Introduction: Turning Passion into Profit
Being an artist is more than a job — it’s a calling. Whether you paint, draw, design, sculpt, write, photograph, or perform, your creative energy is something to be celebrated. But for many artists and creatives, relying solely on income from traditional art sales or occasional commissions can be financially challenging. That’s where the world of side hustles offers both freedom and opportunity.
Side hustles provide artists with new ways to monetize their creativity without compromising their artistic identity. From digital products and freelance gigs to passive income streams and teaching, today’s online tools allow creatives to reach a global audience and diversify their income like never before.
The beauty of a well-chosen side hustle is that it works with your art — not against it. You can keep your day job or your main artistic practice while building up income streams that support your lifestyle, fund your projects, or help you go full-time on your terms.
In this guide, we’ve curated a diverse mix of side hustles tailored specifically to creative professionals. Whether you’re an illustrator looking to sell prints, a photographer wanting to license your work, or a musician interested in digital products, there’s something here that fits your talents and ambitions.
Let’s dive into 15 flexible and creative side hustles that allow artists like you to earn more while doing what you love.
1. Sell Digital Downloads on Etsy
Turn your artwork or designs into downloadable products like wall art, planner pages, stickers, or templates. Selling digital downloads means you create once and sell infinitely, without worrying about shipping or inventory.
This model works beautifully for illustrators, calligraphers, and graphic designers. Etsy is a top platform for digital creatives and already attracts millions of buyers looking for beautiful, printable goods.
2. Stock Photography & Video
If you’re a photographer or videographer, you can earn passive income by licensing your work through platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Pond5.
While you won’t get rich overnight, consistently uploading high-quality content — especially in niche areas — can lead to long-term royalties. You can also sell your own curated photo packs on Gumroad or your website for higher margins.
3. Commissioned Artwork
Offering custom commissions is a classic income stream for artists, whether you’re creating portraits, pet paintings, or digital illustrations. Promote your services through Instagram, DeviantArt, Twitter, or art-specific platforms like ArtStation or Ko-fi.
You can also set up commission packages on Fiverr or Etsy to reach new audiences. Be sure to communicate clear timelines and deliverables to manage expectations.
4. Sell Merch Through Print-on-Demand
Print-on-demand (POD) lets you put your designs on apparel, mugs, tote bags, stickers, and more — without having to manage any inventory. When someone buys a product, the POD company prints and ships it for you.
Sites like Redbubble, Society6, and Teespring are artist-friendly and handle fulfillment, letting you focus on creating eye-catching designs.
5. Teach Art Online
If you enjoy helping others grow their skills, consider teaching art online through platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, or even your own website. You can create short courses on painting techniques, digital art software, or creative workflows.
Once your course is recorded, it can become a recurring source of income and help build your authority in the creative space.
6. Freelance Illustration & Design
Use platforms like Upwork, 99designs, or Behance to find freelance gigs for illustration, branding, web design, or album art. Companies are always looking for unique visuals, and your artistic style may be exactly what they’re seeking.
Freelancing also allows you to grow a professional portfolio and work with a range of clients — from startups to musicians to publishers.
7. Create an Art Patreon
Many artists now build communities and earn recurring income through Patreon. You can offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes videos, downloadable files, or early access to your work in exchange for a monthly subscription.
This works well if you have an engaged audience on social media or want to deepen your connection with fans.
8. License Your Artwork
Instead of selling originals or prints, license your artwork for use on products, books, packaging, or ads. Licensing can bring in high-value deals and recurring royalties.
You can reach out to companies directly, partner with licensing agents, or list your portfolio on platforms like ArtLicensing.com or Minted.
9. Sell Printables & Creative Templates
Graphic designers and lettering artists can create printable templates like resumes, wedding invites, planners, or Canva templates. These products do well on marketplaces like Creative Market or Design Bundles.
It’s a smart way to repurpose your design skills into products people are actively searching for.
10. Open an Online Print Store
Sell high-quality art prints through your own Shopify, Squarespace, or WooCommerce store. Unlike Etsy or POD sites, your personal store gives you full branding control and better profit margins.
Use Instagram, Pinterest, and email marketing to drive traffic and promote limited edition prints or seasonal collections.
11. Audio for Creatives (Voiceover or Sound Design)
Musicians, vocal artists, and sound designers can sell custom jingles, background music, podcast intros, or even offer voiceover services for videos and audiobooks.
Sites like Voices.com, AudioJungle, and SoundBetter let creatives showcase their audio talents and earn from commercial use or client gigs.
12. Start a Creative Blog
If you enjoy writing, a blog about your creative process, tools, and inspiration can help build authority and drive traffic. Monetize with ads, affiliate links, or by promoting your own services and digital products.
You can also attract commissions and clients organically as your blog ranks in Google for creative keywords.
13. YouTube or TikTok Art Channel
If you enjoy being on camera (or just filming your process), consider starting a YouTube or TikTok channel that showcases your work, tutorials, time-lapses, or creative tips.
With enough traction, you can earn through ads, sponsorships, and selling products or courses to your audience. Many artists now earn a full income this way.
14. Run Creative Workshops (Local or Virtual)
Host painting nights, DIY classes, or art therapy sessions in your local community or online via Zoom. These events can be fun, social, and profitable — especially if you build partnerships with local venues or art supply brands.
Promote through Eventbrite, Facebook groups, and your personal network.
15. Curate a Zine or Art Book
If you’re connected to other artists, consider publishing a themed zine or curated art book and selling it through your store, local galleries, or art fairs. It can be a solo project or a collaborative effort that helps everyone gain exposure and income.
Digital zines can also be sold via Gumroad, with lower overhead and faster production timelines.
Quick Tips for Artist Side Hustles
Start with what you already create: Don’t reinvent the wheel — monetize what you’re good at.
Build an audience: Whether on Instagram, YouTube, or email, fans help fuel your hustle.
Track your time: Don’t burn out — choose hustles that are worth your energy.
Diversify your streams: Combine passive and active income for long-term stability.
FAQ
Q: Can I make money as an artist without “selling out”?
Yes! Side hustles can support your practice, not replace it. Pick options that align with your values and style.
Q: What if I’m not tech-savvy?
Start small — platforms like Etsy, Canva, and Patreon are beginner-friendly. Learn one tool at a time.
Q: How do I protect my work online?
Use watermarks, clear licensing terms, and register your copyright when appropriate. And remember — visibility often outweighs piracy for small creators.
Conclusion
Artists and creatives are uniquely positioned to thrive in today’s side hustle economy. You have the vision, the originality, and the storytelling skills — now you just need the platform. Whether you sell art, share knowledge, or entertain, there’s a side hustle out there that fits your craft.
Start with one or two that feel natural to you, then expand as your confidence and audience grow. Your creativity is your greatest asset — and now, it can be your greatest income stream too.
Frank
