Introduction

Are you an artist looking to share your creations with the world? Or maybe you’re just starting out and want to dip your toes into the world of selling art. Either way, Print On Demand (POD) is a fantastic option for artists of all levels to turn their passion into profit. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of selling your art via POD, so let’s get started!

What is Print On Demand?

Print On Demand is a business model that allows artists to upload their designs to a platform, such as a website or marketplace, and have those designs printed on various products only when an order is placed. This means you don’t have to worry about inventory or upfront costs, making it a low-risk option for artists. We like to use Amazon Merch, Etsy, Teepublic, Spreadshirt, Zazzle, and a few lesser known platforms Displate and Tostadora.

Choosing the Right POD Platform

With so many POD platforms out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Product Range: Make sure the platform offers the products you want to sell, whether it’s art prints, t-shirts, or even home decor items. We prefer Amazon Merch since it has SO MUCH Organic Traffic.
• Quality: Look for a platform that produces high-quality products to ensure customer satisfaction. The printer partners listed above use quality products to send to your customers.
• Profit Margin: Check the pricing structure and commission rates to ensure you’re getting a fair share of the profits. Some platforms let you adjust your profit margins, but not all of them.
• Shipping and Fulfillment: Consider the platform’s shipping options and how they handle order fulfillment. Fast and reliable shipping is crucial for a positive customer experience. Our POD partners are known for fast and accurate shipping and fulfillment practices.

Creating and Uploading Your Designs

Now that you’ve chosen a platform, it’s time to unleash your creativity! Here are some tips for creating and uploading your designs:

• Be Original: Stand out from the crowd by creating unique and original artwork. Find your own style and let your personality shine through. We do use some templates, but we alter them SO MUCH that they are pretty unrecognizable and we consider them to be unique designs because we alter them so much, including colors, fonts, sizing, and artwork.
• Consider Your Target Audience: Think about who would be interested in your art and create designs that cater to their tastes and preferences. We’ve found that some designs we don’t particularly like or would buy ourselves, are some of the best sellers because that’s what the buyers are looking for.
• Optimize Your Designs: Ensure your designs are in the correct format and resolution for printing. Experiment with different color schemes and layouts to find what works best. Some platforms, especially Amazon Merch and Displate have very specific design size requirements that you MUST adhere to.
• Write Engaging Descriptions: Don’t forget to write compelling descriptions for your products. Tell the story behind each design and why it’s special. Integrate some keywords for good SEO marketing, but don’t overdue them as some POD actually might penalize you for overusing keywords.

Marketing Your Art

Once your designs are uploaded and ready to go, it’s time to spread the word and start making sales. Here are some marketing strategies to consider:

• Social Media: Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to showcase your art and engage with potential customers.
• Collaborate with Influencers: Partnering with influencers in your niche can help increase your reach and expose your art to a wider audience. Don’t be shy by asking for collaboration, it’s better to get a “No thank you.” than not to even try.
• Offer Promotions: Everyone loves a good deal! Consider offering limited-time discounts or free shipping to entice customers to make a purchase. Most POD partners have automatic discounts especially for holidays, that all you have to do is click a few buttons to activate for your customers.
• Attend Art Fairs and Events: Networking in person can be a great way to connect with art enthusiasts and potential customers. Look for local Art Fairs, Events, and Festivals to help promote your brand and your products locally.

Customer Service is Key

Providing excellent customer service is crucial for building a loyal customer base. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Respond Promptly: Answer customer inquiries and resolve any issues in a timely manner. Do NOT use generic reply forms! Make a personal note to your customer to let them know you are personally taking care of them.
• Package Your Products with Care: Make sure your art is packaged securely to avoid any damage during shipping. Use your branding in your packaging to further enhance the customer experience and provide a professional image.
• Ask for Feedback: Encourage customers to leave reviews and testimonials to build trust and credibility. Every review is important and a learning experience if they are negative, use these opportunities to enhance and grow your business.

Conclusion

Selling your art via Print On Demand is an exciting and accessible way to turn your passion into profit. By choosing the right platform, creating unique designs, and implementing effective marketing strategies, you can successfully sell your art to a global audience. Remember to provide excellent customer service and never stop honing your craft. Good luck on your artistic journey!