different audiences, themes, and styles?

Whether it’s for kids, adults, or special occasions, custom wrapping paper can set you apart, making your store a go-to destination for holiday shoppers looking for something extraordinary.

From $5.23 From $4.32 with Printify Premium

3 sizes Stickers & Posters

From $8.09 From $5.29 with Printify Premium

2 sizes Prodigi

From $4.95 From $4.09 with Printify Premium

2 sizes Prodigi

7. Christmas gift bags

Reusable, customizable gift bags are among the top things to sell for Christmas. They offer a sustainable and stylish way to present gifts, appealing to eco-conscious consumers while adding a personal touch to holiday celebrations.

By designing holiday-themed gift bags, you can create unique, eye-catching products that stand out under any Christmas tree.

From $19.31 From $14.21 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Print Clever

From $16.48 From $12.13 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Imagine Your Photos

8. Christmas tree skirt

A Christmas tree without a skirt feels unfinished, much like a gift without wrapping. These tree skirts are essential holiday decor items, making them perfect for Christmas sales.

Custom tree skirts not only add a stylish touch to the ultimate holiday centerpiece but also offer versatility in design. Create and sell personalized tree skirts featuring various colors, patterns, and festive imagery.

From $40.59 From $29.86 with Printify Premium

1 sizes MWW On Demand

9. Christmas t-shirts

Custom Christmas t-shirts are among the best Christmas items to make and sell. They’re versatile, evergreen, and a beloved wardrobe staple all year round.

Decorate your custom t-shirts with Christmassy patterns, scenery, well wishes, quotes, religious scriptures, photos – you name it – and end up with the best-selling Christmas items on Etsy and beyond.

From $10.87 From $8.69 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 126 colors 21 print providers

From $7.71 From $5.78 with Printify Premium

9 sizes 66 colors 22 print providers

From $9.88 From $7.63 with Printify Premium

8 sizes 61 colors 15 print providers

From $12.18 From $10.67 with Printify Premium

7 sizes 61 colors 10 print providers

10. Christmas mugs

Custom mugs rank high among things to sell for Christmas. They’re the perfect gifts for loved ones, friends, employees, or colleagues who enjoy a warm beverage here and there.

Mugs provide the perfect canvas for your art, names, titles, patterns, imagery, and any other design element. Customize your Christmas mugs and earn extra cash this holiday season with these ultimate bestsellers.

From $4.61 From $3.50 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 2 print providers

From $5.52 From $4.47 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 9 colors 2 print providers

From $6.64 From $5.07 with Printify Premium

2 sizes 5 print providers

From $7.66 From $5.63 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

11. Christmas candles

Bring the delicious smell of the holidays into every home, office, and setting with personalized candles.

Our eco-friendly soy wax blends, combined with sweet and fresh aromas, will make the best Christmas gifts and home aesthetics for everyone who enjoys daydreaming in a cloud of yummy scents. Mix those with holiday-themed designs, and you’ve got some of the best Christmas products to sell.

From $10.94 From $8.76 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Lumient

From $19.53 From $15.24 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Candle Builders

From $21.88 From $17.07 with Printify Premium

1 sizes SwagRabbit

From $11.72 From $9.15 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Candle Builders

12. Stuffed toys

Stuffed toys aren’t just for kids. They bring joy and loving memories to children and adults. This Christmas, create personalized plush toys that will bring holiday spirit to the entire family.

Our Catalog stores a variety of animals to choose from – with the possibility of customizing their little shirts. Decorate them with season’s greetings, snowmen, or Christmas trees here and there to put some extra love and holiday spirit onto something small, cute, and meaningful.

From $17.19 From $13.66 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 10 colors Underground Threads

From $13.67 From $10.37 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors OPT OnDemand

From $26.48 From $19.48 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Imagine Your Photos

13. Christmas oven mitts

While Christmas crafts and ornaments are beloved gift ideas, this holiday season, try something unique – Print on Demand oven mitts.

These will be a great gift for a friend or family member who enjoys baking and filling homes with delicious holiday aromas. And they make unique accessories for a Christmassy kitchen aesthetic. This Christmas Eve, every proud homeowner will gladly display them for others to see.

