25 Creative & Artistic Side Hustles That Make Thousands!

Last Updated April 28, 2024 by Davina Kelly

Are you looking for creative side hustles to monetise your skills? The days of the starving artist are long gone. Now there are many ways to increase your income by leveraging your artistic passions.

Whether you are a graphic designer, an artist or have many creative talents there are multiple ways to turn your skills into a profitable side hustle. 

Working a 9 – 5 job alone isn’t cutting it anymore. With the cost of living and inflation continuing to rise, having a side hustle is a smart way to diversify your income. So if you are looking for ways to make extra money using your creative skills I’ve got you covered.

In this post, you are going to learn the best side hustles for artists along with creative side jobs you can do from home.

After reading this post, you will have many artistic side hustle ideas that are fun and fulfilling and have the potential to become a profitable business. 

This post is all about creative side hustles.

25 Best Creative Side Hustles:

1. Graphic Design

With the increase in demand for visually appealing content, graphic design has become a sought-after skill. If you are creative, artistic and good at using design software like Adobe and Illustrator you can offer your services as a graphic designer. 

There are many different ways to monetise your skills as a graphic designer. You can design logos, branding materials, social media graphics and even thumbnail designs for YouTube videos. 

To find success as a graphic designer you need to build a portfolio to show your range of styles. Next, you need to find clients so networking is key. Show your work on social media to build a following and pitch to clients you want to work with directly. 

2. Photography

If you are a skilled photographer or just enjoy the process of capturing beautiful moments you can start a photography side hustle. You can specialise in event photography, portraits, landscapes or product photography. Or you could offer photoshoots and family portraits. 

Choosing one area of photography to specialise in will make you stand out, become known as an expert in that niche and charge your clients a premium price. For example, you could specialise in landscape photography.

Another option is to sell your photos on stock websites like Adobe Stock, Shutterstock and Depositphotos. People are always looking for images to use on their websites and this is a great way to make passive income.

To build your client base you can network with other photographers, attend events, join Facebook groups and most importantly show your work on social media. 

3. Blogging

Blogging isn’t just about writing. It allows you to share your insights about your creativity and provide value to others. It is also a great way to build your personal brand.

Starting a blog is a very lucrative creative side hustle and is perfect for people who enjoy expressing their creativity through writing. Whether you’re passionate about art, baking, pottery or ceramics you can share your unique perspectives through your blog. 

To make money from your blog you need to have consistent traffic and that does take some time to build. But once you do you can make money through advertising, affiliate marketing and sponsored posts. Once you have built your audience and get to know them you can even sell digital products like printables, ebooks or courses. 

To get started you need to choose a niche. Make sure it is a subject you enjoy and are passionate about because you will be writing about it a lot. Then you need to set up your blog. You can read here to learn how to start a blog step by step.

4. Web Design

Having an online presence has become super important for businesses in today’s digital landscape. So having a visually appealing website is essential.

Web design is a great creative side hustle for anyone who is good at design and has strong technical skills. A lot of small businesses need websites but don’t have the time or skills to create them so they will pay top dollar for a good web designer. 

You can also create website templates for popular platforms like WordPress. This is a great option for people who aren’t tech-savvy and can’t afford a web designer. The theme I currently have on my blog is a template I bought on Etsy. 

Platforms like Etsy and Shopify are a good place to sell them and this can be a passive income stream. 

If you have some web design knowledge but want to learn more you can take courses on platforms like SkillShare. Or you can utilise free resources like YouTube. Once you have perfected your skills you need to create a portfolio to showcase your work. 

You can then look for work on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Or you can reach out to small businesses in your area to let them know about your services. 

5. Host Workshops

Sharing your knowledge and expertise through workshops is a fulfilling way to monetise your creative skills. It is also a great way to build a community of like-minded people.

First, you need to decide what you want to teach. You can teach others how to draw, paint, sharpen their photography skills or make pottery. Once you have chosen your subject you can organise your workshops. 

