Why Plus Size Print on Demand Should be A No Brainer for Your Brand
Are you about to launch your own clothing line? The choice is clear, go for print on demand plus size clothing. It’s a perfect decision. The niche is huge and often neglected by the majority of the brands.
You can even target a group of stylish people who feel the need for clothes that are not only simple but also unique. Learn from this guide the steps on how to thrive.
The Short-Circuited Opportunity of Inclusive Sizing
Today plus-size fashion is the in-demand market. Unlike the mainstream apparel, many buyers feel that they are not so much included in the retail mix. For that reason, they are after the clothing that fits well and expresses their individuality.
The global plus-size segment will be equivalent to hundreds of billions of dollars in the near future. It vividly delineates a business opportunity here. As per the latest statistics, demand for plus-size clothing is increasing. Your label could fill this gap.
Guide Overview
We will provide you with tips from the pros. These are the topics you are going to learn:
- Selecting the print on demand (POD) partner that will help you the most.
- Upscale styles of clothes for plus-size women.
- Pitfalls to avoid.
- Methods to scale up and expand your business.
Picking a Partner: Print on Demand Companies for Plus Size Clothing
Your print on demand partner is the primary concern you have to address. They do the printing, packing, and shipping of your products. A prosperous partner means happy customers and the effective development of your brand.
Finding some good dropshipping plus-size clothing suppliers is crucial. Obviously, not all POD companies provide sizes in the range or the quality of clothes we require. We’ve taken the liberty of doing the research for you.
Important Factors to Consider in a Plus-Size POD Provider
When checking out various companies, look into these five primary issues. To locate one reliable plus-size POD partner, you should look at these five key areas.
- Size Range & Consistency: Are they offering garments like 3XL, 4XL, 5XL, and so on? Do they have the same sizes all the time? I mean to say a 3XL should always be like a 3XL.
- Fabric Quality & Feel: The fabric should be soft, strong, and relaxed. The poor quality of the fabric used leads to angry customers, and consequently, bad reviews.
- Product Variety: Do they have just t-shirts? A good catalog should also have hoodies, sweatshirts, leggings, and dresses in all sizes.
- Print Quality: Your designs ought to be looking great. The print should be sharp and bright. It must pass several washes without any crack or fading.
- Base Cost & Shipping: Compare the prices of the blank pieces and shipping costs. Lower costs equal higher profits for your business.
Contenders: Comparison of the Best Alternatives
A range of several plus-size print on demand companies is at your disposal, but there are a few that certainly appall. We have evaluated the top picks and elucidated why they will be advantageous for you.
| Provider Name | Typical Plus-Size Range | Key Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Printful | Up to 5XL on select items | High-quality prints, reliable service, good integration | Beginners and brands focused on quality. |
| Printify | Up to 6XL (varies by print provider) | Wide network of printers, competitive pricing | Sellers looking for variety and value. |
| CustomCat | Up to 6XL on some garments | Fast fulfillment in the US, large product catalog | US-based sellers who need speed. |
Printful will serve you as an excellent entry point. They are known for their persistent quality and exceptional customer service. Their prices might be on the high side, but in most cases, the dependability is worth it for starters.
Printify means something entirely different. It puts you in touch with numerous print providers. This way you get many alternatives and a lower price. Nevertheless, the quality may differ from one supplier to another. Therefore, ordering samples is of utmost importance.
CustomCat is indeed a good option for those focusing on the American market. They have a large number of extended size items in their catalog. The fast delivery time that they guarantee can be a big bonus.
The Final Checklist for Your Plus-Size POD Partner Vetting
Choosing a partner is not just about comparing prices. You have to do your own research so that you can protect your brand. This checklist will empower you to choose the partner who is a perfect match for you.
These easy fixes will save you a fortune. The only way to ensure that your print on demand plus size clothing is of high quality is to stick to your quality standard.
Step 1: Always Order Samples
This step is the biggest priority. Just because something looks good on a website doesn’t mean it is. Order the samples of the exact ones you want to sell, with an emphasis on plus size.
When you get the sample check that everything is okay. Does the 3XL fit like a real 3XL? How about the fabric? Wash it and see if the print crackes or fades. Does it shrink or lose its shape? The straight answers to all these questions will surely ensure quality.
Step 2: Be Careful with the Size Charts
Sizing problems are the very reason why so many customers return the items and why they’re so frustrated. You have to check the size charts your POD supplier provides with care. Are the measurements in inches or centimeters? Are they unambiguous and easy to read at all?
You should copy these size charts directly to your product pages. Tell your customers to measure a favorite shirt at home. Have them compare it to your chart. This simple practice can exceedingly help reduce returns and maintain customer trust.
Step 3: Read Authentic Customer Reviews (The Correct Way)
Don’t get caught up in the star ratings. Dive into the appraisals. Survey for the commentary especially that discusses plus sizes.
