How to Find Your Own Unique Art Style

As an artist, discovering your own unique art style is like finding your voice in the world. Whether you’re selling your art online, through retailers, or at a craft fair, having a distinct look sets you apart from the crowd. But how do you find your own unique art style when there are so many options to choose from?

Try New Things

Start by experimenting! Digital and traditional tools let you try out all sorts of techniques and ideas. Especially when you are first starting out, don’t be afraid to play around with a wide variety of mediums to discover what you enjoy working with. Mistakes are part of the process, and sometimes they lead to unexpected discoveries. Every stroke of your brush or pen helps shape your style.

Pro Tip: Have a sketchbook that is designated just for you to practice, create ugly art, experiment, and test new ideas without the pressure of having to finish it or share it with anyone else. I also recommend this book: Wreck This Journal.

Take a Class or Follow a Tutorial

Taking online art classes and following tutorials have been a huge help for me in defining out my own art style. YouTube and Skillshare have loads of classes on different software, techniques, and styles. Implementing what you learn and putting your own twist on it can really help you find your unique look. In person classes can be really inspiring too! So, don’t be afraid to sign up for a class or watch a tutorial— it could make all the difference in your creative journey.

Get Inspired by Other Artists – Past and Present

Take inspiration from artists you admire. Look at their work closely—how do they use color, shape, and theme? But it’s not just about the famous artists; check out what’s happening in the art world right now. You’ll pick up tips and trends that can influence your own style. Be mindful not to copy others though!

Pro Tip: Visit art galleries and outdoor art events regularly in your city to get inspiration from a mix of classic and contemporary artists.

Trust Your Gut

Listen to your instincts. What subjects excite you? Which colors make you feel something? What types of marks or mediums do you enjoy working with the most? Your style should reflect who you are, so trust your inner voice when making artistic choices.

Keep Improving

Refine your work over time. Look back at what you’ve created and think about how you can make it even better. Listen to feedback from others, but remember to stay true to yourself. Improvement is about polishing your style, not changing who you are.

Pro Tip: Make a lot of art. It can take years to develop a cohesive art style, and having a large body of work to look back at makes it easier to identify consistencies which will help you define your style.

Pictured below: One of my old mandala illustrations vs. a newer piece. Note the improvement!

Be Flexible

While it’s important to have a consistent style, don’t be afraid to try new things. Your style can grow and change over time as you do. Adapt to new trends while staying true to what makes your art unique. This could look like incorporating a trending colour, like the Pantone Color of the Year, or a trending theme into your work – but making it your own. This could also be trying out a new software or medium to create your work.

Learn More

To learn more about how to find your own unique art style I highly recommend this Skillshare class: Find Your Style: Five Exercises to Unlock Your Creative Identity.

man and woman having a conversation about art styles

Create Your Legacy

Remember that your style is your brand. Make sure your work reflects who you are as an artist, but also as a unique person. Pour your heart into every design you create. Whether it’s original artwork, digital illustration, pattern designs for clothing, home goods, or paper products, let your art speak for itself and connect with people around the world.

Finding your art style isn’t a one-time thing—it’s a journey. Embrace the process, and trust that your unique voice will shine through in your work. So, grab your favourite tools and start finding your art style today!

Cheers,

The Best Alternatives to Redbubble for Print on Demand Artists

~ Julie ~ Leave a comment

In the ever-evolving landscape of the Print on Demand (POD) space, changes in popular platforms like Redbubble and Society6 have left many artists questioning their next move. With fees for artist plans and tiers becoming more common, the rise of AI art, and a general decline in sales, it’s crucial for artists to explore new opportunities. Despite these challenges, the POD industry still holds potential for artists in 2024 and beyond. This blog post aims to shed light on lesser-known alternatives to Redbubble and Society6, providing artists with fresh avenues to showcase and monetize their work.

*For a more comprehensive list of Print on Demand websites and suppliers worldwide, check out Print on Demand Central – it’s a great new resource for the POD space, you should check it out!

Alternatives to Redbubble and Society6 for Print on Demand

Zazzle

Zazzle is a versatile POD platform that stands out for its focus on customizable products. Artists can create templates from their designs, allowing customers to add their own text and/or photos to personalize the products further. This unique feature opens up new possibilities for collaboration between artists and buyers, fostering a more interactive and engaging experience. Learn more about selling your art on Zazzle.

CafePress

As one of the pioneers in the POD industry, CafePress has stood the test of time. What sets CafePress apart are its diverse product offerings, including some unconventional items like oven mitts and pot holders. Artists seeking a platform with a broad range of unique products may find CafePress to be a worthy alternative to explore.

Threadless

Threadless has carved its niche in the POD market by fostering a community-driven approach. Artists can submit their designs, which are then put up for community voting. The highest-rated designs get featured on various products. Threadless also allows artists to open their own storefronts, providing a platform to showcase and sell their work independently.

ArtsCase

ArtsCase specializes in protective cases for smartphones and other electronic devices. Artists can leverage this platform to turn their designs into functional, stylish accessories. With a focus on quality and protection, ArtsCase offers a unique avenue for artists to expand their product range beyond traditional prints.

Spoonflower

Spoonflower is a standout option for artists who want to explore the world of fabric and textile design. This POD platform enables artists to print their designs on various fabrics, allowing for the creation of custom textiles, wallpaper, and more. Spoonflower provides a unique opportunity for artists to venture into the realm of home décor and fashion. Learn more about selling your art on Spoonflower.

