Designing, selling t-shirts online — first impressions

One of the many side-income projects I’ve always wanted to start is designing and selling t-shirts online. There are many websites that offer order-fullfilment services just for this. I tried three websites and although I’ve just started, here are some of my first impressions.

Redbubble

The first platform I tried was Redbubble after reading about it on Reddit.

GOOD

• Catalog: Large catalog of products to put your design on, including many types of apparels, stickers, mugs, phone cases, laptop cases, bags, and more.
• Uploading: Uncomplicated requirements on the design format to upload. They have recommended design sizes for each product.
• Tools: Very simple stats (number of views, purchases, etc.) with option to add Google Analytics.

MEH

• Customization: The tool is a bit sluggish and unresponsive at times (I’m using an old laptop, YMMV). Plus the UX doesn’t seem as streamlined as the other sites below.
• Price: I believe Redbubble has the most expensive base price among all platforms. This could be a hurdle in selling especially if you’re just starting up.

Teespring

Teespring is another popular platform. I tried it on a whim after problems with Redbubble and it was a breeze to get started.

GOOD

• Uploading, Customizing: Their tool is easy to use, like a step-by-step wizard. You can either enter and customize text on the t-shirt, or upload and place your own art.
• Price: Cheap. You may sacrifice some profits and go as low as $16 if you want. Additionally, you can create special promo codes that add further discounts for your customers.
• Tools: Provides additional tools such as Up-Sells, Messaging and Promotions. Also has basic built-in analytics with options to add Google Analytics or Facebook Conversion Pixels.

MEH

• Catalog: Only apparels and stickers.
• Campaigns: You launch your designs as “campaigns”. Which basically mean that you need to have a minimum number of items purchased (typically three) in order for it to be printed and shipped.

TeePublic

Another platform I found after searching for more alternatives. The fastest and easiest to get started with.

GOOD

• Uploading, Customizing: The simplest tool to use among all three. Very snappy and quick. Although it may not have as many options.
• Price: Super cheap. Discounted to $14 during first 72-hours.

MEH

• Catalog: Only apparels.
• Tools: Doesn’t have that many additional tools such as analytics, promotions, etc.

Conclusion

Redbubble: If you’re a pro-designer and want to sell your designs on many products.

Teespring: If you’re just getting started and want the best tool to sell your designs.

TeePublic: If you just want to slap your design on a shirt and sell.