You’ve probably seen the TikToks, the YouTube videos, or maybe even posts on Reddit where people claim they’re making money selling t-shirts and mugs online. Naturally, it gets you thinking—can you actually do this too?
The idea behind print-on-demand is pretty simple. You don’t need to buy inventory upfront. You don’t have to ship anything yourself. Instead, you upload your design, choose your products, and the platform takes care of the rest. For beginners, it almost sounds like a no-brainer.
However, not all print-on-demand platforms are created equal. Some are super easy to use but come with lower profit margins. Others offer better features but have a steeper learning curve. If you’re just starting out, picking the wrong one could lead to wasted time and missed opportunities.
That’s why this guide exists. We’ll walk through the best print-on-demand companies for beginners in 2025. Some platforms are great for t-shirts, others for custom phone cases or fast shipping—you’ll see the differences and know exactly where to begin.
What Is Print on Demand and How Does It Work?
Print on demand—often called POD—is basically a way to sell your designs on stuff like shirts, mugs, or posters, without ever touching the product. No printers, no boxes, no trips to the post office. Instead, you partner with a POD provider. You upload your design, choose the item you want to customize, and when someone places an order, the supplier handles the rest.
The best part? You only pay after a sale is made. No bulk purchasing. No storage hassles. Just create a design, list it on your storefront, and the backend fulfillment runs automatically.
It’s a low-risk, affordable way to test product ideas without investing in stock or managing shipping. Of course, there are trade-offs—you have less control over delivery speeds, production quality, and profit margins.
Still, for beginners, POD is one of the simplest ways to launch an online store without breaking the bank or filling your garage with boxes.
What to Look for in a Print-on-Demand Platform
Not every POD service works the same. If you’re just starting out, keep an eye on these important features before choosing a platform.
Product Range
Think about what you want to sell. Some services stick to basics like tees and mugs. Others go broader with items like:
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Tote bags
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Canvas wall art
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Smartphone cases
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Stickers and decals
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Hoodies, caps, socks
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Journals and posters
A larger catalog gives you more flexibility to test different ideas.
Print Quality
Quality can make or break your brand. Poor printing leads to refunds, complaints, and lost trust.
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Colors should be accurate and vibrant
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Design placement should be clean and centered
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Fabrics and materials should feel durable and hold up in the wash
Read customer reviews or, even better, order test samples to judge for yourself.
Pricing and Profit
Base costs vary across platforms. Make sure you’ll still make money after adding your markup.
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Balance quality with affordability
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Calculate the total cost: product + shipping + platform fees
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Account for sales, discounts, or ad costs you may run
If your margins are too thin, it’s hard to grow profitably.
Shipping and Delivery
Delivery speed matters—especially if you’re selling internationally.
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Average production time (how long it takes to make the product)
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Shipping origins (U.S., EU, or local options?)
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Estimated delivery times
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Shipping rates for domestic and global customers
Some platforms offer multiple fulfillment centers, which helps speed things up.
Ease of Use
The best tools won’t help if they’re hard to navigate. A user-friendly platform is key, especially for first-timers.
Look for:
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Clear onboarding guides or video walkthroughs
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A clean, intuitive dashboard
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Built-in tools for creating mockups
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Mobile access if you plan to manage orders on the go
If you feel lost right away, it might not be the best fit.
Store Integration
Your POD service should connect directly with your ecommerce platform. Popular options include:
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Shopify
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Etsy
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WooCommerce
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Wix
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BigCommerce
Make sure it supports the store you’re using. A smooth integration saves you time and avoids manual order tracking.
Branding Features
Want to build a recognizable brand? Choose a platform that helps you customize the customer experience with:
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Personalized packing slips
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Branded neck labels or tags
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Custom packaging
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Optional thank-you messages
These small touches help your shop stand out and feel professional.
Design Tools and Templates
If you’re not a designer, look for tools that make the creative process easier.
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Drag-and-drop design editors
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Free templates for popular products
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Mockup generators with realistic previews
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Access to stock graphics or Canva integrations
Some platforms let you create once and apply your design across multiple items in just a few clicks.
Customer Support
Eventually, an issue will pop up. Whether it’s a delayed package or a print defect, fast and helpful support can make a big difference.
