Introduction to Print-On-Demand for Beginners
Print-on-demand (POD) platforms are an excellent way for creative entrepreneurs to start selling custom designs on various products without the hassle of inventory or shipping. Among the many options available, Redbubble vs Teespring are two of the most popular platforms for beginners looking to launch a print-on-demand side hustle.
This comprehensive comparison will help you understand the key features, benefits, and challenges of each platform so you can decide which one aligns best with your goals and skills.
What is Print-On-Demand?
Free traffic checklist
Want more beginner-friendly online income guides?
Get practical HustlePathDaily ideas for Pinterest traffic, simple side hustles, and content systems.
Join the newsletterPrint-on-demand is a business model where you upload your artwork or designs, and the platform prints them on products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more only after a customer places an order. This means no upfront inventory costs or risks, making it ideal for artists, designers, and anyone looking to test product ideas.
Benefits of Print-On-Demand for Beginners
- Low startup costs
- No need to manage inventory or shipping
- Ability to experiment with different designs and products
- Scalable with minimal risk
Redbubble vs Teespring: Platform Overview
Product Range and Variety
- Redbubble: Offers over 70 products including apparel, home decor, stationery, and art prints. Great for artists wanting to showcase diverse designs.
- Teespring: Focuses mainly on apparel and accessories with around 50 product options. Ideal for creators targeting fashion and wearable products.
Pricing and Profit Margins
- Redbubble: Base prices are set by Redbubble; you add a markup percentage (usually 20-30%). This can limit profit margins but simplifies pricing.
- Teespring: You set the final retail price, giving you more control over profits but requiring strategic pricing.
Audience and Marketing
- Redbubble: Boasts a large built-in marketplace with organic traffic, which helps with passive discovery.
- Teespring: Smaller built-in audience but offers integrated marketing tools like discounts, bundles, and social media integrations.
Ease of Use
- Redbubble: User-friendly interface, perfect for beginners with minimal technical skills.
- Teespring: Campaign-based selling model can be slightly complex for absolute beginners but offers powerful promotional options.
Getting Started with Redbubble
Step 1: Create Your Redbubble Account
- Visit Redbubble.com and sign up.
- Complete your profile with an artist name and bio to build credibility.
Step 2: Upload Your Designs
- Use high-resolution PNG files with transparent backgrounds.
- Upload once and enable your design on multiple product types.
Step 3: Set Your Markup
- Redbubble sets base prices; add a markup percentage to determine your profit.
- Typical markups range from 20% to 30% for competitive pricing.
Step 4: Publish and Promote
- Publish your designs to the marketplace.
- Promote your shop through social media, blogs, or email newsletters.
Pros of Redbubble
- Large, active marketplace with organic traffic
- Wide variety of product options
- Simple setup and design upload process
Cons of Redbubble
- Lower profit margins due to fixed base prices
- High competition in popular niches
Getting Started with Teespring
Step 1: Sign Up and Connect Your Accounts
- Create a free Teespring account.
- Link social media or YouTube channels to leverage integrated marketing.
Step 2: Upload Designs and Choose Products
- Upload your artwork.
- Customize product colors and styles.
Step 3: Set Your Retail Price
- Choose your selling price to control profit margins.
Step 4: Launch Campaigns
- Teespring uses a campaign model where products are available for a limited time.
- Use built-in marketing tools like discounts, bundles, and social media promotions.
Pros of Teespring
- Greater control over pricing and profits
- Built-in marketing and promotional tools
- Campaign model creates urgency and boosts sales
Cons of Teespring
- Smaller built-in audience compared to Redbubble
- Campaign structure may be confusing for beginners
Key Comparison Points for Beginners
Product Selection
- Redbubble offers more diverse product types, including art prints and stationery.
- Teespring is more apparel-focused but offers customization options.
Pricing and Profit
- Redbubble’s markup system simplifies pricing but limits profit potential.
- Teespring’s pricing freedom allows for higher margins but requires strategic pricing.
Audience and Marketing
- Redbubble relies on organic marketplace traffic.
- Teespring requires active promotion but provides marketing tools.
Ease of Use
- Redbubble is more straightforward for beginners.
- Teespring’s campaign model has a learning curve but offers powerful features.
Practical Example: Selling a Quote Design
- Redbubble: Upload a quote design once, enable it on mugs, t-shirts, and stickers, set a 25% markup, and publish. Share your shop link on social media.
- Teespring: Create a campaign with the quote design on t-shirts, price at $25 for a $10 profit, and use promo tools to offer launch discounts.
Pro tip: Focus on a specific niche or theme for your designs to attract a targeted audience. Consistency in style and messaging helps build brand recognition.
Quick win: Start with simple designs like text quotes or minimalist graphics to test demand before investing in complex artwork.
Tips for Success Regardless of Platform
- Create simple yet eye-catching designs.
- Research your target audience’s preferences.
- Promote your products consistently on social media platforms.
- Track which designs and products perform best and refine your offerings.
- Leverage seasonal and trending themes to boost sales.
Creator resource: You can also check out my Redbubble designs here: https://www.redbubble.com/people/InkWanderStudio/
FAQ
1. Do I need design skills to start with Redbubble or Teespring?
No, but basic skills using tools like Canva or Adobe Illustrator help create better designs. Simple text-based or shape-based designs also perform well.
2. Which platform pays faster?
Teespring has a lower payout threshold ($10) compared to Redbubble ($20), which may result in quicker payments after you start selling.
3. Can I use my own branding on these platforms?
Both platforms offer limited branding options. Teespring allows some storefront customization, but generally, order fulfillment is handled by the platform without your branding.
4. Is it better to sell on multiple print-on-demand platforms?
Yes, listing your designs on both Redbubble and Teespring can increase your exposure and sales potential.
Conclusion
Choosing between Redbubble vs Teespring depends on your priorities as a beginner in print-on-demand. If you want a large marketplace with simpler setup, Redbubble is an excellent choice. If you prefer more control over pricing and marketing tools, Teespring might suit you better.
Start with simple, consistent designs, promote actively, and learn from your sales data. Over time, you can scale your print-on-demand business and explore other platforms or marketing strategies.
For more insights on starting a successful print-on-demand side hustle, check out Debunking Common Myths About Making Money with Print On Demand.