Have you ever thought you found the perfect home for your corporate swag, only to realize it needs more business-friendly features you need? That was my experience when I first discovered Zazzle. While I loved the wide variety of products and custom designs on the site, I quickly learned that there were more suitable options for my marketing goals. After a thorough search, I found a Zazzle alternative that had everything I needed and more to help me achieve my objectives for corporate swag. This article is for you if you're looking for Zazzle alternatives for buying promotional products.
One valuable tool to help you achieve your goals is Giftpack's solution company branded swag. This approach allows you to create a marketing strategy that focuses on the needs and preferences of your target audience instead of your business. The result is a more personalized and effective approach to corporate swag that enhances brand perception and boosts your bottom line.
What is Zazzle?
Zazzle is a print-on-demand marketplace geared toward helping graphic designers, and artists sell merchandise and custom-printed products, such as:
- Clothing
- Wall art
- Home goods
Unlike most print-on-demand services, Zazzle has a built-in design editor. Users can create their own custom designs within Zazzle instead of creating designs in third-party software like Canva or Adobe.
In addition to its design editor, sellers can upload a design. When a customer purchases a design, Zazzle automatically manufactures and ships it directly to the customer. Sellers never touch the products they sell and have zero overhead or inventory.
The Benefits of Selling on Zazzle
Zazzle has several advantages for sellers. Not only is it free and does not charge a listing fee like other marketplaces, such as Etsy, but it also gives designers the ability to create a passive income. The reason is that products are solely listed on Zazzle, meaning there’s no website upkeep like there would be if you were selling directly through Shopify or WordPress.
It’s well-aligned for those who wish to set it and forget it. Zazzle has a large product catalog and offers several items that competitors do not. For example, sellers can list digital downloads for sale or sell their custom designs on:
- Apparel
- Home goods
- Stationery
- Wall art
They can also sell personalized items, such as a mug with the buyer’s name on it.
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Best Features and Benefits of Using Zazzle
1. Unlock Limitless Creative Freedom with Customization
Zazzle stands out for its extensive customization options, enabling users to infuse their unique style into every product. Whether adding:
- Personal photo
- Favourite quote
- Custom design
Zazzle offers a platform for creative expression.
2. A Product for Everyone with a Diverse Range of Goods
Beyond apparel, Zazzle provides a diverse array of customizable products. From mugs and phone cases to posters and more, the platform caters to a wide audience with varying interests, making it a one-stop destination for personalized merchandise.
3. Support Independent Artists and Designers
Zazzle collaborates with independent designers and artists, offering customers a unique selection of designs not commonly found in mainstream stores. This partnership creates a win-win situation, allowing artists to monetize their creations while providing customers with exclusive and diverse options.
4. Enjoy Seamless User Experience with a Friendly Platform
Zazzle’s intuitive design tools make it accessible to users with varying design expertise. The user-friendly interface allows easy navigation, creating a positive and seamless user experience.
5. Count on High-Quality Products and Printing
Zazzle strongly emphasizes quality in terms of materials used and the printing process. Positive customer reviews often highlight the durability and vividness of the products, establishing trust in the brand.
6. Join a Strong Community and Marketplace
Zazzle's active community of designers, buyers, and sellers contributes to a lively marketplace. The extensive network allows for a vast selection of designs and products, making it an appealing platform for creators and consumers.
AI-Powered Corporate Gifting Solutions
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. We use our custom AI algorithm to create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless if the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
Why Consider Using a Zazzle Alternative?
Higher Prices: The Hidden Cost of Zazzle
One of Zazzle's main drawbacks is its pricing. The cost of most Zazzle items is significantly higher than that of other promotional product platforms. While the quality of the products is generally good, the higher price tag can be a deterrent, especially for businesses or individuals looking to order in bulk or operate within a tight budget.
Lack of a Logo Design Tool: Create Your Logo Without Extra Steps
Another area for improvement is a design tool for creating your logo directly on the platform. Many competitors offer built-in tools that allow users to design and customize logos from scratch, which can be a significant advantage for those who don’t already have a logo or need to make quick design adjustments.
Without this feature, users might have to use external software to create logos, which would add an extra step to the process.
High Shipping Costs: What You See is Not What You Get
Zazzle’s shipping costs are often higher than those of other platforms. This can quickly add up, particularly for bulk orders or international shipping, making it less cost-effective.
High shipping fees can be a dealbreaker, especially when other platforms offer more affordable or free shipping options.