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Check for live chat, email, or ticket systems
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See if they offer 24/7 support
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Read reviews to find out how they handle problems
Reliable support helps you keep customers happy when things don’t go as planned.
Platform | Best For | Shipping Speed | Branding Options | Product Catalog | Free to Use? |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Printful | Branding & quality | Fast (1–3 days) | Yes (labels, inserts) | 300+ items | ✅ Yes |
Printify | Price control & flexibility | Varies by provider | Some (depends on vendor) | 800+ items | ✅ Yes |
Gelato | Global fulfillment & eco focus | Very Fast (local) | Limited | Apparel, mugs, art | ✅ Yes |
SPOD | Speed-focused fulfillment | Fast (48 hours) | Moderate | ~200+ items | ✅ Yes |
Spring | Social media creators | Moderate | Minimal | Basic essentials | ✅ Yes |
Teemill | Eco-conscious brands | Moderate (UK/EU) | Yes | Apparel only | ✅ Yes |
Redbubble | Artists & casual creators | Moderate | No | 70+ items | ✅ Yes |
Zazzle | Marketplace exposure | Moderate | No | 1,000s of items | ✅ Yes |
What’s Next?
Now that you know what to watch for, let’s break down the top print-on-demand platforms for beginners—and see how they compare in real-world use.
Printful
Overview
Printful’s been around a while, and there’s a good reason why so many people start with it. For one, they handle everything themselves—printing, packing, and shipping—so you’re not relying on random third-party vendors. That usually means better quality and fewer surprises.
If you’re hoping to build a real brand, not just sell random merch, Printful makes that easier too. They offer things like custom labels, branded packing slips, and other small touches that help your store look professional right out of the gate.
Best For
Creators who want to build a long-term brand with quality packaging, consistent fulfillment, and strong customer trust.
Key Features
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Wide Product Range
Offers over 300 items including:-
T-shirts, hoodies, tank tops
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Mugs, hats, posters
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Phone cases, backpacks, and more
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Fast Global Fulfillment
Warehouses in the U.S., Europe, Canada, and Australia help speed up delivery times and reduce shipping costs in key markets. -
Custom Branding Options
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Add your logo to inside labels
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Custom packing slips
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Branded inserts and packaging
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White-label by default (no Printful branding)
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Built-in Integrations
Connects easily with:-
Shopify
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Etsy
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WooCommerce
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Wix, Squarespace, BigCommerce, and more
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Beginner-Friendly Tools
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Drag-and-drop mockup generator
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Simple product editor
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Helpful tutorials and knowledge base
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Customer Support
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24/7 live chat
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Email support
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Extensive self-help documentation
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Profit Potential
Printful leans toward higher-quality items, which means the base prices can be a bit steeper.
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Example: A basic t-shirt starts at around $13–$16, not including shipping.
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Many sellers price similar tees at $24–$30, leaving room for around $7–$10 in profit after fees.
Pricing
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Free to start — no monthly fee required.
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Optional add-ons:
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Warehousing service
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Graphic design help
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Product photography
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Pros & Cons
Pros
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Great branding tools
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Reliable fulfillment and product quality
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Strong integrations with major platforms
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No upfront costs
Cons
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Higher base prices than competitors
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Not the largest product catalog
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Branding features may require setup time
Printify
Overview (What makes it stand out)
Printify is built for flexibility. Instead of printing everything in one place, it connects you with a network of print providers around the world. That gives you more control—different products, shipping speeds, and price points. You can even pick suppliers based on location to deliver faster to specific countries or regions.
If you want more choices and the ability to compare print partners, Printify offers more flexibility than platforms that handle everything in-house.
Best For
Sellers who want a wide product selection and the ability to optimize for price or speed.
Key Features
Product Variety
Printify offers hundreds of items—from t-shirts and hoodies to mugs, blankets, posters, stickers, and more. Each supplier has its own catalog, so options vary depending on who you choose.
Shipping and Fulfillment
Printify doesn’t print or ship items directly. Instead, you select a print provider from their network, and they handle production. Fulfillment time and shipping costs depend on that provider’s location and capacity.
Branding Options
Custom branding is available, but not across the board. Some print partners offer branded packaging or packing slips, while others do not. You’ll need to check each supplier for branding support.
Integrations
Printify works with Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, Squarespace, BigCommerce, and a few others. Setup is straightforward, and orders sync automatically once your store is live.
