If you’ve ever wondered how to get started on Teachers Pay Teachers, you’re in the right place. In this step-by-step Teachers Pay Teachers tutorial, I walk you through everything you need to know to create your first digital product and start your TPT store – even if you’re starting from scratch.
Whether you’re a teacher looking to earn extra income or a teacherpreneur ready to launch your business, this Teachers Pay Teachers tutorial will show you exactly how to design a resource using Canva, download it as a PDF, and upload it to Teachers Pay Teachers the right way.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started on TPT
Here are a few key takeaways from this Teachers Pay Teachers tutorial:
1. Create Your Resource Using Canva
Canva is a great tool for beginners, and you can start using it for free! In the video, I show you how to:
- Choose the correct dimensions (8.5″ x 11″)
- Use Canva’s clipart and elements for commercial use
- Add custom text and images to build a game or worksheet
- Design thumbnails and previews to help your resource stand out
Pro Tip: Always use a personal email address and avoid your school login. You’re building a business!
2. Understand Canva’s Licensing
Not all Canva elements can be used for commercial purposes. I explain the difference between Canva Free, Canva for Education, and Canva Pro – and which ones are allowed for TPT sellers.
You’ll also learn how to ensure your designs follow Canva’s Terms of Use so your store stays compliant.
3. Set Up Your TPT Seller Account
There are two seller account options on Teachers Pay Teachers:
- Basic ($29 one-time)
- Premium ($59.95/year)
I recommend the premium version for most sellers because you’ll keep a higher percentage of each sale (80% vs. 55%).w previews display, so I made sure to refresh those too.
4. Upload Your First Product
Once your resource is ready, I walk you through:
- How to list a digital download
- Creating a compelling title and description
- Uploading custom thumbnails and a preview file
- Setting your price and selecting the right grade levels and subjects
5. Tips for Success on TPT
I wrap up the tutorial by sharing my best advice on:
- Pricing your products
- Creating teacher-friendly instructions
- Making your resource “print and go” ready
- Testing your product before you sell it
These tips are based on my experience helping thousands of teachers launch and grow their TPT stores!
Ready to Launch Your Teacher Business?
If you’re feeling inspired and ready to get started, don’t miss my Free Teacher Resource Training where I dive deeper into everything you need to start earning on TPT:
Click here to sign up for the Free Training!
You’ll learn:
- How to choose a profitable niche
- What to create (and what to avoid)
- The exact steps to make your first sale
Starting your Teachers Pay Teachers journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, guidance, and mindset, you can turn your teaching expertise into a thriving digital business.
Curious about Canva’s Terms of Use? Watch this video!
Can’t watch? Listen to this podcast on Canva’s Terms of Use!
Watch The Ultimate Canva Tutorial here!
