Pricing Inquiries in the Realm of Calligraphy: Answers to Common Questions

Calligraphy and lettering services can be incredibly rewarding, but pricing your work is a challenge many beginners face. In this re-imagined guide, we gather the most frequent pricing concerns from our Panic-Free Pricing course and bring clarity with humor and real-life insights.

Kickstart Your Calligraphy Sales: Top 3 Pricing Questions Answered

Pricing your calligraphy and lettering work can be frightening, especially in the early stages. With so many components in play, it's easy to feel lost. Here, we tackle the top three pricing questions we get the most.

1. What's the secret to knowing when to start selling my calligraphy pieces?

Truth be told, we get this question more times than a birthday greeting on your special day! The key is simple: If someone asks you to make something for them, that's your sign. It means your work captures their attention and they feel confident in your abilities. If you're excited by the prospect and genuinely feel good about it, and someone's asking—you're ready.

Of course, if no one's yet asked you to create something, it doesn't necessarily mean you're not ready. Take a moment to assess if you've spent enough time honing your craft that you feel confident in your ability to deliver what your clients ask for. Remember to put yourself out there and share your creations. Who knows, opportunity may be just around the corner!

2. How can I find potential clients?

Finding clients can seem like an alleyway mystery, but there's no need to dig in the darkness. Here are three solid tips to help you along the way:

#1 - Spread the Word

Friends and family can serve as your biggest allies in spreading the word about your calligraphy services. Don't be shy; share your passion with them and let the word of mouth magic unfold. They'll tell their friends, who'll tell their friends, and soon you'll find yourself with potential clients lining up!

Yes, we know no one ever said they loved social media, but it's a powerful tool for finding clients. Find the platform where your target audience hangs out and make yourself visible. Share your calligraphy work, offer sneak peeks into your process, and let people know what you can do for them.

#3 - Connect with Artists Like You

Networking is essential, especially in the lettering and calligraphy world. Reach out to other artists in the industry and build relationships. Whether you want to work on store-front windows, wedding invitations, or something else entirely, connecting with the right people can lead to exciting opportunities. Join artist collective groups in your area or online, such as the Rising Tide Society, to expand your network and find potential clients.

3. Should I charge hourly or flat rate?

Diving into the realm of pricing can be intimidating, but charging the right amount is key to building a successful business. Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of charging hourly versus flat rate:

Hourly rate

Advantages: Flexibility, less risk, and easier scaling based on the time spent.
Disadvantages: Clients may feel uncertain about the total cost, and you may be incentivized to work slower to earn more.

Flat rate

Advantages: Clarity for clients, incentivizes efficiency, and simplifies billing.
Disadvantages: Higher risk of underestimating time requirements and less flexibility.

While both models have their merits, we generally recommend sticking to project-based pricing for calligraphy services. This pricing strategy helps ensure a clear understanding of the project's total cost and encourages efficiency in your work. Keep in mind that a flexible pricing approach, one that combines elements of both hourly and flat rate, can prove effective in adapting to different project needs while maintaining client satisfaction and your own profitability.

Ready to take the next step in your calligraphy career?

Armed with this newfound knowledge, you're one step closer to pricing your calligraphy and lettering services like a pro. But we don't want you to stop there! Join our Patreon and download the Top 10 Calligraphy Pricing Questions PDF for even more insights on setting rates and growing your business. And as an added bonus, you'll get access to our resource library, filled with worksheets, traceables, templates, and more!

Finally, today's dad joke:

Why do math teachers love Times Square?Because it's full of sign (signed) problems!*

In addition to calligraphy, the resource library also includes supplies, videos, and articles for various lifestyle categories, such as fashion-and-beauty, food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and travel.Pricing across all segments can be challenging, whether you're into calligraphy, cars, pets, or shopping—the key is understanding your time, skills, and what your clients are willing to pay.When it comes to finding clients for your calligraphy business, consider reaching out to artists specializing in fashion, travel, food, or home decor who may require your services.Expand your services beyond calligraphy by offering supplies or pens for budding artists or even personalized videos for lifestyle bloggers and YouTubers.When meeting with potential clients, it's important to discuss not only the cost of your work but also the added value you bring to their lifestyle, whether that's through exceptional calligraphy or stunning food and drink presentations.Take advantage of social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok to share your articles on anything from calligraphy tips to home organization solutions, travel guides, or car maintenance advice.To create a strong online presence, collaborate with other content creators, such as fashion bloggers, travel vloggers, or health and wellness influencers, to showcase your unique services in their videos or posts.Think beyond calligraphy, and consider creating top 3 questions answered resources for various categories, like pets, travel, cars, or shopping, to help others navigate the challenges they face in these areas.