title: "Best Print-on-Demand Tools Under $159 for Beginners (2025)"
date: 2025-01-15
excerpt: "Discover the best print-on-demand tools for beginners in 2025, all priced under $159. This guide provides expert insights and comparisons to help you choose the right platform for your side hustle."
tags: ["side-hustles"]
image: ""

Best Print-on-Demand Tools Under $159 for Beginners (2025)

Print-on-demand (POD) services have revolutionized the way entrepreneurs approach e-commerce. They allow you to create and sell custom products without the need for inventory or upfront investment, making it easier than ever to start a side hustle. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best print-on-demand tools available for beginners in 2025, all priced under $159.

Overview

The print-on-demand industry has grown significantly, allowing creatives and entrepreneurs to launch their own merchandise with minimal risk. As a beginner, choosing the right POD tool can be daunting. Our guide highlights the key features, pros, and cons of each platform, helping you to make an informed decision.

Benefits of Using Print-on-Demand Tools

• Low Startup Costs: You don’t need to invest in inventory or equipment.
• Customizable Products: Create unique designs for a wide range of items.
• Easy Integration: Most tools seamlessly connect with e-commerce platforms.
• No Inventory Management: The POD provider handles production and shipping.

Top Picks

In-Depth Reviews

1. Printful

Printful is one of the most popular print-on-demand platforms, offering an extensive range of products and high-quality printing services.

Key Features

• Wide Product Range: From apparel to home goods, Printful offers a diverse selection.
• Integrations: Connects easily with major e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce.
• Branding Options: Custom packing slips and branded labels are available.

Pros

• High-quality prints and materials.
• No upfront fees or inventory.

Cons

• Higher shipping costs compared to some competitors.

2. TeeSpring (now known as Spring)

TeeSpring is designed for creators and influencers looking to monetize their designs effortlessly.

Key Features

• Built-in Marketing Tools: Easily share your products on social media.
• User-Friendly Interface: Simple design tools for beginners.

Pros

• No upfront costs; you only pay when you sell.
• Strong community support and resources.

Cons

• Limited product customization compared to Printful.

3. Redbubble

Redbubble is an excellent platform for artists and designers, allowing them to sell their artwork on various products.

Key Features

• Marketplace Exposure: Your products are showcased to a global audience.
• Diverse Product Range: From stickers to wall art, there’s something for everyone.

Pros

• Community-driven platform with artist support.
• Easy to use and set up.

Cons

• Limited control over pricing and profit margins.

4. Gooten

Gooten focuses on automation, making it a great choice for those who want to streamline their POD process.

Key Features

• API Access: Ideal for developers looking to create custom solutions.
• Automated Fulfillment: Simplifies the order and shipping process.

Pros

• Affordable pricing with no monthly fees.
• Variety of products and fulfillment options.

Cons

• Less brand recognition compared to larger POD platforms.

5. Zazzle

Zazzle is a versatile platform that allows users to create a wide array of custom products.

Key Features

• Customization Options: Extensive design tools for product personalization.
• Large Product Selection: Offers everything from clothing to electronics.

Pros

• User-friendly design interface.
• Strong customer base and community.

Cons

• Lower profit margins compared to other POD services.

6. Society6

Society6 focuses on home decor and lifestyle products, making it perfect for artists and designers.

Key Features

• Artist Support: Provides exposure and resources for creators.
• Quality Prints: High-quality production standards.

Pros

• Strong community and promotional support.
• No upfront costs required.

Cons

• Limited control over product pricing.

7. TeeLaunch

TeeLaunch specializes in apparel and is designed for seamless integration with Shopify stores.

Key Features

• Shopify Integration: Direct integration with your e-commerce store.
• Wide Range of Apparel: Focused on clothing products.

Pros

• Easy to set up and use.
• Competitive pricing structure.

Cons

• Limited product categories compared to other platforms.

8. Apliiq

Apliiq is unique in its focus on custom apparel branding, offering fabric applications and unique design features.

Key Features

• Customization: Allows for unique branding options.
• Quality Materials: Emphasis on fabric quality and printing.

Pros

• Great for businesses looking for unique apparel branding.
• No upfront costs.

Cons

• Limited product range compared to larger POD services.

How We Picked

Choosing the best print-on-demand tools involves evaluating several factors:

• User Experience: We prioritized platforms that are easy to navigate for beginners.
• Product Variety: A diverse range of products allows for greater customization options.
• Pricing Structure: We focused on tools that offer value without hidden fees.
• Integration: The ability to seamlessly connect with e-commerce platforms is crucial.
• Customer Support: Strong resources and support for beginners were taken into account.

Alternatives

While the top picks provide excellent options for beginners, here are a few alternatives worth considering:

• Printify: Offers a wide range of print providers and products.
• CustomCat: Focuses on low-cost products with bulk pricing options.
• AOP+: Specializes in sustainable and ethical print-on-demand products.

FAQs

1. What is print-on-demand?

Print-on-demand (POD) is a business model where products are printed only after an order is placed. This eliminates the need for inventory and upfront costs, allowing creators to focus on design and marketing.

2. Do I need design skills to use print-on-demand tools?

Most print-on-demand platforms provide user-friendly design tools that make it easy for beginners to create custom designs without advanced graphic design skills.

3. Can I integrate print-on-demand services with my existing online store?

Yes, many print-on-demand platforms offer seamless integrations with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce.

4. How do I set my prices on print-on-demand products?

Pricing structures vary by platform, but you generally set your retail prices above the base cost, allowing you to keep the difference as profit.

5. What are the shipping options for print-on-demand products?

Most print-on-demand services handle shipping directly, offering various options based on product type and location. Be sure to check the shipping rates and times for each platform.

6. Are there any upfront costs with print-on-demand services?

Many print-on-demand services have no upfront costs, allowing you to create and sell products without financial risk. However, it’s always good to check the specific terms of each platform.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right print-on-demand tool is crucial for your success as a beginner entrepreneur. Each platform reviewed in this guide offers unique features, pricing structures, and product varieties to cater to different needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple t-shirt design platform like TeeSpring or a more comprehensive solution like Printful, there’s a POD tool that can help you launch your side hustle with ease.

Remember to consider your specific requirements, such as product type, design capabilities, and marketing tools, before making your final choice. With the right print-on-demand service, you can turn your creative ideas into a profitable venture in 2025.