In this post, you’ll learn how to create printables to sell online or share on a blog, website, or social media—in five steps.
Printables, or print-yourself designs, are the backbone of my business. I give them away to my blog readers, sell them online and I convert them into tangible products like art prints, mugs, and invitations.
How to create printables
I’ve had lots of my blog readers ask about my design process, and how I go about creating my printables to share and sell. And so, this post is well overdue.
How I wish I could invite you all into my actual office to walk you through an average day. Instead, here’s a virtual tour of how it all gets done. Follow the five steps below to learn how to create printables!
Bonus tip for selling your printables on Etsy
If you’re wondering what types of printable designs sell best, you’ll definitely want to check out my friends Julie and Cody’s free eBook, Seasonal Products Secret. Click here to download it for free.
How to Create Printables Step 1: Research
- I call this the “doing your homework” step. Gather research and ideas for your projects by visiting sites like Pinterest, Instagram, Behance, and Etsy.
- Get inspired by designs from everyday life—magazines, posters, merchandise, even restaurant menus. If you are ever feeling stuck, never underestimate the power of a trip to Target.
- Catalog your findings in folders using your Notes app or Evernote.
How to Create Printables Step 2: Design
- Taking your research from Step 1, draft 2-3 concepts using your favorite software or by hand. Focus on form and composition, testing out several different font options, all in black and white.
- Once you have 2-3 solid ideas, narrow it down to the design that feels the most compelling, unique, and makes you smile.
How to Create Printables Step 3: Color
- Using the design you decided on in Step 2, I test 2-3 color combination concepts. As a general rule, stick to a palette of 2-3 colors per design.
- Once you have chosen your color palette, try variations with a colored background, a black background, and a white background to see which suits the design best.
- If you’re feeling spunky, try a version with a patterned or textured background. My favorite places to shop are DesignCuts and Creative Market.
How to Create Printables Step 4: Production
- When your design is complete, create a password-protected PDF with a disclaimer to protect it from theft.
- Next, photograph your work or use a pre-created photo mockup (you can read more about where to find those here).
How to Create Printables Step 5: Promotion
- I choose to post all of my designs for sale on Etsy.com, but I also share many of them as free downloads on my blog for my readers.
- Promote using your social media channels (especially Pinterest)!
Bonus tip for selling your printables on Etsy
If you’re wondering what types of printable designs sell best, you’ll definitely want to check out my friends Julie and Cody’s free eBook, Seasonal Products Secret. Click here to download it for free.
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I make a small commission at no extra expense to you. Thank you for supporting my business!