You can host your workshops online or in local community centres. I recommend having both options to be flexible. To find clients you can promote your workshop through word of mouth, local groups and social media.

6. Calligraphy

Calligraphy is a timeless and elegant art form and is perfect for people who have a passion for handwriting. 

You can monetise your skills by offering calligraphy services for invitations, events, and personalised gifts. You can also sell handmade greeting cards on platforms such as Etsy or Shopify. Another option is to teach workshops to up and coming calligraphers. 

Showcasing your designs on social media and networking with small business owners can also lead to opportunities. 

7. Event Planning

If you are the go-to person among your friends and family for organising get-togethers consider starting an event planning side hustle.  Event planning is the perfect blend of organising and creative skills. 

As an event planner, you will have the opportunity to work on different types of events from weddings and anniversaries to corporate events. Each event will allow you to express your creativity and bring your client’s vision to life. 

Event planning can be demanding but it is a lucrative creative side hustle. You can charge $500 – $1,000 per event depending on the event’s size and requirements. 

To find opportunities you need to build your portfolio and network with other events planners and vendors. Also, show your work on social media to attract clients. 

8. Video Editing

Video content is king and is a big part of most businesses’ marketing strategy. So skilled video editors are in high demand. 

You can offer your services to edit videos for small businesses and content creators. Or you can specialise in cinematic storytelling. If you specialise in one niche you can become an expert and charge top dollar. For example, you can specialise in editing YouTube shorts. 

To get clients you can pitch to creators or business owners you want to work with directly. Send them an email and include an example of how you can improve their current content. By being proactive you will stand out and have clients lining up to work with you.  

9. Baking & Cake Decorating

Are you always on cake duty for family and friend’s birthdays and events? Why not turn your culinary skills into a side hustle? 

You can make cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, and cakesicles for events and celebrations such as birthdays and weddings. Offering custom cakes for events like weddings can be a high-ticket service you can include to upscale. 

To get started you can let your family and friends know about your new venture, I’m sure they will be happy to spread the word. Also, network with other bakers and local small businesses and post your beautiful creations on social media. This will help you attract clients and build a following. 

10. Write eBooks

If you have a way with words and enjoy storytelling why not write eBooks and become a self-published author? This is a perfect side hustle for people who enjoy the art of writing. 

You can write fiction, non-fiction, poetry or teach people how to do something. For example, if you are a nutritionist you could write an eBook to teach people how to eat healthy. If you focus on a niche you could earn a lot of money as an author and it is passive income. 

Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct offer a hassle-free path to distribute and publish your eBook. Read here to learn how to publish your book on Amazon KDP. 

11. Freelance Writing

In today’s content-driven world, skilled writers are in high demand. This is another creative side hustle idea for people who enjoy writing. You can write blog posts and articles or ghostwrite eBooks. 

To get started decide what type of writer you want to be. For example, if you love makeup you can specialise in writing makeup articles. Specialising in niche will position you as an expert and attract high-paying clients. 

You can look for jobs on platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr. Or you can sign up to an agency or pitch to clients you want to work with. 

12. Copywriting

If you enjoy writing and are skilled in persuasion you can start a copywriting side hustle. Copywriters are responsible for writing compelling copy to sell products and engage customers. You probably read copy every day without realising it. 

As a copywriter, you may be required to write sales copy, website content or email marketing campaigns. You can work on many different projects with clients from all over the world. This is a flexible side hustle and a lucrative way to monetise your writing skills. 

Network with other copywriters, participate in forums and advertise on social media to find opportunities. You can also pitch to clients you want to work with. 

13. Digital Marketing

Businesses are constantly seeking skilled marketers to help them stand out online and reach their target audience. This has created a huge demand for digital marketers. 

You can specialise in social media management, offer digital marketing services or help businesses develop online marketing strategies. Marketing is crucial so you can make up to $1,000 a week as a digital marketer. 

To get started you can offer your services to small local businesses for free. This will allow you to build your portfolio and establish credibility. 