From $18.59 From $14.10 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Colorway

14. Christmas tablecloth

While Christmas wreaths decorate every entrance, we need something that will spruce up the dinner table – are you ready for one of those unexpected Christmas gift ideas? Our Catalog has just what you need: custom tablecloths to decorate for the holidays. Sounds like your next Christmas craft (albeit virtual)?

Perfect for the centerpiece roast, this accessory adds a holiday spirit to every setting and home, making it one of the best things to make and sell at Christmas.

From $25.78 From $19.88 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Colorway

15. Christmas aprons

Moving on to yet another kitchen staple – yes, with POD, you can customize things beyond imagination. Custom aprons are excellent Christmas items to sell during the holiday shopping season. They’re must-haves in every home and make the ideal gifts for chefs, cooking enthusiasts, and homeowners who proudly spend time in their kitchens.

Decorated with Christmas-themed designs, these will come in handy – and look great – while preparing delicious goods for the holidays.

From $20.90 From $16.59 with Printify Premium

1 sizes MWW On Demand

From $21.44 From $15.77 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 5 colors Colorway

From $18.72 From $14.19 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 6 colors T Shirt and Sons

From $16.63 From $12.61 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Print Clever

16. Christmas pet costumes

Of all the Christmas things to make and sell, pet costumes might be the cutest ones, covered in traditional designs with gingerbread men, reindeer, or elves. Pet lovers, rejoice!

However, even though the costumes people spend money on in physical stores can amuse us, they’re not necessarily pleasant to wear for the animals themselves. So, this holiday shopping season, consider offering something more eco-friendly and comfortable for our little companions, such as custom pet hoodies that will keep them cozy and at ease.

From $20.31 From $15.40 with Printify Premium

7 sizes 2 colors FYBY

From $22.03 From $16.71 with Printify Premium

3 sizes 4 colors Printed Mint

17. Christmas puzzles

What is a truly meaningful gift? The one that keeps the family together and entertained. Christmas puzzles are excellent things to make and sell for Christmas. They’re stimulating, beautiful, and fun for the whole family. Once done, they can make wonderful wall art to cherish for years to come.

Design unique jigsaws with holiday-inspired imagery, text, or patterns, add family photos for extra customization, or make fun announcements to surprise families this festive season.

From $14.45 From $11.49 with Printify Premium

3 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

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8 sizes District Photo

From $17.13 From $13.20 with Printify Premium

6 sizes Imagine Your Photos

From $32.63 From $25.94 with Printify Premium

4 sizes M.i.A Merchandise

18. Christmas mason jars

Mason jars make excellent Christmas gifts. These evergreen products can be customized with festive designs, making them perfect for any occasion.

Whether used for sipping cozy drinks, storing holiday treats, or adding charm to seasonal decor, personalized mason jars are practical and stylish.

Their multifunctionality and appeal make them a must-have for every home, office, or holiday event gift basket. With unique holiday-themed designs, these jars are bound to attract attention and practically sell themselves.

From $11.61 From $8.54 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors Textildruck Europa

19. Christmas slippers

If this holiday season you want to make and sell something extra cozy, soft, and fluffy, you can’t go wrong with custom slippers. This Christmas craft will warm recipients’ hearts and feet. And we all know that home is where your feet are warm.

Combining comfort and style, these long-lasting home accessories can become your seasonal bestsellers with the right design. Think winter scenes, animals, holiday elements, and fun prints. Maybe even a line or two that will make the wearer feel extra special.

From $9.38 From $7.11 with Printify Premium

4 sizes 1 colors Smart Printee

From $9.38 From $7.11 with Printify Premium

3 sizes 1 colors Smart Printee

20. Christmas journals

From writing down your favorite Christmas recipes to loving memories, adventures, or daily scriptures, custom journals come in handy in more than one way.

Make and sell Christmas journals to those who cherish writing, scribbling, or simply putting thoughts on paper. Earn extra money by offering shoppers something practical and meaningful this Christmas season.

From $9.30 From $6.84 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

From $11.17 From $8.22 with Printify Premium

1 sizes District Photo

From $11.14 From $8.20 with Printify Premium

3 sizes Drukātava

21. Christmas socks

While somewhat of a humorous gift-giving staple, socks are rocking their way back into fashion, homes, and people’s hearts. And with fun and quirky designs, these will be wardrobe staples and your seasonal bestsellers as well.

Craft designs that will help celebrate – Christmas patterns, text, and photo elements are highly recommended. Add holiday-themed symbols and other details to make your custom socks the best in the market.

