Custom print-on-demand (POD) products are taking the market by storm, and for good reason. They resonate with customers on a personal level, making them more likely to purchase. In this blog, we’ll explore how to Create Custom Print-On-Demand Products: Step-by-Step & why customized products, particularly t-shirts, sell so well and provide a detailed guide on how to create your own custom POD t-shirt using various tools & my fav pod supplier Gelato!
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Why Customized Products Sell So Well
One of the primary reasons customized products are so popular is their connection to evergreen niches. An evergreen niche refers to a market that remains relevant and in demand over time. Pets are a perfect example. People love to showcase their furry friends, and products that celebrate this bond are always in style. Watch the Top 10 Evergreen Niches video here for more niche inspo!
This specific product not only taps into the evergreen pet niche but also features an on-trend design aesthetic. When you combine these elements, you have a recipe for a bestseller. Additionally, the ability to customize the product adds a unique touch that appeals to consumers looking for something special.
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The Tools You’ll Need
Creating a custom POD t-shirt requires a few essential tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Canva: A user-friendly design tool for creating graphics.
- Kittl: Useful for creating text effects.
- Procreate: A powerful app for digital illustration.
- Gelato: A print-on-demand service known for high-quality direct-to-garment (DTG) printing.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your custom t-shirt!
Step 1: Puppy Photo Shoot
The first step in creating a custom t-shirt is gathering images that will bring your design to life. For this example, I took photos of my dog. However, if you’re creating a personalized t-shirt for customers, ask them to send in 5 to 10 photos of their pets. Be specific about the types of shots you want, such as headshots or full-body pictures. This will minimize confusion and ensure you get the best images for your design.
Once you have the images, make sure to send your customers a proof before finalizing the design. This step helps ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Step 2: Uploading to Canva
After collecting your photos, it’s time to upload them to Canva. You can do this directly from your phone. Once they’re uploaded, switch to your laptop for the next steps. This transition allows for better control over the design process.
Step 3: Removing the Background
Next, you’ll want to remove the background from your images. For this, you’ll need a Canva Pro account. Click on the image, select “Edit,” and then “Remove Background.” Canva will automatically do this for you. If there are any areas that need further editing, you can manually erase them. Once you’ve cleaned up all the images, you’re ready to move on!
Step 4: Creating the Text in Kittl
Now it’s time to create the text for your t-shirt. Open Kittl and create a new project with dimensions of 4200×4800 pixels. This size allows enough space for your text and design. Find a text style that has a gradient effect, and adjust it to include your dog’s name (for this example, “Tater Tot”).
When selecting colors, choose a linear gradient option to give it a vibrant look. Split the name into two layers to apply different color gradients to each part. Once you’re satisfied, download the text with a transparent background.
Step 5: Designing in Procreate
Next, you’ll head to Procreate. Create a new canvas at 5000×5000 pixels. Here, you’ll add a glow effect to your images. Upload the picture of Tater Tot and create a new layer behind it. Trace around the image using colors that match the text gradient you created earlier.
Once traced, use the Gaussian Blur tool to achieve a glowing effect. Set the blur to around 30-35%. This will give your image a neon sign look, which is trendy and eye-catching.
Step 6: Creating the Background
For the background, create another 5000×5000 pixel canvas in Procreate. Use the colors from your text to fill the background. After applying the colors, blur it out to create a soft, glowing effect. This background will tie the whole design together.
Step 7: Finalizing the Design
Upload your images and text onto the glowing background. Arrange them as you like, and once you’re happy with the layout, export it as a PNG file. Upload this final design back into Canva to create mockup images for your Etsy listing.
Step 8: Uploading to Gelato
Now that you have your design ready, it’s time to upload it to Gelato. Choose the Comfort Colors t-shirt from their product selection. I love these shirts because of their high quality and soft feel. After uploading your design, you can create your listing.
Gelato provides fantastic mockup options, allowing you to visualize how your design will look on the shirt. You can also view your profit margins directly through their platform, which is super helpful!
Step 9: Creating Your Etsy Listing
Once your design and mockups are set, it’s time to publish your listing on Etsy. Create a catchy title, detailed description, and add relevant tags. Make sure your description includes care instructions for the t-shirt, as this will help customers maintain the quality of their purchase.
Lastly, publish your listing and let the sales begin!
Tips for Successful Custom T-Shirt Sales
To make your custom t-shirt business thrive, consider the following tips:
- Engage with Customers: Respond promptly to inquiries and feedback. Positive interactions can lead to repeat customers.
- Market Effectively: Use social media platforms to showcase your designs. Instagram and Pinterest are great for visual products like t-shirts.
- Optimize for SEO: Use relevant keywords in your titles and descriptions to improve your search visibility on Etsy.
- Quality Control: Ensure that the products you offer are high quality and that you maintain clear communication about care instructions.
You can watch the FULL TUTORIAL here>>
Creating Custom Print-On-Demand T-Shirts: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating custom print-on-demand t-shirts can be a fun and profitable venture. By following these steps and utilizing the right tools, you can design unique products that resonate with customers. Remember that the key to success lies in understanding your audience and delivering high-quality, personalized products. So, are you ready to launch your custom t-shirt business? How to Create Custom Print-On-Demand Products: Step-by-Step