14. Interior Designer

Do you have a passion for planning and creating aesthetic spaces? Why not start an interior design side hustle? This can be a fulfilling creative side hustle and has the potential to become a very lucrative business. Watch this video to learn how Sophia Lee started her blog about dorm room decor and now runs a 7 figure interior design business.  

As an interior designer, you can offer home staging services, renovation projects and commercial design. Or you can offer interior design consulting services. If you choose a niche and provide high-end design you can attract high-paying clients and make a lot of money.

To get started you need to build a portfolio. This is key because clients will want to see examples of your work. You can do this by working on projects with your friends and family and documenting your process. 

To find opportunities you can network with local businesses and real estate agents. Also, utilise social media to showcase your work and attract clients.

Artistic Side Hustles

15. Sell Digital Art

Digital art is very popular and is a great way for artists to monetise their skills. This artistic side hustle is a great option for digital artists because it allows them to sell their work to a wider audience. 

You can create digital paintings, wall art or landscapes from the comfort of your home and sell them online. Platforms like Etsy and Shopify are good places to get started selling your art, but their fees are quite high.

So once you have built an online presence you can sell your pieces on your own website and make more money.  

To get started, create your online shop. I recommend Etsy because they are the most popular marketplace for digital art. Then create your social media profile on the same day. Posting on social media will drive traffic to your shop and allow you to get commission opportunities. 

To increase your visibility and attract customers network with other digital artists and participate in online forums. 

16. Art YouTube Channel

Creating a YouTube channel dedicated to your art is a very lucrative side hustle for creatives. YouTube is the second largest social media platform with billions of users consuming video content daily. So you will have access to a wide global audience.

You can create videos that show your art process, share techniques and give tips to artists who want to improve their skills. 

Another option is to create art tutorials to teach beginners. I watch these videos with my niece and nephew and follow along to create drawings all the time. We usually watch Art Hub for kids lol 

To monetise your YouTube channel you need to have 1,000 subscribers or 4,000 watch hours in 12 months. Once you have reached this threshold you can make money through ads, sponsorships and affiliate marketing. After you have built a loyal following you can also make money through Patreon and sell products like art supplies. 

If you create content consistently and engage with your audience by responding to comments you can grow your channel and build a community. 

17. Illustration

If you are talented in drawing or digital art you can monetise your skills by becoming an illustrator. 

You can use your skills to sell your art online, offer commissions or you can be a book illustrator. This is one of the most lucrative ways to make money as an illustrator. How cool would it be to see your work printed in a book? 

The first step in becoming an illustrator is building an online presence, you can do this by utilising social media. This will also help you attract clients for commissions. To find opportunities you can network with authors and publishers and attend art shows and illustration fairs. 

I came across this illustrator on YouTube who makes over $10,000 a month using her art skills. Watch here to learn more about her different income streams and get inspiration. 

18. Design Graphic T-Shirts

Designing graphic t-shirts is a great creative side hustle for artists who enjoy graphic design and fashion. You can design t-shirts with positive quotes, slogans or your favourite characters.  

Print-on-demand is a great way to sell your beautiful designs. This model will allow you to focus on creating your t-shirts without worrying about inventory and shipping. Read here to learn more about how dropshipping works.

Platforms like Etsy, Amazon and Shopify are great options to get started. Utilise social media to promote your designs and attract customers. 

19. Sell Handmade Crafts

There is a huge market for handmade products so if you are creative and enjoy working with your hands you can tap in. 

Whether you are a skilled knitter, talented woodworker or a DIY queen selling handmade crafts is a great way to monetise your creativity. I came across this Polymer clay artist on YouTube who makes $13,000 a month. Watch here to learn how she monetised her skills and get inspiration. 

To get started you can sell your unique designs on Etsy. This is a good option because Etsy has a huge global marketplace and getting started is easy. Read here to learn how to create your Etsy shop. 

To stand out and make sales on Etsy you need to create unique designs, take high-quality listing photos and use keywords to list your products. You can also use social media to drive traffic to your store. 

20. Makeup Artist

If you are a beauty girl and enjoy expressing your creativity through makeup you can offer your services as a makeup artist. 

