How Can You Apply Your Graphic Design Skills and Make Money Online?

Some graphic designers may find themselves in a situation when the current job is no longer satisfying. At the same time, you may work somewhere that leaves you more free time and have no idea how to make better use of it.

The answer could be finding another source of income. There are plenty of great methods to make money as a graphic designer. And if you have no idea where to start, here are some excellent suggestions.

Idea #1 – Print on Demand

Starting a print on demand store with help from Printify.com is quite easy. You can integrate your store into a platform like Shopify and make great use of Printify’s product selection. They have over 250 different products.

Of course, if you want to work on print on demand, you can find a store that has already been established and offer your services as a designer. Some store owners may struggle to come up with new design ideas. At the same time, there are those would like to shift their focus entirely to marketing and other business-related matters, leaving the design in the hands of another person.

 Idea #2 – Create Visual Content for Social Media

Brands put a lot of emphasis on social media these days because there are millions of active users on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Visuals are one of the cornerstones of social media content marketing. Posting random pictures that you find on the internet does not cut it for some brands. They look to hire a professional graphic designer who can create engaging content GIFs, infographics, videos, drawings, or even memes.

Idea #3 – Design Logos

Logos are in high demand these days as well. Be it a simple startup, a new blog, or a brand that is looking to conquer a market on social media, there are plenty of individuals and companies who are looking to get a logo.

Designing a logo takes some time and it can get a bit bothersome if the customer is not happy with the results and ask you to repolish it every time you send it. However, a good designer will make money by offering his or her services and actively looking for clientele. Just be sure to have a portfolio ready as the clients will ask for proof of your skills.

Idea #4 – Stream Your Work on Twitch TV

Twitch TV is a streaming platform. Despite the fact that it started as a hub for gamers, it has grown in the last few years and now you can find all sorts of variety channels, including graphic designers showcasing their work.

Even one of the most known animation studios in Japan “Trigger” has its own channel. The premise is simple – you interact with the audience and do your work. Money comes from subscriptions and donations as well as sponsorship deals.

Idea #5 – Design E-Book Covers

The introduction of e-books has opened a new market for writers who could not get past publishing agencies and get their writing on a bookshelf.

The self-publishing program on Amazon means that everyone can write a book. But a book needs a good cover, otherwise, you will have a lot of problems selling it.

Despite the saying of “never judge a book by its cover”, people still pay attention to it. Covers are the first thing that catches the attention of a potential reader. And who can design a better book cover than a professional graphic designer?

Idea #6 – Create Online Courses

Online education is accessible to everyone who has an internet connection and understands the langue, which, in this case, is English.

People are eagerly learning new skills even if they do not need it for their careers. The sudden boom in available courses on platforms like Skillshare and Udemy is a gold mine not just for those who want to learn, but also for those who can create great courses.

Join a platform that welcomes online education creators and start working on your graphic design material. All your experience can be sold in the form of education.

Idea #7 – Look for Various Freelance Jobs

Another way to find work is by visiting freelancer websites like Fiverr, Upwork, Toptal, DesignContest, or 99Designs and looking at all the available job offers.

The demand for freelancers in graphic design is high. However, no matter which platform you choose, you will have to get some recognition first. There are already a lot of designers that have positive reviews on their profiles.

Try getting some exposure first and focus on getting positive feedback instead of aiming to make the most amount of money. When you are acknowledged, you will find more consistent work.