How To Start A Print On Demand Store In a Few Steps
Starting a print-on-demand store can be a great way to produce and sell custom products without the need for large up-front costs or inventory. Here is your guide on how to start a print-on-demand store. Before we dive into the detail, let's start by explaining what print on demand is?
1. What is print on demand?
Print on demand is as the name explains it is an online platform where sales occur on demand rather than stocking up any product. In simple terms with print on demand, you simply design your product, approve the proof, and then set your prices. When an order is placed, the product is printed and shipped directly to the customer.
This business model has gained in popularity in recent years due to its ease of use and low start-up costs. Several platforms make it easy to get started. While it is a great way to make some extra money, it is important to set things straight before doing other things(opening your store) to increase your chances of success.
2. What do you need to start a print-on-demand store?
First and foremost to start a print-on-demand store you do not need to be an "artist". Yey, you heard me loud and clear.
Nowadays several websites offer artistic elements for you to use on your online shop for free and with paid subscription or purchase with a commercial license. But always bear in mind to check the copyright status.
One of the best sites I use for my print-on-demand need is canva. For my readers who do not know what canva is, "Canva is an online design and publishing tool with a mission to empower everyone in the world to design anything and publish anywhere."
Second, you need to come up with a good idea for a product line or Nitche. There are lots of different products that you could sell, but it’s important to choose something that you know well and that you’re passionate about. You also need to make sure that there is a market for your products and do some research.
Third, choose an online print-on-demand company that suits creative talent and ideas. Among those are Redbubble, Zazzle, Spreadshirt, etc... but your success relies on your skill level and consistency to create and promote the designs you make. Unless getting out and promote that you exist with the type of product you created nobody will know and buy your products. This leads us to the fourth step which is,
Fourth, have a promotion strategy. Whether on Pinterest, Instagram, or other social media you need to think about how you are promoting your product and how many times you should post on each platform. As they are saying "out of sight out of mind" you need to maintain your visibility to attract more customers by being present all the time on social.
Fifth, create your online store and start designing and selling. Creating your online store on any platform is very simple. All print on demand companies has a "Sell your art" or similar button for you to join as a seller and the process is self-explanatory and laid out perfectly. But, if you decide to create your store on any platform and find it difficult you can leave a comment we will explain more in another blog post.
3. How to set up your print on demand shop for success
Every Print-on-demand company has a different interface when it comes to setting up your online store. However, there are basic things that you need to consider before opening your store. Like your store name, logo, and banner that represents and describes your service offer. Just think of a coffee shop, a restaurant, or a shoe store; they all have a banner or a logo that represents their business. The same is true when it comes to online stores. So, you need to create that first impression for the customer by laying out the right image upfront.
You set up your store the right way. Then What...?
4. Three tips to move the needle
Tip #1. Have a good design that stands out from the crowd.
Tip #2. Do not design what you want, instead what the customer wants.
Tip #3. Have a variety of seasonal and all-year-round products in your store.
Bouns TIP PROMOTE, PROMOTE, AND PROMOTE.
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