Design by Humans

Design by Humans takes a curated approach, featuring handpicked designs on a range of products. The platform emphasizes the quality of artwork and encourages artists to showcase their creativity on high-quality apparel, phone cases, and accessories. With a focus on artistic expression, Design by Humans offers a space for unique and visually striking designs.

Spring

Spring stands out by offering artists the ability to sell both physical POD products and digital downloads. This platform provides a seamless integration with YouTube channels, allowing artists to connect with their audience through multiple channels. The flexibility to sell digital downloads alongside physical products can be a valuable asset for artists exploring various revenue streams.

Displate

For artists with a penchant for metal art, Displate specializes in metal posters. This unique medium allows for durable and visually striking creations that stand out from traditional paper prints. Displate’s emphasis on metal as a canvas opens up new possibilities for artists looking to make a bold statement with their artwork.

Printful

For artists seeking full control over their online stores, integrating a print-on-demand service like Printful with their own website provides a seamless solution. With Printful handling all of the printing, packaging, and shipping, artists can focus on creating and promoting their artwork.

This integration allows artists to maintain their brand identity and customize their storefront to reflect their unique style. By offering a wide range of print-on-demand products, from apparel to home decor, artists can cater to diverse customer preferences.

Conclusion

As the POD landscape continues to evolve, exploring these alternatives can provide artists with fresh opportunities and avenues for success. While Redbubble and Society6 have paved the way, these lesser-known platforms offer unique features and product offerings that can cater to different artistic preferences and customer demographics.

Remember, adapting to change and diversifying your presence across multiple platforms can be the key to sustained success in the dynamic world of Print on Demand.

Cheers,

10 Ways for Artists to Make Passive Income

~ Julie ~ Leave a comment

While many people think of selling original artwork and taking commissions as the only ways to make money as an artist, there are actually many different ways to make passive income from your art. This can include selling products with your artwork on them, teaching classes, or even blogging. In this post, I’m sharing 10 different ways that artists can make passive income, many of which I’ve tried myself!

ways for artists to make passive income online

* Please note, some links in this blog post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support and it helps me create more great content for you to enjoy!

Here are just a few of the many ways that artists can make passive income:

1. Print on Demand

Leverage Print on Demand services like Zazzle, Redbubble, and Threadless to showcase your art on merchandise like t-shirts, phone cases and more. Mitigate logistical concerns as these platforms handle all of the printing, shipping, and inventory management, allowing artists to concentrate on their craft – making art!

2. Blogging

Blogging serves as an effective platform for artists to establish their niche, showcase their artwork, and connect with their audience by delivering engaging content. Optimize the blog for search engines, promote it through social media channels, and monetize through advertisements, affiliate marketing, or product sales. A strategically managed blog can transform into a consistent revenue source.

3. Affiliate Marketing

Related to blogging, incorporating affiliate marketing into your online presence can increase your earning potential by promoting products you already use and love. Promote art-related products or tools and earn commissions for every sale made through your affiliate links. This requires minimal effort once set up.

4. Online Courses

Capitalize on your expertise by developing an online course. Select a subject of personal passion, structure it into comprehensible segments, and ensure an engaging presentation. You can use Youtube to get started and then branch out into platforms like Skillshare and Udemy to monetize your courses. You can also consider selling them through your own website or blog if you already have a dedicated following.

5. Books and E-Books

Design and sell printed books and e-books related to your area of expertise. Platforms such as Amazon KDP and Gumroad enable independent distribution. Crafting a series enhances visibility and ensures a sustained source of passive income. You can create things like colouring books, step-by-step “how to draw” or paint series, and more.

6. Digital Art Downloads

Monetize your digital artwork by selling instant digital downloads of art prints, patterns, illustrations, SVGs, and other types of digital art files. Platforms like Creative Fabrica and Gumroad allow artists to showcase and sell their digital creations without the need for physical production or shipping. You can also sell these through your own website.

7. Art Subscription Services

Launch a subscription service where subscribers receive exclusive digital art content regularly. Platforms like Patreon or specialized subscription services enable artists to generate recurring revenue.

8. Patreon

Establishing a Patreon account allows artists to convert loyal supporters into patrons. Offering exclusive content, ranging from behind-the-scenes material to early access, creates an incentive for patrons to contribute. Regular updates and occasional perks maintain patron engagement, ensuring a reliable income source.

photo of a woman researching Ways for Artists to Make Passive Income

9. Art Licensing

Explore licensing agreements with companies that want to use your art on various products. Earn royalties without the need for hands-on involvement in the production or distribution process. This requires some upfront research, and pitching your portfolio to companies and art directors, but if you can get a deal art licensing can be extremely lucrative.

10. Virtual Art Exhibitions

Organize virtual art exhibitions or galleries, either by yourself or with a group of other artists. Charge entrance fees or partner with sponsors to monetize the events without the need for physical set-up or maintenance.

There are an endless number of ways for artists to make passive income, and these are just a few ideas to get you started. The best way to find the right method for you is to experiment and find what works best for you and your art. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process!

Cheers,

How to Design Your Own Wedding Invitation Suite

~ Julie ~ Leave a comment

Hey there, welcome to my blog! In this post, I’m excited to share with you how to design your own wedding invitation suite with Zazzle.

