How can artists, even young ones, begin selling their work online?

The story highlights Phoenix setting up an Etsy shop and a Twitter account to sell and promote his knitted hair accessories. This demonstrates that platforms like Etsy can be a great starting point for artists to establish an online presence and reach customers.

What steps should artists take to price their work effectively?

Phoenix researched what others with similar products were selling for, and he factored in his time, materials, shipping rates, and packaging costs. This comprehensive approach ensures that the pricing is competitive and covers all expenses.

How can artists promote their work and foster customer loyalty?

Phoenix used a Twitter account for promotion and implemented an 'under-promising and over-delivering' philosophy, including offering discount coupons for returning customers. He also explored partnerships, taking a commission on a classmate's soap sales in his shop.

What kind of commitment is needed to sustain an art business?

Phoenix demonstrated a strong commitment by dedicating every Saturday to creating new inventory and expanding his product range. This proactive approach ensures a steady supply of goods and shows a dedication to growth and meeting demand.

11-Year-Old Artist's Business Savvy: Lessons for Working Artists

My nephew Phoenix turned 11-years old yesterday, though I’ve always secretly suspected him of being 41.

I’m visiting to help him celebrate his 11 years and see what new things he can teach me. He didn’t disappoint.

“I’ve learned how to knit!” Phoenix announced proudly as he showed me his beautiful handiwork. He creates hair accessories and gifted me with a pretty red bow fastened to a barrette. I’m wearing it now.

I always knew Phoenix was an artist. But imagine how proud I was to discover that he’s a Working Artist!

He’d created an Etsy shop for his wares. And a Twitter account. He’d learned how to promote his work well.

Even more impressive, he’d researched what others with similar products were selling their work for and set his prices accordingly. He took into account time and materials. He found out what the shipping rates would be and figured out packaging. I was impressed.

Phoenix shared his business philosophy with me, “I believe in under-promising and over-delivering.” To that end, he created a discount coupon for returning customers.

He’s even cut a future deal with a classmate who makes soap, taking a commission on her sales in his shop.

I asked what would happen if his hair accessories became suddenly popular and sold out?

“That’s not a problem,” Phoenix assured me gravely. “I’m committed to spending every Saturday in the studio creating new inventory and expanding my range.”

I’ve worked with a lot of wonderful artists in my career, but I don’t think I’ve ever been more proud.

Keep on eye on this one, I think this could be just the beginning.

Written by Crista Cloutier, artist mentor + founder of The Working Artist. (learn more about Crista here)

Frequently Asked Questions

1 How can artists, even young ones, begin selling their work online?: The story highlights Phoenix setting up an Etsy shop and a Twitter account to sell and promote his knitted hair accessories. This demonstrates that platforms like Etsy can be a great starting point for artists to establish an online presence and reach customers.
2 What steps should artists take to price their work effectively?: Phoenix researched what others with similar products were selling for, and he factored in his time, materials, shipping rates, and packaging costs. This comprehensive approach ensures that the pricing is competitive and covers all expenses.
3 How can artists promote their work and foster customer loyalty?: Phoenix used a Twitter account for promotion and implemented an 'under-promising and over-delivering' philosophy, including offering discount coupons for returning customers. He also explored partnerships, taking a commission on a classmate's soap sales in his shop.
4 What kind of commitment is needed to sustain an art business?: Phoenix demonstrated a strong commitment by dedicating every Saturday to creating new inventory and expanding his product range. This proactive approach ensures a steady supply of goods and shows a dedication to growth and meeting demand.

11-Year-Old Artist's Business Savvy: Lessons for Working Artists

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Frequently Asked Questions