How to Sell Prints Online & Make Money in 2024: A Complete Guide

Artists have been selling their artwork for centuries, but in today's fast-paced digital world, the rise of the internet has created new opportunities to showcase and sell art online.

With social media and ecommerce becoming increasingly popular, it has become easier for artists to sell their work online and make a profit.

Selling your art online can be an excellent way to generate income, connect with a diverse audience, and showcase your unique and eye-catching creations.

However, it can be quite challenging to get started, and this article will provide essential information for beginners and experts alike that will help make selling prints online simpler, more profitable, and more efficient.

Can You Make Money Selling Art Online?

Yes! It is very possible to make a profit selling art online. Like every business, it takes time, dedication, and effort to get started.

Art selling can be a fun and creative environment, but it should still be treated like a business venture. Patience and a strategic mindset are essential for success.

Different factors will determine the profitability of your online art business. The quality and price of your prints, your marketing strategies, and your ability to differentiate yourself from the competition are paramount to your success.

By perfecting these elements in your online art sales strategy, it is possible to create a successful business that generates a substantial amount of income.

• Quality and Pricing of Your Art: There are a few factors to consider when it comes to the quality and pricing of your art prints. First, make sure you use high-quality materials when creating your prints. This will ensure that your prints will stand out. Secondly, create a pricing strategy that is neither too high nor too low. You should always consider the time, materials, and effort taken to create your art prints and set competitive prices reflecting your standards.
• Marketing Strategy: One of the most challenging aspects of selling art online is getting your work seen by potential customers. An effective marketing strategy is one of the most important things you can do to increase your exposure. Social media is one of the best tools for artists to market their work, so make sure you have a professional social media presence.
• Differentiation Strategy: In the online marketplace for art prints, it's essential to differentiate yourself from the competition by creating artwork that is distinct. By having a unique style or technique, you'll be able to stand out in a sea of other artists and prints, attracting customers who are looking for something new and exciting.
• Shipping Costs and International Customs Fees: Shipping costs for large or heavy artwork may be expensive, and international customs fees can add significant costs to the selling price. You’ll want to ensure that you set appropriate shipping costs based on the size, weight, distance, and type of packaging.

Advantages of Selling Prints of Your Art

For independent artists and those in the art business, selling prints of your artwork can unlock new opportunities for growth, income, and audience engagement. Here’s a breakdown of the many benefits:

• Scalability and Accessibility for Buyers: Unlike original art, prints can be produced in larger quantities, making your art accessible to a broader audience, including those who may not be able to afford original artwork.
• Lower Production Costs: Producing prints, especially through print-on-demand platforms like Fourthwall, Etsy, or Fine Art America, significantly reduces the upfront investment required compared to creating and selling original pieces.
• Recurring Income: Selling prints allows you to earn revenue multiple times from a single piece of artwork. Independent artists can create a steady income stream without creating new work every time.
• Diverse Sales Channels: Prints can be sold through various platforms like Saatchi Art, Artfinder, or at art fairs, exhibitions, and galleries. You can even sell them on your own online store. These multiple channels can help expand your opportunities for revenue.
• Increased Profit Margins: By offering both original art and prints, you can cater to different segments of buyers, allowing for higher overall sales without needing to create new pieces continuously.
• Flexible Mediums: Prints of digital art, paintings, photographs, or illustrations can cater to art lovers with diverse tastes in the art world.