Customer Support
Support is available via live chat and email. Printify generally responds quickly, but since they aren’t handling the printing themselves, resolving certain issues may take longer if a supplier is involved.
Profit Potential
Printify gives you pricing control. Because base prices vary by print provider, you can shop around for better profit margins. Some providers are more affordable than those on platforms like Printful, which may give you room to price competitively and still make a profit.
Pricing
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Free Plan: Includes access to all integrations and up to five stores per account.
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Premium Plan: $29/month — gives you up to 20% off all product costs, which can improve margins if you sell at volume.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Huge product catalog across many categories
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Lets you choose from multiple print providers
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Often lower base prices than competitors
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Integrates easily with major online store platforms
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Premium plan offers solid discounts for frequent sellers
Cons
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Print quality and shipping speed vary by supplier
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Branding options aren’t consistent across all partners
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You’ll need to manage quality by choosing the right suppliers
Gelato
Overview (What makes it stand out)
Gelato focuses on global fulfillment. Instead of relying on a handful of printing hubs, they partner with local print providers in over 30 countries. This means faster delivery, lower shipping costs, and a smaller carbon footprint. If you’re selling internationally, Gelato’s reach can make a big difference.
It’s especially helpful if you want to offer localized shipping without juggling multiple suppliers manually.
Best For
Sellers targeting international customers or looking for eco-conscious fulfillment.
Key Features
Product Variety
Gelato’s catalog includes essentials like apparel, mugs, wall art, calendars, stationery, and phone cases. While not as massive as Printify’s, it covers most of the popular print-on-demand categories.
Shipping and Fulfillment
Gelato’s biggest strength is its local printing model. Products are printed closer to the buyer, which reduces shipping time and often avoids customs delays. Delivery times are generally faster compared to platforms that ship from one or two countries.
Branding Options
Branding is available but a bit limited. You can add custom logos to packing slips and include your brand name on receipts, but full white-label packaging options aren’t always available.
Integrations
Gelato connects with Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, Wix, Squarespace, BigCommerce, and several others. The setup process is beginner-friendly and streamlined.
Customer Support
Support is offered 24/7 through live chat and email. Response times are usually fast, and reviews consistently highlight Gelato’s helpful customer service.
Profit Potential
Base prices vary by item but tend to be competitive—especially once you factor in lower international shipping costs. Gelato’s model helps keep total order costs down, particularly for global customers, which can improve your margins.
Pricing
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Free Plan: Access to basic features, integrations, and a decent range of products.
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Paid Plans: Starting at $14.99/month — include benefits like mockup tools, discounted shipping, and better branding options.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Local fulfillment in 30+ countries
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Faster global shipping and fewer customs issues
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Eco-friendly approach to order fulfillment
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Clean interface and easy store integration
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Good support and automation options
Cons
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Product catalog isn’t as broad as Printify or Printful
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Branding features are more limited
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Discounts and premium features require a paid plan
Spring (formerly Teespring)
Overview:
Spring is known for being simple to use, especially for creators just starting out. It’s focused more on content creators and influencers than traditional e-commerce sellers. What sets it apart is how tightly it connects with platforms like YouTube and TikTok. If you’re building an audience and want to monetize with merch, Spring is built for that.
Best For:
Social media creators, YouTubers, and TikTokers looking to sell branded merch with minimal setup.
Key Features:
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Product Catalog:
Offers basics like t-shirts, mugs, hoodies, and stickers — enough to get started, but not as wide as platforms like Printify or Printful. -
Creator Tools:
Built-in integrations with social platforms (like YouTube Merch Shelf), making it easy to promote and sell to followers without a full website. -
No Upfront Costs:
You don’t pay anything to start. They take their cut after a sale, so it’s risk-free to launch. -
Design Interface:
Simple and beginner-friendly. You upload a design, pick your products, and you’re ready to go. -
Brand Customization:
Limited compared to others. You can set your store name and URL, but packaging and labels stay generic.
Profit Potential:
You set your own prices above Spring’s base cost. There’s a calculator built in so you can see your profit per item. Margins are decent, but you may earn less than with platforms that offer more branding flexibility or lower base costs.
