The field of graphic design is always dynamic, and there are numerous opportunities for growth in this sphere. For instance, the freelance graphic design market is valued at $43.4 billion, with a prospect of a 3% increase in demand for graphic designers by 2031, as reported by Colorlib.
Fortunately, being a good graphic designer can open up various side hustles. This blog post seeks to explain ten well-known side hustles that graphics designers can take up to make money out of their artistic talent apart from normal jobs.
Top 10 Side Hustles for Graphic Designers
Many graphic designers choose to become graphic designers as a career that they find fulfilling. Some, though, have taken the time to explore other means of earning money so that they can have more freedom in their work and unleash their creative potential. We shall discuss ten side hustles for graphic designers to provide them extra income.
Design Templates for Digital Products
Graphic designers can earn extra income by making templates for digital products, such as web designs, email newsletters, social media graphics, etc.
These reusable templates can be sold on different platforms, enabling these people to earn passive income streams while also showing off their skills. They only require high-quality templates, and then it will be possible for one to sell them in the future with little effort.
Print-on-Demand Merchandise Design
Graphic designers can use print-on-demand services to create custom prints for various products such as t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases. Artists can upload their work on those websites and select what they want to sell.
When a customer makes an order with your design, the platform prints fulfills, and ships the order; therefore, you gain from every sale. This is an excellent approach where web developers can reach out to more people and even establish a following around exclusive creations for themselves.
Freelance Graphic Design Services
Freelancing is a common way graphic designers can generate extra cash; thus, they take on projects with a project-based nature. Online platforms like Upwork or Fiverr help connect designers with clients needing logo designs, branding, and marketing materials. Freelancing enables one to be flexible in choosing the projects that match their interests and specialization.
Creating and Selling Fonts and Assets
Creating fonts and selling them may help these typographers earn some extra income. Platforms like Creative Market are perfect for showcasing your unique typefaces worldwide, where both designers and businesses can easily access them.
This category also involves making and selling design assets such as vector illustrations, icons, patterns, etc., which can provide substantial passive income.
Infographics and Data Visualization
Infographics and data visualization are needed in many industries, from marketing to education. The ability to convert complicated facts into visually attractive infographics is among the most valuable skills that graphic artists possess currently.
Several differently-sized organizations are looking for infographics since they make it efficient to present data insights using an eye-catching approach that entails graphics plus words. As a sideline business, you can offer infographic design services to capitalize on your visualizing expertise.
Teaching Graphic Design Online
Online learning platforms have allowed graphic designers to monetize their expertise by creating and selling online courses. These courses can cover various topics, from graphic design basics to advanced techniques in software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Pursuing this side hustle can help you earn extra income while establishing credibility as a thought leader in the design community.
YouTube Channel for Design Tutorials
Creating a YouTube channel focusing on graphic design tutorials can be a great side hustle for designers. By producing informative and engaging videos, designers can draw the attention of aspiring designers and generate revenue from their channels through advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. YouTube provides a platform for designers to display their skills and establish a community around their content.
Graphic Design Blog with Affiliate Marketing
Creating a graphic design blog is a great way for designers to showcase their creativity, share their knowledge and insights with a broader audience, and display their projects. By including affiliate marketing in their blog, designers can earn passive income by promoting graphic design-related products and services, such as design software, courses, and resources. Consistent blogging can help attract a loyal following and generate revenue over time.
Logo and Branding Services
Designing logos and establishing a consistent brand identity is crucial for businesses and organizations. As a graphic designer, you can offer logo design and branding services as a side job to help clients create a memorable, cohesive brand presence. This may include creating logos, developing brand stylescapes, and designing marketing materials to ensure consistency throughout all branding efforts.
Illustration and Artwork
Graphic designers with a talent for illustration can create and sell their artwork on various online platforms. Whether digital illustrations or hand-drawn artwork, designers can monetize their creative skills and reach a global audience of art enthusiasts. This approach enables designers to express their artistic vision and reach many potential buyers. Illustration and artwork also allow designers to showcase their unique style and build a portfolio of original artwork.
Conclusion
Graphic designers have many side hustle opportunities, from creating digital products to offering freelance services and teaching online courses. By leveraging their design skills and creativity, designers can diversify their income streams, showcase their talents, and achieve financial independence. Additionally, services like Beem‘s Everdraft™ can provide designers financial stability and peace of mind during emergencies.
FAQs
Is graphic designing a good side hustle?
Graphic design can be a great way to earn extra income for those with a creative touch. It offers flexibility, as individuals can choose projects that interest them. Graphic design can be a fulfilling and profitable venture with the right skills and dedication.
What is passive income for graphic design?
Passive income in graphic design refers to earnings generated from assets or activities requiring minimal ongoing effort. This can include selling digital products like templates or fonts, licensing artwork, or earning commissions through affiliate marketing.
What type of graphic design makes the most money?
Graphic design fields such as logo design, branding, and illustration tend to result in higher earnings due to their specialized nature and high demand. Clients appreciate these services’ ability to create memorable and impactful visual identities. Hence, these fields can be lucrative opportunities for graphic designers seeking to maximize their income.
