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KELLY SWAIN

4 Steps to Order Art Prints to Sell Successfully

December 19, 2025

Introduction

Crafting art is a deeply personal journey, and for many artists, the thought of transforming those creations into sellable prints can feel overwhelming. Have you ever found yourself staring at your artwork, wondering how to share it with the world? This guide is here to help you navigate that process, offering a clear roadmap to successfully order art prints that truly resonate with your audience.

Artists often face numerous challenges in the world of print production and sales. From understanding the technical aspects to finding the right market, it can be a lot to handle. But don’t worry; you’re not alone in this. Together, we can explore how to overcome these hurdles, ensuring your work is not only seen but cherished by those who appreciate it.

Digitize Your Artwork

Creating a digital version of your artwork is a crucial step, and I’m here to guide you through it with care. Here’s how to do it effectively:

  1. Choose Your Method: Have you thought about whether to scan or photograph your creations? Scanning works wonders for smaller pieces, while photography shines for larger works.

    • Scanning: If you opt for scanning, make sure to use a high-resolution scanner set to at least 300 DPI. This will help capture all those intricate details. And don’t forget to clean the scanner glass; a spotless surface prevents blemishes that could distract from your beautiful image.
    • Photography: If photography is your choice, stabilize your camera with a tripod and consider using a 50mm lens to avoid any edge distortion. Good lighting is key-natural light is often the best, but softbox lights can also provide consistent illumination. A simple white or neutral backdrop keeps the focus right where it belongs: on your piece.
  2. Edit the Digital File: Once you have your image, it’s time to enhance it using editing software like Adobe Photoshop or GIMP. Adjust colors, remove any imperfections, and crop the image to your liking. Color correction tools can help you match the original creation closely. Remember to save your final file in a high-quality format like TIFF or PNG to keep all that clarity and detail intact.

  3. Backup Your Files: It’s always wise to back up your digital files on an external hard drive or cloud storage. This simple step protects against potential data loss, ensuring your artwork remains safe and sound.

  4. Test Output: Before you dive into mass production, consider performing a test output. This way, you can ensure that the hues and details meet your expectations. If needed, make adjustments to the digital file based on the test outcomes, ensuring the final product aligns perfectly with your vision.

By following these steps, you can effectively digitize your artwork. This not only preserves your creations but also sets the stage for successful sales and presentations when you order art prints to sell. Remember, you’re not alone in this process; I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Choose Quality Print Materials

Choosing the right materials for your art pieces is crucial, and it can feel overwhelming at times. Let’s break it down together:

  1. Paper Selection: Have you ever wondered which paper will best showcase your artwork? Opt for acid-free, archival-quality paper to ensure your pieces stand the test of time. Here are some options:

    • Fine Art Paper: Perfect for reproducing watercolor art, it adds texture and depth that truly brings your work to life.
    • Canvas: This offers a unique aesthetic and can be stretched for a gallery wrap, giving your art a professional finish.
    • Photo Paper: Great for vibrant color reproduction, though it may not have the same texture as fine art paper.
  2. Ink Type: When it comes to ink, consider using pigment-based inks. They’re known for their durability and color accuracy, resisting fading better than dye-based inks. This is especially important for images that will be displayed prominently.

  3. Finish Options: What kind of finish do you envision for your artwork? Choosing the right finish can enhance your piece:

    • Matte: This reduces glare and is often favored for fine art prints, allowing the artwork to shine.
    • Glossy: It enhances color vibrancy but can reflect light, which might not be ideal for every piece.
    • Satin: A lovely middle ground that offers some sheen without excessive glare, perfect for many artworks.
  4. Before diving into a large production run, why not order art prints to sell as samples of your selected materials? This way, you can see how they interact with your artwork, ensuring you make the best choice.

By taking these steps, you can feel more confident in your material selections, knowing they’ll support your artistic vision.