From $8.05 From $5.92 with Printify Premium

3 sizes SPOKE Custom Products

From $10.13 From $7.45 with Printify Premium

1 sizes 1 colors ThreadStudio

From $10.94 From $8.05 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Tribe Socks

From $16.53 From $12.16 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Colorway

22. Christmas stickers

Small, handy, and unique, custom stickers are excellent to make and sell during the holidays. They’re perfect, cute little presents or additions to a well-wrapped holiday gift, taking Christmas crafts to a whole new level.

These best-selling Christmas crafts will be a hot pick on your eCommerce store, with people looking for something extra special to add to a loving surprise.

From $1.38 From $1.01 with Printify Premium

4 sizes 2 print providers

From $3.67 From $2.70 with Printify Premium

5 sizes Printed Simply

From $4.22 From $3.10 with Printify Premium

3 sizes Printed Simply

From $5.94 From $4.37 with Printify Premium

2 sizes Printed Simply

23. Christmas table runners

Just like tablecloths, table runners add a festive touch to your Christmas dinner or holiday decor. They allow hosts to express themselves and improve the overall dining experience for them and their guests.

Add wintery scenes, mistletoes, holiday patterns, and various Christmas-related design elements to make and sell unique table runners that will turn heads and wow every guest.

From $19.45 From $15.47 with Printify Premium

2 sizes MWW On Demand

24. Christmas coasters

What better way to keep your tables and tablecloths safe than with print-on-demand coasters designed for the holidays?

These practical and cute home accessories, with Christmas-themed designs, can add charm to family gatherings and events. They’re cost-effective to make and sell, tapping into the holiday joy and vast consumer base around the world.

From $6.25 From $4.74 with Printify Premium

2 sizes Printed Mint

From $12.81 From $9.72 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Colorway

From $5.44 From $4.12 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Printed Mint

From $4.23 From $3.21 with Printify Premium

1 sizes Prima Printing

25. Christmas cutting boards

Let’s conclude our list of the top-selling Christmas items with another kitchen staple. From festive charcuterie boards to kitchen essentials, personalized cutting boards serve as practical tools all year round and decorative centerpieces during the holidays.

Create Christmas cutting boards with custom designs to earn extra cash selling thoughtful presents or home aesthetics, combining creativity with practicality for every kitchen and home.

From $13.17 From $9.69 with Printify Premium

2 sizes Pic the Gift

From $23.98 From $17.64 with Printify Premium

2 sizes Printed Mint

Make and sell Christmas dropshipping products in a few clicks

Have your Christmas ornaments, wall art, personalized jewelry, Christmas crafts, or other custom products picked, designed, and listed online in a few simple steps.

Sign up

Register for Printify with an email address or sign up with your Google Account. Fill in the necessary information to finalize your account and gain access to our free platform and all its epic benefits and features.

Choose a product

Head over to our Catalog and choose something from our above-listed items to sell for Christmas, or explore other product options – over 900 amazing items for you to design and sell. Filter products by criteria important to you and your business.

Apply your design

Once you pick a product, click Start designing to unleash your festive creativity. Create patterns, add text in different colors, fonts, and languages, upload photos and remove backgrounds, use the AI image generator, add emojis, and scale the design to your liking.

Order samples

We always recommend ordering product samples – no matter what you choose to sell. Sampling allows you to test your design, product, print quality, and the entire fulfillment process before offering it to your customers. Also – take gorgeous pictures to share on your social media and online storefront.

Publish and start selling

Pick one of the many eCommerce integrations – platforms like Shopify or marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, create your online store, and connect with Printify in a few clicks. This will make product listing, pricing, and order handling super easy.

Why sell custom Christmas products with Printify?

Partnering with Printify offers numerous advantages for anyone looking to tap into the lucrative holiday market with custom Christmas products. With the ease of Print on Demand (POD), you can create and sell seasonal items without the hassles of traditional retail.

Risk-free

Printify’s POD model eliminates the need for physical stores, inventory management, or large upfront investments. Each product is printed, packaged, and shipped directly to your customers by our reliable Print Providers, allowing you to focus solely on growing your business.

