The Ultimate Guide to Print on Demand Posters for 2024

Print-on-demand posters are a hot eCommerce trend for 2024, offering a low-risk way to turn creativity into profit. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create, sell, and scale your POD poster business. From design tips to choosing the best suppliers, we’ll cover everything you need to get started and succeed in this growing market. Let’s dive in!

Market Trends for Print-on-Demand Posters

Print-on-demand (POD) posters are thriving in 2024, driven by changing consumer preferences and advancements in eCommerce. Here are the key trends shaping this market:

• Customization is King: Customers crave unique, personalized designs that reflect their tastes, from motivational quotes to custom illustrations. POD enables easy personalization, making it a hit among consumers looking for one-of-a-kind decor.
• Eco-Friendly Demand: Sustainability is a significant driver, with customers seeking posters printed on recycled or eco-friendly materials. Suppliers offering green solutions gain a competitive edge.
• Home Office Boom: With remote work becoming the norm, posters for home offices are trending. Minimalist art, motivational themes, and calming visuals are in high demand.
• Social Media-Driven Designs: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok inspire trending designs, such as aesthetic collages, pop culture references, and bold typography. POD sellers who stay updated with these trends can connect with younger audiences.
• Fast Shipping Expectations: Speed matters! Customers increasingly expect quicker delivery, even for custom products. Partnering with suppliers that offer efficient fulfillment is crucial.
• Global Market Expansion: The rise of cross-border eCommerce has made it easier for sellers to tap into international markets. Multilingual stores and worldwide shipping options open doors to a larger audience.

By aligning your business with these trends, you can stay competitive and maximize your sales in the ever-growing POD poster market.

How to sell Print on Demand Posters

Step 1: Choose Your Niche

Before diving into design, it’s crucial to identify a specific niche or audience. A niche will allow your designs to stand out and target a focused market. When choosing your niche, consider the following:

How to Choose Your Niche:

• Assess Market Demand: Use tools like Google Trends or Pinterest Trends to identify hot topics or artistic styles that are currently popular.
• Explore Popular Categories: Common POD niches for posters include:
• Motivational Quotes: These are popular in offices, bedrooms, and home decor.
• Abstract Art: Appealing to modern art lovers.
• Nature and Travel: Beautiful landscapes, animals, and travel photography.
• Pop Culture and Movies: Great for fans of films, TV shows, and music.
• Personalized Art: Custom posters with names, dates, or quotes for personal gifting.
• Consider Your Interests: Choose something you’re passionate about—whether that’s designing minimalist art or creating fan art. Your enthusiasm will be reflected in your work and will help you stay motivated.
• Pro Tip: Research your competition on platforms like Etsy or Instagram to see what’s trending and to find a gap in the market. Your niche should be specific but not oversaturated.

Step 2: Design Your Posters

Now that you’ve picked your niche, it’s time to create your posters. The quality of your designs will be the main factor in attracting buyers.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Canva: User-friendly with templates and fonts (great for beginners).
• Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop: Advanced design tools for high-quality and customizable artwork (ideal for professionals).
• Procreate: Perfect for tablet users who prefer to hand-draw illustrations.

Designing Tips for Posters:

• Focus on Quality: Ensure your designs are high resolution (300 DPI) so they can be printed in large sizes without pixelation.
• Consider Print Sizes: The most common poster sizes include:
• 8x10 inches (small)
• 16x20 inches (medium)
• 24x36 inches (large)
• Keep Your Designs Simple but Bold: High-contrast designs or minimalist styles often sell best.
• Use Mockups: Tools like Placeit or Smartmockups help you visualize your designs in a real-life setting (e.g., in a living room or office). These mockups improve the presentation of your posters on your store and social media.

No Design Skills?

• Consider hiring a freelance designer from platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or 99designs. When choosing a designer, look at their portfolio to make sure their style matches what you have in mind.

