How to Make Money as an Artist (Even If You’re Just Starting Out)

10 Beginner-Friendly Ways to Earn from Your Creative Skills

There's a common belief that you can't earn a living from making art. I used to think that too—until I proved myself wrong.

Thanks to technology and the growing demand for visuals in every industry, there’s never been a better time to be a working artist. From branding and marketing to digital products and education, art is everywhere—and someone is always behind it. That someone can be you.

🎨 My Journey: From Doodling to a Career in Art

A few years ago, I started doodling with my 3-year-old’s watercolor paints. I followed a few YouTube tutorials, shared my daily art on Instagram, and slowly started getting freelance opportunities through social media.

That led to in-person workshops, online classes, and selling my art through print-on-demand platforms. After about four years of consistent work, I built a portfolio that landed commercial projects with clients and magazines around the world.

So yes—you absolutely can make a living with your art. It takes time, intention, and persistence, but it’s possible. If you’re ready to start, here are 10 beginner-friendly ways to earn money as an artist.

💡 10 Practical Ways to Make Money as an Artist

1. Private Commissions

Create custom artwork for individual clients—portraits, paintings, wedding invitations, pet art, etc. Start with your network and build from there. Don’t be afraid to let people know you’re open for commissions!

2. Print-on-Demand (POD)

Upload your art to sites like Redbubble, Society6, or TeePublic. They handle printing, shipping, and customer service—you just create and promote. While the margins are small, it’s a great way to start earning passively.

💡 Pro Tip: Focus on trending or niche topics to stand out in the crowded POD space.

3. In-Person Workshops

Share your skills with local communities through live classes. Teaching in-person is incredibly rewarding and a great way to build real-world connections.

4. Online Teaching

Teach what you know through recorded classes on Skillshare, Udemy, or your own platform—or host live sessions via Zoom. Once your content is online, it can bring in ongoing passive income.

5. Affiliate Marketing

If you use art supplies or tools you love, share them with your audience using affiliate links. You’ll earn a commission on any purchases made through your links—especially useful for YouTube or blog creators.

6. YouTube

Love making videos? Share tutorials, process videos, product reviews, or vlogs. Once you reach enough views and subscribers, you can start earning ad revenue and working with sponsors.

7. Art Licensing

License your artwork to companies for use on products like stationery, home decor, fabric, or packaging. You’ll earn royalties based on sales. This takes time but can grow into a reliable income stream.

💬 Heads-up: Licensing often requires a strong, cohesive portfolio and clear contracts.

8. Sell Your Own Products

From art prints and originals to mugs, stickers, and planners—you can sell directly to your audience via Etsy, Shopify, or Squarespace. This works best if you enjoy product creation and packaging.

9. Commercial Projects

Get hired by brands for logo design, packaging, book illustration, editorial art, or ad campaigns. This is one of my favorite ways to work—it’s collaborative, creative, and rewarding.

10. Patreon

Offer exclusive content to your most loyal fans through a monthly membership. You can share behind-the-scenes videos, tutorials, digital downloads, or live Q&As.

These are my top suggestions on how you can start making money as an artist. There might be many other ways too. Start with one and gradually expand your horizons. I hope this article was helpful to you!