Turning artwork into products: A guide for artists and creators

Ever wondered how to take your beautiful creations off the canvas and into the hands of art enthusiasts? Turning artwork into products doesn’t have to be a dream—it's an exciting and profitable journey that you can start today.

Whether you have an art business or are selling art for the first time, this guide will walk you through every step of the process, from digitizing your art to choosing the perfect products that resonate with your audience.

We'll also explore the possibilities that print on demand service platforms like Gelato offer, making it easier than ever to produce high-quality prints, apparel, and custom items that showcase your creativity.

• You can sell various types of art products, including print on demand, original, and digital art products.

• The best print on demand products for showcasing your artwork are physical prints, apparel, tote bags, phone cases, and mugs.

• Turn your art into sellable products using print on demand services like Gelato, from digitizing artwork to launching your online store to sell art online.

• Creating product mockups and configuring payment and shipping options are some ways to successfully set up branded packaging and inserts for selling prints.

• Promote your artwork effectively and start selling digital products and custom art products globally with Gelato's services.

Art products have many offerings, from prints to digital downloads and one-of-a-kind originals. Here's an exploration of the many products artwork translates to. 

Print on demand art products

Print on demand art products offer a hassle-free way for artists to showcase and sell their work. From high-quality art prints and canvas prints to custom-designed t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases, these products allow you to share your creativity. It's the perfect solution to expanding your reach far and wide without the hassles of managing inventory!

Original art products

Original art can range from paintings and sculptures to handmade crafts. Selling original art often means higher prices since buyers pay for exclusivity and uniqueness. Focusing on quality and authenticity is essential, ensuring each piece stands out. While it might require more effort, the rewards are gratifying as you connect directly with art collectors and those who appreciate the handcrafted touch.

Digital art products

These art products are a fantastic way to share your creativity without the complications of shipping and storage. These can include downloadable prints, digital wallpapers, and even custom illustrations. Digital art products allow your customers to access your work instantly while you benefit from lower overhead costs. The versatility and convenience of digital products make them a popular pick.

You can transform your artwork into cherished items with various print on demand products. Here are some POD products to explore. 

Physical art prints

Bring your artwork to life with finely crafted physical art prints. Artists can choose from fine art prints, canvas prints, framed prints, and posters. Each option offers different finishes, paper types, and sizes, providing buyers with a range of choices to suit their preferences and decor.

T-shirts and apparel

Elevate your art by turning it into unique, custom clothing that people will love to wear. Whether it's bold, eye-catching designs or intricate, detailed patterns, apparel items like t-shirts and hoodies provide the perfect canvas to showcase your creativity. Create pieces that make a statement and allow your fans to carry your art with them wherever they go.

Tote bags

Tote bags are a stylish and practical canvas for your art. They offer endless possibilities, whether you choose to showcase bold, vibrant designs or subtle, intricate patterns. They’re versatile and in high demand, and they’re eco-friendly and reusable, which resonates well with today’s environmentally conscious consumers.

Phone cases

Phone cases are essential accessories that protect devices while offering a personalized touch. With print on demand services, artists can create custom-designed phone cases featuring unique artwork, patterns, or messages. Available for various phone models, these cases combine style and functionality, making them popular among art enthusiasts and tech users alike.

Mugs and drinkware

Mugs and drinkware offer a creative way to showcase your artwork or designs. From coffee mugs to tumblers, these customizable items provide a practical and personal touch. Perfect for gifts or daily use, they allow you to turn ordinary drinkware into unique, high-quality products that reflect your artistic style.

With an idea of all the product offerings you can sell, it's time to follow a step-by-step guide to transforming those masterpieces into sellable products.

1. Create and digitize your artwork

To kickstart the journey of turning art into sellable products, the first step is creating and digitizing your artwork. Here's how you can go about this process of creating digital prints:

• Scan or photograph: Use a high-quality scanner or camera. For photographs, ensure even lighting and a high resolution for vibrant, accurate reproductions.

• Edit and enhance: Utilize editing software like Photoshop or GIMP to touch up your images. Enhance colors, correct imperfections, and ensure the artwork looks its best.

• Save in the right format: Save your digitized files in high resolution, typically in formats like PNG or TIFF, which are ideal for high-quality prints.

2. Sign up for a Gelato account

Now that your art is digitized, follow these simple steps to sign up: 

• Visit the signup page: Head to Gelato’s signup page and enter your name, email, and password.

• Verify your email: Keep an eye out for an email notification from Gelato. Click the link in that email to confirm your account.

• Set up your profile: Personalize your account by adding profile details and setting your preferences.

3. Choose the right products for your art style

When choosing the right products for your art, it's essential to consider your work's technique and overall aesthetic. Here are some key factors to keep in mind: 

• Art style: Bold and vibrant canvas prints often translate well to items like wall art, while more subtle, intricate pieces might be better suited to fine art prints.

• Target audience: Consider what products would resonate with your audience. Young adults might prefer trendy t-shirts, while collectors might lean towards high-quality prints.

• Durability and quality: Ensure the materials used for your chosen products are of high quality to preserve the integrity of your artwork.

