Where to Sell Your Digital Illustrations + How to Promote Them

Sure it’s fun to make cool art and show it to people…but you know what’s cooler yet? When people buy your art cuz they’re obbbbsessed! Seriously, it’s the best feeling. So, grab that iPad, draw some digital illustrations, and listen up, I’m about to tell you exactly where you should sell your art!

BTW - if you’re serious about selling or licensing your work, I take you through the exact process in my digital workbook “Learn to License Art.” I HIGHLY recommend grabbing that and getting started on your journey of getting your art out in the world!

Social media

Let’s get started with the best one!! Platforms like Instagram, Tiktok, and Facebook can be used not just to chit chat, but to freakin sell!!! I have sold on all of them, and honestly, it’s just such a quick way to reach your customers that it’s a total no-brainer. And when I say I sell right there on the app, yes it’s possible, BUT it’s more likely that they go to my website first, so always, always, always have a link provided! And don’t think that sharing once in a blue moon with get you a sale, share your illustrations regularly and interact with your peeps by responding to comments and messages. If you’re getting serious about selling, you can also consider running paid advertisements on these platforms to reach a larger audience.

Online marketplaces

I’ve used both Etsy & Society6 to make sales, although I don’t use them a lot anymore. These sites are popular online marketplaces where you can sell digital illustrations, art pieces, and products. To promote your work on these platforms, use keywords in your product descriptions, take high-quality photos of your work aka not dark photos! If you don’t have your own personal website, these are ideal places you can send people to buy your work.

Your own website:

Having your own website, ideally an e-commerce site, is the best way to showcase your work and reach potential customers. I use Squarespace but have used Shopify & WordPress in the past - they each have their benefits and drawbacks. I personally believe that making sure your website is professional and easy to navigate is sooo important. Boring websites are sooo 1999. And then of course include a portfolio of your work, services, and prices, and remember to update it often!

Networking

A simple way to grow your audience and get sales is to attend events, join online communities, and connect with other creatives in your field. Remember: collaboration over competition! Building relationships with clients, fellow artists, and buyers can help you find new customers and promote your work.

Offer Sales

Consider offering discounts, freebies, or limited-time promotions to attract new customers and encourage sales. You can also think about doing time-sensitive sales such as a 24-hour sale, which pushes people to buy more quickly.

Using a combo of these platforms and promotions allows you to effectively reach potential customers and sell your digital illustrations. Woohoo! Just remember to stay up to date with all the methods - It's important to continually improve your skills, create new work, and stay active on your chosen platforms to stay relevant and grow your audience.