What do the clients say about the larger sizes? Did they say that perhaps the fit was okay? Or else, did they mention that the product shrank? Such true comments are reliable information. They can lead you to detect possible defects before they have a negative influence on your buyers.
Step 4: Go Beyond T-Shirts When Evaluating the Product Catalog
A successful brand features a variety of products. T-shirts are good but are not enough. Instead, find a supplier who has a wider offer.
Are there hoodies, leggings, dresses, or tank tops in the size of the customer’s request? A full collection of items can make the brand more attractive. The brand will appear that it is serious about serving the plus-size community. You are not just throwing in a few extra-large t-shirts just because not that you do not care.
Designing for Success: Print Placement on Plus Size Apparel
Designing nice artworks is only half of the work. You have to consider how it goes on a different type of body as well. Smart design placement can help your products be seen as more flattering and desirable.
This is where many brands go off the road. Spending a little time to learn these few right principles can enable your print on demand plus-size clothing to shine above the others.
The “Billboard Effect” To Miss
An extremely large square design that is placed right in the center of the shirt may be very awful. The curved bodice will cause the design to stretch and distort. This is generally known as the “billboard effect.”
It can easily make the print unreadable. It diverts focus on the areas that your customers may be unwilling to emphasize. By simply thinking creatively about placement, you can easily avoid this issue.
Strategic Print Placement
Rather than just using the large front print, you could also take advantage of the following options that are more fashionable and do not cost much.
- Upper Chest: The upper left or right chest is a classic look that allows for a small design. It is fit for all body types.
- All-Over Prints (AOP): AOP is excellent for plus-size items. A motif spread all over the cloth will not distort at the curves. It can result in a sleek, premium product.
- Sleeve & Hem Details: Incorporating a small logo or design on the sleeve or near the bottom hem is another inexpensive but unique option.
Choosing the Right Print Technique
The printing technique can also be the decisive factor on how a product will look and feel at the end. Conventional screen printing is highly praised for its vibrant colors that can last for years.
For something novel, think of special techniques. For instance, puff screen printing creates a raised 3D effect. This can make a simple logo or text seem more premium. A puff print hoodie could be a signature item in your collection, thanks to its special feel.
Beyond POD: When to Collaborate with a Clothing Manufacturer
The only way out to begin your business is through Print on demand with minimum risks involved. However, after a while when your brand expands, you might feel like you have reached the limits of what POD can do for you.
Recognizing the perfect time to do the next thing is the best chapter in success. A collaboration with a specific manufacturer may be the key to a new level.
The Time Indicators for the Scale
Watch out for the following signs in your business. They are your indication that you might be ready to work with a manufacturing partner.
- You are consistently selling a high volume of certain products.
- You want to include custom tags, labels, or packaging.
- You’d like to create garment models that are not available with POD services.
- You need to reduce your item costs to make your profit margins better.
The Benefits of a Manufacturing Partner
When working directly with the manufacturer, you get 100% of the control to do whatever you like. You can produce entire garments from the fabric to the fit. This process will help you create a brand that is truly one of a kind and cannot be copied by anyone.
The risks are higher and it requires more investment. However, in the long run, the per-item costs are reduced drastically. Redirecting the focus of your brand on a more specialized partner, clothing manufacturer will reveal the potential for better quality and personalization.
Frequently More Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most popular and profitable plus-size clothing that can be produced through print on demand?
The most sought-after and profitable items are graphic t-shirts and hoodies which appeal to kids and adults alike. They make for perfect canvases for your masterpieces. But, be aware, that niche products like plus-size activewear are also on a fast track.
How can I manage the size and returns situation with my print on demand plus-size clothing store?
You should provide really clear size charts on every product page, which will be very informative and accurate. Pictures of models should be utilized alongside various sizes if possible. Since items are printed to order, most POD services do not accept returns on the wrong sizes. This makes communication with your customers transparent and clear which is very imperative.
Is sustainable or eco-friendly clothing POD plus-size options available?
Yes, although the available choices may be limited. Some providers, for example, Printful and T-Pop, are presenting more eco-friendly products. In the product descriptions, items made from organic cotton or recycled materials are specified. You should look for indications that support this claim in the exhibit of each item.
What is the most crucial mistake to avoid while launching a plus-size POD business?
Ordering samples is the biggest error ever. You can never get an accurate picture of the fit, feel, or print quality of a garment from a digital image. Chalk that up to your customers’ dissatisfaction and subsequent loss of business before it even begins.
Is a change in price necessary for larger sizes?
A great deal of POD suppliers charge an additional fee for sizes such as 2XL and above. The main reason for this is the utilization of more material during manufacturing. You may choose either of the two options. One is to set one price for all sizes, averaging the cost. The other is to price up the larger sizes a bit. If you choose the latter be clear about it. Open and honest communication with your clients indeed leads to building trust.