Step 3: Choose a Print-on-Demand Platform

Once your designs are ready, the next step is to select a reliable POD platform. A POD platform will print, pack, and ship your posters directly to customers on demand. Here are some popular POD services to consider:

Popular POD Platforms for Posters:

• Printful: Known for its high-quality prints and a wide range of poster sizes and finishes (matte, glossy, canvas). It also integrates easily with Shopify and Etsy.
• Printify: Offers a variety of print providers around the world, giving you more flexibility on pricing and shipping. It’s perfect if you want to scale quickly.
• Gooten: An excellent choice for bulk orders and international shipping options. It offers a good range of poster options and other print products.
• T-Pop: A green option that emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendly printing processes. A great choice for customers who prioritize sustainability.

Read more details on the top suppliers for POD posters.

Step 4: Set Up Your Online Store

With your platform chosen and your designs ready, it’s time to set up your store. You’ll need to pick a selling platform and create an appealing storefront.

Popular eCommerce Platforms for Selling Posters:

• Shopify: Best for creating a fully customized and branded online store. It allows for full control over your branding, product displays, and marketing efforts.
• Etsy: Great for handmade and artistic products. Etsy has a built-in customer base looking for unique art pieces, making it a solid option for first-time sellers.
• Amazon Handmade: Leverage Amazon’s massive reach to sell your art. Ideal for POD sellers who want access to a large, global market.

Learn more: Successful Print On Demand Websites To Learn From

Store Setup Checklist:

• Choose a Domain Name: Make sure it’s relevant to your niche (e.g., “ArtPosterStudio.com”).
• Pick a Store Theme: Use free or paid themes that reflect your brand. Shopify’s Debutify or The4 themes are visually appealing and optimized for conversions.
• Add Your Posters: Upload your high-quality mockups with detailed product descriptions. Be sure to include relevant keywords like “custom posters” or “motivational wall art.”
• Set Up Payment and Shipping: Enable payment options like PayPal, Stripe, or credit card payments. Offer clear shipping options, including pricing and delivery times.

Step 5: Price Your Posters

Setting the right price for your posters is crucial for making a profit while staying competitive.

Pricing Strategy

• Calculate Your Costs: Include the cost of production (e.g., printing), platform fees (e.g., Etsy takes 5%), shipping costs, and your desired profit margin.
• Example Breakdown:
• Production cost per poster: $10
• Shipping: $5
• Platform fee (10%): $2
• Total cost: $17
• Selling price: $30 (gives you a profit of $13 per sale)
• Offer Discounts: Consider offering deals like “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” to encourage more sales.

Step 6: Market Your Posters

Marketing is essential to drive traffic to your store. There are several strategies you can use to promote your print-on-demand posters:

Social Media Marketing:

• Instagram: Create a visually stunning Instagram page and post regularly. Use hashtags like #WallArt, #PrintOnDemand, or #HomeDecor.
• Pinterest: Share your poster designs on Pinterest to gain visibility and traffic. Pinterest is a visual search engine, perfect for attracting buyers who are looking for inspiration.
• TikTok: Leverage TikTok’s video format to showcase your designs and how they fit into home spaces.

Paid Advertising:

• Facebook Ads: Create targeted ads aimed at users who like similar pages, such as home decor or interior design.
• Google Ads: Use Google Shopping ads to showcase your posters in search results when customers look for art prints.

Influencer Marketing:

• Partner with influencers in the art, home decor, or lifestyle niche to promote your posters. Choose influencers whose audience aligns with your niche for maximum impact.

Step 7: Handle Orders and Fulfillment

Once you start getting sales, you’ll need to monitor orders, customer communication, and fulfillment processes.

Order Fulfillment:

• Your POD platform will handle printing and shipping, but it’s essential to monitor the process to ensure everything is going smoothly.
• Set up order notifications to track when an order is placed, printed, and shipped.
• Provide tracking numbers to customers so they can follow their orders.

Customer Service:

• Respond promptly to customer inquiries.
• Handle complaints or returns professionally—this helps build trust and loyalty.

Step 8: Scale Your Business

As your POD poster business grows, you’ll want to expand your offerings and optimize operations to keep up with demand.

Scaling Tips:

• Diversify Your Product Range: Add framed prints, canvas prints, or digital downloads to expand your product catalog.
• International Shipping: Enable global shipping to reach customers in other countries.
• Email Marketing: Set up email campaigns to announce new designs, sales, or promotions.

