CafePress

CafePress is one of the pioneers of the print-on-demand (POD) industry. It allows users to upload their designs and sell them on a massive variety of products, including t-shirts, mugs, bumper stickers, and pajamas. Unlike newer platforms that focus on integrations, CafePress is a standalone marketplace with a built-in audience of shoppers looking for novelty and personalized items.

Creators can open a "Shop" for free and set their own markups on products. CafePress handles all the printing, shipping, and customer service. While the interface is older than competitors like Redbubble, it remains a legitimate source of passive income for designers who can tap into specific niches like hobbies, professions, and political humor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. specific upfront costs?

No, setting up a Basic Shop on CafePress is completely free. You can upload designs and start selling immediately without paying any subscription fees or inventory costs.

2. How much money can I make?

You earn a royalty on every sale, which is the difference between the base price set by CafePress and the retail price you set. You can also earn a performance bonus if your monthly sales volume is high.

3. How do I get paid?

CafePress sends royalty payments monthly via PayPal or check. However, there is a standard 60-day delay in payments (Net 60) to account for returns and exchanges.

4. Do I retain the copyright?

Yes, you retain all rights to your original designs and can remove them from the site at any time. You grant CafePress a non-exclusive license to print and sell the products while they are listed.

5. What products can I sell?

CafePress has a huge catalog of over 250 products, including apparel, drinkware, home decor, stationery, and even unique items like shower curtains and license plate frames.