Considering that there are over 14 million online stores in the United States alone, you may be wondering if it’s possible to run a successful print-on-demand business. Actually, bold POD sites are thriving. When 99% of your “competition” is boring and repetitive, it’s not hard to stand out. Successful print-on-demand stores are impossible to ignore, and yours can be, too.
The Secrets of Successful Print-on-Demand Stores
There’s no “secret recipe” for POD success, but the gist is to be unique. Here’s how:
- Choose a well-defined niche, and stick to it.
- Give your brand an authentic and interesting identity.
- Don’t sacrifice quality — ever.
- Follow your passion, and talk about it on your site.
- Make your website interactive and easy to use.
People remember things that are different from the norm. Be a pineapple, not a potato.
Bold Examples of Print-on-Demand Stores on Shopify
Check out our favorite examples of print-on-demand stores for turning heads, moving hearts, and building a loyal following.
1. Classic Dad
This iconic store leans hard into “Dad Life.” The comfy tees have everything you’d expect in a boomer dad’s repertoire, from cringeworthy one-liners to dad-isms like “Because I said so.”
What we love most? The Classic Dad origin story.
The brand started as a social media page revolving around dad culture and jokes. Then it started selling POD shirts. Finally, Classic Dad launched a full Shopify website.
No one said you have to go from zero to 60 in a week. Scale as your brand grows.
Shopify’s Starter Plan can get you started selling on social media. Once you have a following, creating a custom website is a breeze.
2. Tumbleweed TexStyles
This print-on-demand supersite is Texas-born and bred, and proud of it. Every item has a clear southern vibe.
What can you learn? First, that your audience is everything. Know who you’re selling to. Make them smile.
Second, don’t make the mistake of thinking that print-on-demand isn’t compatible with local retail. Sometimes, your best customers live locally. Dropshipping works just as well for local sales as it does for national audiences.
3. Jolie Noir
One of the great things about running a small print-on-demand business is that you can be yourself. Instead of worrying about “brand perception,” sometimes it’s better just to talk about your personal story.
That’s what Keyondra and Kim, the sisters/owners of Jolie Noire, did. Their store isn’t just about their love of black accents. It feels like they’re trying to help visitors look at beauty from a different perspective.
4. Canvas Freaks
We fell in love with Canvas Freaks instantly. This site does so many things right it’s crazy.
Bold personality? Check.
Attention-grabbing products? Absolutely.
But what really puts it over the edge for us are the custom neon sign and wall art options. If you’re going to do print-on-demand, why not go all the way? Letting your clients personalize art can boost the appeal of that perfect gift even more.
Powerful Tools for Successful Print-on-Demand Stores
Shopify apps can streamline your path to print-on-demand stardom. Connect with high-quality dropshipping suppliers, let customers create “build your own” bundles, and add personalization features to your site. Discover the perfect integrations for successful print-on-demand stores right away.