Expanding Your Reach and Brand Visibility

Selling prints of your art online doesn’t just generate income—it’s also a powerful way to boost your visibility in the art market. Here’s how:

1. Broader Audience Appeal: Offering affordable artwork online allows you to connect with collectors and buyers who may not visit traditional galleries. Selling on platforms like Etsy or Fine Art America can expose your art to millions of potential buyers.
2. Global Reach: Through an online store or marketplaces like Artfinder, you can reach art lovers and collectors worldwide, extending far beyond local exhibitions or art fairs.
3. Building Brand Recognition: Selling prints provides more opportunities for your name and artwork to appear in homes, offices, and public spaces. This visibility helps establish your reputation in the art world.
4. Enhanced Social Media Impact: Promoting your prints on Instagram and Facebook creates opportunities to engage with followers, showcase your work, and drive traffic to your online art sales platforms.
5. Networking and Collaborations: When buyers display or share your prints, it can open doors to collaborations, commissions, and even gallery exhibitions, enhancing your presence in the art business.

By leveraging the advantages of selling prints, artists can position themselves strategically within the competitive art market, offering both affordability and accessibility while building a sustainable art business.

10 Steps to Sell Your Prints Online

Selling prints online is simple, but it takes research, patience, and dedication. Here are some important steps to follow:

1. Decide What Prints You Will Sell

Start by identifying the type of art you want to offer. Are you selling original artwork, reproductions, or digital prints? Consider whether you’ll focus on fine art, digital art, or a combination of styles. Your medium will dictate the format for creating prints, whether it’s high-resolution scans for paintings or direct uploads for digital artwork.

• Pro Tip: Specialize in a niche to stand out, such as landscapes, abstract art, or pop culture prints, which are in demand on platforms like Etsy or Artfinder.
• Learn More: How to Make Money Selling Art Online offers great tips that apply to art prints, too.

2. Photograph or Scan Your Artwork

High-quality images are essential for creating accurate art prints. Use a professional camera or scanner to capture your artwork with precise color representation and detail. Proper lighting is crucial—natural diffused light works well, or invest in a lightbox for consistency.

• Pro Tip: Use editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom to adjust brightness, contrast, and color balance for a polished result.

3. Connect with Professional Printers

Research professional print-on-demand services or local printers that specialize in art prints. Popular options include Fine Art America, Zazzle, and Society6. Look for services that offer archival-quality paper and inks to ensure longevity and vibrancy in your prints.

• Pro Tip: Request samples from different printers to compare quality before committing.

4. Determine Pricing

Setting the right price is key to selling your artwork online. Factor in material costs, time spent creating the original piece, and printing expenses. Research similar works on platforms like Saatchi Art, Shopify, and Etsy to ensure your pricing is competitive.

• Pro Tip: Offer multiple price points, such as affordable small prints alongside premium limited-edition versions for buyers seeking exclusivity.

5. Choose an Ecommerce Platform

Select a platform that aligns with your goals. For artists looking to sell through their own online store, Fourthwall is an excellent option. If you prefer a marketplace, Artfinder, Etsy, and Fine Art America are excellent choices. Consider print-on-demand platforms like Redbubble or Society6 for automated fulfillment.

• Pro Tip: Use multiple sales channels to maximize exposure, including an online marketplace and your personal website.

6. Create a Compelling Product Listing

Your product listing is the first impression potential buyers will have of your artwork online. Use high-quality images, detailed descriptions, and SEO-friendly terms like “sell art online,” “fine art prints,” and “digital art.” Highlight unique features, such as the medium, inspiration, or whether the print is part of a limited edition.

• Pro Tip: Create bundles or collections to increase average order value and provide more options for customers.

7. Market Your Work

Promoting your prints is essential to drive traffic to your online store. Leverage social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your work with engaging posts and stories. Write blog posts about your creative process or inspiration to attract search engine traffic.

• Pro Tip: Collaborate with influencers or participate in art fairs to increase visibility.

8. Fulfill Your Orders

If you’re using a print on demand service, fulfillment will be handled for you. If you’re managing fulfillment yourself, invest in high-quality packaging to protect your prints during transit. Include a personal thank-you note to create a memorable experience for the buyer.

• Pro Tip: Offer tracking options to reassure customers and minimize post-sale inquiries.