Extensive Catalog

With over 900 customizable products, Printify offers something for every customer. Whether it’s festive clothing, unique home decor, pet accessories, or holiday games, access a diverse product line that caters to a wide audience.

eCommerce integrations

Printify easily integrates with major eCommerce platforms like Shopify, Wix, WooCommerce, eBay, and Etsy. This allows you to quickly list your custom Christmas products across multiple channels, maximizing your reach and sales potential.

Endless customization

Design your products with Printify’s free and intuitive Product Creator (previously known as Mockup Generator). Upload your own designs or select from millions of high-quality images from Shutterstock ensuring that your products are as unique as your brand.

Dedicated support

Printify’s Merchant Support Team is here to assist you every step of the way. Whether you need help setting up your store or have questions about orders, our agents are available via chat on weekdays and email 24/7 to provide timely and effective support.

Have the best Christmas, selling items that warm hearts

So, we’ve done our part, introducing you to the best Christmas items to sell; we hope you got inspired for your holiday season sales. Now it’s your turn to become an elf and start creating magic.

Make and sell ornaments, wall art, mugs, journals, stockings, greeting cards, and so much more – the possibilities are endless.

Partner with Printify, create your POD store, and choose top-selling Christmas items from our extensive Catalog. We’ll have your back and help you get that extra cash during the holidays, taking care of the orders for you.

We wish you luck in your eCommerce journey and a successful holiday season.

Make it happen today!

Start selling

The post 25 things to sell for Christmas and make extra money appeared first on Printify.

RGB vs CMYK: The ultimate guide to print color perfection

Baiba Blain — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:01:00 +0000

Design custom products with Printify

Get started

Have you ever wondered why the colors on your computer screen look different when printed? Understanding the difference between RGB vs CMYK is fundamental for achieving accurate and vibrant print results.

Let’s break down these two color models.

Key takeaways

Understand the difference between RGB and CMYK. RGB is for digital screens, while CMYK is for print.
Choose the appropriate file format based on image complexity and desired output. PDF is versatile, TIFF is ideal for high-resolution images, EPS is best for vector graphics, and AI is for complex Adobe Illustrator designs.
Convert RGB files to CMYK for accurate print results. While it’s possible to print RGB images, converting to CMYK ensures better color accuracy when printing.
Sample your products. Order physical samples to see how colors appear in print before launching your store.
Understand the limitations of CMYK. Printed colors may appear less vibrant than they do on screen due to ink color and material constraints. Manage expectations by adjusting designs and color channels accordingly for optimal print results.

RGB vs CMYK: What’s the difference?

RGB and CMYK are two primary color models, or color spaces, used in graphic design.

The RGB color mode is used mainly for electronic displays such as computer monitors, smartphones, and TVs.

The RGB color space has a wider gamut (range of colors) than CMYK – meaning you can create more vibrant and saturated colors on a screen using RGB. It’s ideal for creating vibrant and eye-catching graphics for websites, social media, and digital marketing materials.

CMYK, on the other hand, is used mostly for printed materials.

The CMYK color space has a narrower gamut due to the limitations of ink technology. This is why printed colors often appear less vibrant than their digital counterparts.

However, this color mode is essential for accurate color reproduction in print, such as brochures, posters, magazines, and product packaging.

Understanding the differences between these color modes will help you achieve consistent, high-quality results across both digital and print media and products.

What is RGB?

RGB stands for red, green, and blue – this model creates hues by combining these three primary colors. It’s an additive process that starts with black and builds color through increasing light intensity.

It’s possible to control aspects like vibrancy, saturation, and shading by adjusting the RGB colors. Because this process is entirely digital, you can manipulate how the light on the screen combines to create the desired color.

When is RGB used?

In short, RGB is used for all things digital. This includes visual content like videos and photos, web and app design, icons, graphics, and buttons. It also applies to branding elements like logos, ads, and banners, as well as social media-related features like profile pictures, cover photos, images for posts, and others.

Nearly every computer and mobile device uses the RGB color system to represent colors effectively and efficiently on your screen. Red, green, and blue are coded in a language that computers understand – using bits. However, due to technical limitations, the RGB color gamut (the range of colors for color space) is smaller than what the human eye can perceive.

What are the best file formats for RGB?