Select Your Selling Platform

It is crucial for your success to choose the right medium to order art prints to sell. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the options available? Let’s explore how to make the best choice together:

  1. Identify Your Audience: Understanding who your ideal customers are is the first step. Are they collectors, casual buyers, or art enthusiasts? Knowing this will help you select the right platform that resonates with them.

  2. Explore Options: There are various platforms to consider:

    • Etsy: Perfect for handmade and unique items, it’s a great way for artists to reach a wide audience.
    • Fine Art America: Tailored specifically for artists, this platform allows you to sell both prints and originals.
    • Society6 and Redbubble: These print-on-demand services take care of production and shipping, letting you focus on what you love-creating.
    • Your Own Website: This option gives you complete control over your branding and sales, though it does require more effort in marketing.
  3. Evaluate Fees and Policies: It’s important to look into the fees associated with each service, including listing fees, commission rates, and payment processing fees. Make sure you understand each platform’s policies regarding returns and customer support, so you can feel confident in your choice.

  4. Set Up Your Storefront: After selecting a platform, it’s time to create an inviting storefront. Use high-quality images of your products, write engaging descriptions, and ensure your pricing reflects the quality of your work. Remember, your storefront is a reflection of your artistic vision.

By taking these steps, you can navigate the world of selling art prints and know how to order art prints to sell with confidence and clarity. Your art deserves to be seen and appreciated!

Promote Your Art Prints

To achieve success, it’s crucial to promote effectively when you order art prints to sell. Let’s explore some nurturing ways to get started:

  1. Embrace Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are wonderful spaces to showcase your artwork. By posting regularly and engaging with your followers, you can create a community around your art, which can help you order art prints to sell. Have you considered using relevant hashtags to boost your visibility?

    • Instagram Stories and Reels: These features are perfect for sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, new releases, and special promotions. They help your audience feel connected to your creative journey.
  2. Cultivate an Email List: Think about creating a newsletter to keep your audience updated on new artworks, sales, and exclusive offers. Encouraging sign-ups through your website and social media can foster a sense of belonging among your followers.

  3. Collaborate with Influencers: Partnering with art influencers or bloggers can be a game-changer. They can help introduce your artworks to a wider audience, significantly expanding your reach. Imagine the ways you can order art prints to sell!

  4. By attending local art fairs or markets, you can order art prints to sell while showcasing your prints in person. This personal touch lets potential customers appreciate the quality of your work firsthand, creating a deeper connection.

  5. Utilize Online Advertising: Consider targeted ads on social media or Google to reach a broader audience. Setting a budget and monitoring your ads’ performance can help you optimize results, ensuring your efforts are effective.

By taking these steps, you can nurture your art promotion efforts and connect with those who will appreciate your work. Remember, every small action can lead to meaningful connections!

Conclusion

Successfully selling art prints can feel daunting, can’t it? It requires a thoughtful approach that covers several key steps, from digitizing your artwork to promoting it effectively. By understanding the nuances of each phase, you can significantly enhance your chances of success in the competitive art market.

This article highlights essential steps to guide you. It starts with the importance of creating high-quality digital versions of your artwork. Then, it discusses selecting the right print materials, identifying suitable selling platforms, and implementing effective promotional strategies. Each step is crafted to empower you, ensuring that your creations are not only preserved but also showcased beautifully to attract buyers.

Ultimately, the journey of selling art prints is a wonderful opportunity for you to share your vision with the world. By embracing these practices, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the market, connect with your audience, and cultivate a thriving art business. Taking action on these insights can lead to meaningful engagement and success, allowing your art to flourish in new and exciting ways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step in digitizing artwork?

The first step is to choose your method of digitization, either by scanning or photographing your artwork.

When should I choose to scan my artwork?

Scanning is ideal for smaller pieces of artwork as it captures intricate details effectively.

What are the requirements for scanning artwork?

Use a high-resolution scanner set to at least 300 DPI, and ensure the scanner glass is clean to avoid blemishes in the image.

When is photography a better option for digitizing artwork?

Photography is better suited for larger works of art.

