15 Ways to Make Money with Your Art

Discover 15 proven ways to make money as an artist—from selling originals to teaching, licensing, and more. Turn your art into income and debunk the starving artist myth!

As a working surface designer and creative educator, I’m on a mission to debunk the ‘Starving Artist’ myth. Though the path to earning a sustainable income from your artwork might not be simple or straightforward, there are endless opportunities to generate income in the creative realm. I’ve explored many of them, and today, I’m sharing 15 of my favorite tried-and-true ways to make money from your artwork. 

1. Sell Original Art

Creating and selling your original pieces is one of the most direct ways to make money from your art. This can include paintings, drawings, sculptures, or any other form of unique artwork - you get to decide! You can sell through galleries, art fairs, or online platforms like Etsy or your own website.

2. Sell Art Prints

Not everyone can afford an original piece, but many would love to own a print. By making high-quality copies of your artwork, you can reach a broader audience. There is no shortage of seller platforms at your fingertips, either. Sites like Printful and Society6 can help you manage the printing and shipping. You might also enjoy working with a local print shop to have more say over the printing process to create something extra special. 

3. Take Commissions

You may be surprised to learn just how many people want to work with an artist on a custom piece! Taking custom requests allows you to cater to specific wants and preferences. This personalized approach can be very lucrative, as clients are often willing to pay a premium for bespoke pieces.

4. Illustrate for Clients

From logos, to greeting cards, to wedding invitations and children's books, illustration work can be varied and exciting. Pro Tip: Build a portfolio around just your illustrations, showing just how versatile you are to potential clients. 

5. Be An In-House Designer

Companies of all kinds and sizes will hire an in-house designer or keep one on retainer. Working as an in-house designer for a company not only provides reliable income, but it allows you to hone your skills and get real-world design experience in a major way. 

6. Book and Editorial Illustration

How cool would it be to see your work on the shelves of your favorite book store?  Books, magazines, and other editorial content often need illustrations to bring their stories to life. This niche can be very fulfilling and allows you to work on diverse topics and styles. 

7. Product and Packaging Design

Designing artwork for products and their packaging can be a creative and lucrative niche. Companies often seek unique and eye-catching designs to make their products stand out on the shelves.

8. Sell Physical Products

Why stop at prints? Consider creating and selling products featuring your designs, such as stickers, notebooks, fabrics, and more. This expands your brand and provides multiple income streams. Not to mention, the possibilities are endless! 

9. Print on Demand (POD)

POD platforms like Spoonflower, Society6, and Creative Market allow you to upload your designs, which are then printed on various products as orders come in. This means no upfront costs and a passive income stream. Win win!

10. Craft Shows and Markets

Selling your products at local craft shows, handmade markets, or art fairs can help you reach new customers and build your local following. It's also a great way to network with other artists and creatives.

11. Teach

Sharing your knowledge through courses or classes is not only a rewarding way to give back to your creative community, but it can be quite lucrative. Platforms like Skillshare or your own website can help you reach students worldwide, and teaching can also deepen and hone your own skills.

12. Digital Goods

Selling digital products like eBooks, printable art, clip art, fonts, and sewing patterns can provide a steady income. These products can be sold repeatedly without additional effort on your part.

13. Host a Membership

Offering a monthly or quarterly membership or a subscription box can create a stable income stream. Members might receive exclusive content, tutorials, or art prints or other products with your designs featured. 

14. Become an Affiliate or Product Ambassador

Creative brands are often looking for artists to partner with as affiliates or brand ambassadors. Partnering with these companies to recommend products you love can earn you a commission on sales. This works best when you genuinely use and believe in the products you promote.

15. License Your Work

Licensing your art allows other companies to use your designs on their products, such as wallpaper, fabric, stationery, and more. You can be paid either through royalties on units purchased, or a flat fee. Either way, it’s a great income stream and exposure for your brand!

Ready to dive deeper? 

Be inspired as 60 successful artists, illustrators and surface designers share how they create income from their artwork (in just 60 seconds each) to create an empowering 60-minute event to help you do the same--all for FREE! 

WATCH THE FREE VIDEO HERE