how to make money with printify in 2024

Printify enables entrepreneurs to sell products with custom designs without the need for expensive printing equipment or holding any stock.

Key ways to make money:

Imagine this:

Your artwork or slogan on a t-shirt being worn in cities around the world, or your graphic designs becoming the centerpiece of someone’s morning coffee routine with their new favorite mug.

This isn’t just a dream; it’s a tangible reality with Printify.

Understanding Printify Print On Demand

Printify Homepage

Printify is a print-on-demand (POD) platform that serves as a middleman between side hustlers and a network of printing suppliers.

Its a great alternative to Printful especially if you are selling to US-based customers.

It operates on a straightforward premise: you create and upload your designs onto products, set up your online shop, and market your items.

When a customer makes a purchase, Printify steps in to handle the production and shipping directly to the customer. A form of dropshipping really.

One of the key benefits of using Printify is its vast product catalog. With over 850+ products to choose from, the possibilities for customization are nearly endless.

Whether you’re interested in fashion, home decor, or accessories, Printify has a range of products that can be tailored to your brand.

Another advantage of Printify is cost-effectiveness. Since there are no upfront costs for product creation, you can start your business with minimal investment.

Printify only charges you for the production and shipping once an order is placed, allowing you to set competitive prices and enjoy healthy profit margins.

Printify’s mockup generator is a powerful tool that lets you see how your designs will look on products before they go live, ensuring that your vision is accurately translated into the final product.

FeatureBenefit
Extensive Product CatalogWide variety of customizable products to suit different niches.
Integration with E-commerce PlatformsSeamless connection to major online marketplaces for easy selling.
No Upfront CostsStart a business with minimal investment and no inventory risks.
Mockup GeneratorVisualize your designs on products to ensure quality before selling.
Direct-to-Customer ShippingPrintify handles production and shipping, freeing up your time.
Profit Margin ControlSet your own prices to manage profitability.

By tapping into this market, side hustlers can capitalize on the trend and build a business that reflects their unique style and meets consumer demand for personalized items.

Did You Know

The global print-on-demand market is growing, with an expected annual growth rate of 26.1% from 2021 to 2028.

Setting Up Your Printify Account

To Start earning money, you need to set up an account. It’s a simple and intuitive process.

To start, navigate to the Printify website and click on the ‘Sign Up’ button.

You’ll be prompted to enter basic information such as your email address, and password

Once you’ve filled in the details, agree to the terms of service and click the ‘Sign Up’ button to proceed.

After signing up, you’ll be directed to your new Printify dashboard. Here, you can start creating your products immediately.

Next, connect your Printify account to an online store.

Printify offers integration with several e-commerce platforms, so choose the one that best fits your business model.

With your account set up, you’re well on your way to launching your print-on-demand business.

Did You Know

According to recent data, e-commerce sales are projected to reach $6.5 trillion by 2023, with a significant portion of that coming from customized products. By establishing a strong presence on Printify, you’re positioning yourself to tap into this lucrative market. 

Use Printify With Etsy

Etsy is a global online marketplace where people come together to make, sell, buy, and collect unique items.

For side hustlers and entrepreneurs, Etsy provides a platform with a built-in audience that appreciates the value of personalized and custom-made products, making it an ideal venue for selling print-on-demand items created with Printify.

Integrating Printify with Etsy offers a multitude of benefits.

Access Etsy’s large and diverse customer base, which is particularly interested in unique and bespoke items. This audience aligns perfectly with the custom products you can create using Printify.

Etsy’s reputation as a marketplace for unique goods can help bolster your brand’s image and credibility.

Ease of managing your business. When you connect Printify to your Etsy shop, orders from customers are automatically forwarded to Printify, which then takes care of production and shipping.

This seamless integration means you can focus more on design and customer service, rather than the logistics of order fulfillment.

Etsy’s analytics tools can help you understand customer behavior and preferences, enabling you to tailor your offerings for better sales performance.