9. Provide Exceptional Customer Service

Exceptional service sets you apart in the competitive art business. Respond promptly to inquiries, resolve issues professionally, and ensure smooth communication throughout the purchase process. This builds trust and encourages repeat purchases.

• Pro Tip: Use email marketing tools to follow up with past customers and inform them about new collections or special offers.

10. Collect Feedback and Reviews

Reviews and testimonials can significantly impact your credibility and attract more buyers. Send follow-up emails asking for feedback and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. Display these prominently on your online marketplace or website.

• Pro Tip: Incentivize reviews by offering a discount code for their next purchase.

6 Platforms for Artists to Sell Prints Online

The rise of online marketplaces has made it easier than ever for artists to sell their prints globally.

Each platform offers unique features that cater to different needs, whether you’re an independent artist just starting out or an established creator looking to expand your reach.

Below is a detailed breakdown of six popular platforms for selling prints online, along with their pros and cons.

1. Fourthwall

Fourthwall is a creator-focused ecommerce platform that allows artists, content creators, and influencers to sell their art prints, design custom merchandise, and offer memberships to their supporters.

By combining website creation, print-on-demand services, and community engagement tools, Fourthwall stands out as a versatile and powerful platform for independent artists and content creators.

Key Benefits of Fourthwall for Artists and Creators

• Custom Branding and Website Creation
  Fourthwall allows artists to build their own branded websites with customizable templates, offering full control over the look and feel of their online store. This ensures a professional and cohesive presentation of your art that resonates with your unique style.
• Print-on-Demand Services
  With built-in print-on-demand capabilities, Fourthwall eliminates the need for artists to manage inventory or handle production logistics. This significantly reduces upfront costs and allows you to focus on creating art, while the platform manages printing, packaging, and shipping.
• Seamless Platform Integrations
  Fourthwall integrates effortlessly with platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok, enabling creators to showcase their art directly to their audiences. These integrations allow fans to purchase art prints and merchandise without leaving the creator’s ecosystem, creating a smooth and personalized shopping experience.
• Membership and Fan Engagement Options
  Fourthwall offers tiered memberships, allowing artists to build closer relationships with their supporters. Memberships can include perks like exclusive prints, behind-the-scenes content, or discounts on artwork, creating a steady revenue stream while fostering a loyal community.
• Easy Setup for Multiple Revenue Streams
  Beyond art prints, Fourthwall enables creators to diversify their offerings with customizable merchandise such as apparel, home decor, and accessories. This flexibility makes it an ideal platform for artists who want to expand their art business.

Pros:

• Built-in tools for custom branding and website creation.
• Supports print-on-demand services, reducing upfront costs.
• Allows integration with other platforms like YouTube and Twitch.
• Offers options for tiered memberships to engage with supporters. 

Cons:

• Geared primarily toward creators with an established audience.
• Fewer built-in marketplace features compared to Etsy or Fine Art America.
• Limited audience discovery tools for new artists.

2. Fine Art America

Fine Art America is a specialized marketplace for artists, photographers, and designers to sell their work.

With its extensive features for selling high-quality prints, such as canvas, framed, metal prints, and more, it caters to both experienced professionals and emerging artists.

Its built-in tools for marketing and fulfillment make it a comprehensive solution for turning creativity into a thriving art business.

Key Benefits of Fine Art America for Artists

• Comprehensive Print-On-Demand Services
  Artists can upload their artwork and transform it into a variety of products, including canvas prints, framed prints, greeting cards, home decor, and apparel. This allows for a wide diversification of offerings, appealing to art lovers with different tastes and budgets.
• Global Fulfillment Network
  With 16 manufacturing facilities worldwide, Fine Art America ensures that orders are printed, framed, packaged, and shipped quickly to buyers. This streamlined fulfillment process enables artists to focus on their craft without worrying about logistics.
• Branded E-Commerce Websites
  Artists can create their own branded websites powered by Fine Art America’s technology. These sites synchronize with the main marketplace, giving you the flexibility to sell on both your personal site and the larger platform simultaneously.
• Marketing and Sales Tools
  Fine Art America provides robust tools for artists to promote their work, including automated social media campaigns, customizable email newsletters, and embeddable shopping widgets. Artists can even sell their work through Instagram or integrate their storefronts with Shopify or WordPress.
• Diverse Sales Channels
  Beyond its online marketplace, Fine Art America partners with brick-and-mortar retail stores and offers wholesale programs for buyers in hospitality and design. This multi-channel approach helps artists reach new markets.