Choose the right file type to achieve accurate print colors. The most common formats for RGB images are:

JPEG: This format is widely used for its balance between file size and image quality. It’s suitable for most types of digital images, especially photographs.
GIF: Best used for images with limited color palettes and animations, GIFs are ideal for web graphics but are less suitable for high-resolution prints.
PNG: A lossless format that supports transparency, making it perfect for images requiring clear backgrounds. PNG is great for web use and images with sharp edges.
SVG: Ideal for vector graphics, SVG brings scalability without losing quality. It’s widely used for logos, icons, and illustrations, especially in web design.

While these formats are generally preferred, checking with your specific printer to confirm their requirements and recommended file types is always recommended.

Tip

Explore more about color profiles, RGB values, and how to create colors and designs in our Must-Read Design Guide.

What is CMYK?

CMYK colors are created by mixing cyan, magenta, yellow, and pure black inks. Unlike RGB, this is a subtractive process where color is produced by removing natural white light from a medium. More ink equals darker colors.

When all the colors are mixed together in the CMYK mode, they produce a dark, muted color. Black ink is added separately to achieve a deeper black and enhance image contrast.

Did you know? CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and key. Key is the area where these colors align and produce black by mixing tiny dots of ink.

When is CMYK used?

CMYK is used for any design project that’s physically printed instead of viewed on a screen. So, if you need to recreate the design you see on screen with ink, the CMYK color model will provide more accurate results.

This includes all things branding: business cards, custom stickers, stationery, store signs, etc. Additionally, everything related to advertising: posters, flyers, billboards, booklets, and merchandise. Personalized t-shirts, totes, hats, and other apparel and accessories are created using CMYK color modes.

What are the best file formats for CMYK?

Using the appropriate file formats for your project can significantly enhance color accuracy and print quality.

Here are the most suitable options for CMYK files:

PDF: This versatile format preserves color profiles, ensuring accurate color reproduction. PDFs can handle both vector and raster graphics, making them suitable for complex designs.
TIFF: Ideal for high-resolution images, TIFF is a lossless format that maintains image quality without compression. This is particularly beneficial for photographs and detailed graphics.
EPS: Primarily used by vector programs, EPS ensures scalability without compromising image clarity. This format is perfect for logos, illustrations, and designs that need to be resized without pixelation.
AI: As Adobe Illustrator’s native format, AI offers maximum editing flexibility and preserves all design elements, including layers and effects. This is the preferred choice for complex vector-based artwork.

RGB vs CMYK: Which one should you use for design files?

RGB is ideal for digital images and scenarios where color printing isn’t a concern. However, if you’re deciding between CMYK and RGB for printing, CMYK is generally the better choice.

The CMYK mode provides a more reliable reproduction of colors in the final print compared to what you see on a digital screen. When you convert RGB-mode files to CMYK to print on a four-color printer (which is the majority of printers), there are differences between the same colors.

These shifts are usually minor, but they can still be an issue, especially if your design project is color-sensitive. Similarly, if you upload a CMYK image to the Internet, you may also see differences in the color space.

Can RGB images be printed?

While it’s technically possible to print RGB images, it’s not recommended.

Most printers are designed to work with CMYK color mode, which is specifically tailored for print production. Converting an RGB image to CMYK during the printing process can lead to color alteration and a loss of vibrancy.

To achieve the best possible print results, it’s highly recommended to design your images in CMYK from the start. This gives you more control over color accuracy and ensures your printed piece matches your vision.

However, there are some exceptions. High-end printers and specific printing processes might be able to handle RGB images directly, but it’s always best to consult with your printer to confirm their capabilities and select the desired color space.

Tip

Explore the best printing methods for your merch on our blog.

How to set up RGB vs CMYK color modes in design programs

Be sure to work in the correct color mode from the beginning of your design process. Converting between RGB and CMYK can lead to color changes, so it’s generally recommended to start with the appropriate color mode for your project.

Here’s how to do it:

Photoshop

Creating a new document: When starting a new project, navigate to File > New. Under Color Mode, select either RGB or CMYK, depending on your project’s intended use.
Converting an existing image: If you have an existing RGB image and need to convert it to CMYK, go to Image > Mode and select CMYK. Be aware that this conversion might result in color shifts. Click on Flatten image to keep the image’s overall appearance.

Illustrator

Creating a new document: Similar to Photoshop, when creating a new document, choose the desired color mode (RGB or CMYK) under the Color Mode option.
Converting an existing document: To change the color mode of an existing Illustrator file, go to File > Document Color Mode and select the desired color mode.

