How to Turn Your Art into Prints for Sale: A Step-by-Step Guide

Having the ability to draw and paint is truly special. It’s something that brings a lot of joy and pride to the person creating the art and to those who get to see it. If you’re someone with this talent, it’s important to make the most of it. Imagine not using such a wonderful skill to its full potential. 

According to research by Americans for the Arts, art plays a big role in the economy, bringing in billions each year. This shows that art is not just important for culture; it can also be a way to earn a living. However, if artists create work but don’t share or sell it, both they and society miss out on the value that art can bring. It’s more than just being an artist; it’s about turning your art into something that can support you financially.

Selling Art Prints: Turn Your Skills into Income

Turning your artistic skills into a way to make money is something many professionals do, no matter their field. For example, chefs open restaurants to share their food, and programmers build apps to sell. Artists can do something similar by selling prints of their artwork.

When you sell art prints, you’re making copies of your original art to sell again and again. This is great because it means more people can enjoy and buy your art at a more affordable price than if they were buying the original piece. It’s a smart way to reach more customers and earn money from one piece of art multiple times.

This approach is not just popular but also effective. A report by Art Market from Artprice and Art Basel/UBS showed that in 2022, the world spent about $68 billion on art prints. That’s a lot of money, which shows that people really are interested in buying art this way. Selling prints allows you to keep making money from the same artwork, keep the original piece for yourself or sell it separately.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Selling Art Prints

If you’re an artist looking to sell your work as prints, here’s a simple guide to help you get started. This list includes essential steps and tips for creating and selling high-quality art prints:

Turning Your Art into Digital Form

First, you need to digitize your artwork. Use a good scanner or a camera to do this. Make sure the lighting is right so that the colors look true to life. Programs like Adobe Photoshop are great for tweaking your digital images to make them look just like your originals.

Picking How to Print Your Art

Consider using Giclée printing. It’s known for its excellent quality. Before you decide on a big order, get a few test prints to see how they turn out. This step ensures you’re happy with the quality before you sell them.

Choosing the Right Materials

The paper or canvas you print on matters a lot. Go for materials that will last a long time without yellowing. Matte finish paper is a favorite among artists because it doesn’t reflect light and shows off the artwork well.

Setting the Right Price

Figuring out what to charge can be tricky. Look at what similar art sells for to get an idea. Remember to cover all your costs, including printing and shipping, and then add something for your profit.

Deciding Where to Sell

You can sell your prints on your own website or on online marketplaces like Etsy. Your own site gives you more control, but Etsy can introduce your work to a wider audience.

Getting the Word Out

Social media is your friend when it comes to promoting your prints. Instagram and Pinterest are especially useful. Also, think about setting up an email list to keep fans updated on your new prints and offers.

Making Sure Prints are Top Quality

If you’re not printing them yourself, pick a printing service known for their good work. Good packaging is also key to making sure your prints arrive in perfect condition. Including a little note of thanks can make the experience special for your buyer.

Being Great at Customer Service

Always be ready to answer questions and help out your buyers. A quick message to check they’re happy with their purchase can go a long way in keeping them coming back.

Following these steps can help you create and sell art prints that both you and your buyers will be proud of.

Elevating Your Art Print Business

Taking steps to expand your art print business is an exciting adventure that revolves around sharing your artistic vision with a broader audience. By nurturing a distinctive brand identity, tapping into the power of digital marketing, staying engaged with your community through thoughtful email campaigns, exploring collaborations, and valuing customer feedback, you’re setting the stage for significant growth.

Here’s a simpler wrap-up on how to elevate your art print venture:

• Craft a memorable brand that echoes your unique artistic voice across all aspects of your business.
• Leverage online platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your art, making it easy for enthusiasts and potential buyers to find and fall in love with your work.
• Connect directly with your fans through regular email updates, offering them a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process and exclusive deals.
• Collaborate with like-minded artists or brands to widen your reach and introduce your art to new audiences.
• Listen and learn from your customers, letting their insights guide you in refining your offerings and enhancing their experience.

By focusing on these strategies, you’re not just selling prints; you’re building a community that appreciates and supports your creativity. This approach ensures your art print business doesn’t just grow; it thrives, fueled by a genuine connection with your audience and a clear vision for the future.