Why I Decided to Move Away from Third-Party Sites

I wanted to take a moment to review some of the print-on-demand options available for Squarespace shop owners. As my small business began to take shape, the limitations of using third-party platforms like Society6 and Redbubble became increasingly clear. Yes, they were convenient, but they also meant giving up a level of control over my customer's experience. I yearned for a more personalized shopping journey for my audience, one that would truly reflect the essence of my brand.

My Current Picks for Print-on-Demand Solutions

Printful

I transitioned to using Printful primarily for prints, and let me tell you, I couldn't be happier. The quality of the prints is top-notch, and their customer service is quite reliable. Printful's integration with Squarespace is seamless, making it a perfect fit for my shop.

Pros:

• Exceptional print quality

• Hassle-free integration with Squarespace

• A wide range of customization options

Cons:

• A bit on the pricier side, but you get what you pay for.

Printify

I tried Printify mainly for apparel, but ultimately found that it wasn't quite up to par when it came to print options. However, if you're looking for a decent t-shirt printer, this could be a serviceable option.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing

• Variety of apparel options

Cons:

• Limited print choices

• Not as high-quality as some other providers

Art of Where

Art of Where is the platform I go to when I want to offer something truly unique. Their custom notebooks are a favorite of mine. The print quality is good, and they offer some incredible customization options that you won't find elsewhere.

Pros:

• Unique product options

• Great for small, custom runs

• Decent print quality

Cons:

• Shipping can be slow, so plan accordingly.

ShipStation

Though not a print-on-demand service, ShipStation is a fantastic tool to consider when you're using multiple providers. It allows you to streamline your shipping process and integrates well with Squarespace.

Pros:

• Efficient tracking

• Multi-carrier support

• Custom email branding options

Cons:

• There's a learning curve, especially if you're new to shipping logistics.

Closing Thoughts

Choosing the right print-on-demand service can make or break your customer's experience. Don't rush into the decision. Take the time to assess your needs, your customer's expectations, and how each service integrates with your online shop. As my business has evolved, so have my needs and choices. Always stay open to change; after all, the e-commerce world is ever-shifting.

So go forth, fellow Squarespace shop owners, and may your print-on-demand journey be a fruitful one.