May 31, 2023
As an artist, making your own prints is a thrilling endeavor that allows you to share your unique vision with the world. So, let's explore different printing methods and help you navigate the options to find the perfect fit for you to start selling your art prints online.
With our small business Charbi, we've dived into the convenience of print on demand, experienced the quality of professional printing solution, and even contemplated the idea of in-house printing. Join us on this exciting journey as we uncover the different printing options available. We'll share personal insights, tips, and advice along the way.
Whether you're considering print on demand, a local printer, or in-house printing, we'll delve into the advantages, considerations, and personal experiences to guide you on this exciting journey.
In this article we'll focus on paper prints rather than wood prints, metal prints or canvas prints. We won't go into detail in this article about digital prints and online art as digital items, since we are focussed on the model where your customer buys a physical print which you print externally. It is possible to be selling prints as a digital item, so customers can print it themselves. Just make sure you look at your rates so you don't underprice and undervalue your services or art.
Using Print On Demand (POD) Fulfillment to Sell Prints for your Art Business:
Where Convenience and Creativity Meet
If you're just starting to sell prints or looking to expand your artistic reach, print on demand, or a pod site can be a game-changer because of the vast variety in print on demand products. If you want to make prints and also sell your art on products such as mugs, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and so many other next to your art prints, POD could be the right choice for you.
Picture this: you create your art, upload it to POD company like Printful or Printify, and watch your designs come to life on an array of products, from stunning posters to cozy mugs and stylish tote bags. The best part? You don't need to be a tech wizard or a print expert to get started! It's a very popular formula that is used by thousands of artists beause of the convenience of it. If you want to sell your prints fast without much technical knowledge, this could be a solution for you.
Advantages of POD:
Minimal investment: With POD services, you don't need to invest in large quantities of stock upfront. You can create products as they are ordered, reducing financial risks while selling your original art online.
Endless possibilities: Embrace the vast potential of POD platforms that offer an extensive range of products. Besides trendy t-shirts and stylish sweaters, practical tote bags, to eye-catching wall art and art prints as well, you can cater to diverse customer preferences and expand your artistic footprint.
There's is also usually a possibility to ship framed prints, which could be interesting for your buyers who don't want to research where to get a fitting frame. Make sure you do your research though on the quality of the frames before adding it to your store.Global reach, effortless shipping: Say goodbye to the complexities of international shipping! POD handles fulfillment for you, ensuring smooth and reliable delivery to customers worldwide.
However, it's important to note that print-on-demand may have limitations in terms of quality control and customization and quality printing options. Consider the following factors as you explore this printing method:
External Selling Platform: You'll need to open an external e-commerce shop to be able to sell your prints like Etsy, or Amazon. On the online store there will be added costs such as listing and adds costs, so make sure to keep them in mind.
Note: There are other print on demand sites, such as for example Redbubble or TeeSpring, where the process is more integrated, but since it is a more hands-off approach then your own shop with a print provider, where you have no control over the quality printing, customer service, shipping, etc, we will not explore this option further in this article. Of course, it is possible to drive customers to your own website with a Shopify integration where there are no extra fees and it is free to sell, but this also is a topic of it's own, so we will not explore this topic in this article. In the end finding the best place to sell your artwork and which print-on-demand companies are right for you, is a very personal choice and is a topic of its own.Quality standards: Research the print-on-demand company's reputation and ensure that their printing quality aligns with you and your customers' expectations.
Note: We won't go into depth which are the best print on demand companies since this really depends on so many variables to find the right solution for you.Design customization: Evaluate the level of customization available for each product. Some platforms offer limited options, while others provide more flexibility for your printing needs. Research the print on demand service to know which are the best print on demand sites if you want to print your art.
Profit margins: Understand the pricing structure and fees associated to understand which is the best print-on-demand service to ensure a viable business model.
Print Art Professionally or at a Local Printer: Make Prints for Your Fine Art
Printing services, such as a local print shop or online printing companies, offer a middle ground between complete control and convenience. Here are the advantages of outsourcing the printing and some considerations to keep in mind:
Advantages:
Quality and customization: You can offer high-quality prints and a wider range of customization options. While using print-on-demand has certain advantages, using a printing partner means you can personally make sure you have high quality products by printing your artwork on fine art paper. If you are an artist looking for the best way to printing your art and to personally check the quality of the prints without breaking the bank, this could be the solution for you.
Control and flexibility: You have more control over the print material such as paper quality, finishes, and other details. This can be particularly beneficial for artists and designers with specific requirements to sell your prints on your store.
