How to price your artwork

Art by Karie-Ann Author

Need help with how to price your artwork? I've written a post and a checklist to help you work out the best price for you.

✨ How to Price Your Artwork: A Clear, Confident Guide for Artists Who Care

Pricing your artwork isn’t just about numbers—it’s about honoring your time, your talent, and the emotional connection your work creates. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your pricing strategy, this guide will help you set prices that feel fair, confident, and sustainable.

💡 Why Pricing Feels So Personal

Art is emotional. It’s intimate. And putting a price tag on something you’ve poured your heart into can feel vulnerable. But pricing isn’t about ego—it’s about clarity. When done right, it builds trust with your audience and positions you as a professional.

🧮 The Basic Pricing Formula

Here’s a simple starting point:

(Hourly Rate × Hours Spent) + Materials + Overhead + Profit Margin = Base Price

But don’t stop there. Consider these layers:

• Experience & Skill Level: Seasoned artists can charge more for their expertise and consistency.
• Emotional Value: Pet portraits, for example, carry deep sentimental weight—don’t undervalue that.
• Market Positioning: Are you a premium brand or a volume-based seller? Your pricing should reflect that.
• Format & Usage Rights: Will the buyer use the image commercially? That changes the price.

📊 Tiered Pricing Strategy

Offer multiple price points to meet different needs:

This lets clients self-select based on budget and emotional investment.

🖼️ Pricing Pet Portraits with Heart

For emotionally resonant work like pet portraits, consider:

• Breed-specific complexity
• Custom backgrounds or props
• Rush fees or holiday commissions
• Framing or shipping costs

You’re not just selling a picture—you’re preserving a memory. Price accordingly.

📈 Tip: Use Your Pricing Page Strategically

Create a dedicated pricing page with internal links from blog posts, portfolio pages, and FAQs. Use keywords like “custom pet portrait pricing” and “how much does a dog portrait cost” to attract search traffic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This adds authority and helps readers feel guided. For example:

Mistake #1: Undervaluing Your Time
Many artists forget to factor in admin, client communication, and revisions.

Mistake #2: Inconsistent Pricing Across Platforms
If your Etsy prices differ wildly from your website, it erodes trust.

Mistake #3: No Clear Pricing Page
If clients have to email for a quote, you’re losing conversions.

💬 Final Thoughts

Pricing isn’t static—it evolves with your skill, your audience, and your brand. Start with clarity, layer in emotional value, and always leave room to grow. You deserve to be paid well for work that moves people.

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Categories: : business tips