Pricing:
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No subscription or upfront fees
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Free to start — they earn when you earn
Pros:
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Very easy to use, even for complete beginners
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No need to manage a separate storefront
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Ideal for creators with an existing following
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Integrates directly with YouTube, Twitch, and more
Cons:
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Smaller product catalog
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Limited customization options
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Not great for scaling a standalone brand
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Profit margins may be lower than other platforms
SPOD (Spreadshirt Print-On-Demand)
Overview
SPOD (a subsidiary of Spreadshirt) stands out for one big reason: speed. They claim to fulfill 95% of orders within 48 hours, which is faster than most competitors. That kind of turnaround time can seriously help with customer satisfaction and reduce refund requests. While it doesn’t have the biggest catalog, SPOD keeps things streamlined and simple—which can actually be a benefit if you’re just starting out.
Best For
Sellers who want ultra-fast production and delivery, especially in the U.S. and Europe.
Key Features
Fast Fulfillment
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95% of orders shipped within 48 hours
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U.S. and European fulfillment centers help with global reach
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Strong tracking and shipment updates
Product Catalog
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Focused selection of over 200 items, including:
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Apparel (t-shirts, hoodies, tank tops)
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Drinkware
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Bags and accessories
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Baby clothing and eco-friendly options
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Branding Options
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Branded packing slips
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Custom return addresses
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No SPOD branding on packages
Integrations
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Works with Shopify, WooCommerce, and other platforms via API
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Shopify app is very beginner-friendly
Design Tools
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Access to 50,000+ free designs through their library
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Built-in product customization for customers (great for personalized merch)
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Mockup generator included
Customer Support
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Support via email and help center
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No 24/7 live chat, but generally responsive during business hours
Profit Potential
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Competitive base prices on core products
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Fast fulfillment reduces customer complaints and returns
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Personalization options can boost perceived value
Pricing
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Free to use—no subscription fees
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Only pay for production and shipping after a sale
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Very fast production and shipping
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Solid pricing for core products
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Personalization feature adds value
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Integrates easily with Shopify
Cons
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Smaller product catalog than others
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Fewer branding features compared to Printful
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Limited support channels
Teemill
Overview
Teemill takes a different route from most print-on-demand platforms. It’s built around sustainability—using organic cotton, renewable energy, and plastic-free packaging. Even cooler, they let customers send old shirts back to be recycled into new ones. The catalog isn’t huge, but it’s great if your brand is all about eco-friendly products and you want to stand out for the right reasons.
Best For
Brands and creators focused on sustainability and ethical fashion.
Key Features
Eco-Friendly Production
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All products made from certified organic cotton
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Printed in renewable-energy-powered factories
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Zero-waste and plastic-free packaging
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Circular design model: customers can send used products back for recycling
Product Catalog
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Primarily apparel-based:
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T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies
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Kids and babywear
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Tote bags and accessories
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Focuses on timeless staples, not novelty items
Branding Options
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Your logo on neck labels and packaging
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Custom domain and storefront
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Fully white-labeled (Teemill branding stays invisible)
Integrations
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Native storefront hosted by Teemill (no need for Shopify or Etsy)
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Basic API options, but fewer third-party eCommerce integrations compared to competitors
Design Tools
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Online design editor
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Simple mockup generation
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Visual storefront builder
Customer Support
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Email and ticket-based system
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Helpful knowledge base and tutorial library
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No live chat at this time
Profit Potential
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Base prices are slightly higher due to ethical sourcing and eco materials
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You set your own prices; most sellers charge premium rates due to sustainability branding
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Products arrive in premium packaging, which adds perceived value
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Payment system is tied to Teemill’s own store platform
Pricing
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Free to start
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No upfront fees or subscriptions
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Optional upgrades (e.g., for domain name, marketing tools) available
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Ideal for environmentally conscious brands
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Premium feel with sustainable packaging and materials
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Built-in store—no need for external platforms
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Fully white-labeled with branding support
Cons
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Limited to Teemill’s platform (less flexibility than Shopify/Etsy)
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Smaller product catalog focused only on clothing/accessories
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Not ideal for sellers focused on novelty or wide-range merch
Redbubble
Overview
Redbubble is one of the most beginner-friendly platforms out there. You don’t need your own website, storefront, or fancy setup. Instead, you create an account, upload your designs, and choose which products to apply them to. Redbubble handles everything else—from printing to shipping to customer service. It’s a solid pick if you’re just getting started and want to focus purely on designing without managing your own shop.