4. Upload your digital files

Once you’ve digitized your artwork, the next step is to upload your files. Using Gelato's platform, you can easily upload your files in a few simple steps: 

• Prepare high-resolution files: Your digital files should be high-resolution (at least 300 DPI) to guarantee sharp, clear prints.

• Select appropriate formats: Gelato supports several file formats, including JPEG, PNG, and TIFF. Ensure your files are in the correct format for optimal results.

• Use the upload tool: Utilize Gelato's user-friendly upload tool, which allows you to drag and drop files directly into your account.

5. Design and customize products

Now that your digital files are ready, it's time to customize your products. With Gelato's Design Maker, you can effortlessly bring your creative visions to life. Here are some key features to explore: 

• Choose from various templates: The Design Maker offers many templates suited to different product types, making the design process quick and easy.

• Customize easily: Add your personal touch by adjusting colors, fonts, and layouts to match your artistic style perfectly.

• Access intuitive tools: Utilize a range of intuitive design tools that cater to both beginners and experienced designers.

6. Create product mockups

Creating product mockups is a fantastic way to see how your designs will look on various products before making them available for sale. Gelato's mockup generator is an easy-to-use tool that can help streamline this process:

• Select the right products: Choose from various products available on Gelato to match your art style.

• Customize placement: Adjust the placement and size of your artwork on the product to ensure optimal appearance.

• Preview your designs: Use Gelato's mockup generator for a realistic preview of your customized products.

7. Set up your online store

With your product designs in place, it's time to set up your online store. Gelato's integrations with ecommerce platforms make managing your products and sales easy. 

Here are the essential steps to get your store up and running:

• Customize your store: Create a visually appealing store that reflects your brand and unique style. Use templates and design tools to add personal touches.

• Add your products: List your Gelato-designed products with catchy descriptions and high-quality images. Highlight features that will attract customers.

• Set pricing: Determine your prices based on production costs, competition, and the value you believe your art brings to customers.

8. Configure payment and shipping options

Once your products are designed and your store is set up, it's crucial to configure your payment and shipping options to ensure a smooth customer experience. Here's how you can do this:

• Payment gateways: Choose reliable payment gateways like PayPal or Stripe to handle transactions securely.

• Shipping rates: Determine your shipping rates based on destination, product weight, and delivery speed.

• Delivery timelines: Clearly communicate delivery timelines and any potential delays to keep customers informed.

9. Order samples

Before launching your store, it’s crucial to order samples of your products to ensure your artwork looks good and meets your standards for quality. Here's what you need to check:

• Verify product quality: Check the print quality, colors, and materials to ensure they match your expectations.

• Inspect packaging: Evaluate the packaging to determine if it is protective and appealing.

• Adjust: Use your findings to tweak your designs or product choices as necessary.

10. Launch your store

Now that you’ve set everything up, it’s time for the big moment—launching your store! But before you hit that launch button, make sure you’ve covered these essential final steps: 

• Test your user experience: Navigate through your store like a customer. Check for any errors or confusing elements.

• Ensure all products are properly listed: Double-check that all your creations are uploaded with accurate descriptions, prices, and high-quality images.

• Promote your launch: Share the news on social media, send out newsletters, and perhaps even offer a launch discount to attract initial customers.

11. Monitor and optimize

Once your online store is up and running, monitoring performance and continuously optimizing your offerings is crucial. Here are some essential steps to cover:

• Analyze sales data: Regularly check your sales figures to identify trends, best-sellers, and underperforming products.

• Customer feedback: Pay attention to customer reviews and comments, as they can provide invaluable insights into what works and what needs improvement.

• Track marketing efforts: Monitor the performance of your marketing campaigns to see what's driving traffic and sales and adjust your strategies accordingly.

12. Set up branded packaging and inserts

Consider setting up branded packaging and inserts to add a professional touch to your products. With Gelato’s custom packaging options, you can create a unique unboxing journey for your customers. This will help showcase your:

• Brand identity: Use branded packaging to reinforce your brand's identity in your customers' minds. Custom colors, logos, and designs can make your packaging stand out.

• Custom inserts: Personalize your packages with personalized thank-you notes or care instructions. Small touches like these can make a big difference in how your brand is perceived.

• Sustainable options: Gelato also offers eco-friendly packaging solutions. Show your commitment to sustainability by opting for these environmentally friendly choices.

13. Promote your products

When it comes to promoting your products, there are plenty of strategies to spread the word about your artwork effectively. Here are some key tactics to consider: 

• Start a blog or vlog: Sharing the behind-the-scenes process, tips, and stories about your artwork can engage your audience and attract new visitors to your online store.

• Collaborate with influencers: Partnering with influencers in the art and design community can help you reach a larger audience and build credibility.

• Invest in paid advertising: Utilize Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Instagram Ads to target specific demographics and drive traffic to your online store.

Turning your artwork into tangible products is something you can do sitting in the comfort of your studio (or home!), using Gelato's print on demand platform. 

With our global network of printing partners, you can ensure your artwork reaches customers quickly, no matter where they are. We have partnered with over 130 print partners in 34 countries, which means all your products will be created and shipped through localized printing hubs. 

By choosing Gelato, you not only expand your reach but also contribute to a more sustainable future, making your creative process eco-friendly.

Sign up for Gelato and choose a subscription plan to start turning your art into stunning products your fans and followers will love.