25 Best Zazzle Alternatives for Business Marketing Products
1. Giftpack: The Future of Corporate Gifting
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless of whether the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
2. Gooten: A Print-on-Demand Platform With a Purpose
Gooten is a user-friendly print-on-demand platform that stands out due to its wide variety of products, easy customization tools, and worldwide shipping options. It allows creators to add:
- Unique designs for clothing
- Home Decor
- Pet products
Gooten only partners with reliable suppliers, ensuring high-quality products. It also integrates smoothly with popular eCommerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, making it easier to manage an online store.
Gooten is committed to ethical production by collaborating with manufacturers to reduce waste and promote ethical standards. The platform offers solid customer support and extensive online resources to help businesses succeed. By shipping directly to customers, Gooten is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions. With no minimum orders or upfront costs, you only pay for what you sell, making it a flexible option for creators.
Pricing: Pay-as-you-go model with no upfront costs.
3. Redbubble: Make Your Designs Seen
Redbubble is a bustling online marketplace that attracts over 700,000 artists and designers. It offers a wide range of customizable products, from apparel to home decor, allowing creators to showcase and sell their work. Redbubble handles all logistics, including:
- Production
- Shipping
- Customer service
Redbubble allows artists to focus solely on their designs. It empowers creators by enabling them to set prices and control their profits. The platform also provides helpful resources such as blog posts and tutorials to support artists. Redbubble is committed to green practices, ensuring suppliers responsibly manage waste.
Pricing: Operates on a royalty-based model, with artists earning 20% to 60% royalties.
4. Society6: Another Great Marketplace for Artists
Society6 is an ideal platform for creators looking to sell unique designs without worrying about order fulfillment, shipping, or customer service. The platform offers an easy setup and various print-on-demand products, including:
- Home Decor
- Apparel
- Tech Accessories
Society6 provides top-notch customer support and is dedicated to eco-conscious practices, making it a user-friendly and environmentally responsible choice. Society6 also allows creators to customize how their designs appear on different products, making it a versatile platform for artists. The pricing structure includes three tiers, allowing flexibility depending on your goals.
Pricing: Three pricing tiers—Basic, Pro, and Lite—with varying levels of profit control.
5. Spring: A Simple Platform for Creating and Selling Custom Merchandise
Spring (formerly Teespring) is a great option for creators interested in designing and selling their merchandise with a wide range of products, including clothing, home decor, and digital items. The platform is known for its easy-to-use design tool and integration with various social media platforms, making setting up an online store and promoting products simple. Spring handles logistics, including printing and shipping, allowing creators to focus on design and marketing. The platform also offers excellent customer support and resources for creators. Its on-demand manufacturing approach helps reduce waste and has a user-friendly return policy.
Pricing: Pay-as-you-go model.
6. Fine Art America: The Best Print-on-Demand Site for Selling Artwork
Fine Art America best suits artists who want to sell their work as high-quality art prints, framed images, or canvases. While the base price for some products might be higher than other sites, Fine Art America generally allows artists to earn more per sale.
The platform also offers a variety of print-on-demand products like:
- Mugs
- Pillows
- Shirts
Allowing creators to diversify their offerings. Fine Art America offers basic marketing tools, image management, and fulfillment services. This platform is a great choice for those selling high-quality artwork and willing to command higher prices. It also offers a membership plan with additional features.
Pricing: The free plan includes 25 uploads, and the membership plan costs $30/year and includes unlimited uploads and additional tools.
7. CafePress: A Simple Alternative to Zazzle
CafePress is another Zazzle alternative known for its ease of use and wide range of products, including over 250 items like:
- T-shirts
- Mugs
- Home Decor
The platform integrates easily with online stores, making the delivery process smooth.
CafePress also offers strong customer support with comprehensive FAQs and responsive support teams. The platform is committed to reducing waste through efficient production methods and provides a return policy focused on customer satisfaction. This dedication to quality service and eco-conscious practices makes CafePress a reliable choice.
Pricing: 10% commission on every sale.
8. Spreadshirt: A Zazzle Alternative for Custom Apparel
Spreadshirt focuses primarily on personalized clothing and accessories, making it a great choice for designers and businesses. The platform offers various products, including:
- T-shirts
- Sweatshirts
- Bags
- Mugs
Spreadshirt’s advanced customization tools allow users to easily add unique texts, designs, or photos to create one-of-a-kind products. Managing an online store on Spreadshirt is easy, and the platform ensures reliable production and shipping. Spreadshirt’s commitment to eco-conscious production processes and a strong return policy contribute to a positive customer experience.