Best For
Artists, illustrators, and casual creators who want to sell designs without managing an online store.
Key Features
No Store Setup Required
Redbubble is its own marketplace, so you don’t need Shopify or Etsy. Just upload your art and go live.
Wide Product Range
Print your designs on over 70 items, including:
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T-shirts & hoodies
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Stickers
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Phone cases
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Posters & art prints
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Pillows & home decor
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Water bottles, notebooks, and more
Global Fulfillment
They have a wide fulfillment network, so shipping is available to most countries, with reasonable delivery times.
Built-In Audience
Because Redbubble is a popular marketplace, your designs can be discovered by buyers already browsing the site.
Automatic Mockups
Once you upload a design, Redbubble automatically applies it to every product and generates previews.
Minimal Branding
There’s no support for custom labels or packaging—it’s all Redbubble-branded. This platform is about showcasing your designs, not building a full brand.
Customer Support
Support is available through their help center and contact form. They handle all customer service for you, which is great if you want a hands-off approach.
Profit Potential
You don’t set base prices—instead, you choose your markup percentage. Most creators set markups between 10%–30%. Since Redbubble handles everything, your earnings per item are lower than platforms where you set your own prices and handle branding.
Pricing
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Completely Free to Use
There are no subscriptions or hidden fees. You earn a cut when something sells, and Redbubble keeps the rest.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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No upfront costs or store setup
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Great for artists and casual creators
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Large product catalog
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Global fulfillment
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Hands-off selling experience
Cons
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Limited control over pricing and branding
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Profit margins are smaller than other platforms
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Competitive marketplace—harder to stand out
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Not ideal for building a long-term brand
Zazzle
Overview
Zazzle has been around for a long time and works a bit differently from most print-on-demand platforms. Instead of connecting to your own online store, Zazzle is the marketplace. You upload your designs, set your royalty rate, and Zazzle handles the rest—from product listings to customer service. Think of it more like Etsy, but built specifically for custom products.
Best For
Artists and designers who want to sell through an existing marketplace without setting up a storefront on Shopify or Etsy.
Key Features
Marketplace Exposure
Zazzle gets millions of monthly visitors, so your products can be discovered by shoppers searching for specific designs.
Huge Product Catalog
Zazzle offers thousands of product types—everything from t-shirts and mugs to wedding invitations, business cards, fabric, and even office supplies.
No Store Setup Required
No need to integrate with Shopify or WooCommerce. You create an account, upload your designs, and Zazzle takes care of the storefront.
Design Tools
Offers advanced design customization for customers. They can change colors, add text, or move elements around—great for personalized products.
Global Fulfillment
Zazzle ships worldwide and handles all the printing and logistics. You don’t need to deal with shipping rates or packaging.
Community Features
Zazzle has built-in forums and tutorials to help new sellers learn the ropes, plus analytics to track your sales performance.
Profit Potential
You set your royalty percentage (between 5% and 99%), and Zazzle adds that to the base price. The higher the royalty, the higher the final price for customers—so there’s a trade-off between making more per sale or staying competitive.
Example:
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A mug might have a base price of $15.
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You set a 15% royalty → customer pays $17.25 → you earn $2.25.
Pricing
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Completely Free to get started
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No monthly fees or subscriptions
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Zazzle earns from the base price and transaction fees
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Massive product catalog
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No storefront or integrations required
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Access to built-in traffic from Zazzle shoppers
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Easy to get started with zero cost
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Great for personalizable products
Cons
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Less control over branding and packaging
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Royalty system can limit pricing flexibility
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Highly competitive marketplace
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Harder to build a unique brand presence
T-Pop
Overview
T-Pop is a European-based print-on-demand company that takes sustainability seriously. What sets it apart is how focused it is on eco-friendly fulfillment and plastic-free packaging. While its product range is more limited than giants like Printify or Printful, it’s a strong choice if you care about how your brand impacts the planet.
Unlike marketplaces like Redbubble, T-Pop is designed for sellers who want to run their own storefront and build a brand. They also offer strong automation and branding tools—even on the free plan.
Best For
Sellers in Europe who value eco-conscious shipping, plastic-free packaging, and clean branding options.
