Developing Your Art Side Hustle
Launching an art side hustle is a great way to test the waters before diving in full time. I’ve had the pleasure to watch several talented individuals in Southern Nevada transform their creative passions into thriving sources of extra income. As a fellow creator, I understand the profound satisfaction that comes from crafting something that brings joy to others. I'm excited to share with you a few art side hustles that you can embark on today.
Digital Art
I love digital art because of how accessible it is today. Many readers will already have the tools to create graphic art on-hand, whether it is a laptop or a tablet.
Creating prints is a classic option for digital artists looking to monetize their work. Whether selling them online or at local markets, prints offer a tangible way for fans to enjoy your art in their homes.
Stationery is another avenue for digital artists to explore. Designing greeting cards, notepads, and calendars allows you to showcase your artwork while providing practical products that customers can use and enjoy.
Expanding into merchandise is another side hustle option. Whether creating tarot decks, oracle cards, or custom playing cards, there's a market for beautifully designed card sets that feature your unique art style.
Using print-on-demand platforms opens up even more possibilities for digital artists. From shirts and pillowcases to pencil cases and phone cases, these platforms allow you to print your designs on a variety of products without the need for inventory or upfront costs.
Jewelry
Jewelry is a charming avenue for those with an eye for style and detail. There's a wealth of creative opportunities to explore and turn into a profitable venture.
Clay jewelry has surged as a popular accessory on social media. This hands-on medium empowers creators and provides budding entrepreneurs with a low-cost entry point into the jewelry market.
For those with a discerning eye for design and style, curating factory-priced jewelry offers an opportunity to assemble a distinctive aesthetic with a jewelry line. Many consumers seek trusted, high-quality, and stylish products, presenting an opportunity for you to establish your brand while providing a valuable service.
Beyond clay and curation, other techniques like wire wrapping, beading, and metal stamping offer possibilities to express creativity while building a successful side hustle in the vibrant world of jewelry making.
3-D Printing
The options are endless with a 3-D printer. I’ll share three examples to get your wheels turning.
Influencer and fashionista, Champagne Dubois, and her cat Pony have made their mark on social media with their adorable fashion videos. Champagne now has a line of 3-D printed household items like lighter covers, organizer containers, and other home decor items under the arm of her brand @memakepretty. Her work is unique, stylish, and sings of the iconic @champaigneunicorns style she has built.
D&D has risen in popularity and so have the sets and props that go with it. Printing D&D or gaming objects like unique characters, set pieces, dice rollers, and more have been introduced to the marketplace. If you’re skilled in creating and designing avatars, this is a niche you need to take advantage of. For those who enjoy painting the models, you can also tap into this market. I recommend looking into printing useful tools for DM’s and players as well.
You can also 3-D print creative work tools. I have started printing clay cutters for local clay jewelry makers. Establishing relationships with local vendors has allowed me to support their business with unique cutters that are also stable. I stumbled into this opportunity when a friend of mine pointed out all the things that made some of her current cutters difficult to use. We workshopped a design that mitigated difficulties and were user friendly. If you can find an answer to someone else’s problems using printing, it is a great way to start building clientele.
Virtual Tools
Virtual tools have become indispensable companions on our creative paths. Consider crafting digital treasures such as Notion app templates, Canva design packs, etc. These digital delights offer a blend of utility and creativity, empowering users to streamline their workflows and infuse their projects with personality.
You can curate a digital storefront or teaching courses online, these virtual tools are your trusty allies in the quest for creative fulfillment.
Embracing Local Markets and Teaching Courses
There's something truly special about connecting with your community in person. Attending local markets, craft fairs, and artisanal events is where you can showcase your creations and create meaningful connections with fellow artisans and art lovers.
Have you considered teaching in-person courses as well? Personally, it's been a fantastic experience for me. I connect with the types of audiences I'm seeking and help them learn valuable skills, like bookbinding. If you're keen on creating videos, you might also explore publishing your courses digitally. Teaching a workshop is satisfying and a great source of income while you build your art empire.
Developing Your Business Savvy
Combining creative passion with business know-how is the key to long-term success. Understanding your target audience, pricing your products competitively, and effectively promoting your work are essential skills that will propel your venture forward. By adopting a strategic mindset and continuously honing your entrepreneurial skills, you can turn your passion into profit and create a sustainable livelihood doing what you love.
Launching an art side hustle opens up a world of possibilities for creative expression and financial growth. I hope you will embrace whatever creative avenue you tread and turn your passions into a successful art side hustle.