Pros:

• High-quality print options for fine art, digital art, and photography.
• Tools for customizing storefronts and tracking sales.
• Built-in social media sharing features.
• Access to a niche audience of art lovers and collectors.

Cons:

• High competition within the platform.
• Subscription fees for premium seller accounts.
• Limited control over branding and website design.

3. Shopify

Shopify empowers artists and entrepreneurs to create fully customizable online stores, making it an excellent choice for those looking to sell their artwork and build a professional digital presence.

Whether you’re selling prints, digital art, or original pieces, Shopify provides a robust set of tools to support your art business at every stage.

Key Benefits of Shopify for Artists

Shopify stands out as a platform for its flexibility, scalability, and powerful integrations. Here’s why artists turn to Shopify to sell their work online:

• Customizable Storefront for Unique Branding
  Shopify allows artists to create an online store that reflects their personal style and brand. With hundreds of themes available (both free and premium), you can design a store that matches the tone of your art—whether modern, minimalist, or vibrant. For independent artists wanting to stand out in the art market, this level of customization is invaluable.
• Seamless Integration for Marketing and Sales
  Shopify’s app store offers a wide range of integrations for SEO, email marketing, and social media, making it easy to promote your work and drive traffic to your store. Tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Pixel enable you to track performance and refine your marketing strategy. Additionally, artists can use Shopify’s social media integrations to sell directly on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
• Mobile-Friendly and Scalable
  Shopify’s mobile-responsive designs ensure that your store looks great on any device. This is crucial as more buyers shop on mobile. The platform also offers scalable pricing plans, so you can start small and upgrade as your art business grows.
• Secure and Versatile Payment Gateways
  Shopify supports over 100 payment gateways, including PayPal, Apple Pay, and cryptocurrency, ensuring secure transactions for a global audience. For artists selling artwork online, this feature simplifies cross-border sales and enhances buyer confidence.
• Powerful E-Commerce Tools
  Shopify provides tools to streamline your business, including inventory management, order tracking, and automated shipping calculations. These features are especially useful for artists who manage both prints and original artwork.

Pros:

• Fully customizable storefront with branding options.
• Extensive app integrations for SEO, email marketing, and social media.
• Scalable pricing plans to grow with your art business.
• Secure payment gateways with support for multiple currencies.

Cons:

• Monthly subscription fees can add up for new artists.
• Requires technical knowledge or initial effort to design the shop.
• No built-in marketplace to bring traffic; you must generate your own.

4. Etsy

Since its launch in 2005, Etsy has become a premier online marketplace for handmade, vintage, and unique items, making it an excellent choice for artists looking to sell their prints and original artwork.

Its built-in audience, seller-friendly tools, and cost-effective entry point make it particularly appealing for independent artists looking to tap into the global art market without needing extensive resources.