Key Features
Eco-Friendly Fulfillment
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100% plastic-free packaging
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Printed materials are recycled or recyclable
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Carbon-neutral delivery with some shipping providers
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All orders are fulfilled in France, which reduces emissions if your buyers are EU-based
Custom Branding Options
Even on the free plan, you get:
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Your brand name on packing slips
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Custom logo on shipping labels
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Personalized thank-you messages inside each order
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Optional printed inserts with your branding
Product Selection
The catalog isn’t huge, but it covers the basics:
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T-shirts and sweatshirts
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Tote bags and mugs
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Baby clothes and eco-friendly accessories
Smooth Integrations
Connects directly with:
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Shopify
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Etsy
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WooCommerce
Automation Features
Orders, tracking, and branding updates happen automatically. Once your store is linked, T-Pop handles everything behind the scenes.
Profit Potential
Base prices are competitive, though not the cheapest. However, eco-conscious buyers are often willing to pay a little more for sustainable packaging and ethical production.
Example:
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Organic cotton t-shirt base price: around €10–€13
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Typical retail price: €22–€28
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Profit after fees: ~€8–€12 depending on product and shipping
Pricing
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Free Plan: Full access to core features and branding tools
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Paid Plan: Starts at €19/month and adds features like additional users, priority support, and more detailed analytics
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Plastic-free, eco-conscious fulfillment
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Clean branding options, even on free plan
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Smooth Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce integration
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Strong automation, low-maintenance setup
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Good fit for EU sellers
Cons
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Limited product variety compared to larger platforms
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Fulfillment from France may mean longer delivery times outside Europe
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Paid plan needed for advanced tools
Gooten
Overview
Gooten isn’t as widely known as some other platforms, but it quietly powers a large number of print-on-demand stores. Unlike Printful or Gelato, Gooten doesn’t print anything itself. Instead, it connects you with a global network of manufacturers and automatically routes orders to the best fulfillment partner. This setup helps keep things running in the background while giving you access to a huge range of products.
It’s especially useful if you’re focused on scaling and want hands-off automation with consistent backend tools.
Best For
Sellers looking for a scalable, automated solution with a large product catalog and global fulfillment partners.
Key Features
Large Product Catalog
Gooten offers over 150 product types, including:
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Apparel: T-shirts, hoodies, baby clothes
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Home decor: Pillows, wall art, canvas prints
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Accessories: Journals, water bottles, tote bags
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Pet products, tech accessories, and more
Automated Fulfillment Network
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Gooten chooses the fulfillment partner based on product type, buyer location, and availability
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This reduces delays and helps keep shipping costs down
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Orders are automatically processed once placed—hands-off for the seller
Consistent Backend Tools
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Centralized dashboard for tracking orders
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Smart routing system to reduce production time
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Access to print partner performance stats (helpful for managing expectations)
Integrations
Connects easily with:
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Shopify
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Etsy
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WooCommerce (via Order Desk or manual setup)
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API available for custom setups
Branding Options
Branding is available, but it varies depending on the print partner. Some offer custom packing slips or labels, while others stick to plain packaging. Gooten itself doesn’t offer extensive brand customization across all products.
Profit Potential
Base prices vary depending on the print partner. That can be a benefit—some items may be cheaper than competitors—but you’ll need to monitor quality and pricing manually.
Example:
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Standard t-shirt: ~$9–$12 base price
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Retail pricing: ~$20–$25
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Estimated profit: ~$7–$10 per item (before fees)
Pricing
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Completely free to use
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No subscription fees
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You only pay when an order is placed
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Large product selection
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Automated smart-routing to fulfillment partners
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Good global coverage
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No monthly fees
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Solid backend tools for tracking and scaling
Cons
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Branding options are inconsistent
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Print quality can vary by supplier
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Doesn’t handle printing themselves—less control if issues come up
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Interface is less beginner-friendly than some competitors
CustomCat
Overview
CustomCat is a U.S.-based print-on-demand company known for fast fulfillment and competitive pricing. What sets it apart is its large in-house production facility, which helps speed up turnaround and keeps things consistent. While the design interface is a bit more utilitarian than flashy, it gets the job done—especially if you’re focused on scaling and efficiency over bells and whistles.
Best For
Sellers who want fast fulfillment from a U.S.-based supplier and solid margins without premium pricing.
