Do you have these questions in your mind?
- How to Start a Printables Business?
- Is a printable business profitable?
- How profitable is selling printables?
- How do I create a printable business?
- What kind of printables to sell?
In this article, you will find answers to all your questions. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What is the printable business & how it works?
The printable business involves creating and selling digital products that customers can download and print at home. These products include calendars, planners, worksheets, art prints, greeting cards, and more.
The process typically involves designing the product using graphic design software, creating a digital file, and then listing the product for sale on a platform such as Etsy or Teachers Pay Teachers.
Customers can then purchase the product and download the digital file, which they can print at home or take to a print shop.
Sellers can offer their printables for a one-time purchase or on a subscription basis, where customers pay a recurring fee to access new printables each month.
Some sellers also provide customization services where they can tailor a printable to a customer’s specific needs for an additional cost.
The printable business can be an excellent option for creative entrepreneurs as it allows them to create and sell products from anywhere in the world without needing physical inventory or shipping.
Types of Printable Business Models
Several types of business models can be used for creating and selling printables online.
Some of the most common models include:
1. Single product model:
You create and sell individual printables, such as a single educational worksheet or art print.
2. Bundled product model:
This model involves bundling multiple products and offering them at a discounted price, such as a set of themed party decorations or educational materials on a specific topic.
3. Subscription model:
This model offers access to a library of digital products for a recurring monthly or yearly fee, such as a membership to a website that provides access to various educational materials.
4. Custom design model:
In this model, you offer custom design services to customers who want personalized printables, such as custom party invitations or customized educational materials.
5. Advertising model:
This model offers customers free printables in exchange for displaying ads or sponsored content on the printable itself.
Note: Each of these models has its advantages and disadvantages. The suitable model for your business will depend on your target audience, products, and personal preferences as a creator.
How to Start Creating & Selling Printable
To start creating and selling printable, follow these steps:
1. Choose your niche:
Identify the type of printable you want to create and sell. Consider your skills, interests, and target audience.
2. Research your target audience:
Understand your target audience’s needs, preferences, and interests. This will help you create designs that cater to their needs.
3. Create your designs:
Use design software like Adobe Illustrator or Canva to create your printable. Ensure your plans are high-quality and align with your target audience’s needs.
4. Choose a platform:
Decide which forum you want to use to sell your printable. TpT and Etsy are both popular options.
5. Set up your shop:
Create a shop profile, set prices, and upload your designs to your chosen platform.
6. Promote your products:
Develop a marketing strategy to promote your printable. Use social media, email marketing, and SEO to reach your target audience.
7. Provide excellent customer service:
Ensure you provide clear instructions and guidelines for using your printable. Respond to customer inquiries promptly and address any issues that arise.
Note: These digital products are typically sold through online marketplaces, such as Etsy or Teachers Pay Teachers, or a website owned by the business.
Pros and cons of Creating & Selling Printable
Here are some pros and cons of creating and selling printable online:
Pros:
- Low startup costs
- Flexibility
- High-profit margins
- Access to a large audience
- Creative freedom
Cons:
- High competition
- Limited product differentiation
- Intellectual property and copyright issues
- Technological challenges
- Marketing and promotion
Ultimately, whether the pros outweigh the cons of creating and selling printable online depends on your personal goals, skills, interests, current market demand, and competition in your niche.
Creating and selling printable online can be lucrative, with potential monthly earnings ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars/pounds. However, success depends on various factors, such as demand, audience size, pricing, and product quality.
How much investment is required / onetime setup cost?
The investment needed to start creating and selling printable online in the U.K. and USA can vary depending on several factors, such as the cost of living, taxes, and the cost of supplies and equipment.
Here are some estimated costs in both the USA and the U.K. for the expenses mentioned:
1. Design software:
Canva offers a free version and a paid version at $12.99/month in the USA and £9.99/month in the U.K. Adobe Illustrator costs $20.99/month in the USA and £19.97/month in the U.K. Affinity Designer costs a onetime fee of $49.99 in the USA and £48.99 in the U.K.
2. Equipment:
The cost of a computer and printer can vary widely depending on the brand and features. For example, a mid-range laptop can cost around $700-800 in the USA and £500-600 in the U.K. A good quality printer can cost around $150-200 in the USA and £100-150 in the U.K.
