Pricing Your Art for True Value

Pricing may be one of the greatest challenges when it comes to running an art business. While there are objective and easy to quantify elements of making, what buyers are willing to pay is often subjective. Does your work speak to them? What value do they perceive? Do they understand the potential investment? You have to consider your market as well as the time you invest, the cost of materials and more. Is there one pricing method that works best? Honestly, I would say no. It depends on your medium and style as well as the customers you are trying to reach and how well you communicate why they should buy from you. So how do you determine your ideal approach to pricing? Research and testing. The going rate for your work much like your style will evolve over time. Whether you're just getting started or evaluating mid career, here are some considerations to help guide you in making a living off your creative talents.

Learnings from Business Boutique

I recently stumbled upon a new resource that I am so excited to share - Christy Wright's Business Boutique - a book and series of women focused events to provide guidance on making a living doing what you love. I didn't know what I was getting myself into when I signed up for this seminar a few weeks ago, but as soon as I arrived, I could feel the energy in the room, and I knew I was in for something special. This one day engagement was put on by a group of amazing speakers with firsthand knowledge and advice about being a successful entrepreneur. I didn't know much about Christy before this event, but now I can't get enough of her insight and encouragement. Here are some of the inspiring notes I jotted down from that day. Plus, a giveaway (more on that below)!

Macro / Micro Balance for Creative Confidence

We all have theories on how best to handle stress and self doubt when facing obstacles in our lives. For creative personalities, its often the intangible hurdles that give us the most trouble...

• Are we talented enough in our chosen Art?
• Have we learned the right techniques? 
• Will our ideas turn out as we've envisioned? 
• Are there many buyers for our chosen craft? 
• Will the public value our workmanship? 

Chances are, if you're an artist or crafter, you ask yourself countless questions on a daily basis.

The Secret to Success as an Artist

If you're reading this, it's likely that you have or want to start a creative business and make a living off your Art. Let me first say Congratulations! I've always loved Photography, but it took me a while to fully dedicate myself to this passion, and now I get to do meaningful work every day!

The most important thing I believe we all need to know as Artists, the secret to finding success as a self-employed handmade business owner is ... There is no one-size-fits-all solution.