It was an incredible opportunity as Zazzle reached out to me to create a video for their YouTube channel, where I could showcase the process of creating my own wedding invitations that beautifully represent my wedding theme.

Join me as I walk you through the steps, tools, and inspiration behind this creative journey in the video below.

How to Design your own Wedding Invitation Suite

To get started, I made a list of all the items I needed to assemble my wedding invitation suite.

From the main invitation and RSVP cards to belly bands, custom envelopes, stickers, and more, Zazzle had everything I needed to bring my vision to life.

For design inspiration, I turned to my curated wedding Pinterest board, where I have been gathering ideas and inspiration for the overall theme and style I want for my wedding.

Items needed for the invitation suite:

All of the items I used for my invitation suite are linked below, with the exception of the return address labels which I creating using the “Design Transfer” option. This is demonstrated in the video above.

Using Zazzle’s Design Tool, I was able to customize every aspect of my invitations including the colors, fonts, and layouts to achieve the exact look I envisioned. Plus, I could select different paper types and sizes to ensure my invitations looked exactly how I wanted.

how to design your own wedding invitation suite on zazzle

Digital Download or Physical Products

When it came to acquiring my customized invitations, I opted for the printed version. However, it’s worth mentioning that Zazzle’s digital download option is a great cost-saving alternative, and offers flexibility if you prefer to send your invitations electronically via text or email. It’s a modern, eco-friendly approach that still ensures your invitations look stunning while accommodating different preferences and budgets.

Putting the Invitation Suite Together

Once all of the different pieces arrived, it was time to put it all together. You can watch the process of putting together the invitation suites in the video above.

I started with the main invitation and then put the RSVP card on top. Attaching the belly band neatly held the components together, creating a cohesive suite. Adding custom stickers and return address labels to the envelopes added that extra touch of personalization. Lastly, I used an embosser to add a custom touch to the envelopes.

how to design your own wedding invitation suite with Zazzle

The Finished Product

I’m very happy with the finished result. Each invitation showcases our unique style and attention to detail. The suite truly sets the tone for our special day and leaves no doubt that our wedding will be an unforgettable event.

My friends and family loved these wedding invitations and said they would keep them as cherished mementos for years to come!

Conclusion

Designing your own wedding invitations with Zazzle was a fun and rewarding experience. It allowed me to bring my vision to life and create invitations that were exactly how I wanted.

Zazzle’s affordability, convenience, and customization options made it the perfect choice for this creative endeavor. If you’re seeking personalized wedding stationery that stands out from the crowd, I encourage you to explore the possibilities on Zazzle’s website.

I hope this post has inspired you to design your very own wedding invitation suite.

If you want to learn more about selling your own designs through Zazzle, check out this post: Sell your Art on Zazzle: A Step by Step Guide to Setting up Your Zazzle Store.

Thanks for joining me, and feel free to leave any comments or questions below. Happy designing!

Cheers,

How to Remove Backgrounds in Photoshop

~ Julie ~ 2 Comments

Are you looking to take your image editing skills to the next level? Then look no further than this tutorial on how to remove backgrounds in Photoshop!

In this video tutorial I take you step by step through the process of removing backgrounds from images using the selection and lasso tools.

I demonstrate how to do this with a both a simple image of a laptop, and a more complex image featuring a person in the foreground.

You can use these skills to edit your photographs, or create designs with transparent backgrounds to use for stickers, t-shirts and other print on demand products with Photoshop!

How to Remove Backgrounds in Photoshop with Lasso Tools

Open your image in Photoshop and double-click the background layer to unlock it.
Use the Eraser tool to erase out major parts of the background, without getting too close to your subject.
Select the appropriate lasso tool for your image, such as the Lasso Tool, Polygonal Lasso Tool, or Magnetic Lasso Tool.
Begin by making a rough selection around the object or subject you want to keep. For straight edges, use the Polygonal Lasso Tool. For irregular shapes, use the Lasso Tool or Magnetic Lasso Tool.
Continue tracing the outline of the object, and close the selection by connecting the endpoint with the starting point.
If needed, use the Add to Selection or Subtract from Selection options to refine the selection (Can also use + or –).
Hide or delete the original background layer (if there is one remaining) to see the transparency.
Use the Eraser Tool or Layer Mask to further refine the edges of the object if necessary.
Create a new layer below, and fill it with a solid color to check for any stray pixels.
Save your image in a format that supports transparency, like .PNG.

With practice and experimentation, you’ll become more proficient in using lasso and selection tools to remove backgrounds in Photoshop.

In conclusion, removing backgrounds in Photoshop using the lasso tools is a powerful technique that allows you to isolate objects and create images and graphics with transparent backgrounds. With the flexibility and precision of the lasso tools, you can achieve clean and professional results.

Remember to practice and experiment with different selection tools to find the one that works best for your specific image. So go ahead and give it a try in your next project!

Cheers,

Sell Your Art Online with Zazzle: A Complete Guide to Setting up Your Zazzle Store

~ Julie ~ 2 Comments

Are you a creative person looking for ways to monetize your art, or an entrepreneur interested in building an online print on demand business? I’m excited to share my latest Skillshare class with you: Sell Your Art Online with Zazzle: A Complete Guide to Setting up Your Zazzle Store.