3. Online store fees:
On Etsy, the cost for listing a product is $0.20 per item, a 5% transaction fee on the sale price in the USA, a £0.15 per item, and a 5% transaction fee in the U.K. On Teachers Pay Teachers, sellers keep 80% of the sale price, and the platform supports 20%.
4. Marketing and advertising:
The marketing and advertising cost can vary widely depending on your strategy and platform. For example, Facebook ads can cost around $0.50-$2.00 per click in the USA and £0.40-£1.50 per click in the U.K.
5. Product development:
Hiring a freelance designer in the USA costs around $30-$100 per hour; in the U.K., it can cost around £20-£50 per hour. Stock images can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars depending on the quality and usage rights.
How much you will earn <approximate idea>
- The Super HERO Teacher
- Lindsay Perro
- The Daring English Teacher
- Danielle Knight
- Math in the Middle
- The Printable Studio
- The Crown Prints
- Fox and Hazel
- Printable Pixels
- Paper Berry Press
- Little Streams
- Red Ted Art
- Curriculum for Autism
- The Resourceful Teacher
- Teacher’s Pet
- I Heart Wall Art
- This Printable World
- Fox and Velvet
- Karina Illustrates
- Miss Printable Studio
Note: These lists are not exhaustive and are based on subjective factors such as sales and popularity. Build a thriving business takes time, effort, and investment, so it’s essential to set realistic expectations, invest in marketing, and continuously improve your strategies.
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The Licenses Required for a Creating & Selling Printable
If you are creating and selling printables, the licenses you need depend on the type of printables you are selling and the resources you are using to create them.
Here are some common licenses you may need to consider:
1. Commercial use license:
If you are using graphics, fonts, or other resources created by others, you may need to obtain a commercial use license to sell your printables. These licenses typically come with a fee and may have certain restrictions on how you can use the resources.
2. Public domain materials:
If you are using public domain materials, such as images that are no longer protected by copyright, you do not need to obtain a license to use or sell them.
3. Creative Commons license:
Some creators choose to release their work under Creative Commons licenses, which allow others to use and share their work with certain restrictions. If you are using Creative Commons-licensed materials, be sure to read and follow the license terms.
4. Trademark and copyright:
If you are creating printables that use copyrighted or trademarked images or phrases, you may need to obtain permission from the owner of the copyright or trademark.
It is important to do your research and make sure you are obtaining the necessary licenses and permissions before selling your printables to avoid legal issues down the line.
List of main Products / Services List to offer
Here are some popular products/services that you can offer as a printable seller online:
1. Planners and organizers:
Printable planners, calendars, to-do lists, and other organizational tools are always in demand.
2. Art prints and wall decor:
You can create and sell digital art prints and posters for home decor.
3. Printable invitations and cards:
You can create custom invitations and cards for various events, including birthdays, weddings, and baby showers.
4. Educational printable:
Worksheets, flashcards, lesson plans, and other educational materials are popular among teachers, homeschoolers, and parents.
5. Digital stickers:
Stickers are a fun and trendy addition to digital planners, journals, and other digital products.
6. Social media templates:
You can create and sell templates for social media graphics, including Instagram posts, stories, and highlights covers.
7. Digital papers and backgrounds:
You can create and sell digital documents, experiences, and patterns that can be used for scrapbooking, card-making, and other projects.
8. Printable wall art and home decor:
You can create printable art and home decor that can be easily printed and framed.
9. Business templates:
You can create and sell templates for business documents like invoices, business cards, and marketing materials.
Note: The products/services you offer will depend on your skills, interests, and target audience. Therefore, it’s essential to research your niche and create products that meet the needs and preferences of your customers.
Trends & Challenges
Here are some current trends and challenges in the world of creating and selling printable online:
Trends:
- Increased demand for digital products
- Customization and personalization
- Sustainability
Challenges:
- Increased competition
- Intellectual property and copyright issues
- Technological advancements
- Marketing and promotion
- Pricing strategy
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Checklist of essential equipment required
The equipment needed for creating and selling printable online can vary depending on the type of products you make and the software you use.