Read more here: How to Create a Shopify Print on Demand Store

Top 15 Print on Demand Posters Suppliers

1. Printful

Printful is a top-rated POD supplier offering high-quality printing and global shipping services. It provides seamless integration with platforms like Shopify and Etsy, making it ideal for eCommerce entrepreneurs focused on professionalism and reliability. Entrepreneurs love its automated order processing and global fulfillment centers, which ensure quick delivery worldwide. With no upfront costs and a robust mockup generator, Printful is an ideal choice for beginners and experienced sellers aiming to deliver high-quality designs.

Key Features

• Offers multiple poster options, including matte, glossy, and canvas prints.
• Global fulfillment centers ensure faster shipping to international customers.
• Integrates with Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, and Amazon.

Pros

• No upfront costs; pay per order.
• High-quality printing with vivid colors.
• Excellent customer support and mockup generator.

Cons

• Slightly higher pricing compared to other POD platforms.

Suitable for: Sellers seeking premium quality posters and a hassle-free setup with global reach.

2. Printify

Printify connects sellers with multiple print providers, allowing you to choose based on cost, quality, and location. Its vast network offers unparalleled flexibility and competitive pricing, which is ideal for entrepreneurs targeting cost-conscious customers. Printtify’s user-friendly interface simplifies design uploads while integrations with Shopify and Etsy streamline operations. With options for bulk discounts and a wide variety of poster finishes, Printify caters to sellers balancing affordability and quality.

Key Features

• Offers a wide range of poster sizes and paper finishes.
• Multiple print providers worldwide, giving you options based on cost and location.
• Integrates with Shopify, Etsy, and eBay.

Pros

• Competitive pricing for bulk orders.
• Ability to choose print providers with fast shipping.
• User-friendly interface for uploading designs.

Cons

• Quality can vary between print providers; samples are recommended.

Suitable for: Sellers seeking flexibility in choosing printing partners and competitive pricing options.

3. Gooten

Gooten is a versatile POD supplier offering automated order processing and a vast product catalog. Its robust automation streamlines the entire fulfillment process, allowing sellers to focus on growing their business. Its extensive poster collection and international shipping options cater to a broad audience. With competitive pricing and a solid reputation for reliability, Gooten is a go-to for sellers handling bulk orders or running multi-channel stores.

Key Features

• Offers matte, glossy, and archival-quality posters.
• Excellent bulk order discounts.
• Integrates with Shopify, WooCommerce, and BigCommerce.

Pros

• Automated order processing for efficiency.
• Reliable international shipping options.
• Detailed analytics to track performance.

Cons

• Limited branding options compared to other platforms.

Suitable for: Sellers managing large order volumes or looking for automation

4. T-Pop

Gooten is a versatile POD supplier offering automated order processing and a vast product catalog. Its robust automation streamlines the entire fulfillment process, allowing sellers to focus on growing their business. Its extensive poster collection and international shipping options cater to a wide audience. With competitive pricing and a solid reputation for reliability, Gooten is a go-to for sellers handling bulk orders or running multi-channel stores.

Key Features

• Uses recycled packaging and eco-friendly ink for printing.
• Focused on sustainability without compromising quality.
• Integrates seamlessly with Shopify and Etsy.

Pros

• Environmentally conscious brand, appealing to eco-friendly customers.
• High-quality printing with attention to detail.
• Free branding options, including custom labels and packing slips.

Cons

• Limited to Europe-based fulfillment centers.

Suitable for: Sellers focused on sustainability and eco-conscious branding.

5. Redbubble

Redbubble is an artist-centric marketplace handling production, shipping, and customer service. It empowers artists by providing a platform to showcase and sell their designs to a global audience. It handles the entire fulfillment process, freeing sellers to focus on creativity. With its marketplace model and robust search visibility, Redbubble is ideal for solo artists seeking exposure without managing a separate store.

Key Features

• Handles all printing, shipping, and customer service.
• A large user base is actively searching for art and posters.
• Offers multiple poster sizes and finishes.

Pros

• No upfront costs; Redbubble takes a percentage of each sale.
• Built-in audience for your designs.
• No need to manage your store.