What equipment is recommended for photographing artwork?

It is recommended to stabilize your camera with a tripod and use a 50mm lens to avoid edge distortion.

What lighting conditions are best for photographing artwork?

Natural light is often the best, but softbox lights can also provide consistent illumination.

What type of backdrop should I use when photographing my artwork?

A simple white or neutral backdrop is recommended to keep the focus on the artwork.

How can I enhance my digital artwork file after capturing it?

You can use editing software like Adobe Photoshop or GIMP to adjust colors, remove imperfections, and crop the image.

What file formats should I save my final digital artwork in?

Save your final file in high-quality formats like TIFF or PNG to maintain clarity and detail.

Why is it important to back up digital files of my artwork?

Backing up digital files on an external hard drive or cloud storage protects against potential data loss, ensuring your artwork remains safe.

What is a test output, and why should I perform one?

A test output is a preliminary print of your digital artwork to ensure that hues and details meet your expectations. It allows for adjustments before mass production.

How does digitizing my artwork benefit me?

Digitizing your artwork preserves your creations and sets the stage for successful sales and presentations when ordering art prints to sell.

List of Sources

  1. Digitize Your Artwork
    • aiprm.com (https://aiprm.com/ai-art-statistics)
    • artsartistsartwork.com (https://artsartistsartwork.com/transitioning-traditional-art-to-digital-product-photos)
    • artsmart.ai (https://artsmart.ai/blog/ai-in-the-art-market-statistics)
    • mordorintelligence.com (https://mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/digital-art-market)
  2. Choose Quality Print Materials
    • mialaing.au (https://mialaing.au/blogs/blog/the-importance-of-quality-art-materials)
    • lumaprints.com (https://lumaprints.com/blog/different-paper-types-and-their-distinctions-cold-press-hot-press-archival-and-semi-gloss?srsltid=AfmBOopQ3pj9NRzpbki0BScheQwXRoLDkzG5Kad72p6fcZQIvt62Vnjk)
    • medium.com (https://medium.com/@malcolm.fernan/the-almost-ultimate-guide-to-types-of-paper-for-artists-a-comprehensive-overview-including-gsm-58e09138bf5f)
    • redrivercatalog.com (https://redrivercatalog.com/rr/best-paper-for-art-printing.html?srsltid=AfmBOor1S2zDuglzyJ8SZ6b1IiG-SJVSNaF1a6B4rVMkBIM7WTMTEef1)
    • color3arte.com (https://color3arte.com/en/que-papel-usan-los-artistas-para-sus-impresiones?srsltid=AfmBOoqSjh26J8gB1oWPRIn8530VL80ieS-KZabm0P33TSoWMeCcX1Xb)
  3. Select Your Selling Platform
    • amraandelma.com (https://amraandelma.com/art-platform-marketing-statistics)
    • statista.com (https://statista.com/topics/5254/global-online-art-market?srsltid=AfmBOorVrQ6JbTkPEAyFDBAWvW-4txv5tUMcIPXVRofKGpaB8p5Ny_Gg)
    • smartbuy.alibaba.com (https://smartbuy.alibaba.com/best-selling/best-site-to-sell-art)
    • printful.com (https://printful.com/blog/etsy-statistics)
    • artworkarchive.com (https://artworkarchive.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-online-platform-for-your-art-sales-goals)
  4. Promote Your Art Prints
    • omnisend.com (https://omnisend.com/blog/email-marketing-statistics)
    • marketingltb.com (https://marketingltb.com/blog/statistics/email-marketing-statistics)
    • kit.com (https://kit.com/resources/blog/email-marketing-stats)
    • optinmonster.com (https://optinmonster.com/email-marketing-statistics)
    • arthelper.ai (https://arthelper.ai/blog/email-marketing-for-artists)

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@kellyswaindesign

Find Kelly on Instagram @kellyswaindesign to see a combination of art, historic architecture, travel and occasionally her dog Bolo while living in Vienna, Austria.

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