Sell Your Art Online with Zazzle: A Complete Guide to Setting up Your Zazzle Store

But first, what exactly is Zazzle? In short, Zazzle is a print on demand marketplace where you can create designs for real life products, like art prints, t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more. Then, those products are printed and shipped to customers after they order them. This eliminates the need for inventory and allows you to focus on creating and marketing your designs!

Zazzle is just one of many print on demand marketplaces that you can use to sell products from your art.

I really like Zazzle because they offer a wide range of products, from apparel to home décor to electronics, so you can create a diverse product line that appeals to your audience.

With thousands of shoppers from around the world browsing the site every day, Zazzle has a huge customer base. And their platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate, so you can focus on designing and marketing your products without getting bogged down by technical details.

gold foil art print collection on Zazzle

In my Skillshare class, Sell Your Art Online with Zazzle, I’ll guide you through the entire process of setting up your own Zazzle store, from designing your products to customizing your storefront and much more.

Before diving in, check out the class trailer below to get an idea of what you’ll learn and see if it’s right for you. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me or post a comment below. I’m here to support you and help you succeed!

Here’s a peek at what we’ll cover in the class:

Setting up your store
Navigating the Zazzle website
Creating multiple product types from simple to advanced
Raising your ZRank
Organizing your store using Categories and Collections
Tips and tricks to streamline product creation
Creating custom banners and cover images for Collections and Categories
Customizing your store front
Additional pro tips from a Pro Bronze seller with nearly 10 years of experience

You can watch my Skillshare class for free with a one-month trial membership using my link.

This means you’ll have access to not only my class, but also thousands of other classes on Skillshare, including classes on graphic design, branding, and social media marketing.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Zazzle seller, there’s something for you in this class. I can’t wait to see what you create!

Cheers,

How to Use AI Tools to Boost Your Art Business

~ Julie ~ 1 Comment

In this blog post, we’ll explore various ways to leverage AI tools to enhance your art business. However, we will not be discussing the topic of creating and selling AI art, which is a separate subject altogether. If you’re curious about using AI to boost your art business, spark your creativity, and increase your productivity, then keep reading!

AI has been a hot topic in the art world lately, and for good reason. But it’s not going away anytime soon, so why not embrace it? By using AI as an assistant for your art business, you can supercharge your productivity and take your business to the next level. With a bit of creativity, there are numerous ways you can use AI to your advantage.

What is AI?

Artificial Intelligence, or AI for short, is a branch of computer science that focuses on the development of intelligent machines that can perform tasks which traditionally required human intelligence, such as answering questions, conducting research, and problem-solving.

Recently, AI has become increasingly prevalent in various fields, including the arts, and has opened up new opportunities for creative business owners. Through machine learning and other AI-powered tools, artists can now generate personalized content, analyse data, and conduct market research with greater ease and efficiency. AI can be used in a number of different ways in your art business, from automating simple tasks to helping you out of a creative rut.

How can you use AI in your art business?

There are many ways to use AI to boost your art business. Here are some examples:

Writing a business plan

Creating a business plan is essential to the success of any business, including an art business. By using AI you can create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, objectives, and strategies for success. Feed the AI as much data as you can about your business and ask it to create a business plan for you. You can then tweak and revise it as needed and go from there.

Conducting market research

To grow your art business, you need to understand your target market. AI can help you conduct market research to identify your target audience and their preferences. With AI-powered tools, you can analyse data on your customers’ demographics, interests, and behaviours to gain insights into what they may want. By understanding your target market, you can tailor your artwork and marketing messages to better meet their needs and preferences.

Generating ideas for new artwork

One of the biggest challenges for artists is coming up with new and innovative ideas for artwork. AI can help generate new ideas for artwork that will appeal to your target market. These tools use algorithms to analyse data on your target audience’s preferences and suggest customized artwork that is tailored to their interests. By using AI to generate ideas for new artwork, you can save time while creating pieces that resonate with your audience.

Writing marketing copy

Marketing is crucial for any art business. However, writing effective marketing copy can be challenging. With AI tools, you can create compelling social media posts, blogs, and product descriptions that resonate with your target audience.

When it comes to using AI for your art business, the output is only as good as the input. To learn more about how to use AI properly, and structure your prompts to get the best results possible, I highly recommend this Skillshare class: Chat GPT for Creatives by Peggy Dean

Using AI to improve your own artwork

One of the great things about AI-powered tools like CF Spark is that it can be used to generate new and unique artwork. Consider this: instead of looking at other artist’s work for inspiration, use AI instead! These tools are also great for getting out of a creative rut and help you find inspiration even when you’re feeling stuck. So, don’t be afraid to use AI to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of your own creativity.

AI can also help you with things like art market research and identifying trends. This information can be incredibly valuable for artists who want to create pieces that are more likely to sell, as it can help them understand what their target audience is looking for and what kinds of pieces are likely to be most successful in the current market. By using AI to stay on top of trends and market demands, artists can ensure that their work remains relevant and appealing to buyers, and can maximize their chances of success in the competitive world of art sales.

AI Tools for Your Art Business

Ready to get started using AI for your art business? Below is a list of some awesome AI tools that can help streamline your workflow, gather market insights, and even generate new artwork ideas. Of course, there are plenty of other AI tools out there too – new ones are popping up all the time! But these are a great place to start.

