Printful API Integration

This project is a Node.js application that integrates with the Printful API to create and manage orders for print-on-demand products. It demonstrates how to authenticate with the API, create orders, and handle the order lifecycle.

Features

• Authentication with Printful API using an access key
• Creating and submitting orders
• Handling order confirmation and checkout
• Error handling for API requests

Prerequisites

• Node.js (v14 or later recommended)
• npm (comes with Node.js)
• A Printful account and API access key

Setup

1. Clone the repository:

git clone <repository-url>
cd <project-directory>

2. Install dependencies:

npm install

3. Create a .env file in the project root and add your Printful API access key:

PRINTFUL_ACCESS_KEY=your_access_key_here

4. Add the following environment variables to your .env file for the shipping address:

SHIPPING_ADDRESS_NAME=John Doe
SHIPPING_ADDRESS_STREET=123 Main St
SHIPPING_ADDRESS_CITY=Anytown
SHIPPING_ADDRESS_STATE=CA
SHIPPING_ADDRESS_COUNTRY=US
SHIPPING_ADDRESS_ZIP=12345
IMAGE_URL=https://example.com/your-image.jpg

Usage

To run the application:

node src/app.ts

This will execute the createAndCheckoutPrintfulOrder function, which creates an order with Printful, confirms it, and completes the checkout process.

Code Structure

The main functionality is contained in the src/app.ts file. This file includes:

• Environment configuration
• API setup
• Order creation function
• Order confirmation and checkout process
• Error handling

Customization

To customize the order, modify the orderPayload object in the createAndCheckoutPrintfulOrder function. You can change the recipient details, add or modify items, and adjust quantities as needed.

Error Handling

The application includes basic error handling. If an error occurs during the order process, it will be logged to the console with details about the error response or message.

Security Notes

• Never commit your .env file or expose your API key publicly.
• Use environment variables for sensitive information.
• Consider implementing rate limiting and additional error handling for production use.

Further Development

• Implement more Printful API endpoints as needed.
• Add a user interface for order management.
• Integrate with an e-commerce platform for automated order processing.

Resources

• Printful API Documentation
• Node.js Documentation
• Axios Documentation

For more detailed information about the Printful API and available endpoints, refer to the official Printful API documentation.