Well Hey there!

As a print-on-demand business owner and instructor, I get asked A LOT of questions. I absolutely love everything about Print on Demand and could honestly talk about anything and everything in this industry for hours (and with enough wine in my system, I could go on for days haha).

However, one of the most common and recurring questions I get asked by individuals who are new to POD or from my students of The Print on Demand Playbook is typically about what to design and what design styles are currently trending especially for certain seasonal holidays. Sometimes choosing what to create every day/month/season or not knowing where to start can be the most difficult part about Print on Demand!

So in this post, I wanted to take the time to break down what I recommend focusing on for Mother’s Day!

Personally, Q2 (April, May, and June) is my JAM as a Print on Demand business owner. I do 6 figure sales in these months alone. And May is ALWAYS my best month because of Mother’s Day! Check it out 👇👇👇👇

I can comfortably say I feel like I know a thing or two about what designs and trends are successful around this time of year 😊 So before we dive on in and break down what I suggest you focus on, let me introduce myself!

Hey there! I’m Shay Lynn

I am a top 1% Etsy Seller, am the proud owner of a multi-six figure Print on Demand & Etsy Business, a six-figure Shopify Business, and creator of the Print on Demand Playbook and The Niche Navigator. In 2023, I did $250,000 in sales running my very own Print on Demand and Etsy business. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE what I do and want to help others achieve financial freedom and find success with their own Print on Demand Business Ventures!

So now that you know who I am and what I am all about, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and talk about what niches and products I recommend selling in your POD and Etsy shop for Mother’s Day!

What to Sell for Mother’s Day: Stand Out with Niche Print on Demand Products

Mother’s Day is one of the biggest shopping holidays of the year, and for print on demand sellers on Etsy, it’s literally a golden opportunity to boost sales. But with so many shops offering “gifts for mom,” you may be asking “how do I stand out?” Don’t worry, I got you! The key is niching down in more narrow niches! Instead of just targeting broad audiences, get specific. Shoppers aren’t just searching for “Best Mom Ever” gifts—they’re looking for unique presents tailored to stepmoms, new moms, twin moms, grandmothers, mothers-in-law, and even gardening-loving grandmas. The more specific you get, the easier it is to attract the right buyers and dominate your niche.

Now, let’s dive into the best print on demand products to sell for Mother’s Day and how to make them stand out.

1) Mama and Me Matching Outfits

Matching outfits for moms and their little ones are an absolute favorite for Mother’s Day. I LOVE getting them and so do other mamas! These sets are not only adorable but also create sentimental value, making them a go-to gift for new moms. Simple yet stylish designs such as “Mama” and “Mini” or fun phrases like “Mom Mode” with a baby onesie that says “Mom’s Reason for Coffee” are always a hit.

In my experience, neutral tones like tan, gray, white, black and pastels perform well because they’re trendy and versatile. I also love incorporating designs on the sleeves themselves! Offering these designs in different styles—sweatshirts, hoodies, and onesies—ensures your shop appeals to a wider audience. If you really want to stand out, consider designs tailored to twin moms, first-time moms, or even grandmother and grandchild matching sets.

2) Personalized Mugs

Mugs are one of the most popular Mother’s Day gifts because they’re both sentimental, versatile, and practical from a price point of view. Customization is what makes them special and sets this product apart, so offering options that include names, dates, or inside jokes can make your product stand out from the competition. Some best-selling ideas include “Best Mom Since [Year],” “Bonus Mom – Est. [Year],” and “Mother-in-Law: Like a Mom, Only Cooler [insert a MIL name]”

Focusing on niche audiences like moms of twins, grandmothers, stepmoms, and new moms can help you reach a wider customer base. A mug that says “Twin Mom: Double the Love, Double the Coffee” or “Promoted to Grandma” speaks directly to a specific type of buyer, making it more likely to sell.

3) Personalized Journals

Journals make a meaningful and practical Mother’s Day gift, offering moms a space and product where they can reflect, plan, and organize their thoughts. Whether it’s used for daily gratitude, goal-setting, memory-keeping, or even tracking funny moments with their kids, a personalized journal adds a sentimental touch. Buyers love custom options that feature names, floral designs, or inspirational messages, making journals a great addition to any print-on-demand Mother’s Day collection.

A few popular journal ideas include gratitude journals designed specifically for moms, such as “Mom’s Daily Gratitude Journal”, which encourages mothers to jot down moments of thankfulness each day. Sentimental keepsake journals, like “Letters to My Children”, give moms a place to write heartfelt notes to their kids over the years. Niche options like “Step Mom Reflections” allow stepmoms to document their unique journey, while a “Twin Mom Survival Notes” journal is perfect for moms of multiples who want to stay organized while navigating double the love and chaos.

For shoppers looking for a fun and lighthearted gift, journals like “Crazy Things My Toddler Says” are a fantastic option. This type of journal provides moms with a place to capture all the hilarious and unexpected things their little ones come up with, making it a treasured keepsake for years to come. First-time grandmothers also appreciate meaningful gifts, and a “Promoted to Grandma” Memory Journal allows them to record their favorite moments and milestones as they step into this new role. Even mothers-in-law can be included in the journal category with creative options like “Mother-in-Law’s Favorite Recipes”, which gives them a space to document family recipes and traditions.

