Our most frequently asked
questions about Art Licensing
File Set Up
Do I need to mock up my art?
1
For freelance projects, mockups are essential to show how your art will be used. For licensing, mockups aren’t necessary because buyers know what they’re looking for. They work great on social though!
What size and resolution should I work in?
2
Since your work can get placed on tons of different products, we always recommend creating larger than intended (ex. double the size) and at high resolution (300-600 DPI). This ensures flexibility for scaling.
What file types are acceptable?
3
You’ll be sending native, editable files to clients. Layered Photoshop files (PSD), TIFFs or vector files (AI) work great. Avoid JPEGs or Procreate files for final files unless specified by the client.
Do I have to vector my work?
4
Vectors are useful for logos or scalable designs but aren’t required for art licensing. Raster files should suffice, but always confirm with the client first. Vector often lends itself to a specific style which has the bonus of scalability.
What software programs shoulD I use?
5
I’m a fine artist, how do i deliver files?
6
Scan your artwork using a high-quality scanner. If the artwork is large, scan in sections and stitch them together in Photoshop. You can also do any color adjustments here too.
Yes. Procreate is great for sketching and even for creating your finished raster artwork. When exporting your final file, however, we recommend saving it as a .psd and making final adjustments in Photoshop. We recommend a basic understanding of Photoshop.
CAN I WORK IN PROCREATE?
7
We love Procreate for initial creation and Photoshop for final touches, but your workflow might look different.
Website Design
Should my portfolio be web-based or a print catalog?
1
Web-based portfolios are the standard today. Print catalogs are only necessary for trade shows or in-person meetings. Focus on creating an accessible and professional online portfolio.
WHERE SHOULD I BUILD MY WEBSITE AND PORTFOLIO?
2
We love Squarespace. It’s easy to use and has tons of room for customization. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel
with the design of your site—let your work shine!
Should I separate freelance work from licensing work on
my website?
3
Yes! We use dropdown menus to separate freelance and licensing. Freelance work showcases custom projects, while licensing work displays artwork available for purchase. Make it really clear that
you offer both and what each entails.
What should I include on my website?
4
Your website should focus on your work and voice. Include an about page, your licensing portfolio, freelance work if you offer it, and feel free to sprinkle in some accolades or client reviews. Make sure there’s a really clear way for people to
get in touch too.
Marketing
DO I NEED A BIG SOCIAL FOLLOWING TO GET LICENSING JOBS?
1
You don’t need a following to get jobs, but it is important to share your work online somewhere so people can discover it, especially if you aren’t working with an agent. Find the platform or ways that work best for you!
What social media platforms should I use?
2
Choose platforms that align with your goals and energy. Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest are popular options for artists. There’s no right answer, so find what works for you and don’t spread yourself too thin.
How do I organize outreach?
3
Keep a spreadsheet of all the companies you want to reach out to. When you send an email make sure you document it so you can plan when to follow up again especially if you have new work to share.
Stock sites like Spoonflower can be useful for exposure, but they differ from traditional licensing. Evaluate if they align with your goals, and then decide which site you want to try. If a client asks you to take it down so they can license it, you can decide if it's worth it to you. Look for resources on the site you chose so you can get the most out of it. They definitely aren't a "set it and forget it" deal.
You don't need an agent to be successful, but agents can be a great fit for some! An agent will take 30-50% of your payment, which is a big chunk, but they're doing a ton of the outreach and client management on your behalf.
Yes, create a mailing list for art directors and buyers. Send updates about new work quarterly or monthly.
Should I license my work through stock sites?
4
Should I have aN e-mail list?
6
DO I NEED AN AGENT TO BE SUCCESSFUL?
5
Finances
how do i price my work?
1
Refer to resources like the Graphic Artists Guild Handbook and pricing guides. Price based on the scope of rights granted‚ (higher prices for broader rights).
How do I get paid and how often?
2
You'll likely get paid in royalties, which is a percentage of sales and are often paid quarterly, but payments may take time to start depending on how quickly products are released once your art is licensed. Flat fees are also common, or a combination of flat fees and royalties.
HOW DO I KNOW IF A CLIENT IS GIVING ME EVERYTHING I EARNED?
3
Your contracts should give you a “right to audit” which means that you can request to see the clients books if you think they aren’t paying you fairly. Reports should be sent by the client automatically with your royalties to avoid any miscalculations.
How much money can i make with art licensing?
4
This really comes down to how much work you put into it. With a strong portfolio and outreach strategy, you can make a six figure income. More commonly we see people using it to supplement their other income. It's an incredible way to diversify your income stream's, especially when done strategically.
Legalities
Should I watermark my art?
1
Adding a watermark is optional. We don't do it, as we find it distracting. Only posting low-resolution images on your website is a good step way to protect your work.
Should I copyright or trademark my art?
2
Copyright protects individual pieces of art, while trademarks protect brand names or logos. You can copyright your work in collections to help offset the cost. You will need to have filed for copyright in order to take legal action against someone who has wrongfully used your work.
Should I send my contract or use the client’s?
3
Have a contract ready but be open to using the clients if they provide one. Ensure all terms are clear and don’t hesitate to ask them questions if anything is confusing or if you see any red flags.
Want more?
Join our six month program, The Art Licensing Blueprint
We put everything we know about licensing into this comprehensive six month program. You’ll get access to 29 hours of content including:
• 3 modules featuring in-depth video lessons on how to break into licensing
• 15 bonuses including 100 portfolio prompts
• Access to a private community (and TWO coaches) where you can ask questions connect with other artists and share your work for feedback
• Information about copyrighting and how to actually protect your work. Our lawyer breaks it all down in her session.
• Lessons from an art licensing agent about what she’s looking for when sifting through portfolios
• and more!
SAVE $100 AND JOIN NOW!