Links included in the article might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you!) for purchases made through these links..

Monetize a blog with ads

One of the most straightforward ways to monetize your blog is through advertising. Placing ads on your blog can generate passive income as your traffic grows. Here are a few ad options to consider:

• Ad Networks: Google AdSense is a popular choice for beginners. It’s easy to set up, and Google takes care of placing relevant ads on your site. You earn money each time visitors click on the ads. There are several other ad networks to choose from, like MediaVine or SheMedia.
• Direct Advertising: Once your blog gains traction, you can offer ad space directly to companies. This approach often yields higher rates compared to ad networks, since you are not splitting your revenue with an agency.
• Sponsored Posts: Partner with brands to create sponsored content. These posts can provide significant income and add value to your readers when done authentically.

Ads can be a consistent income stream, especially as your blog traffic increases. It is the most beginner-friendly way to start making money on your art blog.

affiliate marketing on your art blog

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning a commission for every sale made through your referral link. It’s a great way to monetize your art blog, especially if you recommend products you genuinely use and love. Here’s how to get started:

• Join Affiliate Programs: Sign up for affiliate programs related to art supplies, digital tools, and online courses. Websites like Amazon, ShareASale, and Commission Junction offer various programs.
• Create Content Around Products: Write reviews, tutorials, and how-to guides that naturally incorporate your affiliate products. Authentic recommendations resonate more with your audience.
• Use Affiliate Links Strategically: Place affiliate links in your blog posts, newsletters, and social media. Ensure they fit seamlessly into your content without feeling forced.

Affiliate marketing can be highly lucrative with the right approach and honest endorsements.

Here’s a list of 50+ Affiliate Programs You Can Use on Your Art Blog

Create Digital Products to Sell on your Blog

Digital products are a fantastic way to monetize your art blog because they leverage your creative skills and can be sold repeatedly without inventory concerns. Consider offering:

• Printables: Create downloadable art prints, coloring pages, or digital planners that your readers can purchase and print at home.
• E-books and Guides: Share your expertise in e-books or guides about digital art techniques, marketing strategies, or art business tips.
• Online Courses: Develop online courses or workshops teaching specific art skills or software. Platforms like Teachable and Udemy can help you reach a broader audience.

Digital products allow you to share your knowledge and creativity while generating income. So if you are a digital artist with a huge portfolio of work or assets, this is a perfect way to start making money as an artist.

Free Workbook to Help Plan your Art Business

Monetize a blog with physical products

Selling physical products related to your art can be another profitable avenue. Selling Paintings in galleries is what people normally imagine selling art is like. But there are several ways you can sell your physical art online without ever needing a gallery or selling a painting. Here are some ideas:

• Art Prints and Originals: Offer high-quality prints of your digital artwork or sell original pieces. Use print-on-demand services to handle production and shipping.
• Merchandise: Design and sell merchandise featuring your art, such as t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases. Sites like Redbubble and Society6 can help with this.
• Art Supplies: Curate and sell custom art supply kits or tools that you use and recommend.

Physical products can provide a tangible connection with your audience and expand your brand’s reach. If you are a Digital Painter, you can make Wall Art and partner with a print-on-demand provider to sell canvases and posters to your audience.

Offer your Services for Sale

Offering services can be a direct way to monetize your expertise and engage with your audience. Consider these options:

• Commissions: Create custom artwork for clients. Promote your commission services through your blog and social media.
• Consulting: Offer one-on-one consulting sessions for aspiring artists or those looking to improve their skills.
• Workshops and Webinars: Host live workshops or webinars on specific topics related to digital art.

Services allow for a personalized approach to monetization, often leading to higher engagement and satisfaction. If you like to teach others your art style, use your blog to market a live workshop to your growing online audience. As your student base grows so will your income.

donations

Sometimes, your audience might be willing to support you directly through donations. Here’s how to make it easy for them:

Asking for Donations on a Blog

• Donation Buttons: Add donation buttons on your blog using platforms like Buy Me A Coffee or Ko-fi. Make sure they are easy to find and use.
• Patreon: Create a Patreon account where supporters can pledge a monthly amount in exchange for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access, or other perks.
• Crowdfunding: Use crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe for specific projects or needs.

Donations can be a simple yet effective way to gain financial support from your most loyal followers. Adding donations to your blog is simple and can often be done in a few minutes. In fact, the first way I monetized my blog was with a Ko-fi donation button that I set up in less than five minutes.

Related Post: The Best Donations Platform for Beginner Digital Artists

Put Memberships on Your Blog

Donations can be a simple yet effective way to gain financial support from your most loyal followers. Adding donations to your blog is simple and can often be done in a few minutes. In fact, the first way I monetized my blog was with a Ko-fi donation button that I set up in less than five minutes.

• Exclusive Content: Offer exclusive content, tutorials, or downloadable resources to members who subscribe to your blog.
• Community Access: Create a members-only community where subscribers can interact with you and each other, such as a private Facebook group or Discord server.
• Tiered Memberships: Set up tiered membership levels with varying perks to cater to different levels of support and engagement.

Memberships can create a sense of belonging and provide consistent revenue. A membership program is not as easy to maintain as some of the other more passive revenue streams, but with a strong community, it can quickly turn into a very profitable business.

By exploring these various methods to monetize a blog, you can find the right mix that works for your art blog. Remember to stay authentic and focus on providing value to your audience. The stronger the bond with your community, the more likely they are to purchase from you and support you.

Happy Monetizing!