How to convert RGB to CMYK?

If you’ve created your design in RGB, you can preview how it might look when printed by converting it to CMYK. This will give you a rough estimate of the color shift. Here’s how to do it:

Photoshop

Before creating the art file click Image > Mode > CMYK Color.

Illustrator

Before creating the art file, click File > Document Color Mode > CMYK Color.

Tip

If you don’t have access to any design software, use the CMYK preview feature in our Product Creator for more realistic previews.

If you’re downloading images and graphics from an online resource (make sure they’re royalty-free!), don’t forget to convert that image to CMYK (and make sure it’s hi-res to ensure high-quality print). However, this doesn’t mean that all your designs need to be converted to CMYK. If your customers want to see the actual representation of the colors, then the CMYK color palette is the closest to reality.

How to make sure your print colors are what you want them to be

Before launching your online store, order samples of your products. This allows you to assess the actual print colors and overall product quality. Color vibrancy can vary significantly between materials, so seeing the final product firsthand is crucial for avoiding customer dissatisfaction.

Sampling also allows you to showcase your products with personalized videos and build excitement for your brand.

How to get bright print colors with CMYK

While RGB offers a vast color spectrum, CMYK has its limitations. Due to the nature of inks and materials, printed colors often appear less vibrant than their digital counterparts. Solid colors created by combining 100% cyan, magenta, and yellow tend to be the most vivid in print. However, even these will be less bright than on a screen.

It’s important to note that various materials absorb and reflect light differently, affecting color appearance. For instance, a cotton hoodie will produce less vibrant colors than a PU leather product.

To achieve the desired color in print, you may need to adjust your design. Tinting colors can help, but keep in mind that CMYK is less effective at creating subtle shades than the RGB color model. Understand these constraints and manage expectations to achieve the best possible print results.

Apply your print design on products with Printify

Printify is an excellent way to get started. It’s free for everyone, regardless of the size of your online business. Sign up, design merchandise from our vast Catalog of over 900 customizable products, and integrate with the most popular eCommerce platforms and marketplaces.

We can’t talk about designing products without mentioning the Product Creator (formerly known as the Mockup Generator), where you can use your newly acquired knowledge about print colors. It’s super easy to use and generates stunning product mockups to add to your online storefront.

How to achieve the best possible results

Unless you’re a corporation with a strict brand book, there really is no point in spending excessive time on color calibration or management. All you need to do is make sure that what your customers see on their mobile or computer screens is as close as possible to the actual print colors they’ll receive.

Which color profile should you use for your files? Find out more in our Help Center.

FAQ: CMYK vs RGB printing

Is it better to use CMYK or RGB?

It depends on your project. The RGB color model is best for digital devices like computer and smartphone screens.

What color model is used in printed designs? CMYK is specifically used for printing.

Do I need to convert RGB to CMYK for printing?

Yes, converting your RGB file to CMYK is generally recommended before sending it to print. This ensures accurate color reproduction. However, some printers can handle the RGB model, so it’s best to check with your specific printer.

Why do RGB and CMYK look different?

RGB and CMYK use different color models. RGB is an additive color model, meaning colors are created by combining red, green, and blue light. CMYK is a subtractive color model, where colors are created by subtracting white light from a surface by using cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink.

This fundamental difference leads to variations in color appearance between digital screens and printed materials. Is CMYK or RGB better for printing? CMYK is the more realistic choice.

Conclusion

Now you know the difference between RGB and CMYK. Armed with this knowledge, start designing your own products to sell on your online store. Printify makes bringing your designs to life easy with over 900 print-on-demand products and more than 80 global Printing Partners.

Let your creativity shine!

Make it happen today!

Start selling

The post RGB vs CMYK: The ultimate guide to print color perfection appeared first on Printify.

How to get free print designs

Phil Brown — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 06:12:37 +0000

Fresh designs, even fresher profits

Get started with Printify

Have you been thinking about how to get started with Print on Demand or merch sales, and you’re stuck on what to use for designs? Then look no further, today we’ll tell you how to get free print designs.

For most of these free design sites, the process Is simple:

Sign up for an account
Download the image or graphic

There may at times be a third step, attribution. This step is only for some of the sites, but they require you to attribute free graphics to either the site or the original author of the design or photograph. Now, let’s get moving!