Chat GPT – a language model which can be used for generating ideas, writing content, and answering questions.
CF Spark – generate new and unique artworks to inspire your own work.
Notion AI – to streamline your workflow and help you with writing.
Canva AI – uses AI to suggest design layouts and color schemes for social media and marketing graphics.
Adobe Sensei – Provides AI-powered features in Adobe Creative Cloud

a woman thinking about using AI for her business

Considerations When Using AI for Your Art Business

There’s no one answer for how to incorporate AI into your art business. It’s going to vary depending on what you’re selling, who your audience is, and your art business goals. But, there are some general guidelines you can follow to make sure you’re using AI in a way that aligns with your business and values.

Supplement, don’t replace, human interaction. Your art business is built on human relationships. Whether you’re selling to collectors or working with galleries, you need to be able to build and maintain personal relationships. Use AI to supplement your relationships, not replace them.

Automate tasks, but don’t allow it to make decisions for you. AI can be a great tool for automating tasks like customer follow-up or marketing emails. But it’s important to remember that AI can’t make decisions for you. When it comes to important decisions like pricing or what art to sell, you need to rely on your own judgment.

Use AI to enhance your artwork, not replace it. AI has the potential to be a powerful tool for artists, but it’s important to remember that it should be used to enhance your artwork, not replace it. While AI can help generate new ideas, identify trends, and speed up certain processes, it can’t replicate the unique creativity and vision of a human artist.

Keep an eye on the future. AI is always changing, and new tools and applications are being developed all the time. It’s important to keep an eye on the future and be prepared to adopt new AI tools as they become available. This will help you stay ahead of the competition and make sure you’re using the best AI tools for your business.

Conclusion

AI can be a powerful tool for artists and art businesses, but it is important to use it wisely. With AI, you can manage your marketing, track trends, find inspiration for new artwork, and conduct market research. But you need to be careful not to over automate or you could lose the human touch that makes your business special. The possibilities are endless, and with a bit of creativity, you can take your art business to the next level with AI tools.

What are your thoughts on AI and using it for your art business? Let me know in the comments below!

Cheers,

Custom Cover Photos on Zazzle: Make Your Products Stand Out

~ Julie ~ Leave a comment

custom cover photos on zazzle: make your products stand out

In this post I’m sharing a new feature on the print on demand website Zazzle, which is the ability to add your own custom cover photos to your listings! This is a really great way to make your listings stand out on the Zazzle marketplace.

* Please note, some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using the links I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support and it helps me create more content for you to enjoy!

In a world filled with nearly identical products, it’s important to find ways to make your products stand out. Zazzle custom cover photos are one way to do this. With a little creativity, you can use cover photos to give your products a unique look and make them more reflective of your own brand.

Zazzle custom cover photos are easy to create and can be applied to any product via the individual product page. Cover photos can be changed at any time, so you can experiment with different looks to find the one that best represents your brand.

To learn more about the custom cover photos directly from Zazzle, read their cover photo landing page.

In the video below I demonstrate how to add custom cover photos to your listings, and how I’ve been designing them on my iPad. Aside from creating your own cover photos in Procreate or another app like Photoshop, you can also purchase or find free mockups for your listings on Placeit, Creative Market, Google and other websites.

A great way to make your products stand out from the competition.

When potential customers are browsing through all the different products on Zazzle’s marketplace, it’s the cover photo that will initially catch their eye. Therefore, it is important to have an eye-catching and visually appealing cover photo.

People are more likely to purchase a product if they are able to see what it looks like in a realistic setting. If you have a great product but are using unappealing or generic stock photos, then you are not doing your product justice. Take advantage of Zazzle’s custom cover photo feature to make your products stand out and attract more customers!

You can purchase a sample of your product and take your own photos of it, use a mock-up you’ve purchased, or create your cover photo in a graphic design software. Either way, adding a custom cover photo to your product will make it more eye-catching and likely to sell.

Use a variety of backgrounds and graphics to create a unique look for your product.

If you want your products to really stand out on Zazzle, you need to put some thought into your cover photos. Luckily, there’s a lot of flexibility when it comes to design. You can use a variety of backgrounds and graphics to create a unique look for your product.

The first thing you need to do is decide what kind of mood you want to create. Do you want something fun and whimsical? Or are you going for a more sleek and modern look? Once you’ve decided on the overall tone, you can start finding or creating some backgrounds and graphics. If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at what other people have done. See what kind of designs are popular and see if you can find any inspiration there. I’ve personally been using my own photographs, and actually going out and finding textures and photographing them specifically for cover photos.

Also think about the real-life setting you might find the product being used in. For example, I used a sandy beach background for flip flops vs. a wall texture background for a clock.

zazzle custom cover photos for flip flops

Once you have a general idea of what you want your cover photos to look like, it’s time to start putting it all together. Remember, your cover photo is the first thing people will see when they come across your product. So make sure it’s something that will grab their attention and make them want to learn more. With a little effort, you can create a design that’s truly unique and will help your product stand out from the rest.

Keep your cover photos high quality and eye catching

There are a few things to keep in mind when creating custom cover photos for your products.

Make sure the photo is high-quality and resolution. Zazzle recommends using a PNG or JPG file that is at least 300 DPI. This will ensure that your photo looks sharp and clear.
Next, consider the size of the photo. You want to make sure that the photo is large enough, but not so big that it looks blurry or distorted. A good rule of thumb is to use a photo that is at least 1000 pixels wide.
Finally, think about the background of the photo. You want to make sure that the background is simple and uncluttered so that your product is the main focus. A simple background, blurred photo or a contrasting solid color is usually best.

