Selling art online has become an increasingly popular way for artists to reach a global audience and generate income from their creative work. With numerous platforms available and various pricing strategies to consider, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This blog post will guide you through the best platforms for selling art online and provide effective pricing strategies to help you maximise your sales.
Here are four other blogs to help build your business:
- Side Hustles for Visual Artists: Making Extra Money
- Essential Budgeting Tips for Visual Artists
- Budget-Friendly Studio Spaces for Visual Artists
- Take Advantage of Social Media for Your Art
Choosing the Right Platform
Selecting the right platform to sell your art is crucial for reaching your target audience and making sales. Here are some of the most popular online platforms for artists. Personally, I sell art from my own website because I have the capabilities to build a website.
Best For: Handmade and vintage items, prints, and small original artworks.
Features: User-friendly interface, built-in audience, customisable shop.
Fees: $0.20 listing fee per item, 5% transaction fee, and 3% + $0.25 payment processing fee.
Best For: Original artworks, including paintings, photography, and sculpture.
Features: Curated platform, global reach, art advisory services.
Fees: 35% commission on sales.
Best For: Print-on-demand products like apparel, home decor, and accessories.
Features: Wide range of products, global distribution, artist-designed marketplace.
Fees: Artists set their own profit margins above base prices.
Best For: Print-on-demand products such as art prints, furniture, and home decor.
Features: Artist community, diverse product range, easy setup.
Fees: Artists earn 10% of the sale price for most products, with customisable markup for art prints.
Best For: Original artworks and limited-edition prints.
Features: Curated platform, artist verification, global audience.
Fees: 33% commission on sales, monthly subscription plans available.
Best For: Digital art, prints, and merchandise.
Features: Large artist community, customisable profiles, print-on-demand services.
Fees: Variable commission rates, subscription options for additional features.
Best For: Artists who want to create their own online store.
Features: Full control over branding, customisable templates, integrated payment processing.
Fees: Monthly subscription starting at $29, transaction fees vary by plan.
Pricing Strategies
Setting the right price for your artwork is crucial to attracting buyers and ensuring your business is sustainable. Here are some strategies to consider:
Cost-Based Pricing
Calculate the total cost of creating your artwork, including materials, labor, and overheads.
Add a markup to ensure a profit. Common markups range from 2x to 5x the cost.
Market-Based Pricing
Research the prices of similar artworks by artists with comparable experience and style.
Set your prices within the range of the market, adjusting for factors like size, medium, and uniqueness.
Value-Based Pricing
Consider the perceived value of your artwork to potential buyers.
Factors include your reputation, the uniqueness of the piece, and the emotional or aesthetic impact.
Tiered Pricing
Offer artworks at different price points to cater to a wider audience.
Examples: Limited-edition prints at lower prices, original artworks at higher prices.
Discounts and Promotions
Occasionally offer discounts or promotions to boost sales and attract new customers.
Examples: Holiday sales, bundle deals, or first-time buyer discounts.
Additional Tips for Selling Art Online
High-Quality Images
Use high-resolution images that accurately represent your artwork.
Include multiple angles and close-up shots to showcase details.
Detailed Descriptions
Provide comprehensive descriptions that include dimensions, materials, and the story behind the piece.
Highlight any unique features or techniques used.
Detailed Descriptions
Provide comprehensive descriptions that include dimensions, materials, and the story behind the piece.
Highlight any unique features or techniques used.
Optimise for Search Engines
Use relevant keywords in your titles and descriptions to improve visibility on search engines.
Research popular search terms related to your art style and medium.
Engage with Your Audience
Build a relationship with your audience through social media, email newsletters, and blog posts.
Share your creative process, upcoming projects, and behind-the-scenes content.
Offer Excellent Customer Service
Respond promptly to inquiries and provide clear communication throughout the sales process.
Ensure safe and timely shipping, and offer a return policy if feasible.
Final Thoughts
Selling art online presents incredible opportunities for visual artists to reach a global audience and grow their business. By choosing the right platform and implementing effective pricing strategies, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to continuously engage with your audience and refine your approach based on feedback and market trends. With persistence and creativity, you can turn your passion for art into a thriving online business.