Key Features
Product Variety
Over 300 products including:
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Basic and premium t-shirts, tanks, and hoodies
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Drinkware like mugs and tumblers
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Home goods including blankets and pillowcases
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Athletic wear and performance fabrics
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Pet products and accessories
Fast Fulfillment
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Most orders ship within 2–3 business days
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All items produced in Detroit, Michigan
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Central U.S. location helps reduce shipping time nationally
Branding Options
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Custom packing slips with your brand info
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No CustomCat branding included on customer shipments
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Limited custom labeling (neck tags, etc.) compared to others
Integrations
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Shopify
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WooCommerce
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Etsy
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API available for custom integrations
Design Tools
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Simple product builder and mockup tools
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No advanced design interface, but easy to use for basic needs
Customer Support
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Email support during business hours
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Helpful knowledge base for setup and troubleshooting
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No live chat or phone support at the moment
Profit Potential
CustomCat’s pricing is one of its strengths. Basic shirts start at around $7–$9, leaving plenty of room for markup—even after shipping.
Example:
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Base price for standard tee: ~$8
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Sell at $22
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Potential profit: ~$10+ after fees and shipping
Pricing
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Free Plan available, includes full product access
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PRO Plan: $30/month
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Gives you discounted rates (often $2–$5 cheaper per item)
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Best for sellers with higher volume or multiple stores
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Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fast and reliable U.S. fulfillment
- Large catalog with competitive base pricing
- Lower-cost items improve margins
- Easy integrations with major platforms
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to competitors
- Fewer branding and customization tools
- No international fulfillment centers—longer shipping times outside U.S.
Apliiq
Overview
Apliiq is different from most print-on-demand platforms. While many focus on quick, standard t-shirt printing, Apliiq leans heavily into streetwear and fashion customization. It’s one of the only platforms that offers cut-and-sew labels, embroidery, private labeling, and even custom fabric appliqués. If you’re looking to build a real clothing brand with custom touches, this is where Apliiq stands out.
Everything is made to feel like a fashion brand—not just printed merch.
Best For
Apparel sellers who want custom branding and a fashion-forward look with retail-quality finishing.
Key Features
Advanced Branding Tools
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Private labeling (your own brand tag sewn in)
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Woven labels and hem tags
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Embroidery and patchwork
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Custom fabric appliqués
High-End Apparel Options
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Premium t-shirts, hoodies, joggers
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Organic cotton and eco-friendly items
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Unique cuts and colorways beyond the basics
Fulfillment & Shipping
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Orders fulfilled in Los Angeles and Philadelphia
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Typical production: 3–7 business days
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Ships worldwide with tracking
Integrations
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Connects directly with Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce
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Automated order sync and tracking updates
Design Tools
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Mockup generator with flatlays and on-model views
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Support for multiple decoration types (print + embroidery)
Customer Support
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U.S.-based team with email and live chat
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Branding setup help available for new users
Profit Potential
Because Apliiq is geared toward premium products, base prices are higher than most competitors. That said, the unique features can justify higher retail prices—especially if you’re building a niche or fashion brand.
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T-shirts: ~$12–$18 (before branding add-ons)
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Embroidery, labels, and add-ons increase cost
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Sellers often price items at $35–$60+
Pricing
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Free to use: No monthly fees to start
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Branding setup: Custom labels and embroidery setup requires one-time fees
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Wholesale discounts available after a few sales
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Ideal for creating fashion-forward brands
- Unique branding options (woven labels, embroidery, appliqués)
- High-quality apparel selection
- Good Shopify & Etsy integration
Cons
- Higher base prices, especially with add-ons
- Smaller product catalog compared to general POD platforms
- Branding setup has an initial learning curve
OP+
Overview
AOP+ (short for All Over Print) is a UK-based print-on-demand company known for its unique focus on seam-to-seam (all-over) printing. While most POD platforms stick to chest designs or logo placement, AOP+ lets you cover the entire surface of a product—from edge to edge. It’s a great option if you’re looking to create bold, full-pattern designs that really stand out.
Everything is made in-house, including printing, cutting, sewing, and shipping—all done from their facility in London.
Best For
Designers who want full-coverage prints and are selling primarily in the UK or EU.