Customisation of the prints: Print artwork onto a similar type of paper, similar weight and grain for example as watercolor paper, as you made your art onto, artists can also customize the prints by adding some special details or finishes such as a logo stamp, gold leaf or simply experiment without having to have fears of ruining the original. This would be a way allowing artists and designers to make the print designs even more high finished and exclusive.
Insider tip: By doing this you could also create content to post on social media show how much love and care you put into your limited edition prints. Since this is something many artists don't put the time into, it could resonate with certain people making it a very niche product.
Considerations:
File preparation: Often there are specific file formats, color profiles, and margin requirements. If you are thinking of using this type of printing solution, ensure your print files meet their specifications to achieve the desired results.
Learning curve: When you are looking to sell artwork online, there will be a learning curve into a few different things. You will have to do research and tests to see what paper will suit what types of art and products. A lot of this is personal preference that you will have to refine by testing it out. I strongly encourage you to test your products before purchasing any big quatities and to show it around to your family, friends and any other contacts that will give you reliable and honest feedback. Make sure you ask questions to avoid the typical answers like "It looks nice" which doesn't give you any kind of feedback really. Ask about the art, but also the paper quality, thickness, grain, size to get a better sense of what you could improve.
Minimum order quantities: Some printers have minimum number of items you need to print, which can impact cost efficiency and storage requirements. Usually how it works is how higher the number of prints, the lower te price per print. Especially if you are starting out and not sure which artwork will resonate with your followers or target audience, this might be something to consider.
Cost and logistics: Compare prices, shipping options, and turnaround times to find a balance between quality and affordability to get your art printed.
Conclusion:
With this option artists get the best of both worlds in our opinion to sell their work. A high quality without the big investment upfront while still have control over paper, finishes and other. Of course there are more things to consider if you are selling art prints online like for example shipping, whether you are looking to ship worldwide or not. If you are thinking of selling your prints on an art market, I strongly suggest you to look into this as it may be a cheaper option and thus a higher profit margin for you, while having a higher quality product which your customers are going to love.
In-House Printing: Unlocking Complete Control for your Fine Art Prints
For established artists who desire full control over their prints, in-house printing can be an intriguing option. Here are the key aspects to consider:
Advantages:
Unparalleled quality control: By personally overseeing the printing process for your prints and posters as well as packaging and shipping, you can ensure that each print meets your exact standards.
Timely production: In-house printing allows for quicker turnaround times from when your customer places an order by him or her receiving it, giving you the freedom to print and ship according to your schedule.
Considerations:
Upfront investment: Purchasing a high-quality printer can be a significant initial investment. Artists who want to choose the best quality professional-grade paper, and other necessary equipment and take the other considerations in mind, could look more into this option.
Technical expertise: In-house printing requires a certain level of technical knowledge to operate the equipment, manage color calibration, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
Time and resources: Printing, packaging, and shipping can be time-consuming tasks that take away from your creative process. Consider whether you can handle the printing and if you have the bandwidth to handle these additional responsibilities.
While in-house printing offers complete control, it may not be the most cost-effective option for everyone. It's essential to evaluate your business needs, budget, and available resources before committing to this method. This could be a viable option for artists and photographers to be selling your print, if you take all considerations in mind.
Finding the Perfect Fit: Choose the Best Print Service to Sell Art Prints
Choosing the right printing method for your business depends on various factors, including your artistic style, budget, time constraints, and long-term goals. Here are some additional considerations to help you make an informed decision:
Brand consistency: Whichever printing method you choose, ensure that the quality and aesthetics of your prints align with your brand image. Consistency is key in building a recognizable and reputable business.
Customer expectations: Understand your target audience and their preferences. Are they looking for affordable prints, unique limited editions, or customized products? Tailor your printing method to meet their expectations and demands.
Scalability: Consider your growth plans. Will you need to produce larger quantities of prints in the future? Assess whether your chosen printing method can accommodate scalability without compromising print quality or increasing costs significantly.
Cost analysis: Compare the expenses associated with each printing method, including setup costs, production costs, packaging, shipping, and any additional fees. Calculate the profit margins for each option to ensure a sustainable business model.
Experimentation and market testing: Don't be afraid to try different printing methods to see what works best for your art and your target market. Conduct small-scale market testing to gather feedback and determine which prints resonate most with customers.
Our Journey: Navigating the Best Print on Demand Sites for Us and other Printing Companies
At Charbi, we began our artistic journey exploring the vast potential of print-on-demand. It provided us with convenience, global reach, and a low barrier to entry. As our art sales grew, we found ourselves yearning for more control over the printing process and the ability to offer personalized touches to our customers. This led us to delve into using local printing solutions and even consider the possibility of in-house printing.
