Printmaking isn’t just a creative outlet—it can also be a profitable business. Whether you’re a beginner exploring linocuts or a seasoned artist working with etching or screen printing, there are many ways to turn your talent into income.
In this blog post, we’ll break down how to make money printmaking, with both online and offline strategies. You’ll also find practical tips, platforms, and ideas to get started today.
1. Sell Original Prints Online
One of the easiest and most direct ways to earn money is by selling your original prints through platforms like:
- Etsy – Great for handmade and unique pieces.
- Shopify – If you want full control over your store.
- Big Cartel – Perfect for independent artists.
- Artfinder or Saatchi Art – For fine art printmakers.
Tip: Use high-quality images, offer multiple sizes, and describe your process to build trust with buyers.
2. Offer Limited Edition Print Runs
Creating limited edition prints adds exclusivity to your art, which allows you to:
- Charge more per piece
- Attract collectors
- Increase the perceived value of your work
Be sure to number and sign each print. Scarcity sells.
3. License Your Print Designs
If you want passive income, consider licensing your prints to:
- Home decor companies
- Apparel brands
- Stationery and gift product companies
Websites like Spoonflower, Redbubble, and Society6 let you upload your print designs, and they handle the printing and shipping while you earn royalties.
4. Sell Printmaking Kits or Tutorials
As a printmaker, you can teach others what you know. Some popular options include:
- DIY Linocut Printmaking Kits (affiliate or self-made)
- Downloadable Tutorials & E-books
- Skillshare or Udemy Courses
- Private Zoom Workshops
Affiliate Tip: Promote top-rated tools like carving sets, inks, or brayers with your tutorials.
5. Offer Custom Commissions
People love personalized art. You can offer custom:
- Pet portraits in linocut
- Hand-printed wedding invites
- Custom quotes or names in calligraphy-style prints
- Illustrated family prints
Promote commissions on social media, your website, or platforms like Fiverr.
6. Attend Art Fairs and Craft Markets
In-person events are powerful for exposure and direct sales. You’ll also:
- Build your mailing list
- Get live feedback on your work
- Network with other creatives
Bring framed and unframed options, business cards, and consider offering bundle deals.
7. Sell Printable Digital Art
Create downloadable versions of your print art so customers can print them at home. This gives you:
- Lower shipping overhead
- Global reach
- Passive income streams
Where to sell: Etsy, Gumroad, Creative Market.
8. Collaborate with Brands or Influencers
Reach out to niche brands for limited edition collaborations. For example:
- A home decor brand might want custom prints
- A clothing line could use your textures in a collection
- An influencer may commission custom packaging or thank-you cards
9. Start a Printmaking Blog or YouTube Channel
Share your process, reviews, and tutorials to attract an audience. Monetize through:
- Affiliate links for art supplies
- Sponsored posts or videos
- Ad revenue
- Selling your own merch or digital products
Affiliate suggestion: Promote popular items like screen printing starter kits.
10. License Your Art as Patterns or Textures
Your abstract or pattern-style prints can be sold as:
- Digital textures for designers
- Backgrounds for social media templates
- Textile or wallpaper patterns
Sell these on marketplaces like Creative Market, Design Bundles, or Adobe Stock.
Final Thoughts
Making money with printmaking is absolutely possible—whether you’re creating art full-time or as a side hustle. The key is to diversify your income streams, market your art effectively, and continue learning.
Start with one or two methods from this list, build momentum, and reinvest your earnings into better tools, branding, or marketing.