With these tips in mind, you can upload your own photos to create unique and eye-catching cover photos for your Zazzle products.

Conclusion

There are a few things to keep in mind if you want to use custom cover photos to make your products stand out. First, you want to make sure the cover photo is high-quality and fits well with the product. Second, you want the cover photo to be unique and not like anything else that’s out there. And finally, you want to make sure the cover photo accurately represents the product. If you keep these things in mind, then you’re well on your way to using custom cover photos to make your products stand out on Zazzle.

I hope this post has inspired you to add custom cover photos to your Zazzle listings. Go ahead and give it a try – you may be surprised at the results!

Cheers,

SEO for Artists: How to help your art get found online

~ Julie ~ 8 Comments

Marketing your art in the digital age requires a diverse set of skills. Artists must not only be well-versed in the creation of their work, but also in digital marketing and SEO.

SEO, or search engine optimization, is the process of optimizing a piece of content for search engines with the goal of earning higher web traffic and improving visibility. For artists, this can help your art get found more easily online.

There are a few SEO tips that artists should keep in mind when creating and marketing their work online.

Use keyword-rich titles and descriptions for your art. This will help Google index your work and make it more searchable.
Use social media to promote your work and drive traffic to your website.
Add alt text to your images. This will help Google “read” your images and include them in image search results. This also includes the file name!

By following these simple SEO tips, you can make sure that your art can be found online and reach the widest possible audience.

photo of an artist using laptop for graphic designs

How can you help your art get found online?

Some artists are under the impression that all they need to do is to post their art on social media and wait for the likes and comments to roll in. But if you want to reach a wider audience, you’ll need to put a little more thought into your online presence.

Here are a few tips to help your art get found online:

Start by creating a website for your art. This is a great way to showcase your work in a professional manner. Make sure to include high-quality images of your work, and a bio or statement that gives visitors a sense of who you are as an artist.
Use social media to your advantage. While it’s important not to rely too heavily on social media, it can be a great way to promote your work. Post interesting and engaging content, and be sure to use hashtags to increase your visibility.
Get involved in the online art community. There are many forums, websites, and online groups dedicated to promoting and discussing art. Getting involved in these communities can help you reach new audiences and connect with other artists.
Stay active and consistent. One of the best ways to stand out online is to simply be active and consistent. Post new content regularly, interact with other users, and make sure your website and social media channels are up-to-date.

By following these tips, you can create a strong online presence for your art that will help you reach a wider audience.

Optimize your website for search engines

When it comes to SEO for artists, one of the most important things you can do is make sure your website is optimized for search engines. This means making sure your site is easy to find and navigate, and that it contains keyword-rich content that will help it rank high in search results.

There are a few simple things you can do to make sure your website is optimized for search engines.

Make sure your site is easy to find and navigate. Include clear and concise titles and descriptions for each page, and make sure your navigation is easy to understand.
Create keyword-rich content that is relevant to your art. Use keywords and phrases that potential customers are likely to use when searching for art online.
Include links to your site on other websites and in online directories. This will help to build up your site’s reputation and improve its ranking in search results (also known as backlinks).
Create compelling and original content. This means writing blog posts and articles that are interesting and informative, and that will help to promote your art.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your art is more visible online, and that you attract more viewers and potential buyers.

Use unique and descriptive keywords for your artwork

By using unique and relevant keywords and phrases in your titles, tags, and descriptions you can ensure that your artwork is more likely to show up in search engine results.

Here are some tips for creating keyword-rich titles and descriptions for your artwork:

Use descriptive keywords. When choosing keywords for your titles, be sure to use words that accurately describe your artwork. This will help potential customers find your work when they search for terms related to what you create. For example, if you paint landscapes, you might use keywords such as “landscape”, “nature”, or “scenery”.
Use keyword-rich phrases. In addition to using individual keywords, you can also use keyword-rich phrases in your titles and descriptions. For example, instead of just “painting”, you could use “original oil painting” or “hand-painted watercolour”. These phrases are more likely to be used by people who are searching for specific types of art, and they can help your work stand out.
Use relevant keywords. It’s also important to use keywords that are relevant to your specific artwork style. For example, if you create abstract art, you might use keywords such as “abstract”, “modern”, or “contemporary”. By using relevant keywords, you can ensure that your artwork is more likely to appear in search results for people interested in that style of art.
Make sure you have unique titles for your artwork. It’s important to have unique titles for each piece of artwork you create. This not only helps potential customers find your work, but it also ensures that your work is more likely to show up in search engine results and won’t be competing with each other for ranking.

photo of an artist working on her laptop and thinking about SEO

Use alt text to describe your artwork

When uploading images to your website, always include alt text to accompany each image. This is an especially important SEO tip for artists. Not only is this good practice for general accessibility purposes, but it also allows search engines to index your images, improving your site’s overall ranking. You can also add alt text to your Instagram posts.

When deciding what alt text to use, be sure to include key phrases that accurately describe the image, as this will help your site come up in relevant image searches.

For example, if you have a painting of a nature scene, some suitable alt text might be “oil painting of a river in the mountains”. This not only tells users what they can expect to see if they click on the image, but also tells search engines what the image is about, making it more likely to appear in results for relevant searches.

Alt text can also used to describe an image to someone who is blind or partially blind, so it can also help with the accessibility of your art and website.

