Before You Try to Sell Your Art, Know These Things

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 Art Business

Art Commissions: General Rules to Sell Your Art

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sell your art and earn money? Have you already taken some commissioned work, but aren’t sure how it should really be done? I am asked repeatedly about how to sell art for a living.

Many of my students make extra money by creating custom artwork for people. It can be a fun and challenging experience, but it does have its issues. Before you dive in and try to sell your art, you should consider a few things first.

1. What should you charge when you sell your art?

This is the most common question I hear. Unfortunately, I cannot tell people what to charge. I cannot tell someone else what their time and talent is worth. What I DO tell them is this: Do not undersell yourself.

When you place a price on your work, your client will value it according to how much they pay for it. There is a very wide range of prices to consider. I go to the extremes. I either give it as a gift from the heart, which is priceless, or I place a high dollar price tag on it.

Both of these approaches make the recipient appreciative of the art, and it will be treasured. The gift becomes sentimental and the high priced piece becomes an investment. Both may become an heirloom due to the value I assigned it.

If you under price your work, the purchaser will value it accordingly. If they pay $25 dollars for something, they will not treasure it nearly as much as they would have had they paid $250.

You tell the customer what your art is worth by the price you charge. Sell it cheap, and it may end up being discarded, or sold in a garage sale.

2. Is your skill level worthy of the price you are charging?

When you’re just starting to sell your art, it stands to reason that you won’t be setting as expensive a price tag as someone like me, who has 40 years of experience, would — unless you’ve already reached a skill level that is sought after. I’ve seen students who are just starting off charge way too much and have been hurt when the client is not pleased with the project when it’s finished.

Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by promising something you can’t deliver. Be up front, and make sure to show good examples of your work. Let them see your skill through examples before you agree to anything.

I’ve had students take on jobs that are way over their heads. They then come to my class and need help to complete the artwork, or for me to give them pointers. I make it very clear that I don’t approve of this. If you aren’t capable of completing the art without help, you shouldn’t be representing yourself as a professional. Only take jobs that you feel confident in doing, from start to finish!

3. Be sure to get your commission in writing.

Protect yourself. It’s easy to get hurt in this business. Some may never pay you. Some may want to change the agreed price after the piece is finished.

It’s important to come to an agreement and make it legally binding in writing. Using a contractual agreement is a good way to protect yourself as an artist.

You must be SPECIFIC and have a clear understanding of what your client is expecting and what you are planning on creating. By writing it all down in advance, there are no surprises later. Record all details that will be included in the art piece.

4. Get a deposit.

Not everyone will like your work. It’s just part of the business. Some may change their mind and cancel after you’ve already put time into a piece. Unfortunately, they then will not want to pay you.

Always ask for a deposit, just in case. In the unfortunate situation where your client is not pleased, at least you get something for your time and effort out of the deal. And you can keep the art.

5. Make sure to have the contract signed when preparing to sell your art.

It isn’t necessary to notarize the contract. Having two adult signatures and a date constitutes a legal contract.

This small piece of paper will carry a lot of weight. Make two copies: one for your records and one for your client. The contract acts as a receipt.

6. Seek out legal advice.

If you really want to go pro and sell your art, it’s also a good idea to consult a business attorney and a tax specialist. Since every state has different rules and regulations regarding self-employment liabilities and income earnings, having these professionals in your court can keep you from getting in trouble.

Keep Feeding Your Passion

I realize none of this sounds all that fun. Admittedly, when it becomes a business, art can lose a little of the joy and inspiration. Be sure to continue to do inspirational artwork for yourself. You won’t have the same enthusiasm for a commissioned piece as you will for something highly personal and exciting. You must keep a balance between work and fun, or you will burn out.

I always hope that my students reach the same level of success as I have had. But when I offer advice, I have to be brutally honest about the reality of art business. Maybe I can prevent some disappointment before it happens. As you begin your own art business, find helpful tips and techniques for marketing your art with a free guide provided by Artists Network. I wish you a lot of luck in your artistic pursuit, and hope you find this info helpful!

About the Artist

Lee Hammond has been called the “Queen of Drawing.” That may not be an accurate title these days. In addition to providing drawing lessons, she has also created books and videos filled with easy-to-follow acrylic painting techniques, colored pencil techniques and more.