Best Side Hustles For Graphic Designers

Introduction.

Graphic design is an incredible skill, blending creativity with technical know-how. But let’s face it: even if you love what you do, sometimes your full-time gig might not give you the financial freedom or creative flexibility you’re looking for.

That’s where side hustles come in. They’re not just about making extra money; they’re also about exploring new opportunities, building your portfolio, and even growing a business on the side.

If you’re a graphic designer, you have an edge: your skills are in demand, and the digital age offers endless ways to monetize them.

Let’s explore some of the best side hustles that not only pay well but also keep your creative juices flowing.

Why Graphic Designers Should Consider Side Hustles

Side hustles can be game-changers. They can help you diversify your income, give you financial stability, and let you take on passion projects you might not get to tackle in your day job.

For graphic designers, side hustles are more than just extra work—they’re opportunities to grow.

Whether you’re designing custom art for clients, selling templates online, or teaching others your craft, a side hustle lets you:

• Expand your portfolio with different types of projects.
• Build a safety net in case of layoffs or slow periods.
• Explore new niches without committing to a full-time switch.
• Earn passive income while doing something you love.

Best Side Hustles for Graphic Designers

1. Sell Design Templates

Platforms like Creative Market, Etsy, and Gumroad make it easy to sell templates for resumes, social media posts, logos, or presentations.

The best part? Once you create and upload the templates, you can earn passive income with every sale.

2. Freelance on the Side

Freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal are goldmines for graphic designers. You can take on projects that align with your interests, whether it’s branding, illustration, or web design.

3. Launch a Print-on-Demand Store

If you love creating unique designs, consider starting a print-on-demand business. Use platforms like Printful or Teespring to sell your designs on T-shirts, mugs, phone cases, or posters without worrying about inventory.

4. Start a YouTube Channel or Blog

Share your expertise by creating tutorials, reviews, or tips for other designers. Once you build an audience, you can monetize your content through ads, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing.

5. Teach Design Online

Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, and Teachable let you create courses that others can buy. If you’re good at breaking down complex concepts, this is a great way to earn while helping others learn.

6. Offer Social Media Design Packages

With businesses relying heavily on social media, there’s a constant demand for well-designed posts, stories, and ads. Create custom packages and market them to small businesses or influencers.

7. Design and Sell Digital Products

Think beyond templates—create icons, patterns, clip art, or UI kits that other designers or developers can use. Sites like Envato Elements and Dribbble Marketplace are perfect for this.

8. Work on Commissioned Art

If you enjoy drawing or illustrating, take on commissioned projects for custom portraits, pet illustrations, or any niche that interests you. Social media platforms like Instagram can help you find clients.

9. Create Branding Kits for Small Businesses

Many startups and small businesses need affordable branding solutions. Offering packages that include a logo, color palette, and font selection can be highly lucrative.

10. Explore NFT Art

For those who are tech-savvy, creating and selling NFTs (non-fungible tokens) can be a fun way to explore the world of blockchain while showcasing your art.

How to Get Started

• Pick a Niche: Focus on one or two areas that align with your skills and interests.
• Set Realistic Goals: Determine how much time you can dedicate to your side hustle without burning out.
• Market Yourself: Use social media, a personal website, or platforms like Behance and Dribble to showcase your work.
• Invest in Tools: Depending on your hustle, tools like Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or Procreate may be essential.
• Learn the Business Side: Understand pricing, contracts, and client communication to ensure a smooth workflow.

FAQs

Do I need a lot of time to manage a side hustle?

Not necessarily. Start small, like dedicating a few hours each week. The key is consistency.

Can I do this while working full-time?

Absolutely! Many side hustles are flexible, so you can work on them during evenings or weekends.

What if I’m not confident in my skills?

Start with small projects to build confidence. Remember, every expert was once a beginner.

Further Resources

• Creative Market: Sell your templates here.
• Skillshare: Create online courses.
• Printful: Start your print-on-demand store.
• Dribbble: Showcase your work.

Conclusion

Side hustles are a fantastic way for graphic designers to earn extra income, grow their skills, and even discover new passions.

What side hustle are you most excited to try?