Key Benefits of Etsy for Artists

Etsy’s platform is particularly attractive to artists due to its tailored features and resources designed to help sellers thrive. Here’s why:

• A Built-In Audience of Art Enthusiasts
  Etsy attracts millions of buyers actively seeking unique and creative items, including art prints, digital art, and original artwork. As a result, artists don’t have to start from scratch when trying to find customers—Etsy brings them to you. The site’s robust search engine helps buyers discover your listings, provided you optimize them with the right keywords like "sell artwork online" or "fine art prints."
• User-Friendly Setup Process
  Opening a shop on Etsy is straightforward, with step-by-step instructions that allow even novice sellers to create a professional-looking store. Artists can upload images of their prints, add detailed descriptions, and set their prices without needing any coding or technical skills.
• Affordable Entry Costs
  Etsy charges a nominal listing fee of $0.20 per item and a 6.5% transaction fee when a sale is made. For independent artists or those just starting in the art business, this low-cost entry point reduces financial risk and makes it easy to test the market.
• Comprehensive Seller Resources
  Etsy provides an extensive library of tools and guides to support sellers. These include handbooks on branding, marketing, SEO, and bookkeeping, helping artists rank in search engines, manage inventory, and promote their shops effectively. For instance, optimizing your listings with terms like "sell art online" and "art marketplace" can improve visibility both on Etsy and external search engines.
• Community and Networking Opportunities
  Etsy’s community features allow sellers to connect with fellow artists and buyers through forums, teams, and events. These tools foster collaboration, inspiration, and support among creative professionals.

Pros:

• Access to millions of potential buyers worldwide.
• User-friendly setup process.
• Low upfront costs to list items.
• Community tools to connect with other artists and buyers.

Cons:

• Transaction and listing fees can eat into profits.
• Intense competition; standing out requires consistent marketing.
• Limited customization options for your shop.

5. eBay

As one of the largest and most diverse online marketplaces, eBay provides artists with access to a vast audience, including casual buyers and seasoned collectors.

Its extensive reach and variety of selling options make it a versatile choice for those looking to market art prints, original pieces, or even digital art to a diverse audience ranging from casual buyers to serious collectors.

Key Benefits of eBay for Artists

• Massive Global Audience
  eBay’s reputation as a go-to marketplace means you’re exposing your artwork to millions of potential buyers worldwide. This vast reach can be particularly advantageous for independent artists seeking to expand their customer base without limiting themselves to niche audiences.
• Auction-Style and Fixed-Price Sales Options
  eBay’s flexibility allows you to choose between fixed-price listings or auction-style sales. Auctions can create excitement around limited-edition prints or high-demand original pieces, often driving up the final selling price. Fixed-price listings, on the other hand, provide a straightforward sales method for ongoing inventory like prints or digital downloads.
• Low Barrier to Entry
  Setting up an eBay account and listing items is relatively easy, requiring little to no upfront investment. This makes eBay a great starting point for artists who want to test the waters before committing to a dedicated e-commerce platform.
• Exposure to a Wide Variety of Buyers
  eBay’s diverse audience includes art collectors, casual buyers, and even businesses searching for unique decor. This broad buyer pool allows you to reach individuals who may not actively seek out traditional art marketplaces.
• Versatile Product Range
  Artists can sell a wide variety of items, from paintings and photographs to prints and digital art. eBay also allows for creative packaging, such as bundling prints with smaller items like postcards or bookmarks, which can increase value and attract buyers.

Pros:

• Huge global audience.
• Auction-style sales for limited edition prints or high-demand items.
• Options for both fixed-price and auction sales.
• Relatively low barrier to entry.

Cons:

• High competition across various categories.
• Seller fees and shipping costs can reduce profit margins.
• Less niche focus on art compared to platforms like Artfinder or Fine Art America.

6. Artfinder

Artfinder is a curated online marketplace designed to connect artists with collectors, emphasizing handmade, original artwork and fostering meaningful artist-collector relationships.

With a mission to make art accessible, affordable, and sustainable, Artfinder provides a platform where artists can thrive while offering collectors unique and authentic pieces.

