Is Print-on-Demand Quality Really That Bad?

Ever heard someone say that POD (print-on-demand) products are low-quality?
There’s a lot of talk online about whether POD is worth it—or just a shortcut to disappointing your customers.

Let’s dive into today’s topic: How to tell if POD is the right fit for your creative practice—and how to avoid the common quality pitfalls that get a bad rep.

Watch the VIDEO

This post is the written version of a podcast-style episode from my Art Biz Unfiltered Series, where I dig into real-world strategies for artists building a sustainable business. You can watch the full video on YouTube, or just listen while you’re working, walking, or drawing!

Grab a warm drink and a notebook—we’re diving into what makes (or breaks) POD quality, and how to curate a product line you feel proud of.

HELPFUL LINKS

THE TRUTH ABOUT POD QUALITY (AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT)

1. Where the Rumors Started

Some of the myths about POD come from outdated technology or unfair comparisons to luxury retail.
Others stem from artists not ordering samples before selling.

What to do:

  • Don’t rely on hearsay—test products yourself
  • Understand how new POD technology has changed (and improved!)
  • Think of POD as artisanal rather than luxury

2. POD Varies—A LOT—By Product and Company

There’s no “one POD quality.” Every product and provider is different. A company’s prints might be amazing, while their mugs fade in the dishwasher.

What to do:

  • Test multiple companies (like Gelato, Printify, etc.)
  • Order multiple samples—paper, apparel, fabric, wall art
  • Compare materials, color accuracy, durability, and packaging
  • Record everything in a spreadsheet or log

3. Professional POD Starts with Real Product Testing

I tested MANY calendar printers before choosing one. Why?
Because I care about paper weight, color richness, and ink bleed.

What to do:

  • Order samples and use them like a customer
  • Scratch test, rub test, wash test
  • Take notes, photos, and compare results

💡 Tip: Inside The Studio Membership, you can watch real product unboxings from my favorite POD companies.

4. Photos Sell—Not Mockups

Customers can tell when a listing uses a generic mockup. It looks cheap—and it feels mass-produced.

What to do:

  • Take your own styled photos in natural light
  • Add props that reflect your brand vibe
  • Show your art in a real-life setting (on a desk, on a wall, etc.)
  • Mention it’s made-to-order with archival inks.

5. Want to Launch a POD Shop? Here’s a Starter Plan:

Step-by-step:

  1. Pick 2–3 POD companies
  2. Choose 1–2 products from each
  3. Print your designs + compare samples
  4. Record the findings and pick your favorites
  5. Style + shoot your photos
  6. Write listings that reflect what the product is (not what it isn’t)
  7. Launch and promote confidently—no need to make excuses!

MINDSET SHIFT: POD ≠ Low Effort

POD isn’t the “easy” way—it’s the smart way if you value time, flexibility, and staying in your creative zone. You don’t need to be the shipper, packer, customer service rep, and social media manager all at once.

Take the Next Step:

Feeling unsure? I’ve tested dozens of POD companies so you don’t have to. Inside The Studio Membership, you can:

  • Watch real unboxings of popular POD products
  • Get my personal POD product list (the ones I trust and use!)
  • Try it all FREE for 7 days

Join us in The Studio

  • My step-by-step courses
  • Real-world product testing + reviews
  • Strategies for sustainable growth

And yes—you can try the membership free for 7 days.

Join NOW