You can do bridal makeup, photoshoots, events or production and make a lot of money. If you specialise in one area you can charge a premium price. 

To get started you need to build a portfolio. You can offer to do your friend’s makeup and showcase your skills on social media. You can also market your services through word of mouth and networking at events. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are good options to find freelance work. 

Related: 17 Beauty Side Hustles To Make Extra Money

21. Commission Artist

Offering commission art is another lucrative artistic side hustle. You can offer commission family and pet portraits, custom illustrations or drawings. This side hustle allows you to showcase your unique style and cater to the client’s specific preferences.

The best place to find clients is social media. You can utilise the platforms to promote your work for free and attract clients. 

22. Personal Stylist

If you have a passion for fashion and a keen eye for style you can offer your services as a personal stylist. Most people would love to elevate their style but don’t know how to go about it so you can help guide them. 

You can offer wardrobe consulting, shopping services, styling sessions or help your clients put looks together for events. Fashion is personal, so helping your clients look and feel their best can lead to repeat business and referrals. It is also a rewarding way to make money. 

Utilise social media platforms and network with fashion bloggers, influencers and designers to find opportunities. 

23. Music Creator

For music lovers with a passion for expressing themselves through sound, you can become a music creator. If you are creative and have technical skills this can be a very rewarding side hustle. You can use your skills to create the soundtrack to people’s lives.

If you are looking for a way to get your music out without signing to a label you can put your music on epidemic sounds. Most of the music you hear in the background of YouTube videos is from artists on Epidemic Sounds. So your music will reach a wide audience. 

This platform will pay you money upfront plus a fee whenever your music is selected. Read here to learn more about how artists can work with Epidemic Sounds. 

24. Sell Online Art Courses

Online courses are a very popular and convenient way for people to learn new skills. If you enjoy teaching and are passionate about helping others unleash their creativity you can sell an online art course.

Whether you teach people how to draw, paint or create digital illustrations this can be a rewarding profitable side hustle. Top earners make six figures selling courses. 

To get started you need to decide which subject you want to teach. Next, create your course outline, record the lessons and create any additional material. 

Selling courses is another great way to make passive income. The great thing is you just need to create it once and then you can continuously sell it. 

If you don’t have an audience you can sell your course on platforms like SkillShare or Udemy which already have a large audience that wants to learn. 

25. Teach Dance Classes

If you have a passion for dance you can teach dance classes. This is a rewarding way to express your creativity and make money. 

You can teach ballet, salsa or contemporary dance. To upscale you can offer private lessons to people who want to practice without a group. 

Partnering with local community centres or schools are good options for teaching your classes. Or you can teach them online via Zoom. 

Market your classes through local community boards, post flyers and network with other dance teachers. Also, utilise social media to show your dance style and attract students. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Creative Side Hustles

Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about creative side hustles.

How Do Creative People Make Money?

Creative people make money by leveraging their unique creative talents to offer valuable services. Whether you are an artist, designer, writer or musician you can tap into your passion and find innovative ways to monetise your skills. 

Here are some examples of how creative people make money

• Offer freelance services
• Create digital products
• Sell handmade crafts
• Teach workshops or classes
• Create content

How Can I Make an Extra $2,000 a Month?

You can make an extra $2,000 a month by leveraging your skills and combining income streams. To start you can offer freelance services in areas you are good at. For example, if you are good at graphic design, writing, or web development you offer your services through platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. 

Or you can explore passive income streams like selling digital products such as printables or online courses. If you combine this with offering your services you can make an extra $2,000 or more a month.

Final Thoughts 

Thanks to the internet there are plenty of opportunities for creative individuals to turn their passions into profitable side hustles. Whether you’re a graphic designer, a photographer or a makeup artist exploring ways to monetise your skills can lead to financial success and fulfillment. 

I hope you have found this post helpful and now have many ideas for creative and artistic side hustles. Which side hustle will you try? Let me know in the comments below. 

This post was all about creative side hustles.

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