As an artist, you may have heard of print on demand (POD) services, which can allow you to create and sell reproductions of your artwork without the need for large upfront investments or holding inventory. But what exactly is print on demand for artists, and when and why should you use it (or maybe shouldn't)? Let's take a closer look.

What is Print on Demand for Artists?

Print on demand for artists refers to a service provided by various online platforms, such as Redbubble, Society6, and Printful or Printify. These services allow artists to upload digital files of their artwork. These files can then be printed on-demand on various products, such as prints, canvases, mugs, phone cases, and more.

When and Why to Use Print on Demand for Artists

There are definitely good reasons to use POD services. Last but not least you get high quality products to your customers but I have listed a few more:

Low Start-up Costs

One of the main advantages of using print on demand for artists is the low startup costs. Unlike traditional printing methods, you don't need to purchase any equipment or materials, and you don't have to hold inventory. You simply need to upload your digital files, and the printing process is handled by the POD service as soon as a customer purchases one of your products. Your customer gets a neutral package so you don't need to worry about having someone else's packaging on your product. I have tested this for Printify. Please test it for whatever service you want to use.

Easy to Get Started

Another advantage of print on demand for artists is that it's easy to get started. The process of uploading your artwork and setting up your store can be done quickly, without requiring any specialized knowledge or skills. This means that you can start selling your art online and reaching a wider audience without much hassle.

No Need to Handle Shipping

Print on demand for artists also takes care of shipping for you. Once an order is placed, the POD service will print and ship the product directly to the customer, saving you time and effort.

Offers a Variety of Products

Print on demand services offer a wide variety of products that you can sell with your artwork, ranging from prints and canvases to t-shirts and tote bags. This allows you to reach a broader audience and offer different price points to fit your customers' budgets.

Test Your Art Market

Print on demand for artists can also be a great way to test the market for your artwork. You can experiment with different designs and products to see what sells best, without having to commit to large print runs or expensive inventory.

When Print on Demand May Not Be Right

While print on demand for artists offers low startup costs and an easy way to start selling your art, it can also result in lower profit margins. Since the POD service handles printing and shipping, they typically take a percentage of the sale price, leaving you with less profit than if you handled printing and shipping yourself. Still, if you take in consideration that even your business with physical products is hands off and can be handled like a digital product business you might be willing to pay for this service.

Limited Control Over Quality

Print on demand also means that you have limited control over the final product's quality. You have to trust the POD service to produce high-quality products that accurately represent your artwork, and you may not have the ability to oversee the printing process.
That's why I recommend to test a print bevor you sell it. For example: On Printify the designer can purchase her own product for less costs before it is added to the store. 

Limited Customization Options

While print on demand for artists offers a range of products, customization options can be limited. You may not have control over the paper or ink used, and you may have limited options for packaging and branding.

In Conclusion

Print on demand for artists can be a great option for those looking to sell their art with low startup costs, easy setup, and minimal hassle. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons and determine whether it's the right fit for your goals and needs. By understanding the benefits and limitations of print on demand services, you can make an informed decision on whether to use it as part of your art business strategy.

If you decide to use print on demand for artists, be sure to choose a reputable and reliable POD service that offers high-quality printing and good customer service. Consider experimenting with different designs and products to find what works best for your audience and brand.

On the other hand, if you prefer more control over the printing and packaging process, or if you're interested in producing limited edition prints or other specialized products, you may want to consider traditional printing methods or working with a local print shop.

Ultimately, the decision to use print on demand for artists or not depends on your unique needs and goals as an artist. By weighing the pros and cons and doing your research, you can make an informed decision that supports your art career and helps you reach a wider audience.