In addition to improving your site’s ranking, using alt text also provides another opportunity to include relevant keywords and phrases on your site, which can further improve it’s visibility in search engine results. So next time you upload an image to your site, don’t forget to include alt text!

describing artwork helps with SEO for artists

Optimize your website’s metatags and meta descriptions

One of the most important aspects of SEO for artists is optimizing your website’s metatags and meta descriptions.

There are many different metatags, but the most important are the title, meta description, and keywords. The title is the main heading of the page or blog post, and it should include your most important keywords. If you’re using WordPress, there are sections for each of these that you can fill out for every piece of content you publish.

The meta description is a brief summary of your website page or blog post, and it should also include your keywords. Keywords are what people will use to search for your website, so it’s important to include them in both the title and meta description.

You can use an SEO plugin like Yoast SEO (which is what I use) that will help you fill out all of the relevant metadata.

Optimizing your website’s metatags is a great way to improve your SEO and get your art noticed online.

instagram on a phone with graphic design pencil and a notebook

Promote your website on social media

It’s no secret that social media is a powerful tool for promoting just about anything – and that includes websites. By promoting your website on social media, you can reach a large audience of potential customers and clients who may not be aware of your site otherwise.

Here are some tips for promoting your website on social media:

Make sure your website is ready before you start promoting your site on social media. Take a look at your site and make sure everything works as it should, looks good, and is something that people will want to share. A well-designed, user-friendly website with interesting and informative content is more likely to be shared than a site that’s difficult to navigate or that doesn’t offer anything new or unique.
Use social media to drive traffic to your website. Once you’ve ensured that your website is ready, it’s time to start using social media to drive traffic to your site. Posts about your website on social media should include a link, if possible, so that people can easily visit it. You can also include a call-to-action in your posts, such as “check out my website for more information (link in bio)” or “visit my website to see more of my art”.
Make it easy for people to share your website by adding share buttons to your site. With social media share buttons on your website, people can easily share your site with just a few clicks.
Monitor your analytics. Monitor your analytics to see how your posts are performing. Look at the engagement metrics for your posts, such as likes, comments, and shares. You can also track how much traffic your website is getting from social media using Google Analytics, and see which social media platforms are sending the most traffic to your site.

By following these tips, you can promote your website on social media and reach a larger audience.

Conclusion of SEO for artists

The most important thing for artists to remember when it comes to SEO is that content is king. Creating high-quality, keyword-rich content is the best way to help your art get found online.

In addition to great content, artists should also focus on building backlinks and creating social media profiles to help promote their work. By following these simple SEO tips, artists can attract more viewers and potential customers to their online portfolio.

Looking for more tips for artists? Check out my Artist Resources page!

Cheers,

Tips to Achieve Your Art Business Goals in 2024

~ Julie ~ 2 Comments

If you’re an artist, there’s a good chance that you’ve thought about turning your passion into a business. After all, what could be better than getting paid to do something you love? While there are no hard and fast rules for becoming a successful artist-entrepreneur, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of achieving your art business goals in 2024 and beyond.

Start with a well-defined goal. This may seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. Without a clear and specific goal, it will be difficult to measure progress and know when you’ve reached your destination.

Create a plan. Once you know what your goal is, it’s time to put together a plan of action. What steps will you need to take to achieve your goal? What resources will you need? Who can help you along the way?

Be prepared to work hard. Achieving any goal takes dedication and hard work. This is especially true of art business goals, which often require long hours and lots of hustle.

Stay focused and stay positive. It’s easy to get sidetracked or discouraged when pursuing any goal. But if you want to succeed, it’s important to stay focused on your goal and remain positive even when the going gets tough. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your art business goals.

Create a plan

The first and most important step is to create a plan. What do you want your business to achieve? What are your long-term and short-term goals? Do you have specific revenue goals? Who is your target market? Answering these questions will help you focus your efforts and make it more likely that you’ll achieve your goals.

Once you have a plan, the next step is to put it into action. This means creating a marketing strategy, developing a website or online portfolio, and actively promoting your work. You might also consider exhibiting your work at art fairs or galleries, or selling your work online.

Of course, running a successful business takes more than just marketing and selling your work–it also requires maintaining a high level of quality and consistently creating new and exciting work that your customers will love. But if you’re passionate about your art and willing to put in the hard work, there’s no reason why you can’t achieve your business goals.

photo of a woman thinking about her art business goals

Put your plan into action

Now that you have figured out your art business goals, it’s time to put your plan into action! Here are a few tips to get you started:

Set a schedule and stick to it. Having a set schedule will help you stay on track and ensure that you’re making progress towards your goals.
Set realistic goals. If your goals are too unrealistic, you’re likely to get frustrated and give up. Make sure your goals are achievable and within reach.
Get organized. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you’re using your time efficiently. Create a system that works for you and stick to it.
Take action. Don’t wait around for things to happen, make them happen! Get out there and start working towards your goals.
Persevere. Things will inevitably get tough at times, but it’s important to persevere. Don’t give up on your goals, and you’ll eventually achieve them.

measure your progress to achieve your art business goals

Measure progress

If you want to achieve your art business goals, then you need to be able to measure your progress. There are a few key ways to do this:

Keep track of your finances. This includes both your income and your expenses. Knowing where your money is coming from and where it’s going will give you an idea of what’s not working and where to double down your efforts.
Set milestones. Milestones can help you track your progress over time and see how far you’ve come. They can also give you something to strive for and keep you motivated.
Get feedback. Ask your friends, family, and even strangers for their honest opinions on your art. This feedback can help you see what’s working and what isn’t, and make necessary adjustments to your business plan.