During our exploration of various printing solutions, we discovered the advantages of working with local printers or reputable online printing companies. The ability to communicate directly with the printers, discuss our specific requirements, and ensure the highest quality output was a game-changer. We were able to select the paper quality, finishes and even experiment with different print sizes to create a more unique and tailored product. It provided us with a balance between convenience and customization, giving us the confidence that our art prints would meet our exacting standards.
However, we also encountered considerations along the way. File preparation became an important factor in ensuring compatibility with professional printers' requirements. Understanding the minimum order quantities and the associated costs allowed us to strategize our inventory and pricing effectively. Logistics, such as shipping options and turnaround times, played a crucial role in meeting customer expectations and maintaining a smooth operation.
As our Etsy store continued to flourish, we couldn't help but be drawn to the allure of in-house printing. The idea of complete control over every aspect of the printing process to print art, from selecting the highest quality papers to fine-tuning color accuracy, is enticing. We recognized that in-house printing required a significant investment, both financially and in terms of time and expertise. However, for established artists with a dedicated customer base and a desire for utmost quality, it presents an opportunity to elevate their business to new heights.
The decision between print-on-demand, a printing partner, or in-house printing ultimately depends on your unique circumstances, artistic vision, and long-term goals. Consider factors such as your target audience, financial resources, desired level of customization, and the time you're willing to invest in the printing process. It's essential to evaluate the pros and cons, assess the potential return on investment, and align your decision with your artistic values.
In conclusion, finding the perfect fit for your business requires careful consideration and a deep understanding of the available printing methods. Whether you choose the convenience and global reach of print-on-demand, the balance of a print vendor, or the complete control of in-house printing, each option has its own advantages and considerations. Embrace the journey, experiment with different approaches, and allow your artistic vision to guide you towards the printing method that aligns best with your aspirations. Remember, it's not just about creating beautiful art—it's about finding the perfect canvas to bring your creativity to life.
Looking for The Best Solution to Print Artwork - Quality Printing vs Print-On-Demand
Making your own art prints is an exciting and rewarding venture that allows you to share your creativity with the world. Whether you opt for print-on-demand services, a printing parner, or in-house printing, each method has its advantages and considerations.
Print-on-demand offers convenience and global reach, while a local printer strikes a balance between quality control and customization. In-house printing provides complete control but requires an upfront investment and additional responsibilities.
By considering factors such as brand consistency, customer expectations, scalability, cost analysis, and market testing, you can find the perfect fit for you and your journey of selling prints of your artwork. Embrace the journey, stay true to your artistic vision, and enjoy the process of bringing your art to life through prints!
Practical Closing Tips and Tricks for Perfect Art Prints if You Want to Sell your Art
As you embark on your art printing journey, we want to share some valuable tips and tricks that we've learned along the way. These insights will help you create exceptional prints and ensure a seamless experience for your customers. Let's dive in:
Consider the size of your prints: Remember that your customers may want to frame their posters. Research popular frame dimensions on platforms like Amazon, Ikea, Bol.com, and local stores to determine optimal print sizes. Offering prints that fit standard frames increases their appeal and convenience. If you're printing greeting cards, take into account postage regulations. Each country or postal service has maximum dimensions for standard postage rates. Ensure your cards fit within these limits to avoid any postal issues. Beautiful designs alone won't suffice if the cards are too large for standard mailing.
Envelopes that fit perfectly: Before printing greeting cards, research and invest in envelopes that fit your card sizes perfectly. Ill-fitting envelopes can detract from the overall presentation and professionalism of your cards. Attention to detail goes a long way in creating a positive customer experience.
Explore paper options: Most professional printers offer sample packs showcasing various qualities. Take advantage of this opportunity and purchase a sample pack. Each type has a unique look, feel, and ink absorption quality. By researching and selecting the right one, you can enhance the aesthetic impact of your art prints.
Understand your printer's preferences: If you choose to work with a professional printer, familiarize yourself with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. These tools will enable you to prepare your files according to your printer's specifications. Reach out to your printer and establish a relationship. They can guide you on file formats, color profiles, margins, cutting lines and any other requirements they may have.
Seek feedback and refine your product: Share your plans and ideas with others in your artistic community. Solicit feedback and listen to what people have to say. This valuable input will help you refine your products and make improvements where necessary. By actively seeking feedback, you'll create a more irresistible and marketable product.
Remember, the art business is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. Stay open to feedback, adapt to trends, and continue honing your craft. With dedication and a passion for improvement, you'll create art prints that captivate your audience and bring joy to those who appreciate your creativity.