Pricing: No upfront costs; volume-based earnings.
9. Merch by Amazon: Sell Your Designs on the World’s Largest Marketplace
Merch by Amazon is a powerful platform for artists and designers who want to showcase and sell their unique designs. It allows creators to sell products like t-shirts and sweatshirts on Amazon’s large marketplace, with Amazon handling all inventory and production issues. The platform is known for high-quality merchandise and attention to detail.
Amazon’s customer support is dependable, providing creators with the needed help. While it may not be as eco-conscious as some competitors, Merch by Amazon does follow certain sustainability practices. It’s a strong option for creators looking to tap into Amazon’s vast market.
Pricing: Royalty-based model with no upfront costs.
10. Vistaprint: A Versatile Print-on-Demand Platform
Vistaprint is a versatile print-on-demand platform ideal for creators and small business owners looking to create and sell diverse products, from custom clothing to business cards and promotional items. Vistaprint integrates seamlessly with marketplaces like Etsy, and setting up a store is hassle-free.
Vistaprint handles production and fulfillment, making it easier to grow a business. The platform offers impressive customer support and is committed to reducing waste and maximizing energy use. It offers a free basic version and a premium tier with advanced features.
Pricing: Free basic version; premium tier at $74.99 after a 30-day free trial.
11. Teepublic: A Passive Approach to Selling Designs Online
Teepublic is a more passive way to sell designs on print-on-demand products. Once your items are listed on the site, you earn royalties without needing to manage the store actively. Teepublic’s marketplace is smaller than other platforms, making sales more challenging. You cannot set your profit margins; sitewide sales may reduce earnings.
Despite these limitations, Teepublic is a good option for passive income from designs you’ve already created. Product prices are generally higher than other POD marketplaces, so you can earn a few dollars per sale.
Pricing: Operates on a royalty-based model with fixed product prices.
12. SPOD: A Simple and Fast Print-on-Demand Alternative to Zazzle
SPOD is known for its ease of use, integration with top eCommerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, and product range of over 200 items, including apparel and accessories. Its advanced design tool sets it apart, simplifying the process of designing and editing creations.
The platform is also praised for its fast production and shipping, often completing orders within 48 hours. SPOD emphasizes eco-conscious packaging and has a strong customer support system with user guides and other resources to assist creators. Its streamlined processes and commitment to sustainability make it a strong alternative to Zazzle.
Pricing: Pay-as-you-go model with no installation fees.
13. Teezily: An E-Commerce Platform for Custom Apparel
Teezily is an e-commerce platform that excels in customizable apparel and accessories. It’s particularly popular for creating products for specific events or causes, making it a great choice if you want to launch campaigns or seasonal collections. Teezily provides a global platform for sellers to connect with customers worldwide, offering tools that simplify setting up an online store and managing sales.
14. Scalable Press: A Robust Custom Printing Platform
Scalable Press offers a robust platform for custom printing and fulfillment services. It supports various print types, including screen printing, sublimation, and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing.
An extensive catalog of over 100 products makes Scalable Press a versatile option for businesses looking to automate their print-on-demand operations. It is known for its competitive pricing and fast turnaround, making it a solid choice for scaling up your custom product offerings.
15. Mixbook: A Unique Alternative for Custom Photo Products
Mixbook is perfect for creating high-quality, personalized photo products such as photo books, canvas prints, and cards. The platform offers a variety of templates and an intuitive online editor, making it easy for customers to craft beautiful keepsakes.
Mixbook stands out for its focus on quality. It uses premium materials like heavy-weight paper to ensure that your personalized products look professional.
16. Printvenue: An Alternative for Custom Business Supplies
Printvenue specializes in customizable office stationery, business cards, and other professional products, catering primarily to the Indian market. It’s a great platform to create branded materials for your business, with various templates available for easy customization.
Printvenue’s focus on delivering quality products directly to your doorstep makes it a convenient option for small businesses.
17. Cimpress: A Leader in Mass Customization
Cimpress is an industry leader in mass customization, offering a wide range of personalized products for businesses and individual customers. Their innovative approach allows for high-volume orders with precise customization, making them a go-to platform for businesses needing to create branded merchandise or personalized gifts at scale.
