How to make money from your illustrations - 12 ideas to try right now! (2024)

What are other Illustrators doing?

Another piece of advice that can generate even more ideas is to see what other artist are doing.

Head over to artist that you follow and love over at Instagram, Facebook, their portfolio site or any other place they’re displaying their online, and start looking what they’re doing to earn money as and artist, are they selling their illustrations as prints? if so, where?

Have they worked with any companies lately and if so could there be a similar opportunity for you to work with that company?

If it’s a artist that’s near you, you can see if they recently participated in any markets or events that might be interesting for you too.

If you have any questions don’t be afraid to ask them to these artists, people are usually happy to help. Just make sure you don’t ask to broad questions and don’t ask too much from these people, they’re giving you a piece of their time so respect that, limit your questions and be polite.

In the past I asked other artist how they do their shipping when dealing with fragile items and I got a lot of great advice by just asking!

As someone deeply immersed in the realm of art and illustration, my expertise extends beyond mere familiarity with the subject—I have a profound understanding and firsthand experience that sets me apart as an enthusiast and expert in this field. Having engaged extensively in various aspects of the art world, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about what other illustrators are doing. The article suggests seeking inspiration and gathering ideas by observing fellow artists and their strategies for monetizing their work. Here are some key concepts touched upon:

  1. Exploring Artist Platforms: The article recommends checking out artists on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and portfolio sites. This emphasizes the significance of online presence for artists in showcasing their work.

  2. Diversifying Income Streams: Artists are advised to investigate how their peers are earning money. This could involve selling illustrations as prints or collaborating with companies. Diversifying income streams is a crucial aspect of a sustainable art career.

  3. Networking and Collaboration: The mention of artists working with companies suggests the importance of networking and seeking collaboration opportunities. Understanding how others have approached these partnerships can provide valuable insights.

  4. Local Engagement: For artists residing in proximity to each other, the article suggests checking if fellow artists have participated in local markets or events. This highlights the importance of engaging with the local art community.

  5. Seeking Advice and Mentorship: The article encourages asking questions to fellow artists but emphasizes the need to be respectful of their time. Seeking advice on specific topics, such as shipping fragile items, can yield valuable information and foster a sense of community.

In conclusion, the article underscores the significance of learning from others in the field, whether through online platforms, collaborations, local events, or seeking advice. This approach not only provides inspiration but also facilitates the exchange of knowledge within the artistic community. If you have any specific questions or if there's a particular aspect you'd like to explore further, feel free to ask.

How to make money from your illustrations - 12 ideas to try right now! (2024)

FAQs

How to make money from your illustrations - 12 ideas to try right now!? ›

Create an idea incubator

Whenever I see something fresh and inspirational in my daily life that I want to remember, I write the word down and keep the list of words safe with me as inventory for ideas. I'll usually pick words out from this list and combine several ideas when I first start an illustration.”

How can I earn money from illustrations? ›

How to become a freelance illustrator and how to make money as...
  1. Research your audience.
  2. Try digital art platforms.
  3. Create a portfolio and find freelance work.
  4. Find companies that value digital art.
  5. Become an Illustration Apprentice.
  6. Earn commission as an Ad Artist.
  7. Conclusion.

How to make money off your drawings? ›

How to Make Money Drawing
  1. Sell Your Drawings. The internet has revolutionized how artists can market themselves and make money drawing. ...
  2. Sell Your Art as an NFT. ...
  3. Create Logos and Branding Material. ...
  4. Teach In-person Classes. ...
  5. Create Online Drawing Courses. ...
  6. Illustrate for Books, Comics, and Cartoons. ...
  7. Affiliate Marketing.

How do I get ideas for an illustration? ›

Create an idea incubator

Whenever I see something fresh and inspirational in my daily life that I want to remember, I write the word down and keep the list of words safe with me as inventory for ideas. I'll usually pick words out from this list and combine several ideas when I first start an illustration.”

How do illustrators get paid? ›

The illustrator is paid an advance which is then balanced out against future royalties for the book. A percentage of this advance is paid to the illustrator when the contract is signed, a percentage is paid when the artwork is completed and delivered and the rest is paid when the book is published.

How do you make passive income with illustration? ›

If you're a freelance illustrator looking to expand your income streams and generate passive income, selling your art on print-on-demand platforms is a fantastic option. These platforms allow you to upload your artwork and offer it in various formats, such as prints, posters, mugs, phone cases, and more.

Where can I post art and get paid? ›

Social media: Sell via Facebook Marketplace and Instagram Shoppable posts. Fiverr: For graphic designers and professional writers looking to get paid for custom art. Upwork: Same as Fiverr, for graphic designers, web designers, and professional writers.

How to become a millionaire artist? ›

Best ways to make money as an artist in 2021
  1. Sell your original paintings and copies (prints) online. ...
  2. Sell paintings at art exhibitions. ...
  3. Painting commissioned work. ...
  4. Conducting offline workshops with artists. ...
  5. Creating and launching online drawing courses. ...
  6. Creator of video content on popular platforms.

What type of art sells the most? ›

Art styles and subjects

The best-selling art subjects include: Traditional landscapes: Landscapes, such as beach scenes, rolling hills, and impressionistic landscapes, elicit a sense of peacefulness and calm, often evoking nostalgic memories in the viewer.

How much do beginner artists make? ›

$55,000 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $184,000 is the 75th percentile.

How do I get my illustrations noticed? ›

Here are some of the techniques you can use to gain exposure for your artwork:
  1. CREATE A ROBUST ONLINE PRESENCE.
  2. PUT ALL YOUR ART IN ONE PLACE.
  3. POST TOP-TIER CONTENT.
  4. ADD A LINK TO YOUR STORE ON YOUR WEBSITE.
  5. DESIGN A UNIQUE LOGO.
  6. CAPTURE THE TRUE ESSENCE OF YOUR ART.
  7. NETWORK WITH INFLUENCERS.
  8. LEVERAGE MORE ON SOCIAL MEDIA.
Jan 24, 2023

How do I find illustration gigs? ›

Guru.com is the leading online space for Illustration freelancers to find work posted by employers, manage projects and get paid. Simply create your profile and define the services you want to offer for hire.

How do illustrators get hired? ›

Illustrators market their work to publishers who contract with them to illustrate the manuscripts they acquire on a freelance basis. Although there are several exceptions to these guidelines, they are the most common practice in publishing.

How much do illustrators make per image? ›

Illustrators may charge an hourly rate, a flat rate per illustration, a page rate, or a book rate. Hourly rates usually range from $20-$45 per hour, while flat rates per illustration can range from $15-$600+.

How do I start a freelance illustration? ›

How to freelance in illustration
  1. Develop illustration skills and knowledge. Artistic ability is crucial to becoming an illustrator. ...
  2. Build a network. Building a network is a great way for freelancers to find work and maintain industry connections. ...
  3. Plan your freelance business. ...
  4. Market your work. ...
  5. Ensure client satisfaction.
Jun 24, 2022

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Corie Satterfield

Last Updated:

Views: 6305

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Corie Satterfield

Birthday: 1992-08-19

Address: 850 Benjamin Bridge, Dickinsonchester, CO 68572-0542

Phone: +26813599986666

Job: Sales Manager

Hobby: Table tennis, Soapmaking, Flower arranging, amateur radio, Rock climbing, scrapbook, Horseback riding

Introduction: My name is Corie Satterfield, I am a fancy, perfect, spotless, quaint, fantastic, funny, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.