14 Ways for Artists to Make Extra Money This Holiday Season
The holiday season is among us and itβs the perfect time to turn your artistic gifts into cash! Even though the cost of living is high and the political climate is quite dismal, there’s still people who have a glimmer of holiday cheer and are willing to invest money and resources into one of a kind gifts for their loved ones. Now is your chance to make supplemental funds while creating memories for others. People love unique handmade items from hats, gloves, shirts, beautiful decor, to niche memorable experiences, and you have the skills to bring that magic to life. Here are 14 side hustle ideas to help you earn extra income while doing what you love.
1. Custom Holiday Ornaments
Create personalized ornaments featuring names, family photos, or hand-painted designs. Customized ornaments add a special touch to holiday decor and make meaningful keepsakes for families. See example here
2. Pet Portrait Commissions
Pet owners adore unique portraits of their furry friends! Whether itβs a watercolor painting, pencil sketch, or digital drawing, offering pet portrait commissions is a thoughtful gift idea with wide appeal.
3. Handmade Gift Wrapping Services
Premium gift-wrapping services that feature eco-friendly materials, custom ribbons, and calligraphy tags could be something different your area hasn’t seen yet. Offer to set up a booth at holiday markets or partner with local stores for a festive, on-the-spot wrapping station.
4. DIY Craft Kits
Create kits with everything needed for holiday-themed craftsβthink DIY ornaments, mug making, cookie decorating, painting by numbers, ugly christmas sweaters, candle-making sets, etc. These make great gifts for family craft nights or cozy solo projects, and theyβre a fun way to share your love of creating.
5. Personalized Greeting Cards
Offer custom-designed greeting cards with hand-drawn or digital art. Add a personal touch with unique themes and color schemes that are relevant to your client. You can also offer bulk orders for people looking to send out family cards or thank-you notes.
6. Mini Art Prints
Choose popular pieces from your portfolio, or design fresh pieces holiday themes to sell mini art prints. These small items make great stocking stuffers, and theyβre a great way for people who like your work to own your work.
7. Online Art Classes or Workshops
Pick a specific skill that you know very well, stick a seasonal flair on it, and decide whether virtual or in person is the most practical for your medium. This is a great way to connect with art lovers, and share your creative process. Not to mention increases your potential for future bookings.
8. Festive Face Painting or Henna Services
Offer holiday-themed face painting or henna art at local events, parties, or pop-ups. Parents usually love this for kidsβ theme parties, and itβs a fun way to create holiday memories while adding some wholesome seasonal sparkle.
9. On The Spot Custom Apparel
You’d need an electric hook up and proper ventilation, but this could really be a hit! Have about 3-7 template designs for people to choose from and print them on the spot for people to take home. These could be unique designs from your collection, quirky quotes, or remixed logos.
10. Hand-Painted Ceramics or Glassware
Create hand-painted mugs, plates, or glassware with festive designs. These personalized gems can be cherished as seasonal decor or everyday kitchenware.
11. Handmade Jewelry & Accessories
Holiday-themed jewelry and accessories, like beaded bracelets, scrunchies, earrings, or festive pins, are a hit this season. Create limited batches with a seasonal twist, offering shoppers and event goers something they canβt find anywhere else.
13. Home, Office, or Event Holiday Decor Services
Offer your decorating skills to homes or small businesses who need a festive flair. From setting up Christmas trees to styling tablescapes, this service can be a big hit with busy clients looking to make their spaces holiday-ready. Start by reaching out to your network, as well as cold calling business and reaching out via DM or email.
14. Creative Gift Box
This is a great option for people who love collecting unique items and want a curated experience in their gift box. Put together a limited-edition holiday box with small pieces of art, stickers, or handmade items that fit your medium. Considering collaborating with your colleagues to possibly feature one of their small items to cross-promote one another’s brands.
Consider trying out one or more of these ideas. In the best case scenario, you’ll introduce your work to new audiences, make meaningful connections, and earn extra income. Whether you post up at a pop-up shop, create digital designs, or offer custom decor services, each one of these ideas allow you to showcase your creativity, adds holiday cheer, and broaden your network.
Happy creating!
