Hi so I have had this idea for a while... It came to my mind when I first discovered what passion projects were ( first learned about them earlier this summer ) I want to put my art/designs onto certain items like coasters, canvases, posters, tote bags, etc.. And by selling those things whatever I make I would give a portion (at least of now) of what I make to schools in low income areas that need funding for the arts. I want to help because I have been a artist all of my life and have attended quite a few schools in (different states and cities) that and I have heard many times from all of my art teachers that they get pushed to the side and receive little to no funds for art supplies.
So there is my idea, I have received some advice on how to start one piece of advice is to just start creating, but after that what do I do from there ? How do I get people to want to buy my product ? And how do I donate to schools ? 🥲
Would VERYY much appreciate any advice :)
Hi! I'm an artist too, and I've actually made prints and stickers and postcards etc. from my art to sell. I started with prints because they're easy. Pick out at least five of your favorite art pieces, get good photos in good lighting using either a scanner or a high-quality camera, then I use a site called Giclee Today to order prints. I sell them for about 3-4x what they cost to make (round to the nearest 5 so you don't have to carry weird change), and nobody's complained about cost. I get stickers printed by Sticker You the same way, and people love vinyl stickers. I'm not sure what the best site for ordering coasters and tote bags etc. is.
As for where to start, look at local art/craft shows in your area. I look on Facebook Events a lot. Message the upcoming ones and see if they have openings. I recommend avoiding ones just labeled vendor shows and farmers markets, though sometimes you can get a good one. I also created a website through Square, which is also how I accept card (they'll even send you a little card reader for free), and the only cost to that one is a small transaction fee.
I also recommend making a business Facebook page, and mention you're raising money for school art programs. Post consistently, and you might even get some sales there. If not, you'll at least advertise for your shows.
I'm not sure how donating to the school art program works, but I would definitely ask your art teacher if you can.
Good luck! I hope this was helpful!
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Thank you so much ! This was actually very helpful !!