Shopify Print On Demand Apps: 10 Best Reviewed!

The Fascinating History of the Print on Demand Industry

Print on Demand (POD) has a fascinating history that intertwines with the development of digital printing technology, enabling individuals and small businesses to produce custom products without holding large inventories.

1970s-1980s: Early Foundations

The concept of print on demand emerged alongside the development of digital printing technologies in the 1970s and 1980s. Traditional printing required bulk production to be cost-effective, but digital printing made it possible to produce small batches or even single copies at a lower cost. This led to the first inklings of a “print-on-demand” service, though it was limited to high-cost, professional use at the time.

1990s: Print on Demand for Books

In the 1990s, POD began to reshape the publishing industry, particularly for self-publishing authors. Companies like Lightning Source (founded in 1997) became pioneers in this space, offering print-on-demand book services. Authors no longer needed to invest in large print runs and could print copies as orders came in. This revolutionized self-publishing and reduced the financial risk for independent authors.

Amazon’s CreateSpace (now part of Kindle Direct Publishing) launched in the late 1990s, further democratizing the ability to print books on demand. This model allowed authors to bypass traditional publishing barriers, producing books as they were ordered, reducing waste, and avoiding unsold stock.

2000s: Expansion Beyond Books

As digital printing continued to evolve, POD expanded beyond books into other industries. In the early 2000s, POD platforms started offering custom merchandise like apparel, posters, and accessories. Cafepress (launched in 1999) and Zazzle (founded in 2005) were early players, allowing users to upload designs and create customized products like t-shirts, mugs, and stationery, all printed on demand.

This shift made it possible for designers, artists, and entrepreneurs to sell products online without worrying about upfront production costs or inventory management. Customers could order items, and these platforms would handle printing, packaging, and shipping, taking a small cut of the sales.

2010s: POD and E-commerce Boom

The rise of e-commerce in the 2010s took POD to new heights. As platforms like Shopify grew, print-on-demand companies integrated directly with these e-commerce stores, enabling seamless product listings, order processing, and fulfillment. Services like Printful (founded in 2013) and Printify made it easy for small businesses to offer custom products, such as clothing, home goods, and accessories, without managing physical stock.

POD became a viable business model for entrepreneurs, artists, and influencers who wanted to sell customized merchandise with low upfront costs and minimal risk.

Present: A Thriving Business Model

Today, POD is a cornerstone of the creator economy. With advancements in printing technology, high-quality, customizable products are available for a range of industries, from fashion to home décor. It’s a popular choice for businesses and individuals looking to capitalize on trends, create branded merchandise, or sell unique designs online.

Print on demand has also become environmentally significant, as products are only printed when ordered, reducing waste and overproduction. This model continues to grow, fueled by its accessibility and integration with major e-commerce platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and Amazon.

From humble beginnings in digital printing to becoming a global industry standard, print on demand has transformed how creators and entrepreneurs bring products to market.

In the dynamic world of e-commerce, offering customized products can significantly elevate your brand. Shopify, one of the leading e-commerce platforms, supports top ten Shopify apps for print on demand design, detailing their features and how they can help streamline your production process, enhance customer satisfaction, and boost your sales.

The right Shopify app can transform your print on demand business by simplifying design processes, automating fulfillment, and enhancing customer satisfaction. By selecting an app that aligns with your business goals, you can effectively drive growth and establish a strong market presence.

Conclusion: Best Shopify Print On Demand Apps

Print-on-demand apps for Shopify are a game-changer for anyone looking to expand their product lineup without the usual headaches. These apps take care of everything—design, printing, and shipping—so you can focus on what you love: connecting with your customers and growing your brand. With print-on-demand, you can easily add new and unique products, try out different designs, and stay on top of trends, all while keeping things simple and low-risk. It’s like having a personal assistant for your product creation and fulfillment. If you want to offer custom items that really stand out and make your store shine, these apps are definitely worth checking out.