By tracking your progress, you can stay on track to reach your art business goals.

Get organized

One of the most important things you can do to set yourself up for success in your art business is to get organized. This means having a system in place for tracking your inventory, expenses, sales, and other important business data. It also means staying on top of your marketing and social media efforts.

One way to get organized is to use a spreadsheet to track your inventory, sales, expenses, and other business data. This can help you spot trends and make informed decisions about your art business.

Another way to get organized is to use a customer relationship management (CRM) system to track your marketing and social media efforts. This can help you stay on top of your customer relationships and ensure that you’re providing the best possible experience.

Make sure to check out my Art Business Toolkit which is a template I developed for Notion to help you get organized, set goals for your business, keep track of finances, create a marketing plan and more. Check it out at the link below!

Whatever system you use, the key is to make sure that you’re consistent in using it. This will help you get the most out of your data and make better decisions for your art business.

Delegate and seek help

One of the most important things you can do to ensure the success of your art business is to delegate tasks and seek help when needed. Trying to do everything yourself can lead to burnout and ultimately, a failed business.

When delegating tasks, it’s important to give clear instructions and deadlines, and then trust that the person you’ve delegated to will complete the task to your standards. It can be difficult to let go of control, but if you want your business to grow, you may need to delegate.

It’s also important to seek help when needed, whether that’s hiring an accountant to help with your finances, or asking a friend for advice on social media marketing. No one knows everything, and there’s no shame in admitting that you need help. By delegating tasks and seeking help when needed, you’re setting your art business up for success.

Also consider using automation tools or systems that can help you to more efficiently perform repetitive tasks.

get help to achieve your art business goals

Stay motivated

As an artist, it can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of your long-term goals. Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated and on track to achieving your art business goals:

Set realistic goals. It’s important to set goals that are achievable. If your goal is to sell 100 paintings in a year, but you only sell an average of one painting per month, that goal is going to be very difficult, if not impossible, to achieve. On the other hand, if you set a goal of selling one painting per week, that’s a much more achievable goal.
Create a plan. Once you have your goals set, it’s time to create a plan of action. This plan should include things like what type of artwork you’re going to create, how you’re going to market and sell your artwork, and how you’re going to keep track of your progress. Having a plan will help to keep you organized and on track.
Take action. No matter how good your goals and plans are, they won’t do any good if you don’t take action. Make a commitment to yourself to work on your art business every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. The more action you take, the closer you’ll get to achieving your goals.
Get help. If you’re feeling stuck or like you’re not making progress, reach out for help. There are a number of resources available, whether it’s hiring a business coach or taking an art business course. Getting help from someone who knows what they’re doing can make a huge difference.
Stay positive. It’s easy to get discouraged, especially when you’re not seeing the results you want. But it’s important to stay positive and believe in yourself. Remember, it takes time and consistent effort to build a successful art business. Stay focused on your goals and don’t give up.
Reward yourself. As you achieve your goals, be sure to celebrate your successes. This will help to keep you motivated and focused. Give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Celebrate milestones

You’ve set your sights on some lofty art business goals and you’re ready to achieve them. But how do you keep motivated throughout the journey? How do you ensure that you don’t get bogged down in the day-to-day and lose sight of the bigger picture?

One way to stay on track is to celebrate your milestones. When you reach a goal, big or small, take some time to reflect on your accomplishment. This will not only help you maintain your momentum, but it will also give you a much-needed confidence boost. Here are a few tips for celebrating your milestones:

Set aside time to reflect on your achievements. Take some time, even if it’s just 10 minutes, to really think about what you’ve accomplished. What did you have to overcome to get to this point? What did you learn along the way? How does this new accomplishment make you feel?
Share your successes with others. Telling others about your accomplishments can help you to solidify them in your own mind. It can also be a great way to get some much-needed positive feedback. So, don’t be shy about sharing your news, whether it’s with your inner circle or a wider audience.
Treat yourself to something special. After all your hard work, you deserve a little reward. Whether it’s a night out, some new art supplies, or simply some extra time to relax, take some time to enjoy your success.
Use your achievements as motivation for the future. When you look back on your accomplishments, it can be easy to get complacent. But instead of letting your successes lull you into a false sense of security, use them as motivation to keep pushing forward. Remember, you’re capable of great things and you have what it takes to reach your goals.
Keep a record of your milestones. One way to keep track of your successes is to maintain a record of them, whether it’s in a physical journal or an online document. This can be a great way to look back on your progress and see how far you’ve come.
Set new goals. Once you’ve celebrated your current accomplishments, it’s time to set your sights on new goals. What do you want to achieve next? What’s your next big challenge? By continually setting and achieving goals, you’ll keep your art business journey interesting and rewarding.
Celebrate often. Don’t wait until you’ve reached your ultimate goal to start celebrating. Instead, take the time to appreciate your successes along the way. By celebrating often, you’ll stay motivated and inspired to keep reaching for your goals.

woman wearing black bra and white tank top raising both hands on top

Conclusion

Setting and achieving your art business goals is a lot of work but also highly rewarding. If you can create a plan, work hard, and stay motivated, you can build something that is all your own and that you can continue to build for years to come.

Cheers,