Pricing Your Artwork As a New Artist
Pricing your art can feel like one of the most intimidating parts of starting your creative career. You want to be fair but also attract buyers and avoid undervaluing your work. But the real question is, where do you even start?
1. Understand Your Costs
Start by working out the actual cost of creating your piece. This can include:
Materials (paint, canvas, paper, etc.)
Tools and equipment
Studio rent or workspace costs
Time spent creating the piece
Even if you’re just starting out, your time and resources matter.
2. Factor in Your Time
Think of your time as part of the value. A simple formula that I like to start with is:
Hourly Rate × Hours Spent + Material Costs = Base Price
If you spent 10 hours on a piece and want to earn £15/hour, and materials cost £20:
(10 × £15) + £20 = £170
This gives you a baseline to work from. If you’re not sure what you should charge as an hourly rate, base this on your level of experience first, and focus the value on the exposure, rather than the monetary value to start with. Over time, you’ll know what to charge. Otherwise, do some research on other pieces at the same standard or speak to other artists! (including me, feel free to drop me a message on socials!)
3. Research the Market
Look at what other emerging artists in your niche and area are charging. Check platforms like:
Etsy
Saatchi Art
Instagram shops
Local art fairs or galleries
Facebook art groups
4. Consider The Size and Complexity
Larger or more detailed pieces typically command higher prices. You can create a pricing structure based on size:
Small (A5–A4): £50–£150
Medium (A3–A2): £150–£400
Large (A1+): £400+
Again, adjust based on your experience and demand.
5. Don’t Undervalue Yourself
It’s tempting to price low to make sales, but this can hurt your long-term growth. Low prices may signal low quality to buyers. Instead:
Offer smaller, more affordable pieces
Create prints or digital downloads
Use discounts strategically, not constantly
Remember, word of mouth is a very valuable tool when it comes to new business, so start as you mean to go on and have consistent prices. By all means, offer discounts but within reason.
6. Be Transparent
Include pricing on your website or social media. Make it easy for buyers to understand what they’re paying for and why.
Offer clear descriptions
Include shipping costs or note if they’re extra
Be upfront about commissions or custom work
An added bonus is if they can contact you directly with any questions, give that personal element
7. Adjust Over Time
As your skills, reputation, and demand grow, so should your prices. Track what sells, gather feedback, and don’t be afraid to raise your rates gradually.
Final Thoughts
Pricing your art is part science, part intuition. Start with a fair baseline, research your market, and trust your value. The right buyers will recognise your worth and your pricing will reflect your growth as an artist.