Cons

• Lower profit margins due to Redbubble’s cut.
• Limited branding control.

Suitable for: Independent artists looking to sell directly to a built-in audience.

6. Zazzle

Zazzle is a POD marketplace offering extensive customization options and high-quality printing for posters. With a user-friendly platform and promotional tools, Zazzle caters to entrepreneurs targeting audiences who value creativity and individuality. Sellers benefit from the platform’s reach and tools without worrying about production or logistics.

Key Features

• Extensive customization options for posters.
• High-quality paper and printing techniques.
• Global reach for artists and customers.

Pros

• Easy to use with a vast design community.
• No inventory or upfront investment is required.
• Offers promotional tools to increase visibility.

Cons

• Lower profit margins compared to standalone stores.

Suitable for: Sellers focused on personalized and custom designs.

7. Society6

Society6 provides a platform specifically for artists to sell unique posters and artwork to art-loving customers. It connects artists with a community of art enthusiasts. Its range of poster styles, including framed and canvas options, attracts premium customers. By managing production and shipping, Society6 allows artists to focus on their designs, making it a reliable platform for building a brand in the art market.

Key Features

• Offers a range of print styles, from basic posters to framed and canvas prints.
• Handles all aspects of production, shipping, and customer support.

Pros

• Established a platform with a strong community of art enthusiasts.
• Great for exposure and networking.
• High-quality printing standards.

Cons

• Limited to Society6’s marketplace for sales.

Suitable for: Artists focusing on niche art markets and high-quality poster sales.

8. Gelato

Gelato is a global POD platform with printing facilities in over 30 countries. Its extensive network of local print facilities ensures quick and cost-effective delivery worldwide. It offers a variety of poster options and seamless integrations with popular eCommerce platforms. Gelato stands out as an eco-friendly solution, perfect for sellers aiming to scale internationally while maintaining quality and affordability.

Key Features

• Offers high-quality posters in a wide range of sizes.
• Local printing ensures faster delivery and reduces carbon footprint.
• Integrates with Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, and more.

Pros

• Competitive pricing for global orders.
• Environmentally friendly approach.
• Reliable fulfillment network.

Cons

• Slightly limited branding options.

Suitable for: Sellers looking to offer affordable, fast global delivery.

9. Fine Art America

Fine Art America is perfect for artists who want to sell high-quality, fine art-style posters catering to high-end customers. It specializes in museum-quality prints, making it a standout platform for artists aiming to reach premium audiences. With options for frames and archival-quality papers, it appeals to discerning customers. The platform handles logistics, enabling artists to focus on creating and promoting their work.

Key Features

• Specialized in fine art prints and museum-quality posters.
• Offers customization options like frames and mats.

Pros

• Appeals to a niche audience willing to pay a premium for art.
• Handles all production and logistics.
• Strong reputation in the art world.

Cons

• Higher commission fees than other platforms.

Suitable for: Artists seeking premium buyers.

10. SPOD (Spreadshirt POD)

SPOD offers one of the fastest fulfillment times in the POD industry, making it a reliable choice for sellers prioritizing speed. It impresses with its 48-hour production guarantee, ensuring customers receive orders promptly. Its easy-to-use design tools and competitive pricing make it a favorite among eCommerce sellers. With Shopify and Etsy integrations, SPOD helps entrepreneurs offer reliable service while maintaining product quality.

Key Features

• Produces posters within 48 hours of order placement.
• Offers an easy-to-use design tool for customization.

Pros

• High-speed processing and shipping times.
• Affordable pricing with no hidden fees.
• Supports Shopify, WooCommerce, and Etsy integrations.

Cons

• Smaller product catalog compared to competitors.

Suitable for: Sellers needing quick production and delivery times.

How to Choose the Best POD Poster Supplier

Selecting the right print-on-demand (POD) poster supplier is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your business’s success. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the best POD poster supplier that fits your unique business needs.

1. Evaluate Product Quality

• Ensure the supplier offers high-quality paper, vibrant inks, and durable printing techniques. The material used should reflect the style and aesthetic of your brand.
• The quality of your posters directly affects customer satisfaction and brand reputation. Low-quality prints may result in returns and bad reviews.
• Order samples from different suppliers to assess the quality firsthand. This will give you a good idea of how your designs will translate into the final product.

