Print-on-Demand for Artists in 2025: My Top Picks & Lessons Learned
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Why I Decided to Move Away from Third-Party Marketplaces
If you’re an independent artist or creative entrepreneur looking to sell prints, books, or merch online, print-on-demand can be a game-changer. In this post, I’ll share the services I’ve used, what’s worked best for my Shopify store, and lessons I’ve learned about balancing quality, cost, and customer experience.
When I first started selling art online, platforms like Society6 and Redbubble felt like the easiest path. They were convenient, but the trade-off was giving up control over my customer’s experience. Orders were handled by someone else, packaging didn’t reflect my brand, and I had little say in the final product quality.
As my business grew, I realized how important it was to create a personalized shopping journey — one that truly reflects my art and my stories. That’s when I began experimenting with print-on-demand services that integrate directly into my own shop.
- Now that I’ve migrated to Shopify, I have more flexibility, better tools for tracking orders, and full ownership of the customer experience.
My Current Picks for Print-on-Demand Solutions
Printful
I use Printful primarily for art prints, and I’ve been consistently impressed. The quality is excellent, customer service is reliable, and Shopify integration makes the entire process nearly seamless.
Pros:
- Exceptional print quality
- Hassle-free integration with Shopify
- Wide range of customization options
Cons:
- A bit pricier, but you get what you pay for
Printify
I’ve tested Printify mostly for apparel. While it’s not my first choice for art prints, it can be a solid option if you’re focusing on t-shirts or other wearable items.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Wide variety of apparel choices
Cons:
- Print quality can vary depending on the provider you select
- Less consistent than Printful for fine art products
Art of Where
When I want to offer something unique, I turn to Art of Where. Their custom notebooks are still a favorite of mine, and they also offer interesting products you won’t find with other print-on-demand providers.
Pros:
- Unique product offerings
- Good for smaller, custom runs
- Solid print quality
Cons:
- Slower shipping times, so plan ahead
Closing Thoughts
Choosing the right print-on-demand service is about more than convenience — it directly impacts your customer’s experience. Take time to assess your needs, your brand goals, and the expectations of your audience.
For me, moving to Shopify opened the door to a more integrated, professional, and flexible setup. As my business continues to grow, my tools evolve too — and I encourage you to stay open to change as well.
The e-commerce landscape is always shifting, but with the right mix of providers and a platform you control, you can build a store that truly feels like yours.