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Top Tools for Creating Stunning Print on Demand Designs

canva design etsy pod kittl design print on demand design

Ever stared at a blank canvas, wondering how to turn your ideas into eye-catching designs that actually sell? You’re not alone—it’s a rite of passage for every POD entrepreneur! 

The good news? The right tools can make all the difference, transforming overwhelming design sessions into efficient, creativity-fueled workflows. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned seller, this guide will show you where to create print on demand designs and introduce you to the top design tools that save time, spark inspiration, and help your products stand out in a crowded Etsy marketplace. 

Lets dive in!

Psst! New to POD? Join my FREE course to get started with Print on Demand!

1:  The Key Features to Look for in POD Design Tools

Before getting started you should know that not all design tools are created equal, especially when it comes to creating standout products in the competitive world of print on demand. To save time, unleash your creativity, and set your shop up for success, look for tools that offer these helpful features:

  • Easy-to-Use Interface: Whether you’re just starting out or a design pro, intuitive tools that streamline the process make all the difference. Say goodbye to frustration and hello to efficiency!
  • Templates, Fonts, and Design Elements: Pre-made resources like trendy templates and an extensive font library help you bring your vision to life faster—and keep it looking professional. (Just make sure if you're using creating something new and adding value - don't just slap a pre-made graphic on a shirt and call it good.)
  • Personalization Options: Customization is key in POD, especially when creating niche-specific products. Look for tools that make it easy to tweak names, dates, or other details to cater to your target audience.
  • Export Options for POD Platforms: Seamless export options ensure your designs are ready to upload directly to platforms like Etsy, Printify, or Printful without needing extra tweaks.
  • Collaboration Features: If you’re working with a VA, designer, or a creative partner, collaboration-friendly tools let you share, edit, and refine designs together without a hitch.

These features don’t just simplify the design process—they empower you to create stunning, shop-ready products with ease. 

2: Top Tools for Creating Print on Demand Designs

Okay, now let's look at where to create your print on demand designs! I’ve outlined three tools below to help you get started.

1. Canva: The All-in-One Design Solution

Canva is the ultimate go-to for print-on-demand sellers, and it’s easy to see why. Canva is user-friendly as it gets, making it perfect for beginners dipping their toes into design or seasoned pros looking to streamline their workflow!

Packed with thousands of templates for everything from T-shirts to mugs and wall art, Canva takes the guesswork out of starting a new design project. Even better? The robust free version gives you plenty to work with, and upgrading to Pro unlocks even more creative power.

Why It’s a Favorite:

  • Intuitive interface for all skill levels—no design degree required!

  • Endless options that can be tailored for POD products.

  • The free version is packed with value, and Pro offers advanced features worth every penny.

Pro Features POD Sellers Will Love:

  • Magic Resize Tool: Adjust one design for multiple product types in a snap—talk about a time saver!

  •  Canva Brand Kit: Keep your shop’s aesthetic consistent with pre-saved fonts, colors, and logos.

Bonus Tips: Organize your designs by batching them into folders by niche within Canva. It’s a lifesaver for managing multiple niches and staying efficient during design marathons. With Canva, your creative possibilities are endless, and your shop’s cohesion will be on point.

2. Kittl: Where Creativity Meets Customization

If you’re looking for a design tool that takes your POD game to the next level, Kittl is your secret weapon. Tailored specifically for POD creators, Kittl shines with its focus on typography and intricate design details, making it perfect for sellers who want their products to exude a polished, professional vibe. 

Why It Stands Out:

  • Built with POD creators in mind, so it understands your unique needs.
  • High-quality typography and design features that elevate your creations.
  • Perfect for giving your shop a high-end, custom feel.

Top Features:

  • Pre-Made Templates: Choose from a variety of trending styles like vintage, modern, or retro for quick inspiration.
  • Advanced Text Effects: Add shadows, curves, and other typography enhancements that bring your designs to life.
  • Marketplace for Inspiration: Explore Kittl’s design marketplace to discover fresh ideas and collaborate with other creators.

When to Use Kittl:

  • Ideal for products where a premium or niche-specific design aesthetic is key.
  • Use it to create standout designs for weddings, professional niches, or personalized products that demand a polished look.

With Kittl, your designs won’t just catch eyes—they’ll stop scrolls and help you create products that leave a lasting impression.

As a special bonus, use code MANDYYT for an exclusive 25% discount on the first month OR first year on any Kittl plan!

In my Simply Thrive Membership, I go even deeper into the strategy, mindset, and actions steps to create a thriving POD business. And if you want to see further design inspiration, make sure you check out my Design Playlist for free tutorials on my YouTube Channel!

3. Photopea: The Free Alternative for Advanced Design

For POD creators with a knack for design or experience using Photoshop, Photopea is a powerhouse that combines advanced features with the convenience of a browser-based platform. This tool packs serious capability without the hefty price tag, making it a top choice for those who want a professional edge without committing to expensive software.

Why It’s Worth Considering:

  • Offers advanced design tools, all accessible directly in your browser—no downloads needed!
  • Perfect for experienced designers or anyone looking for a free alternative to Photoshop.
  • Supports complex projects with features often reserved for premium tools.

Key Features:

  • Layers and Smart Objects: Gain total control over intricate designs, perfect for detailed POD products.
  • PSD Compatibility: Seamlessly import and export PSD files, making it easy to tweak or reuse existing designs.
  • Customizable Templates: Get a head start on your projects with templates tailored to various product types, from apparel to wall art.

Who Should Use It:

  • Best for creators with some technical design know-how who want the flexibility of advanced tools.
  • Ideal for those transitioning from Photoshop or working on detailed designs requiring precision and control.

Photopea bridges the gap between beginner-friendly tools and professional-grade design software, giving you the power to create stunning, high-quality POD products—all without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to level up your designs with precision and depth, this is the tool for you.


3: Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of These Tools

Finding an online design tool you love is just the first step—using them strategically is what sets successful POD sellers apart. Whether you’re working with Canva, Kittl, or Photopea, here are a few things to keep in mind: 

Batch Designs for Efficiency: Save time by creating 15-20 variations within a single niche. For example, if you’re designing for pet owners, create options for different breeds or personalize by adding names. This approach helps you test what resonates without constantly starting from scratch.

Leverage Templates for a Head Start: Templates are your best friend when you’re short on time or inspiration. Use them as a foundation, then customize with your shop’s unique aesthetic—swap colors, tweak text, or add niche-specific design elements to make it yours.

Stay Consistent for Brand Recognition: Build a cohesive shop by sticking to a core set of fonts, colors, and themes. Whether it’s a boho vibe or a bold modern look, consistency helps your shop stand out and creates a recognizable brand identity that keeps customers coming back.

Now, it’s time to create, iterate, and thrive!


Your Designs Deserve the Best Tools!

Creating stunning designs is more than just a creative process—it’s the foundation of your POD shop’s success. Using the right tools not only saves time but also ensures your products stand out in a crowded marketplace. 

Whether you’re leveraging Canva’s ease of use, Kittl’s professional typography, or Photopea’s advanced capabilities, these tools can transform your vision into shop-ready designs that resonate with your audience.

The best part? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Experiment with these tools to find the perfect fit for your workflow and design style. 

And remember, you don’t have to do this alone! Join the Simply Thrive Membership to connect with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, gain access to exclusive resources, and get the guidance you need to scale your POD business with confidence!