BenefitDescription
Access to a Niche AudienceEtsy’s customer base is known for its interest in unique, custom, and handmade items.
Brand CredibilityEtsy’s reputation for quality and uniqueness can enhance your brand’s image.
Business ManagementAutomated order processing with Printify simplifies business operations.
Customer InsightsEtsy’s analytics tools provide valuable data to optimize your product offerings.
Did You Know

Etsy has over 90 million active buyers, a number that continues to grow year over year.

By leveraging Printify’s print-on-demand service in conjunction with Etsy, you can tap into this expansive market.

The combination of Printify’s efficient production system and Etsy’s robust marketplace can be a powerful duo for scaling your side hustle into a thriving online business.

Use A Printify Pop-Up Store

A Printify Pop-Up Store is a temporary (but doesn’t have to be) online shop that you can set up directly through the Printify platform.

It’s designed to provide a quick and easy way to sell your print-on-demand products without the need for an external e-commerce website or use of an online marketplace.

This type of store is perfect for side hustlers who want to test the waters with their designs or run a time-limited campaign for a specific audience or event.

Benefits of A Pop-Up Store

It’s incredibly user-friendly, requiring no technical skills to set up. You can have a store up and running in a matter of minutes, complete with your branding and product listings.

Printify Pop-up Store

This immediacy allows you to capitalize on trends or seasonal demands quickly.

Because it’s hosted on Printify’s platform, you won’t have to worry about web hosting fees or complex e-commerce integrations.

Flexibility. You can open a Pop-Up Store for a short period, making it ideal for limited edition runs or promotional events. This can create a sense of urgency among your customers, potentially boosting sales.

Printify handles all the backend logistics, such as payment processing and order fulfillment, so you can focus solely on marketing your products and engaging with your customers.

It’s free.

BenefitDescription
Easy SetupSet up a store quickly with no technical expertise required.
No Hosting FeesSave on costs associated with web hosting and site maintenance.
Time-Limited CampaignsCreate urgency with temporary stores for special events or promotions.
Backend LogisticsPrintify manages payment and order fulfillment, streamlining operations.

According to industry insights, pop-up stores are an effective marketing tool that can increase brand awareness and generate excitement around a product launch.

They’re also a strategic way to test new markets and receive direct customer feedback.

By utilizing a Printify Pop-Up Store, you can enjoy these benefits while also taking advantage of the print-on-demand model, which minimizes risk and investment.

It’s a smart move for any side hustler looking to make an impact in the e-commerce space.

Use Printify With An eCommerce Platform

Printify integrates with many ecommerce platforms, like Shopify, Launch Cart and Wix.

Integrating Printify and an ecommerce store gives you the ability to sell your products without the restrictions that exist when selling on a marketplace.

Shopify, Launch Cart and Wix are known for ease of use, customizable templates, and robust features that cater to businesses of all sizes.

From product management to payment processing, ecommerce platforms offer a comprehensive suite of services that can help you build a professional online presence.

Benefits of Printify and Shopify

Automate the sales process. Once you’ve set up your products on Printify and connected your Shopify store, orders placed on your Shopify site are automatically sent to Printify for fulfillment. This means you can sell 24/7 without having to manually process each order.

Scalability that Shopify provides. As your business grows, Shopify‘s infrastructure can handle increased traffic and sales volume without skipping a beat. This scalability is crucial for side hustlers who aim to expand their business over time.

Shopify’s extensive app marketplace allows you to add various functionalities to your store, from SEO tools to customer loyalty programs, further enhancing your store’s capabilities.

BenefitDescription
AutomationAutomatically syncs orders from Shopify to Printify for fulfillment.
ScalabilityShopify’s platform can support your business growth seamlessly.
CustomizationPersonalize your store with Shopify‘s customizable templates and apps.
Marketplace IntegrationAccess to a wide range of apps to enhance your store’s functionality.

Recent statistics reveal that Shopify supports over 1.7 million businesses in approximately 175 countries, demonstrating its global reach and reliability as an e-commerce solution.

By choosing to sell on WooCommerce Wix, Launch Cart or Shopify with Printify, you’re not only gaining access to a world-class platform but also aligning your side hustle with a network that’s trusted by millions of successful entrepreneurs. 

