How to Make Money Online for Digital Art: A Beginner's Guide

As a beginner artist, it can be challenging to know where to start to make money online for digital art. However, with the rise of online marketplaces and digital art platforms, it's now easier than ever to turn your art into a source of income. In this article, we'll discuss some tips and tricks to help you get started and provide you with some of the best sites where you can sell your digital artwork.

Find your niche

Before you start selling your digital art, it's important to find your niche. This means finding a style or subject matter that you're passionate about and that makes your art stand out. By having a unique style or theme, you'll be able to attract customers who are interested in your particular style.

Create a portfolio

Once you've found your niche, the next step is to create a portfolio of your digital art. Your portfolio should showcase your best work and demonstrate your skills and abilities. You can create a portfolio on your own website or use a portfolio platform like Behance, Dribbble, or ArtStation.

Set your prices

Pricing your digital art can be a tricky business, but it's important to set prices that are fair and competitive. You can research the prices of similar digital artwork online to get an idea of what to charge. Also, keep in mind the amount of time and effort you put into creating each piece.

Market your artwork

Marketing your artwork is an essential part of making money online. You can use social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to showcase your art and attract potential customers. You can also use paid advertising on social media platforms or Google to reach a wider audience.

Use online marketplaces

There are many online marketplaces where you can sell your digital art. These platforms allow you to set up a shop and sell your artwork directly to customers. Some of the best online marketplaces for digital art include:

a. Etsy: Etsy is a popular online marketplace for handmade and vintage items, but it also has a section for digital art. You can sell your digital art as instant downloads, which means customers can purchase your artwork and download it immediately.

b. Society6: Society6 is an online marketplace that sells a variety of products featuring artwork from independent artists. You can upload your digital art to Society6, and it will be printed on products like mugs, phone cases, and art prints.

c. Redbubble: Redbubble is another online marketplace that sells a variety of products featuring artwork from independent artists. You can upload your digital art to Redbubble, and it will be printed on products like t-shirts, stickers, and home decor.

d. Creative Market: Creative Market is an online marketplace that sells digital products like fonts, graphics, and templates. You can sell your digital art as a downloadable product on Creative Market.

e. ArtStation: ArtStation is a platform for artists to showcase their work and sell their digital art. It's a great platform for artists who specialize in concept art, 3D modeling, and game development.

Use print-on-demand services

Print-on-demand services allow you to upload your digital art, and it will be printed on products like t-shirts, phone cases, and art prints. You don't have to worry about inventory or shipping, as the print-on-demand service handles everything for you. Some of the best print-on-demand services for digital art include:

a. Printful: Printful is a print-on-demand service that prints and ships products featuring your digital art. You can upload your artwork to Printful, and it will be printed on products like t-shirts, hoodies, and posters.

b. Teespring: Teespring is a print-on-demand service that specializes in custom t-shirts. You can upload your digital art to Teespring, and it will be printed on t-shirts in a variety of styles and colors.

c. Printify: Printify is a print-on-demand service that offers a wide variety of products, including t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases. You can upload your digital art to Printify, and it will be printed on the products of your choice.

Offer commissions

Offering commissions is another way to make money from your digital art. You can offer to create custom artwork for clients, either for personal use or for commercial use. You can advertise your commission services on your website or social media platforms.

In conclusion, as a beginner artist, there are many opportunities to make money online for digital art. By finding your niche, creating a portfolio, setting your prices, marketing your artwork, and using online marketplaces and print-on-demand services, you can turn your art into a source of income. Don't be afraid to experiment and try different strategies to see what works best for you.