4) Personalized Tote Bags

Tote bags are a fun, functional, and stylish gift option that moms can use every day. Whether it’s running errands, heading to work, or carrying baby essentials, a high-quality tote with a meaningful design makes a great present.

Some top-selling ideas include “Mom Mode: On,” “New Mom Survival Kit,” and “Twin Mom: Double the Chaos, Double the Love” or “Grandma’s Goodie Bag”. Shoppers also love personalized options that include names, making designs like “Belongs to [Kids’ Names]” a best-seller. And don’t forget about niche mom gifts! Tote bags for stepmoms, mothers-in-law, and grandmothers make your shop even more appealing to buyers searching for a unique gift.

5) Personalized Pillows and Blankets

For shoppers looking for a warm, sentimental, and truly one-of-a-kind gift, personalized pillows and blankets are the perfect choice for Mother’s Day. These cozy keepsakes not only provide comfort but also serve as a heartfelt reminder of the love shared between a mother and her children. Designs that feature family names, handwritten messages from kids, or meaningful quotes make these gifts extra special. Some of the best-selling ideas include “A Mother’s Love is Forever,” “Home is Where Mom Is,” or a fully customizable blanket with each child’s name beautifully repeated throughout the design.

To make these gifts even more personal, consider adding handwritten notes from children to their mom or grandma—a sweet touch that transforms a simple blanket into a cherished memory. Floral elements, such as each child’s birth flower surrounding their name, add an elegant and sentimental design detail that makes the gift even more meaningful. Instead of sticking to general “Mom” gifts, niche-specific designs can make your listings stand out. A “Not Step, Just Bonus” throw blanket is a perfect gift for stepmoms, while a “Twin Mom: Twice the Love, Twice the Fun” pillow is a thoughtful option for moms of multiples.

These high-value, customized products feel extra luxurious and personal, making them a top choice for buyers who want to give something truly special. By offering designs that incorporate family names, birth flowers, handwritten messages, and loving phrases, you can create Mother’s Day gifts that will be treasured for years to come.

6) Custom Water Bottles and Tumblers

Custom drinkware is a must-have for Mother’s Day, making it the perfect gift for busy moms who are always on the go. Whether it’s a tumbler for morning coffee or a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day, a beautifully designed, personalized piece of drinkware is both practical and thoughtful. Buyers love modern, minimalist styles featuring names of children, delicate floral designs, and uplifting mom quotes that bring a smile with every sip.

Some of the best-selling designs include “Mom Fuel” tumblers with a stylish script font and a coffee cup icon, “Promoted to Grandma” with a heartfelt message, and “Cool Mother-in-Law Club” with a trendy floral touch. Going beyond the basics, more niche-specific options like a “New Mom Survival Bottle” decorated with baby footprints and floral birth month elements or a “Twin Mom Life” tumbler covered in “double the love, double the chaos” affirmations make these gifts feel even more special.

For moms who could use a little motivation throughout the day, affirmation-style tumblers with phrases like “Strong as a Mother,” “Raising Legends,” or “Doing My Best, One Sip at a Time” add an extra dose of encouragement. Including children’s names subtly woven into floral patterns, birth month flowers, or even a handwritten note from the kids takes personalization to the next level, making these tumblers not just a gift, but a daily reminder of love and appreciation.

7) Custom Phone Cases

A personalized phone case is a practical yet heartfelt Mother’s Day gift. Shoppers love the option to customize cases with a mom’s name, kids’ names, floral monograms, or even family photos.

Minimalist script fonts with names or initials are always a strong choice, but don’t forget to include niche-focused designs. Options like “Not Step, Just Bonus” for stepmoms or “Mama Est. [Year]” for first-time moms can make your products stand out. Since customers will be looking for cases for different phone models, be sure to offer a variety of options to maximize sales.

How to Maximize Your Mother’s Day Sales

To make the most of this shopping season, start listing your products early. Most shoppers begin looking for gifts in March and early April, so getting your products up ahead of time ensures you don’t miss out on early sales.

Optimize your Etsy SEO by using LONG TAIL keywords like “Mother’s Day Gift,” “Personalized Mom Gift,” “Gift for Stepmom,” and “First Mother’s Day Gift.” This helps your listings rank higher in search results, making them easier for buyers to find.

Use high-quality mockups that show your products in real-life settings. Seriously, stock photos just won’t cut it. In a sea of competition you need to stand out! Using lifestyle mockups—like a cozy scene featuring a mug or a soft blanket draped over a couch—make it easier for customers to imagine giving your product as a gift.

Run limited-time discounts to drive more sales. Many buyers look for deals when shopping for special occasions, so offering a small percentage off or free shipping can make your listing more appealing.

Conclusion:

Phew! Well that is everything I wanted to cover for Mother’s Day! I hope this helps you get your creative juices flowing for Mama’s Big Day (I know I’m looking forward to it)!

Like I said before, one of the hardest parts about starting or having a POD business is choosing what to design. It can be so daunting and feel super overwhelming at times so I truly hope this helps point you in the right direction.

If you are totally new to Print on Demand and would like to know how to start your business step by step, how to create products, conduct market research, and how to list products the right way on Etsy, then check out my course The Print on Demand Playbook! It’s got 9 hours and over 35 videos of POD content to help you start your business from scratch, help you create winning POD products, Content Calendars, Font Guides, and so much more! Click the link or the image below to take a peek!

What to Sell for Mother’s Day: Top Print on Demand Products and Niches for Your Etsy Shop