Tips To Make Money With Printify

Choosing Your Niche

Selecting a profitable niche is paramount for any side hustler looking to make a significant impact in the print-on-demand market.

A well-defined niche allows you to target a specific audience, cater to their preferences, and build a loyal customer base. It’s not just about what you want to sell; it’s about finding a gap in the market or a group of people whose needs are not being fully met.

To identify popular trends and niches, you’ll need to conduct thorough market research. This can involve analyzing social media trends, following influencers within your areas of interest, and using tools like Google Trends to see what’s gaining traction.

Consider attending industry trade shows, reading niche-related blogs, and participating in online forums can provide valuable insights into what products are in demand.

Look at existing successful print-on-demand stores. What niches are they serving? What products are their bestsellers?

Use spy tools like Everbee, Alura and Etsyhunt. They can help you learn from the competition can help you understand what works and how you can differentiate your offerings.

StrategyDescriptionTools/Resources
Analyze Social MediaLook for trending hashtags and topics related to potential niches.Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest
Use Google TrendsIdentify search trends over time for different topics.Google Trends
Read Niche BlogsGain insights from experts and enthusiasts in specific niches.Medium, niche-specific blogs
Participate in ForumsEngage with communities to understand their needs and preferences.Reddit, Quora
Study CompetitorsLearn from successful stores about what products sell well.Etsy, Shopify stores

Statistics show that niche businesses often have higher engagement rates and customer loyalty compared to generalist stores.

By carving out a niche, you can position yourself as an expert, which is crucial for building authority and trust with your audience.

With the right niche, you can create a strong brand identity that resonates with your target market, leading to sustained success in the print-on-demand industry.

Designing Your Products

Creating attractive and sellable designs is obviously pretty key to a successful print-on-demand business.

Your designs are not just images on a product; they represent your brand and must resonate with your target audience.

To ensure your designs stand out, it’s essential to keep them original, visually appealing, and relevant to your niche. Pay attention to color schemes, typography, and the overall aesthetic to make sure they align with current trends and customer preferences.

When it comes to tools and resources for design creation, there are several options available, ranging from beginner-friendly to professional-grade software.

Websites like Creative Market, Creative Fabrica and Design Bundles offer a wealth of graphics, fonts, and templates that can be purchased and used in your designs.

Try Creative Fabrica For Free

It’s also worth considering collaboration with freelance designers if you’re not confident in your own design skills.

Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are great places to find talented artists who can bring your vision to life. Remember, investing in high-quality designs can significantly impact the perceived value of your products and ultimately, your brand’s success.

Tool/ResourceBest ForFeatures
Adobe PhotoshopAdvanced editing and compositingLayer-based editing, 3D design capabilities
Adobe IllustratorVector-based designsScalable graphics, intricate illustrations
Creative FabricaBeginners and quick designsReady-made designs and illustrations
Creative MarketReady-to-use design assetsFonts, graphics, templates
Fiverr/UpworkCustom designs from freelancersAccess to a global pool of creative talent

Visually compelling content is reported to result in 40% more likely to get shared on social media, which can be a significant driver of traffic to your store.

By investing time and resources into designing your products, you’re not just creating merchandise; you’re crafting shareable content that can increase your brand’s reach and attract more customers to your print-on-demand business.

Pricing Your Products

Setting the right price for your products is a delicate balance that can determine the success of your sidehustle.

You need to price competitively while ensuring you cover costs and achieve a healthy profit margin.

To do this, you must first understand all the costs involved, including the base price of the product from Printify, shipping fees, marketplace fees, and any additional costs for marketing and design work.

Once you have a clear understanding of your costs, you can start researching the market to see what similar products are selling for.

Top Tip

I like using tools like eRrank, Alura and Everbee to research top selling products on Etsy

This will give you an idea of the price range customers are willing to pay. It’s important to consider the perceived value of your products as well. Unique designs, high-quality materials, and strong branding can justify a higher price point. 

Another strategy is to offer tiered pricing or discounts for multiple purchases.