18. Pixartprinting: A European Powerhouse for Custom Printing
As a part of Cimpress, Pixartprinting is a major player in the European custom printing market, offering everything from business cards to large-format printing. Pixartprinting is known for its high-quality products and large-scale printing capabilities, making it ideal for businesses that need professional-grade printed materials at competitive prices.
19. Custom Ink: A Popular Option for Custom Apparel
Custom Ink is a popular platform for creating custom apparel and promotional products. It is known for its user-friendly design tools and wide range of product options. Whether you want to create:
- T-shirts
- Hats
- Drinkware
Custom Ink provides an easy-to-use interface for designing and personalizing products. It’s a great option for individual and business needs and has a strong customer service reputation.
20. Vista: A Reliable Print-on-Demand Alternative for Small Businesses
Vista (formerly Vistaprint) is renowned for its extensive range of customizable products, including business cards, posters, and promotional items. Vista offers high-quality printing services for both personal and professional use. It’s particularly well-suited for small businesses and entrepreneurs who need a reliable platform to create marketing materials and branded products.
21. Kickflip: A Unique Product Customization Platform
Kickflip is a unique platform that allows businesses to build professional product configurators without coding. This feature is precious for eCommerce brands that want to offer their customers a fully customized shopping experience. Kickflip’s visual interface makes creating and sharing designs easy, providing a scalable solution for businesses looking to enhance their product customization options.
22. 4imprint: A Leader in Promotional Products
4imprint specializes in promotional products and personalized merchandise, offering various customizable items, from apparel to tech gadgets. It’s a great platform for businesses ordering bulk promotional items with their logo or artwork. 4imprint is known for its extensive product catalog and reliable customer service, making it a popular choice for corporate branding.
23. Salsita Software: Custom Solutions for Product Personalization
While primarily a software development agency, Salsita Software also provides custom solutions for web and mobile applications, which can include customizable product platforms. If you’re a business looking for a tailored solution to meet specific customization needs, Salsita can build a bespoke application to support your operations.
24. Things Remembered: A Personalization Gift Shop
Things Remembered focuses on personalized gifts, offering a curated selection of customizable items for various occasions. Whether celebrating a milestone or looking for a unique gift, Things Remembered provides high-quality, personalized products that add a special touch. It’s an ideal platform for customers seeking meaningful, customized gifts for loved ones.
25. Etsy: A Marketplace for Unique Goods
Etsy is a well-known online marketplace that connects buyers with independent sellers, offering unique, handcrafted, and vintage items. It’s a great alternative if you’re looking to sell more niche or artisanal products. Etsy’s platform is particularly suited for creative entrepreneurs who want to reach a global audience with unique, custom creations, whether apparel, home decor, or art.
What To Look For When Choosing A Zazzle Alternative
1. Quality Products: Because Your Customers Deserve the Best
The caliber of the items you sell is crucial. Whether you're offering custom t-shirts, mugs, or posters, you want to ensure that the platform you pick maintains high standards in materials, printing, and overall product durability.
Customers expect their purchases to look great and last long, so this should be a top priority. In a 2019 survey, 72% of customers believed that the promo's quality equaled the company's reputation.
2. Design Monetization Goals: What Do You Hope to Achieve?
Consider your goals for monetizing your designs. Are you looking to maximize profits, or are you more focused on expanding your brand's reach? Some platforms offer better profit margins, while others might provide more exposure. Think about what aligns best with your long-term strategy.
3. Proven Print-on-Demand Services: Reliability is Key
Look for a platform with a strong track record in print-on-demand services. You want a service that can smoothly handle everything, from order processing to printing and shipping.
A reliable print-on-demand partner ensures that your customers receive their orders on time and in perfect condition, which is key to building trust and repeat business.
4. Brand Control and Profit Margins: Keep Your Independence
If maintaining control over your brand is important, choose a platform that allows you to launch your independent store. This setup gives you more control over how your brand is presented and often results in higher profit margins. You can set your prices and create a unique shopping experience for your customers.
5. Global Reach: Expand Your Audience
If you want to expand your market internationally, pick a platform with robust global reach. Some platforms have extensive production and shipping networks worldwide, which can help you reach customers in different regions quickly and cost-effectively.
6. Ease of Integration: Get Up and Running Quickly
The platform you choose should integrate seamlessly with your existing eCommerce setup. Whether you're using:
- Shopify
- WooCommerce
- another platform
The integration should be smooth and require minimal effort. This will save you time and reduce potential technical headaches.