2. Consider the Product Range and Customization Options

• A supplier offering various poster sizes, finishes (e.g., matte, glossy), and additional customization options (e.g., framing or canvas prints).
• The more options your supplier provides, the more flexibility you have in meeting your customers' preferences and expanding your product line. Offering a range of sizes and finishes allows your store to cater to a wider audience.
• Choose a supplier that allows for easy experimentation with new products. This way, you can expand your offerings based on customer demand.

3. Review Pricing and Profit Margins

• Competitive pricing for high-quality prints without hidden fees. Make sure the supplier offers transparent pricing that doesn’t compromise the quality of the product.
• Your profit margins are essential to sustaining your business. Opting for a POD supplier with affordable rates helps you maintain healthy margins while ensuring high-quality prints.
• Compare the pricing of multiple suppliers and factor in production, shipping, and additional fees to determine which one offers the best value for money.

4. Check Fulfillment and Shipping Speed

• Fast production and reliable shipping. Look for a supplier with clear shipping timelines, tracking options, and international delivery capabilities.
• Slow fulfillment can lead to customer dissatisfaction and lost sales. Fast and reliable shipping is essential to building trust and encouraging repeat purchases.
• Choose a supplier with fulfillment centers near your key customer markets to ensure faster delivery and lower shipping costs.

5. Assess Integration with Your eCommerce Platform

• Seamless integration with platforms like Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce. The supplier should automate order processing and sync with your store.
• Integration simplifies your workflow, making order management and inventory tracking easier. This saves you time and reduces the likelihood of errors.
• Look for suppliers with pre-built integration for the eCommerce platform you use. This will ensure that product listings, orders, and inventory updates are automatically managed.

6. Evaluate Customer Support

• Responsive and helpful customer support that can quickly resolve issues like order mistakes or shipping delays.
• Good customer support is essential for keeping your business running smoothly. Problems are bound to arise, and you need a supplier that will address them promptly and professionally.
• Test their customer service by sending inquiries before committing to see how responsive and helpful they are.

7. Understand Return and Refund Policies

• Clear and customer-friendly return policies that outline how defective or unsatisfactory products will be handled.
• Having a solid return policy is essential for customer trust and satisfaction. A hassle-free return process ensures customers are confident in purchasing from your store.
• Read through the supplier’s return policy carefully to ensure it aligns with your business values and is easy for your customers to navigate.

8. Consider Sustainability and Ethical Practices

• Eco-friendly printing methods, sustainable materials, and ethical production processes.
• Many consumers are now prioritizing sustainability in their purchasing decisions. Choosing a supplier with eco-friendly practices can help differentiate your brand in a crowded market.
• Look for suppliers that provide certifications (e.g., FSC-certified paper) or use environmentally friendly inks and sustainable production methods.

9. Examine Supplier Reviews and Reputation

• Positive reviews from other sellers and customers. Look for feedback on the supplier’s product quality, customer service, and reliability.
• The reputation of your supplier reflects the trustworthiness of your business. Negative experiences with suppliers can affect your brand’s reputation and lead to customer complaints.
• Check independent review platforms and eCommerce forums for unbiased opinions from other sellers.

By considering these key factors, you can confidently choose a print-on-demand poster supplier that aligns with your business goals.