This can encourage customers to buy more than one item, increasing your average order value. Dont forget to keep an eye on your competitors and be prepared to adjust your prices if necessary. 

The goal is to find a sweet spot where your prices are attractive to customers but also allow you to grow and sustain your business.

Cost FactorDescriptionImpact on Pricing
Base Product CostThe cost of the product from Printify before customization.Directly affects the minimum price you can set to maintain profitability.
Shipping FeesCosts associated with delivering the product to the customer.Can be included in the product price or charged separately.
Marketplace FeesCommissions or fees charged by the marketplace for each sale.Must be factored into the price to ensure profit margins are met.
Marketing and DesignCosts for promoting your products and creating designs.Should be amortized over the expected number of sales.

From my experience the average profit margin for print on demand businesses ranges from 30% to 50%.

It depends on where you’re selling and how competitive your niche is, but the good news is there is a lot of money to be made.

Marketing Your Printify Products

Marketing is the engine that drives sales in your POD business and you need to get that engine revving.

Effective marketing techniques can significantly increase your product visibility and attract customers.

To start, it’s essential to have a clear brand message and to communicate the unique selling points of your products.

Storytelling can be a powerful tool to connect with your audience emotionally and make your brand more memorable.

Social media is an indispensable platform for promoting your Printify products.

Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are ideal for showcasing your designs through high-quality images and engaging content.

Regular posts, stories, and paid advertisements can help you reach a broader audience. Influencer collaborations can also be highly effective, as they lend credibility and tap into the influencer’s established following.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is another critical aspect of marketing your products. By optimizing your product titles, descriptions, and images for search engines, you can increase the chances of your products appearing in search results when potential customers are looking for items like yours.

Keyword research is vital to understand what terms your target audience is using to find products.

Marketing TechniquePlatformBenefits
Content MarketingBlog, YouTubeBuilds brand authority and helps with SEO.
Social Media MarketingInstagram, Facebook, PinterestIncreases brand visibility and engagement with customers.
Influencer MarketingVarious social platformsLeverages the trust and reach of influencers in your niche.
SEOOnline store, MarketplacesImproves online visibility and organic search traffic.
Email MarketingEmail campaignsPersonalized communication and high ROI.

SEO leads have a 14.6% close rate, compared to only 1.7% for outbound leads like direct mail or print advertising.

By utilizing a combination of social media and SEO, you can create a robust marketing strategy that not only drives traffic to your store but also converts that traffic into sales.

Remember, marketing is an ongoing process that requires constant optimization and adaptation to the changing preferences of your target audience.

Managing Orders and Customer Service

Order fulfillment and customer service are critical components of a successful print on demand business.

Best practices for order fulfillment include staying organized, keeping track of inventory levels (even if they are virtual), and ensuring that your products are shipped promptly.

With Printify, much of the fulfillment process is automated, but it’s still important to monitor for any issues that may arise, such as delays in production or shipping.

Providing excellent customer service is about building relationships and trust with your customers.

Respond to inquiries and concerns quickly and professionally, and always be willing to go the extra mile to resolve any issues. Transparency is key; keep your customers informed about the status of their orders and be honest about any delays or problems.

Be proactive in asking for reviews and testimonials, which can serve as social proof and help attract new customers.

Tools like Everbee, Alura and EtsyHunt have tools that remind you to follow up with customers in order to get more reviews.

AspectBest PracticeBenefit
Order FulfillmentMonitor production and shipping processes.Ensures timely delivery and customer satisfaction.
Customer InquiriesRespond promptly and professionally.Builds trust and resolves issues efficiently.
TransparencyCommunicate openly about order status.Maintains customer trust even when issues arise.
PersonalizationAdd personal touches to the buying experience.Enhances customer loyalty and encourages repeat business.
Feedback and ReviewsEncourage customers to share their experiences.Provides social proof and valuable insights for improvement.

According to a recent survey, 89% of consumers are more likely to make another purchase after a positive customer service experience.

Businesses that prioritize customer service generate 60% higher profits compared to their competitors.