7. Sustainability: Go Green for Your Customers
Those who prioritize eco-friendly practices should consider platforms that focus on sustainability. Many platforms now offer environmentally friendly options, such as products made from recycled materials or more efficient printing processes that reduce waste.
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Why Choosing the Right Marketing Product Solution is Crucial
Choosing the right marketing product solution or provider is like picking the perfect tool for a job—ensuring it fits your needs, works efficiently, and helps you achieve your goals without hassle. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to boost brand visibility or a large corporation aiming to maintain a consistent brand image, selecting the right provider can make all the difference.
Not all marketing products or providers are created equal. Some might excel at creating vibrant, eye-catching promotional materials, while others might specialize in producing high-quality business cards that leave a lasting impression. Understanding what you need—whether it's:
- Versatility
- Premium quality
- Cost-effectiveness
This is the first step in narrowing down your options.
Evaluating Quality and Brand Impact
Your choice also impacts your brand’s perception. 72% of customers believe that the promo's quality equals the company's reputation. Going with a provider known for cheap, low-quality products might save you some money upfront, but it could hurt your brand’s reputation in the long run. Investing in a high-quality provider who understands your brand’s essence can enhance your credibility and leave a positive impression on your customers.
Service and Support: Don’t Overlook This Critical Factor
Then there’s the question of service and support. A provider that offers excellent customer service can be a game-changer. Imagine needing a last-minute adjustment on a large order; having a responsive and supportive team on your side can mean the difference between meeting a crucial deadline or missing out on a key opportunity.
Scalability and the Future
Consider how well the provider can scale with your business. As your company grows, your marketing needs will likely evolve. A provider that can’t scale or adapt to your expanding needs could slow down your momentum, while one that’s flexible and innovative will help you stay ahead of the curve.
The right marketing product solution or provider should align with your needs, support your brand’s image, offer reliable customer service, and grow with you. Making this choice thoughtfully ensures you get the most value and impact from your marketing efforts.
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FAQs on Zazzle Alternatives
What might be better than Zazzle depends on your specific needs and goals. If you want better profit margins or more control over your brand, platforms that allow for independent store launches might be a better fit.
If quality and global reach are your priorities, consider a platform known for its reliable print-on-demand services and extensive shipping network. Essentially, better is subjective—it all comes down to what you value most in a platform.
Do People Make Money on Zazzle?
Yes, people make money on Zazzle, but it often requires a combination of great designs, effective marketing, and an understanding of how to price products competitively. Zazzle offers a variety of products that you can customize and sell, but like any platform, success depends on the effort you put into it. That said, some users find that other platforms offer higher profit margins, so if earnings are a primary concern, exploring alternatives might be worthwhile.
Zazzle vs. Vistaprint: Which is Cheaper?
Generally speaking, Zazzle tends to have higher prices than Vistaprint, particularly regarding promotional products like business cards or custom apparel. Zazzle focuses more on customization and a broader range of unique products, which can drive up costs.
Vistaprint is often considered a more budget-friendly option, especially for bulk orders of standard promotional items. If cost is a major factor, Vistaprint might be the cheaper option.
Zazzle vs. Redbubble: What’s the Difference?
Zazzle and Redbubble are similar in that they offer platforms for artists and designers to sell custom products, but they cater to different audiences and offer different features. Zazzle provides a wider range of product customization options, focusing on everything from apparel to home decor.
Redbubble is more artist-focused, emphasizing designs that appeal to a more niche, art-loving audience. While they share some similarities, each has its unique strengths, depending on what you’re looking to achieve with your designs.
Build A Meaningful Employee Recognition Program With Ease with Giftpack's Client Gifting Service
At Giftpack, our driving force is to simplify the corporate gifting process while maximizing the impact of each gift. Utilizing our custom AI algorithm, we create highly customized scenario swag box options for you. We deliver globally and have an extremely user-friendly platform. We curate the most fitting gifts from a vast catalog of over 3.5 million products worldwide (which is ever-increasing).
By carefully considering an individual's basic demographics, preferences, social media activity, and digital footprint, we tailor each gift selection process regardless if the recipient is an employee, a customer, a VIP client, a friend, or a family member. With a wide range of locally and globally sourced gifts, we ensure that personalized gifting is accessible and achievable on a large scale, delivering meaningful connections across the globe.
Try Giftpack's client gifting service for free today.
Make your gifting efficient and improve employee attrition rates with Giftpack AI
Visit our product page to unlock the power of personalized employee appreciation gifts.