However, here is a general checklist of essential equipment you may need:
- Computer
- Software
- Printer
- Scanner
- Digital tablet
- Camera
- Office supplies
Tools & Resources for a Creating & Selling Printable
If you want to create and sell printables, many tools and resources are available to help you create high-quality designs and market your products effectively.
Here are some popular options:
1. Design software:
Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are popular design software options but can be expensive. Canva is an accessible and user-friendly option that includes templates and design elements.
2. Stock images and graphics:
You can find high-quality stock images and graphics on sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Creative Market.
3. Print-on-demand services:
Services like Printful and Printify allow you to create and sell designs on various products, including prints, posters, and t-shirts, without managing inventory or shipping.
4. Online marketplaces:
Platforms like Etsy and Creative Market allow you to sell your printables directly to customers. They handle the transaction process; you typically pay a fee or commission on each sale.
5. Email marketing software:
Use email marketing software like Mailchimp or ConvertKit to grow your email list and inform your customers about new products, promotions, and sales.
6. Social media:
Use social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to promote your products, engage with customers, and showcase your designs.
7. Online courses:
If you are new to creating printables or want to improve your skills, online courses like those offered by Udemy and Skillshare can provide valuable insights and techniques.
Note: Consider the licenses and legal requirements before using any tool or resource in your printable creations.
Top Printable Platform:
Here are the platforms you listed with their registration fees, commission, and other fees:
1. Etsy – https://www.etsy.com/
2. Creative Market – https://creativemarket.com/
3. Society6 – https://society6.com/
4. Redbubble – https://www.redbubble.com/
5. Gumroad – https://gumroad.com/
6. Shopify – https://www.shopify.com/
7. Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/
8. Zazzle – https://www.zazzle.com/
9. Teachers Pay Teachers – https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/
10. Printful – https://www.printful.com/
Conclusion
Creating and selling printable online can be a profitable business venture for those with a creative edge and an entrepreneurial spirit.
With the increasing demand for digital products, the printable market continues to expand, presenting ample opportunities for growth and innovation.
By carefully considering the factors involved, such as startup costs, recurring expenses, target audience, and required skills, individuals can decide whether this business model is right for them.
By utilizing the right tools and resources, including e-commerce platforms and graphic design software, entrepreneurs can establish and grow their printable businesses in both the U.S. and the U.K. markets.
Want to Save Time in your Business Launch?
- How to Create a Business Plan
- What is Market Research, USP, Niche & Positioning
- How to find a suitable name for your business
- How to create your brand image (Logo + Branding)
- How to Register Your Business
- How to Register for Taxes
- How to get Licenses / Permits
- How to Open a Business Bank Account
- How to Get Business Insurance
- Which Payment Processing Terminal (POS) to buy
- How to get Funds for your Business
- How to do Sales & Marketing – Offline & Online
- Why have a Website / Blog / Social Media
- How to build & train your Dream Team
- How to provide Excellent Customer Service
- Buying an Old Business Vs Franchisee Vs Own Brand from Scratch
Handpicked inspirational Youtube videos for you
How to Create Printables in Canva to SELL ON ETSY – YT Channel ‘Sandra Di’
Create Digital Printables to SELL on Etsy for FREE using Canva (Step-by-Step Tutorial) – YT Channel ‘Jennifer Marie’
How To Make Printable Wall Art Using Canva – YT Channel ‘Officialtburt’
A: No, you don’t need a degree in graphic design to create printable. However, having some basic design skills and familiarity with graphic design software is essential.
A: It’s generally not allowed to sell printable you didn’t create yourself unless you have permission from the original creator of the printable in the public domain.
A: The price of your printable should depend on factors like the time and effort required to create them, the market demand, and the perceived value to customers. It’s essential to do market research and see what other sellers charge for similar products.
A: You can promote your printable through social media, email marketing, search engine optimization, and paid advertising. It’s essential to have a clear and effective marketing strategy to reach your target audience.
A: If someone copies and sells your printable as their own, you can file a copyright infringement complaint and ask the platform to remove the infringing content. It’s Protecting your intellectual property by registering your copyrights and using watermarks or other methods to deter copying is essential.