How to get free print designs?

The list:

Printify – free t-shirt designs
Freepik
Pixabay
Vecteezy
Unsplash
Death to Stock Photo
Gratistography
Morguefile
Stockvault
Pexels
Picjumbo
Pikwizard

Effortless images and graphics

Source: Unsplash

Freepik

Freepik.com has thousands of resources, from business use to cars, animals and nature graphics, there are hundreds of thousands to choose from. If you’re operating on their free plan, you can use any one of their graphics, including on digital products, for free. The only caveat: you have to attribute them, including in physical products. This might work for some designs, especially for children or for events. If you take their premium option, then you’ll have access to all of their designs, not just their free print designs.

Pixabay

Pixabay is a huge, free stock photo service that offers stunning, user-generated content that covers just about every area of every aesthetic for free print designs. They have amazing photo images of mountains, waterfalls, and even illustrations. With over 1 million images, there’s something there for every customer and every merch store, take a look and get inspired to design!

Vecteezy

Vecteexy is another great service that offers a freemium mode for free print designs. Most of their millions of images are free to use for any of your projects, depending on the license. They also have a pro subscription that allows you to download premium designs from their contributor community. Whether you’re looking for that easy tee design for your slogan, or something stunning, Vecteezy and its contributors have you covered!

Unsplash

Unsplash is full of great, attribution-free images from photographers all over the world. These are typically landscape or portrait images that photographers submit because they are proud of their subjects. Although the selection is limited, you’re able to use their creative commons license for any of your free print design projects. Start browsing now to get some beautiful images and inspiration for your next project.

Death to Stock Photo

Death to Stock Photo is the well-known email service that puts “non-Stocky”, stock photos into your email inbox. Carefully curated, these photos don’t have that “stock photo” feel of cheesy corporate hamming to the camera that comes with so many stock photos. Sign up and start getting some great designs into your inbox for use in your merch products, you may just turn free into profitable with these great options.

Gratisography

Gratisography has great, always free creative photos for nearly unlimited uses. They’re all completely free to download, without any copyright restrictions. As they say, you can do almost anything you can think of with these images and designs. They have quick, eccentric and stunning photos of unique subjects, all at your disposal for use on your next merch project!

Morguefile

Billing itself as free images for creatives, by creatives, Morguefile has over 350,000 images to choose from. These are generally stunning, landscape or nature photos but also include photos with portraits or everyday, domestic life, and culture. If you’re looking for some unique perspectives on some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, check this site out for all of their images for free print designs to use on your projects.

Stockvault

Stockvault has over 1 million royalty-free images neatly organized in collections for your convenience. These are stock photos that are used for websites or for posters and print, but you can definitely find some free print designs with graphics or photos that are suitable for your next project as well. Take a look and explore the wide range of images that are available here. You won’t be disappointed!

Pexels

All photos on Pexels can be used for free, including for free print designs. The only restriction is that you have to modify the image if you’re going to use it on a physical product and add value – you can’t just sell only the image or graphic, which is fair! So, if you’re going to modify the images or graphics for your own use anyway, then you can enjoy a wide variety of images from Pexels! Take a look at what they have available and see if there’s anything that inspires you!

Picjumbo

Picjumbo is another freemium photo service that offers great free and paid collections of photos. With hundreds of thousands of photos, it’s another great resource for free print designs, but especially good for categories such as food or home. If you’re making a brand that requires some pictures of hot chili peppers – or even making a snarky image with them – this is the place to start for some colorful, powerful images!

Pikwizard

PikWizard is another popular site that has stock images that would be good for American flag tees for babies and cats! Luckily for you, if you’re doing merch or even just web design, they have a huge community of users that eagerly upvote the best images on the platform – that way you’re not wasting time sifting through a ton of images of that same boring fruit bowl. Get started with PikWizard and enjoy the hundreds of thousands of images on their platform for your free print designs, all royalty-free, and with no attribution required.

Free print design tools

Canva

Canva is a freemium online photo editing and design tool that allows you to use thousands of templates to edit and create fantastic free print designs. It’s also good for everyday, non-graphics designers to make some images, graphics, and even books on the cheap. If you’ve got some free print designs that don’t require a lot of skill to make, this might be the tool to get them done for free. Their huge templates library is also extremely useful for the part-time, amateur Picasso in you, so have a look at their library and get designing!