Tips to work effectively with your suppliers

• Maintain Clear Communication
  Ensure consistent, transparent communication to avoid misunderstandings. Use emails or chat for quick updates and video calls for complex matters.
• Be Transparent About Your Needs
  Clearly define your product specifications, design files, and any customization requirements to avoid mistakes during production.
• Establish Clear Deadlines
  Set realistic, agreed-upon deadlines for production and delivery. Communicate any changes well in advance to keep the process smooth.
• Build a Strong Partnership
  Establish mutual respect and foster a collaborative relationship. Show appreciation for good work, and provide constructive feedback when necessary.
• Manage Expectations
  Understand and communicate realistic expectations regarding order quantities, delivery times, and product quality to avoid disappointments.
• Request Samples Before Committing
  Always request product samples before placing large orders to ensure quality and alignment with your brand’s standards.
• Provide Detailed Product Designs and Specifications
  Submit high-resolution designs in the correct format and size, following the supplier’s guidelines to avoid production errors.
• Stay Organized with Orders and Inventory
  Use inventory management systems to track orders and stock levels, reducing errors and ensuring timely fulfillment.
• Monitor Quality Control Regularly
  Check product quality frequently to maintain consistency and avoid issues like misprints or color mismatches that may affect customer satisfaction.
• Negotiate for Better Terms
  Once a solid relationship is established, negotiate for better pricing, faster processing, or additional benefits, such as discounts on bulk orders.
• Be Prepared for Challenges
  Prepare for potential delays or production issues by having backup plans and alternative suppliers, and communicate with your customers promptly if delays occur.
• Respect Their Process and Timeline
  Understand and respect your supplier’s production and fulfillment capabilities. Avoid placing last-minute, high-pressure orders that may cause mistakes.
• Offer Constructive Feedback
  Give helpful feedback on issues or areas for improvement. Address concerns professionally and provide suggestions for better outcomes in the future.

May you interest

• How to Sell With Print on Demand on Etsy
• How To Start a Print-On-Demand Business
• Best Print-On-Demand Sites For Artists
• Best Print On Demand Companies: Review & Tips
• 25+ Best Selling Print On Demand Products For High Profits 2024

Bottom line

Print-on-demand posters are a great way to start or grow your business without the hassle of inventory or upfront costs. By understanding market trends, selecting the right supplier, and following the step-by-step guide, you can successfully launch your POD poster business in 2024. Focus on quality designs, reliable suppliers, and customer satisfaction, and you'll be on your way to success. Now’s the perfect time to dive into the world of POD posters and take advantage of this growing market!

FAQs - Print on Demand Posters

1. What types of posters can I create with print on demand?

You can create a wide variety of posters with print on demand, including art prints, motivational quotes, photography posters, movie and music posters, vintage designs, custom illustrations, and more. The key is to create unique designs that will resonate with your target audience. Most POD platforms offer various paper types and sizes, so you can tailor the posters to different tastes and styles.

2. What file formats do I need to upload for print-on-demand posters?

Most POD platforms accept high-resolution files in formats like JPEG, PNG, and PDF. To ensure the best print quality, your designs should be at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) at the poster's final size. Additionally, make sure your artwork is well-aligned with the supplier’s file requirements, such as size and bleed margins.

3. How long does it take to fulfill and ship print-on-demand posters?

The fulfillment time for POD posters typically ranges from 2 to 7 business days, depending on your supplier’s processing speed. After that, shipping times vary based on the delivery method and destination. Domestic shipping may take around 3-7 days, while international shipping can take 10-20 days or more. Always communicate estimated delivery times to your customers to manage expectations.

4. Can I offer custom print-on-demand posters?

Yes, offering custom posters is a great way to attract more customers. Many POD suppliers allow you to offer personalized designs or customer-submitted artwork. You can provide customers with options to add their text, select custom colors, or upload personal photos to create one-of-a-kind posters.

5. How do I handle returns or refunds for POD posters?

Returns or refunds for POD posters can be tricky since each item is made to order. However, many POD suppliers have policies for damaged or defective items. Typically, you’ll be required to provide proof of the issue, such as photos. It's crucial to check with your supplier about their return and refund policies before setting your own, and always be transparent with your customers about your terms and conditions.

6. What is the profit margin for POD posters?

Profit margins for POD posters can vary depending on your pricing, the base cost from your supplier, and any additional customization options. On average, many sellers mark up their POD posters by 30-50% to cover their costs and make a profit. For example, if the base cost is $10, you might sell the poster for $20, giving you a $10 profit.

7. Do I need to create my designs for POD posters?

While creating your designs gives you a unique edge, you don't necessarily have to. There are many resources where you can find free or paid designs to use for your posters, such as stock image websites or design marketplaces. Alternatively, you can work with designers to create custom artwork for you. Just be mindful of licensing rights when using third-party designs to avoid copyright issues.