Key Benefits of Artfinder for Artists

• Strong Focus on Original and Limited-Edition Artwork
  Unlike broader marketplaces, Artfinder prioritizes original works and limited-edition prints. This makes it an ideal platform for artists specializing in unique, handcrafted pieces or exclusive print runs, helping to set their work apart in the competitive art market.
• Artist Profile Pages for Storytelling
  Artfinder allows artists to create detailed profile pages where they can share their story, artistic process, and inspiration. This personal connection builds trust with buyers and enhances the perceived value of the artwork.
• Dedicated Support and Tools for Growth
  Artfinder provides artists with performance insights, marketing tools, and access to an artist forum. These resources help artists refine their strategies, engage with the community, and build their careers. Partner discounts and responsive support further enhance the artist experience.
• Fair and Transparent Marketplace
  Artfinder’s commission-only model ensures that artists pay fees only when they make a sale, often at a lower rate than traditional galleries. This makes it a more equitable choice for independent artists.
• Opportunities for Commissions
  Buyers can directly commission artists for custom pieces, such as family portraits or bespoke artwork. This feature provides an additional revenue stream and fosters a deeper connection with collectors.

Pros: 

• Strong focus on original artwork and limited-edition prints.
• Artist profile pages help showcase your story and process.
• Transparency with buyers builds trust and loyalty.

Cons:

• Application process to join as a seller can be selective.
• Higher commission fees than some other platforms.
• Smaller audience compared to platforms like eBay or Etsy.

Start Selling Your Prints with Fourthwall!

Are you ready to elevate your art business and reach your fans like never before?

Fourthwall is the ultimate platform for artists and creators to showcase and sell their artwork online. With its cutting-edge tools, creator-first approach, and streamlined features, Fourthwall empowers you to transform your creativity into a thriving business.

Whether you specialize in digital prints, wall art, or custom merchandise, Fourthwall has everything you need to succeed:

• Sell Digital Prints Directly to Your Fans
  Upload your digital artwork and offer it for instant download. Give your fans the flexibility to enjoy your art on their terms while creating a steady revenue stream.
• High-Quality Wall Art Options
  Fourthwall’s extensive product catalog includes stunning wall art, such as canvases, posters, and other home decor pieces. These products allow your fans to bring your creativity into their spaces with premium, professionally produced prints.
• Control Over Your Brand and Pricing
  Unlike traditional marketplaces, Fourthwall puts you in charge. Design a branded store that reflects your unique artistic identity, set your own prices, and choose how to engage with your audience through exclusive memberships and perks.
• Streamlined Selling for All Creators
  Fourthwall simplifies the entire process, from print-on-demand production to global shipping, so you can focus on what you do best: creating amazing art.

It doesn't matter if you’re a painter, photographer, or digital artist, Fourthwall provides everything you need to showcase your art and connect with fans worldwide.

Sign up now and start selling your prints online with ease and professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Sell Myself as an Artist?

To sell yourself as an artist, focus on building a strong personal brand that reflects your unique style and story. 

Share your creative process and finished pieces on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, connect with potential buyers at galleries or art fairs, and create a professional online presence through an Etsy store or personal website. 

Utilize tools like print-on-demand services to offer affordable art prints alongside original pieces, and showcase diverse types of art, such as paintings or photography, to appeal to a broader audience.

How Can a Beginner Sell Art?

Beginners can start selling art by focusing on accessible platforms like Fourthwall or Etsy, which cater to independent artists. 

Use print on demand services to create affordable prints of your work without upfront costs, and experiment with mediums like digital art or traditional paintings to find your niche. 

Promoting your art on social media and participating in local galleries or events can also help build your reputation and attract buyers. 

Start small, refine your craft, and be open to accepting commissions to grow your business gradually.

Are Art Prints Worth Selling?

Art prints are absolutely worth selling because they allow artists to reach a broader audience by offering affordable versions of their work. 

Using print-on-demand services reduces upfront costs and inventory risks, enabling artists to focus on creating. 

Art prints can include photographs, paintings, or digital designs and can be sold on platforms like Fourthwall, Fine Art America, or Etsy, through personal online stores. 

They provide a steady revenue stream while keeping original works available at a higher price, appealing to both casual buyers and serious collectors.