BeFunky

BeFunky is a cool editor for Instagram obsessed. BeFunky allows you to apply filters, frames, textures and other effects to photos painlessly. You also don’t need to download yet another program – it’s all online and ready to go for your free print designs. Dive right into BeFunky and get that Instagram-inspired photo album rolling!

Pixlr

Pixlr is another free online photo editor for beginners or people just needing a few touch-ups. They offer the use of their platform just for signing up, which is great for your free print designs. Just a few of their features like drawing on photos, retouching photos and applying filters are all available for your use – all free. Check it out and see if you love their intuitive design as much as we do!

Ribbet

Ribbet is a great-looking online and mobile photo editor. The huge benefit is how easy and intuitive it is to use while being very powerful and robust at the same time. Take a look at Ribbet for all of your free print design needs, and join their growing base of thousands of happy users.

Takeaways

This isn’t by any means a comprehensive list, but it should get you started on your merch journey if you’re wondering “How the heck am I going to afford all of these designs anyway?” We hope you’ve enjoyed our list!

Make it happen right now.

Start selling

The post How to get free print designs appeared first on Printify.

Copyright 101: Can I print this?

Baiba Blain — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 14:27:02 +0000

Start your custom printing business today!

Start selling

If this question pops-up, you’re probably thinking of using an image or text created by someone else and possibly copyrighted. How to know if a design is ready for commercial use?

We have prepared a visual copyright guide of what you can not use

More detailed information can be found in our Intellectual Property Guide.

Can I print this?

This article is for educational purposes only, not for commercial use. Images used in this article are the property of their authors and cannot be used for commercial purposes.

Explore our Catalog, create custom products with your design and sell them on your store. We manage automated order production and shipping directly to your customers – with your branding.

The post Copyright 101: Can I print this? appeared first on Printify.

Print Designs – Printify

How to start a print-on-demand business in 2025

What is the print-on-demand business model

Make it happen today!

How to start a print-on-demand business in 2025

1. Pick a niche

2. Decide what to sell

3. Create designs

4. Decide where to sell

5. Set up a store

6. Pick your supplier

7. Set a price

8. Check the quality of your products

9. Market your products

10. Monitor your online store performance

Pros and cons of Print on Demand

Pros:

Cons:

FAQ – How to start a successful print-on-demand business

Closing thoughts

Make it happen today!

Direct-to-garment printing: A quick guide (2025)

Key takeaways

What is DTG printing?

How does DTG printing work?

DTG printing: Pros and cons

Pros:

Cons:

Make it happen today!

Best fabrics for DTG printing (with product examples)

Unisex Ultra Cotton Tee

Unisex Jersey Long Sleeve Tee

Unisex 3\4 Sleeve Baseball Tee

Unisex Supply Hoodie

Champion Hoodie

Unisex Zip Hoodie

DTG vs screen printing

Tips for your first DTG design

Frequently asked questions

Closing thoughts

Make it happen today!

25 things to sell for Christmas and make extra money

Why sell custom Christmas products?

What sells the most during Christmas?

Top 25 things to sell for Christmas in 2024

1. Christmas stockings

Santa Stocking

Christmas Stocking

Christmas Stockings

2. Christmas ornaments

Ceramic Ornament, 4 Shapes

Metal Ornaments

Pewter Snowflake Ornament

Glass Ornaments

3. Christmas cards

Greeting Cards (1, 10, 30, and 50pcs)

Multi-Design Greeting Cards (5-Pack)

Fine Art Postcards

Holiday Cards (Two-sided print)

4. Ugly Christmas sweaters

Unisex Heavy Blend Crewneck Sweatshirt

Unisex Garment-Dyed Sweatshirt

Unisex Crewneck Sweatshirt

Unisex Tie-Dye Sweatshirt

5. Christmas pajamas

Women's Pajama Pants (AOP)

Women's Satin Pajamas (AOP)

Men's Pajama Pants (AOP)

Kids Lounge Pants (AOP)

6. Christmas wrapping paper

Gift Wrap Papers

Gift Wrapping Paper Rolls, 1pc

Gift Wrapping Paper Sheets, 1pc

7. Christmas gift bags

Sack

Gift Bag

8. Christmas tree skirt

Christmas Tree Skirts

9. Christmas t-shirts

Unisex Jersey Short Sleeve Tee