Are you maximizing your design dollars? Making your patterns work that little bit harder? If not, why not?
See how from a few pieces you can create many opportunities to sell, make your art work harder. Now this one piece will most likely not make you rich but if you could do this with many designs, over time that is gonna add up to hopefully some extra cash!
But where to sell? I hear you ask. Check out the following places on where to sell your surface pattern designs online.
Top of my list, ideal for independent designers, Etsy allows you to sell digital downloads of your patterns, fabric (dropshipping too), teatowels, notebooks, ebooks, magnets the list goes on. It’s a great platform for reaching a wide audience, especially those interested in crafts and DIY projects. One of my top money earners.
Spoonflower
A close second, specializing in custom-printed fabrics, Spoonflower is a popular choice for surface pattern designers. You can upload your designs (now for free) and earn a commission whenever someone purchases fabric, wallpaper, or home decor items featuring your patterns.
Society6
Similar to Spoonflower, Society6 allows artists to sell their designs on a variety of products, from phone cases to home decor items. As always check the website out and see if it is a good fit for you first!
Design Cuts
A community-focused marketplace for digital design assets, including patterns. It’s a good option if you’re looking to connect with a community of designers and customers passionate about design — Also love their podcasts!
Shutterstock and Adobe Stock
If you’re interested in the stock image market, these platforms allow you to sell your patterns as part of a larger library of images and graphics.
Your Own Website
Having a personal website gives you complete control over how you sell your patterns. You can offer them as digital downloads, printed products, or even license them to other businesses. (I do all three)
Creative Fabrica
This platform caters to a wide range of digital assets, including seamless patterns but don’t forget those little illustrations left over from some designs that didn’t quite make it try your hand at svgs, pngs, clipart . It’s particularly favored by graphic designers and businesses looking for high-quality, unique designs.
Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork can be used to sell custom pattern designs to clients who seek bespoke work. Create if you love working to a brief. I will admit it is tough to break into but once you have started it’s a good sideline.
Social Media
Platforms like Instagram or Pinterest can be used to showcase your work and direct potential buyers to your online store or other marketplaces where your patterns are available. You can also sell you products too!
Design by Humans: Join a community of artists selling their designs on apparel and accessories.
Don’t forget Craft Shows and Art Fairs: For a more traditional approach, selling physical products with your patterns at craft shows and art fairs can be a great way to connect with customers directly.
