Selling art online is a huge project! When I started posting my artwork online I started getting questions about where it could be purchased. I thought, how hard could it be to set that up? So my answer was I’m working on that and will get back to you soon. Wow, I didn’t know what I was in for.
Decisions, Decisions
I really didn’t realize how much time I’d spend on the decision-making process before I ever put one item up for sale. There is so much to think about. There are too many decisions to mention them all but here are a few of my top priorities.
- What all should I sell? Art prints, posters, home decor, stationery, clothing, etc? Should I sell some or all of these?
- Which printing companies are other artists using that meets my goals?
- High-quality products using archival inks and substrates
- Reasonable prices for customers
- Timely shipping with good rates
- Good customer service
- Order automation
- Reasonable profit margins for me
- Ease of use for me and my customers
- How much research is enough? How much is too much?
Some Surprises Along the Way
I had some surprises along the way. Firstly, you can get really bogged down trying to research every review that’s out there. I watched more Youtube videos than I’d care to admit but I believe I got a good sampling. Ultimately, I ruled out a lot of companies that didn’t seem like they’d be a good fit and I narrowed down the contenders to three or four.
I had to omit my first choice which I was reluctant to do. They have exceptional quality prints with fast shipping and stellar customer service but limited products, no automation, and too many printing options to offer to my customers without automation. I’d have to handle each order by hand from start to finish which wouldn’t leave me enough time to do what I love, create art!
I loaded products onto one artist site, which was very easy to do, but there are a few things about the site that make me uneasy. I determined a long time ago that if you have a bad feeling about something, believe it. So although I’ve got a store there, I decided against using it.
Ultimately, I decided to go with my gut. I chose a company that has a beautiful selection of high-quality products with full automation. They do the manufacturing in-house with several quality checks along the way. In addition, they offer a vast array of products. Honestly, I was surprised that my art looked good on more products than I originally considered. I can start with the products I originally had in mind and expand from there. The production time is a little longer than I’d hoped but I believe it’s worth it in the end. Plus, they allow 12 hours before beginning production in case you change your mind, which is nice.
In-House Quality Check – In Progress
I’ve begun my in-house quality check process. My first step, after uploading some products, is to go through the process as a customer. Then I can see how it will be for you and go from there. The process has begun and I’ll post later how they scored. Here are the steps I’ll look at.
- Place an order – Complete It was fast and easy to place my order
- Check communications trail – I received my order confirmation immediately. I’ll expect at least one more when the order ships.
- Shipping – Is the order received as promised and in good condition
- Quality Control – Evaluate the quality of all the products ordered
- Customer Service – How are any problems handled
I’ll Be Back Soon with My Report
I’ll be back soon with my report. Of all the items I ordered the book takes the longest production time. I’m assuming all items will be shipped together and based on the longest production time I’ll be back in a couple of weeks. I’m excited to receive everything and can hardly wait to report back.