30+ Business Ideas You Can Start Using A Sublimation Printer [2024]
Interested in starting a sublimation printer business in 2024?
We put together 30 of the best sublimation printer businesses you can start in today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of other sublimation printer businesses to help you see what it really takes.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a 3D Printing Business
3D printing is a process that assembles objects layer by layer and starting a business in this industry can be a very creative venture.
You will need investment in the right equipment and materials, and the acquisition of 3D modeling and design skills. You will also need to regularly calibrate and maintain your 3D printers to deliver consistent results.
Plan how you'll handle shipping and logistics, and leverage technology to find new applications of 3D printing in all industries.
How much you can make: $8,000 — $330,000/month
How long does it take to build: 270 days (?)
Founder Roy Kirchner shares how he started an eCommerce business specializing in 3D printing with an initial investment of $65,000, which now averages monthly gross sales of $330,000 and has partnered with international manufacturers and local businesses while offering technical support and education.
2. Start a mouse mats making business
3. Start an ATM printing slip manufacturing business
When was the last time you used an ATM and received a printed slip? That's your potential market.
Starting an ATM printing slip manufacturing business means creating the vital paper receipts that banks and ATM providers use daily. With thousands of ATMs dispersing countless slips each day, the demand for high-quality, reliable printing slips is steady.
To dive into this business, you’ll need to source specialized paper and ink and invest in manufacturing equipment. Building relationships with banks and ATM service companies is key to securing long-term contracts.
If you have a knack for production and logistics, this venture could provide a consistent revenue stream. With low initial competition and an essential product, you’ll find ample opportunity to grow.
How much you can make: $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)
Learn how Frank Ouyang founded Panda Paper Roll Company, a China-based paper roll manufacturing company that exports products worldwide, bringing in an annual sales revenue of $10M.
4. Start a niche greeting cards business
Have you ever struggled to find the perfect card for a unique or specific occasion? Starting a niche greeting cards business could be your answer. This business focuses on designing and selling cards tailored to specialized markets—think vegan birthdays, techie thank-yous, or climate activist celebrations.
Creating these unique products involves a blend of creative artistry and market research. You'll need to identify underserved niches and design cards that resonate with those specific audiences. Once designed, partnering with printing services and setting up an online store will be crucial steps.
If you enjoy getting creative and spotting trends, this business has potential. It offers the satisfaction of bringing joy and personalized connections to people through something as simple as a greeting card. Plus, it allows you to make use of your artistic skills while meeting a market need.
How much you can make: $1,000 — $100,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $8,750 (?)
How long does it take to build: 77 days (?)
Joker Greeting sells unique prank gifts, including a non-stop musical birthday card, an idea raised by the founders visiting their mom's house, having no website or marketing and yet raising $92,073 on Kickstarter in 30 days due to being picked up by media, enabling them to sell 15,000 units in the first year, owned SEO for their niche, selling almost 40,000 units in 2017 and expected to reach 50,000 to 60,000 in 2018 with a small team, using Shopify and various social media channels with lots of organic traffic.
5. Start a laser cut coasters business
Do you have a passion for starting laser-cutting business ideas? A potential opportunity that uses laser cutting techniques is making coasters. Whether you are a seasoned artist or interested in making décor crafts, laser cutting technology can help you achieve precision and accuracy.
Laser cutting technology also enables you to achieve custom designs at a lower cost, maximizing your profits.
6. Start a sign holders business
Signage is important for home and business owners. Proper signage allows businesses to market and advertise their products or services and make the brands recognizable to customers. For homeowners, signage indicates the home's address, so visitors can find them easily.
Homeowners and business owners invest in high-quality signage holders to make the signs visible. Thus, starting a signage holder business can be profitable and a fun investment. To start a stand design and production business, find out the type of signage businesses and how homeowners use and design outstanding holders.
7. Start a Cardboard Box Printing Business
Cardboard boxes are used for packing both food and non-food items. There are many types of advanced machines used to print them. If you are interested in starting your own business, then you should learn how to use these machines.
As a new business owner of cardboard box printing, you’ll have to network with various manufacturing businesses and offer them printed cardboard boxes that are designed by you.
8. Start a Mug Printing Business
The mug printing business is a unique, enjoyable, and lucrative opportunity. You can create your own designs with your own artwork, logos, and photographs. There are so many options when it comes to colors and material choices.
Starting a mug printing business can be an exciting and fulfilling career choice for those who have a passion for a home-based business.
A plain white coffee mug with a one-color logo will sell for around $1.50 at a 50% gross profit margin. You charge an industry-standard setup fee of $45, which includes your actual cost of materials.
How much you can make: $25,000 — $400,000/month
How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)
How a Nigerian-based online printing business servicing over 5,000 active customers generates an average $25,000 monthly revenue and a net profit of 20%, with a monthly order fulfillment of approximately 500 and 45% YoY growth.
9. Start a children's designer clothing business
10. Start a flex printing business
11. Start a brochures printing business
12. Start a Textile Printing Business
Textile printing is not just any printing. It is the process of applying patterns, designs, and colors to the fabric. It is mostly used to print clothes, curtains, dresses, bedsheets, garments, bed covers, and other items.
To start this business you have to be trained to apply the right techniques to make sure that the pattern and design are printed accurately on the cloth. You will also have to ensure that the colors used in the design are of high quality so that they do not fade off over time or get dirty easily.
It is a perfect business idea for any entrepreneur who is looking to start his or her own business. Textile printing can be a profitable venture for those who are good at art and design and enjoy working with fabrics. The Textile Print Designer makes between $70,689 to $115,330 per year in the USA.
How much you can make: $1,000,000/month
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
Web-to-print software company Design'N'Buy has acquired clients in over 40 countries and earned a turnover of $1.5 million and 1,000+ clients across 60+ countries within a short span of existence.
13. Start a Promotional Sticker Printing Business
There are many types of stickers. Some are used for advertising purposes, while others are printed on products as labels. Almost all types of products need such stickers and labels to label their items. They are also widely used in the automobile industry.
Promotional sticker printing is among the most profitable printing business ideas you can consider. By working hard and focusing on different, unique, and customized designs, you’ll be able to succeed in this endeavor.
Sticker reselling is lucrative and it will only get more profitable. The global die-cut sticker industry was worth $148.5 million in 2021 and is expected to reach $188 million by 2028.
How much you can make: $5,000 — $275,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Multi-million dollar presentation folder company, Company Folders, offers over 100 million variations of products and has won multiple awards, including making Inc.’s list of 5,000 fastest-growing private companies in America for three consecutive years, due to their focus on quality, variety, and personalized customer service.
14. Start an ornament making business
15. Start a puzzle and game books business
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
16. Start an invitation business
17. Start a customizable accessory business
18. Start a printable sales business
Printable sales businesses involve creating and selling printable items such as stationary, invitations, wall art, and other decorative items that the customer can print at home or through a professional printing service. This type of business is famous for its low startup costs and flexibility, as it can be run from a home office or online store.
To run a successful printable sales business, it is important to have strong design skills and a unique aesthetic to stand out in a crowded market. It is also essential to have a clear brand identity and a well-designed website to showcase your products and make it easy for customers to purchase.
One key tip for running a successful printable sales business is to offer a range of products to appeal to a broader audience. This can include different styles and themes to suit different occasions and offer customization options for customers who want something more personalized.
Another important aspect of running a successful printable sales business is staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry. This can involve taking online courses or attending workshops to learn new design software and techniques, as well as keeping an eye on popular design trends and adapting your products accordingly.
Finally, it is essential to have excellent customer service and communication skills in a printable sales business. This includes responding promptly to customer inquiries, offering support and assistance with printing issues, and being open to feedback and suggestions to improve your products and services.
How much you can make: $1,000/month
Periwinkle Greetings uses Dye-sublimation to create unique metal greeting cards that can be displayed as art, with an average monthly revenue of $1000, and plans to pivot to B2B sales in 2023.
19. Start a carbon offsetting business
How long does it take to build: 608 days (?)
20. Start a package design business
Creating a package design business is an opportunity to blend creativity with commerce. In simple terms, this business involves designing the packaging for products, from food and beverages to cosmetics and electronics.
The appeal lies in the tangible impact you can have on a product's success. A great package design can capture attention, convey a brand's message, and persuade customers to make a purchase. This makes it an indispensable service for businesses looking to stand out in a crowded market.
Starting a package design business requires a solid understanding of design principles, familiarity with various materials, and knowledge of printing processes. You'll also need to build strong relationships with brands and manufacturers. While it involves a fair amount of work, the potential to shape market trends and see your designs on store shelves can be incredibly rewarding.
How much you can make: $16,000 — $500,000/month
How long does it take to build: 80 days (?)
OXO Packaging is a successful custom packaging manufacturer generating an impressive $500,000 per month in revenue with around 40-50 orders per month, and aims to become the top packaging manufacturer in the USA and Australia.
21. Start a wallpaper business
Wallpapers are a popular trend, and the installation appetite will not stop soon. Homeowners go for various designs, from traditional florals to contemporary geometric, tropical patterns, etc.
Therefore, printing different substrates could make wallpaper trends even more exciting. Start by thinking about the various attractive designs and colors that will attract your target customers. Factor the scale of the flowers in the patterns and choose designs that make rooms large and create an appealing space.
22. Start an art headboards business
23. Start a guitar picks business
24. Become a tee shirt designer
Have you always had a passion for fashion and creativity? Well, then the field of tee shirt design could be the perfect opportunity for you!
As a tee shirt designer, you would be responsible for fitting model garments, ensuring size uniformity, and using your design and aesthetic skills to create unique and eye-catching tee shirts that will captivate your customers’ attention.
With this exciting career, you’ll have the chance to let your creativity run wild and make a lasting impact on the fashion industry.
How much you can make: $15,000/month
How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)
Designious co-founder Alex Dumitru shares how the graphic design library generates $12-13k in monthly revenue by creating digital products that appeal to print-on-demand entrepreneurs and graphic designers, while also offering a flat-rate membership and useful resources that solve little problems.
25. Start a marketing kits business
Looking to streamline businesses' marketing efforts without them having to reinvent the wheel? Consider starting a marketing kits business.
In this venture, you create comprehensive, ready-to-use kits containing all the essential materials a company needs for effective marketing. Think social media templates, email campaign scripts, and promotional materials—all professionally designed and customizable.
This business idea holds immense appeal by saving time and reducing the stress of creating marketing content from scratch. Companies are constantly searching for ways to stand out, and your kits can provide them with that creative leverage.
Creating these kits requires an understanding of marketing trends, graphic design skills, and an eye for detail. If you’re willing to put in the work, you could become the go-to resource for businesses aiming to elevate their marketing strategy. This could be an excellent opportunity to combine your creative skills with a practical application, resulting in a valuable and in-demand product.
How much you can make: $2,083,333/month
How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)
Discover how Nathan Barry bootstrapped ConvertKit from a $5,000 investment to a $25 million/year email marketing powerhouse by addressing the main objections of online creators and scaling through a lucrative affiliate program with an impressive $2.08 million/month average revenue.
26. Start a digital printing press business
Digital printing transfers digital images directly onto various media types such as paper, canvas, fabric, and card stock. If you are a graphic designer, you might want to start your own digital printing business. Digital printing business requires minimal investment, and it is easy to start. Digital printing businesses can offer many products, such as restaurant menus, invitation cards, message cards, product labels, custom envelopes, brochures, and flyers.
There will always be a demand for digital printing services. You can attract many customers by offering quality results at affordable prices.
27. Start a pizza boxes business
The pizza industry is thriving, and as a result, the demand for pizza boxes is constantly increasing.
This presents a lucrative business opportunity for those who are interested in venturing into the pizza box manufacturing and sales business.
Pizza boxes are typically made from corrugated cardboard and come in different sizes to accommodate various pizza sizes.
As a business owner, you can supply high-quality, affordable boxes to restaurants and pizzerias, attracting a large customer base and generating a steady stream of income.
This business is not only profitable but also sustainable since pizza is a popular food item worldwide, and the demand for pizza boxes is expected to continue to grow in the foreseeable future.
How much you can make: $500,000/month
OXO Packaging is a successful custom packaging manufacturer generating an impressive $500,000 per month in revenue with around 40-50 orders per month, and aims to become the top packaging manufacturer in the USA and Australia.
28. Start a Xerox Store
Starting a Xerox store can be a lucrative and rewarding business opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to enter the printing and document solutions industry. This business provides various services, including printing, copying, scanning, and document management.
To start a Xerox store, you’ll need a good location that is easily accessible to your target customers. You’ll also need to invest in high-quality Xerox equipment, including printers, copiers, and scanners. In addition, you’ll need to have a strong marketing and sales strategy to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Running a successful Xerox store also involves providing excellent customer service and building client relationships.
You’ll need to be knowledgeable about the various products and services you offer and be able to troubleshoot any issues that may arise. It would help if you were proactive in staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements to provide the best solutions to your customers.
Overall, starting a Xerox store requires a combination of business savvy, technical expertise, and excellent customer service skills. You can build a successful business in this exciting and growing industry with the right approach and dedication.
29. Start a pet tags production business
Pet tags are essential for pet owners who want a stylish yet functional way to ensure their pets can be easily identified. Starting a pet tags production business involves creating custom, engraved identification tags for pets. It's a straightforward business idea with a steady market demand, as pet ownership continues to rise.
You'll need to invest in basic engraving equipment and quality materials to produce durable tags. The initial setup requires some capital, but the production process is relatively simple and scalable. By offering a range of designs, materials, and personalization options, you can attract a broad customer base.
Marketing your pet tags online through platforms like Etsy, Amazon, or your own website can help you reach a wide audience. Social media can also play a crucial role in building brand awareness and engaging with your customers. Moreover, collaborating with local pet stores and veterinarians can further boost your sales.
How much you can make: $50,000/month
How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)
How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)
This case study follows the journey of Hawthorn, a UK-based custom clothing manufacturer that designs clothes for start-up brands, and offers the lowest minimum order quantity in the industry, producing bespoke orders for as little as 50pcs per design.
30. Start a phone case designing business
Looking for a creative outlet that combines art with functionality? Consider starting a phone case designing business. This idea revolves around creating custom designs for phone cases, which are then printed and sold to eager customers.
You’ll begin by sketching or digitally drawing unique designs that resonate with various audiences. Once the designs are ready, partner with suppliers who can print and ship these custom cases, bypassing the need for a hefty initial investment.
This business allows you to tap into the booming market of personalized accessories, providing a canvas for your creative expressions and a product that nearly everyone uses. Building an engaging online store and leveraging social media platforms can significantly drive sales. If you have a knack for design and a desire to see your artwork in everyday use, a phone case designing business could be a rewarding venture to pursue.
How much you can make: $120,000/month
Felony Case, a Toronto-based company designing unique iPhone cases, started as a small shop on Etsy and has grown to become an internationally recognized fashion iPhone case brand sold in top tier retailers like Nordstrom, Holt Renfrew, Indigo, Urban Outfitters, Revolve, Free People, and made over half a million dollars in revenue last year.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
