Want to buy a gift that’s memorable, thoughtful, and truly unique? Buy custom gifts online that range from print on demand items to beautiful handcrafted items that will definitely wow anyone.
1. Zazzle
Zazzle is one of the most well-known sites for custom gifts. In addition to the good old t-shirts, coffee mugs, mousepads, device cases, etc. that you can find on many other sites, they also offer custom gift paper, postcards and invitations, plates and other home items, speakers and other customizable electronics, and much more. Sellers upload unique designs for you to add to numerous items.
Zazzle’s offers top quality items, but at reasonable prices. I often pick up cute gifts during the many sales throughout the year. With an overwhelming amount of choices, it’s hard not to find the perfect gift. There’s even a 30-day return window if you don’t like an item.
2. Etsy
My personal favorite site to find custom gifts online is Etsy. The selection simply can’t be beat. Instead of just one shop, it’s numerous individual sellers offering up their handcrafted wares. You can find shirts, mugs, paintings, jewelry, games, home goods, pet items, and so much more.
I highly recommend reading an item’s details and reviews carefully. Not all items are as high quality as others. Plus, some don’t offer returns if you don’t like something. So far, I’ve had no issues with Etsy sellers, including getting a quick replacement for a damaged item. Overall, I’ve found the most unique items here.
3. CafePress
CafePress is another POD (print on demand) store offering a large variety of shirts, mugs, home goods, cards, etc. Overall, the quality and pricing is similar to Zazzle, though there isn’t quite as much variety. However, if you can’t find the design you want elsewhere, check CafePress.
Sellers upload their own unique designs. So, it’s always a good idea to check various sites to see if you can find the perfect design for your gift. I’ve only purchased a few things here, but I was impressed with the quality and fast shipping.
4. CowCow
CowCow isn’t as popular as the other sites, but it offers some amazing items you won’t find on other POD sites. You’ll find the typical shirts, cups, and home decor. But, you can also get your own custom fabric and neon signs. If you’re crafty, use the fabric to handcraft an even more unique gift.
Print quality is sometimes an issue with CowCow. However, in recent years, the site implemented a 30-day return policy. So, if something doesn’t turn out quite right, return it for a refund. Also, I’ve noticed they don’t run nearly as many sales as some of the more popular sites to buy custom gifts.
5. Society6
While Society6 is a POD site, they focus more on artwork, such as wall art and decor. They also sell shirts, bags, phone cases, mugs, and more. I was impressed to find sheets and duvet covers here. Pricing runs similar to competing sites as does the quality.
If you’re looking to buy custom gifts for the home, I’d start here. While there are some great designs for shirts, I found more variety on other sites. However, their wall art, benches, and credenzas help set them apart from the rest.
6. Redbubble
I’ve found some of the most unique artwork at Redbubble. This POD site offers clothing, wall art, stationery, and home goods. They’ve recently added a new favorite of mine – stickers. These always work great when making grab bag gifts or for stocking stuffers.
Overall, the site feels more fun and creative than Zazzle and CafePress. It’s more similar to Society6, though the artwork feels far more colorful, trendy, and fun versus serious decor. And, pricing is on par with most POD services, though you can save when you wait for the frequent sales.
7. Uncommon Goods
Uncommon Goods started with a trip to a craft fair and led to the creation of a online marketplace for sellers to share their creations with the world. The team searches for unique items to offer, along with picking items and creators from online submissions. The result is one of the best places to buy custom gifts online.
You’ll find clothes, jewelry, home goods, games, art, and more. You can even buy experiences, such as cooking classes. I’ve found some of the most unique gifts here and they’re always high quality. However, they are pricier than most sites on this list, but it’s hard to beat the selection.
8. Personalization Mall
Personalization Mall has become a go-to for me. Instead of just unique, handcrafted items, this POD retailer focuses on letting buyers customize each item. For instance, add pictures to ornaments, add names to glasses, place a quote on a keychain, or add kids’ names to toys.
Pretty much every item here lets you personalize some aspect of it. For example, I bought wooden trinket boxes one year with poems engraved on them that I had written for each person. Look no further if you want gifts with someone’s name or photo on them.
9. GiftsForYouNow.com
GiftsForYouNow.com is almost identical to Personalization Mall in most ways. Of course, they offer their own designs. I’ve only bought a few things here, but I’ve always been satisfied with the quality. You can buy blankets, picture frames, ornaments, clothing, and more.
Almost every item lets you personalize it with images and/or text to create a truly one-of-a-kind gift. I usually start at Personalization Mall since they’re a tad cheaper and offer more sales, but it’s definitely worth checking out GiftsForYouNow.com for even more options.
If you’re trying to save money for gifts, try out these budget apps or free Notion budget templates. And, if you’re a photographer, learn how to sell custom gifts with your photos.
Image credit: Pexels, All screenshots by Crystal Crowder