Key Features
Full-Surface Printing
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Seam-to-seam, edge-to-edge prints
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Great for vibrant, pattern-heavy designs
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Includes shirts, hoodies, tanks, pillows, bags, and more
Eco-Friendly and Ethical
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Vegan-certified inks
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Made-to-order production reduces waste
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Locally produced to cut down on emissions
In-House Fulfillment
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Printed and sewn in London, UK
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3–5 business days average production
-
Ships worldwide (fastest in UK and Europe)
Branding Options
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Custom neck labels and branded packing slips
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White-label packaging
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No AOP+ branding on final products
Integrations
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Shopify
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Etsy
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WooCommerce
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OrderDesk (for other platforms)
Customer Support
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UK-based support team
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Live chat and email options
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Helpful tutorials and documentation
Profit Potential
Base prices are mid-range, but full-print products can be priced higher due to their unique look.
-
All-over print t-shirts: start around $16–$18
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Typical retail: $30–$40
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Branded options may cost slightly more, but improve perceived value
Pricing
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Free Plan: Access to core products and store integrations
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Pro Plan: £9.99/month — includes branded pack-ins, faster production, and access to premium mockups
Pros & Cons
Pros
- True all-over printing for standout designs
- In-house production = consistent quality
- Solid branding options
- Eco-conscious operation
- Smooth Shopify/Etsy integration
Cons
- Located in UK — longer shipping times to U.S.
- Smaller catalog than platforms like Printify
- Not ideal for basic designs or minimalist branding
JetPrint
Overview
JetPrint started out specializing in custom watches, but it has since expanded into a broader print-on-demand catalog that includes shoes, apparel, and accessories. What sets JetPrint apart is its automated order routing and global fulfillment model, which helps keep delivery times down—even for international orders.
This platform is particularly attractive for sellers interested in unique product types that aren’t commonly offered elsewhere, like sneakers or wristwatches with custom faces.
Best For
Sellers who want to offer niche POD products like shoes or watches, and need international fulfillment without paying extra for multiple suppliers.
Key Features
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Unique Product Catalog
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Custom watches
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Sneakers and boots
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Yoga mats and car seat covers
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Apparel (tees, hoodies, leggings)
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Home decor and wall art
-
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Global Fulfillment Network
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Fulfillment centers in Asia (primarily China)
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Ships to over 200 countries
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Typical production time: 3–5 business days
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Shipping: 7–14 days average, depending on destination
-
-
Automated Mockups
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Auto-generated product images when you upload a design
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3D preview models for items like shoes and watches
-
-
Store Integrations
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Shopify
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WooCommerce
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Manual order export/import available
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Custom API access for advanced setups
-
-
Branding Support
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Custom logo on watch faces and insoles
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Branded packaging for select items
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Limited branding options on apparel
-
-
Customer Support
-
Email-based support
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Help center articles
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Slower response times due to time zone differences
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Profit Potential
Because of the unique product range, you can price higher than typical POD items:
-
Custom watches: Base cost ~$25–$35
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Retail price: $60–$120
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Custom shoes: Base cost ~$35–$45
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Retail price: $70–$100
-
Apparel: Comparable to other platforms
Keep in mind that shipping costs and fulfillment times can impact conversion rates—especially for U.S. buyers expecting fast delivery.
Pricing
-
Free to Use
-
No monthly fee
-
You only pay when an order is placed
-
-
Optional Add-Ons
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Faster production time (for some products)
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Paid branding or packaging on select SKUs
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Pros & Cons
Pros
-
Offers unique POD products like watches and footwear
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Easy Shopify integration
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Global shipping reach
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Automated mockups save time
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Competitive base prices for high-margin items
Cons
-
Slower delivery times to U.S. and Canada
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Limited branding tools for apparel
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Smaller product catalog compared to Printify or Printful
-
Fewer customization options for simpler items
Final Thoughts
Getting started with print-on-demand doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need to spend money upfront or figure out shipping. Just pick a platform, upload your design, and see what happens.
Each site has its own pros and cons. Some are better for branding, others for speed or price. The best way to figure it out? Try one and see how it goes.
Keep it simple. Make something, test it, and learn as you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Pick a niche and choose your products
- Create designs or hire a designer
- Choose a print-on-demand provider
- Connect it to your store (Shopify, Etsy, etc.)
- List your products and start promoting them