How to Make Extra Money with Print-on-Demand

Okay, let’s be honest. The idea of earning extra money is pretty appealing, right? And in 2025, the ways to do that are more diverse and accessible than ever. Print-on-demand (POD) is quietly becoming one of the hottest side hustles, and for really good reason.

If you’ve ever had an idea for a design – a funny quote, a beautiful illustration, a cool pattern – but didn't want the hassle of designing products yourself or worrying about storage, then POD is absolutely worth exploring.

What is Print-on-Demand?

Simply put, print-on-demand is a service that connects you with a manufacturer who handles everything from printing your designs on products (t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, posters, and much, much more) to shipping them directly to your customers. You don’t hold any inventory, which is a huge advantage.

Here’s how it works (and how you can make money):

Choose Your Niche: This is arguably the most important step. Don’t try to appeal to everyone. Pick something you’re passionate about or knowledgeable about. Some popular niches include:
- Pets
- Gaming
- Fitness
- Hobbies (e.g., gardening, photography)
- Funny Quotes
- Pop Culture
Select a POD Platform: There are several great platforms to choose from:
- Printful: Probably the most popular, known for its wide product selection and integrations with other platforms.
- Printify: Offers access to a massive network of printing partners, potentially leading to better pricing.
- Redbubble: A marketplace where you can sell your designs directly – they handle all the fulfillment.
- Teelaunch: Another solid option, particularly good for beginners.
Create Your Designs: You can design your own graphics using tools like Canva (very user-friendly!), Adobe Photoshop, or Illustrator. Or, you can hire a freelancer on sites like Fiverr if you need professional help.
Set Up Your Store: Most POD platforms allow you to easily set up an online store. You can also sell directly through marketplaces like Etsy.
Market Your Products: This is where the work really begins! You need to get people to see your designs. Consider these strategies:
- Social Media Marketing: Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest – find where your target audience hangs out.
- Paid Advertising: Experiment with Facebook and Instagram ads.
- SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Optimize your product listings and store for relevant keywords.
- Influencer Marketing: Partner with micro-influencers in your niche.

The Best Part? Low Startup Costs

Unlike traditional businesses, you don’t need to invest a fortune upfront. Your costs are primarily limited to the price of your designs (if you hire someone) and any marketing expenses.

Don’t Be Afraid to Start Small

Print-on-demand can be a slow burn, but with consistent effort and a smart strategy, you can build a profitable side hustle. Start with a few products, learn as you go, and don’t be afraid to experiment!

Resources to Get You Started: