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THE BLOG

Selling A Painting Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have questions about selling your paintings online, there are a few key steps you can take to make the process easier and more successful. From setting up an online shop to promoting your work on social media, this guide will help you navigate the world of online art sales and build your brand as an artist. Trust me, selling a painting online does not have to be difficult! You will be selling you work in no time!


Determine the value of your work.

Before you can sell, it's important to determine the value of your piece. This can be done by researching similar works of art and their selling prices, researching other emerging artists and their prices, or researching on platforms like Etsy or even Instagram to see what similar work is going for. Keep in mind that factors such as your skill level, following, time as an artist, medium, and more can all affect its value. Once you have a clear understanding of your painting's worth, you can set a fair price for it and begin marketing it to potential buyers.


Choose the right platform to sell your painting.

When it comes to selling a painting online, there are a variety of platforms to choose from. Some popular options include online marketplaces like Etsy, art-specific platforms like Saatchi Art, and social media platforms like Instagram. You also can build your own site on platforms like Squarespace or Shopify. Keep in mind that building your own site will take time and will come with higher startup costs.


Read more about Etsy and if it is right for you here.

Consider the fees associated with each platform, as well as their audience and reach. It's also important to ensure that the platform aligns with your brand and the type of artwork you create. For example, Etsy is great for folk art, crafts, and prints. Saatchi is great for finer works and photographs. Take the time to research and compare different options before making a decision.



Take high-quality photos of your painting.

When selling a painting online, high-quality photos are essential. They allow potential buyers to see the details and colors of your artwork, and can make all the difference in whether or not someone decides to make a purchase. Use a camera with good resolution and lighting (IPhones work great), or consider hiring a professional photographer if that is within your budget. Make sure to take photos from multiple angles and in different lighting conditions to showcase the painting in the best possible way. Edit the photos if necessary to ensure they accurately represent the painting's colors and details.


Learn more about photographing your work here.


Write a compelling description of your painting.

When selling a painting online, the description you provide is just as important as the photos. It should be detailed, informative, and engaging, highlighting the unique features and qualities of your artwork. Start with a catchy headline that grabs the reader's attention, and then provide a brief overview of the painting's subject matter, style, and medium. Be sure to include any relevant details, such as the size, framing, and condition of the painting. Finally, end with a strong call-to-action, encouraging potential buyers contact you for more information.


Promote your painting through social media and other channels.

Once you have your painting listed for sale online, it's important to promote it through various channels to increase its visibility and reach potential buyers. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are great places to showcase your artwork and connect with potential buyers. You can also reach out to art blogs, online galleries, and other websites that feature artwork to see if they would be interested in featuring your work. Additionally, consider running targeted ads on social media or Google to reach a wider audience. The more exposure your painting gets, the more likely it is to sell.


I️ hope you enjoyed this article! Learn more about selling your work through my podcast!

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