I have been a Graphic Designer for many years, I love to create things that are new, unique, and inspire others. But it’s not always about having fun. It’s a profession, a profession that has to be paid for.

So in today’s post, I wanted to write down a few of the best ways graphic designers can make a living online.

How does a graphic designer make money? 

Well, like most people, we create things and get paid for that. Our skills range from packaging design to creating corporate identities.

But are there any other ways to make money, you might ask. Can I make money myself on the side, or even as a living? Sure you can! And in today’s post, I give you six ways you can. Curious, keep on reading!

Create and Sell Templates.

And I am not just talking about templates for websites, for which you might need some HTML knowledge.

But I am talking about anything that could be a template, from posters to eBooks.

Just take Canva for example. They have a ton of templates, many of which are pay-to-use. Every time somebody buys a template that you created you earn a fee.

Create courses.

If you are a skilled designer, chances are there are people that want to learn those skills as well.

They will go to places like Udemy to find courses that can teach them how to learn graphic design.

So, you could create a course and teach people how to use photoshop, illustrator, design rules, etc. Every Time somebody watches your course you get paid. And the best thing, you just need to create the course once.

Sell designs on Print On Demand sites.

As a designer, you can earn money for your designs, art, illustrations, and photos on Print on demand sites.

What are they? They are places like Society6.com, Zazzle.com or Redbubble.com. You simply upload your design, place them on their products, and as soon as somebody buys them you get paid. Don’t worry about printing and shipping, the supplier takes care of that.

Or you can create a Shopify store and use Printify to add products to it.

Design and sell your own Fonts.

New fonts are still being created today, and you can earn money with them as well. If you love fonts and you love to create them, you can sell them in places like Esty or creative market.

Or you sell exclusive rights to big companies, you can do this on your own website, or use Behance.

You can also try to partner with Monotype.com and get your fonts distributed through their platforms.

Create “pre-designed” logos.

One way you can earn money online is by creating pre-designed logos and icons. These are logos that do not have an owner yet and can be sold on logo marketplaces.

Places like newglue.com where you simply upload your logo icons. All the customer has to do is change the name, colors, etc. And you get paid every time somebody uses your logo icon.

Fiverr also has a logo maker. I’m not sure how it works, but maybe you can sell your logos there as well. Just google a little and I’m sure you will find more places. Otherwise, just stick with Newglue.

Become a freelance designer.

Last but not least, a popular way for many graphic designers to make money online is by becoming a freelancer. You can find jobs on platforms like Fiverr (one of my most recommended places), Freelancer.com, Upwork, or 99Designs.

Or you can try to find customers yourself by contacting local businesses and asking them if they are in need of freelancers. Local is not necessary, but it is probably easier.

Although you might have to start at a lower rate, you can increase your hourly rate over time.

I hope this article has inspired you a little. Don’t forget, no matter what you choose, success isn’t guaranteed and you still have to work hard to make it work. Good luck! But stay motivated and I’m sure you can do it!

Ron.