By implementing these best practices in order fulfillment and customer service, you can create a strong foundation for customer loyalty and long-term success in your POD business.

Analyze and Optimize Your Sales

Tracking and analyzing your sales data

To increase profitability with Printify, merchants must diligently track and analyze their sales data.

By examining the numbers, they can pinpoint which products are top sellers, which marketing strategies yield the best results, and which areas call for improvement.

Understanding customer preferences and buying patterns is crucial for inventory management and product development.

Also, monitoring sales metrics helps in making data-driven decisions such as which products to promote or discontinue, thereby optimizing the offerings in line with consumer demand.

Optimizing your listings and strategies based on performance metrics

With critical sales data at their fingertips, Printify sellers have the advantage of fine-tuning their listings and strategies. They’re empowered to optimize product titles, descriptions, and images for higher search visibility and attraction.

Regular reviews of performance metrics allow for the adjustment of marketing strategies to better engage target audiences.

By continuously optimizing their approach, sellers can enhance their online presence, improve customer experience, and ultimately drive more sales, contributing to a thriving print on demand business.

Scale Your Printify Business

Growth is about more than just increasing sales; it’s about:

  • Expanding your brand’s reach,
  • Optimizing your operations, and
  • Enhancing your product offerings.

One effective strategy for growth is to analyze your best-selling products and customer feedback. This data can guide you in making informed decisions about which new products to introduce and which ones to phase out.

Expanding your product line should be a calculated move. Before adding new items, consider whether they align with your brand and if there’s a demand for them.

Another key aspect of scaling is investing in marketing and advertising. As your business grows, you’ll need to reach a larger audience and stand out in a competitive market.

This might involve increasing your advertising budget, diversifying your marketing channels, or hiring professionals to help with branding and content creation.

StrategyDescriptionConsideration
Data AnalysisReview sales data and customer feedback.Use insights to make informed decisions about product expansion.
Product ExpansionIntroduce new products that align with your brand.Ensure there is demand and capacity to manage additional products.
Marketing InvestmentIncrease budget and diversify marketing efforts.Reach a larger audience and enhance brand visibility.

Rapid expansion without proper planning can lead to operational inefficiencies and a decline in customer satisfaction.

By implementing thoughtful scaling strategies and continuously evaluating your business performance, you can grow your Printify side hustle into a thriving, sustainable business.

Conclusion

Printify offers an exceptional opportunity for side hustlers to venture into the world of print-on-demand with ease and creativity.

We’ve explored the ins and outs of setting up a Printify account, the benefits of integrating with platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and even the advantages of a pop-up store.

Remember, the key to success with Printify lies in understanding your costs, pricing your products wisely, and scaling your business strategically.

With the right approach, you can transform your creative ideas into a flourishing online business. The print-on-demand model is a powerful tool that minimizes risk and maximizes the potential for entrepreneurs ready to take on the challenge.

FAQ’s

Does Printify charge you or the customer?

Printify charges you if you are using ecommerce platforms or an online marketplace. If you are selling using a Printify Pop-Up store, then Printify charges the customer your selling price and deducts from that the cost of printing and shipping the product.

Can you make money on Etsy using Printify?

Yes, you can make money on Etsy using Printify. I’ve sold thousands of print on demand products on Etsy. You need to ensure you only use designs you have created and you adhere to Etsy’s policies though.

Can you make money using Printify?

Yes you can make money using Printify. You can use Printify to sell print on demand products on ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce and Launch Cart as well as selling on marketplaces like Etsy and eBay.

Is selling on Printify worth it?

Selling with Printify is worth it but it requires hard work. It isn’t a get rich quick scheme but you can make a lot of money with it.

How much money do I need to start with Printify?

You don’t need any money to start with Printify as you can use the free Printify Pop-Up Store to sell and Printify only charges you to print an item once you have made a sale (and been paid by the customer).

How does the money work with Printify?

Printify charges you to print an item once it has received an order from you.

Does Printify have a monthly fee?

Printify can be used for free, however you can pay a monthly fee for its Printify Premium subscription that gives you a number of benefits including 20% discount on product costs.