Approx. 15 minute read

HOW TO GET MORE PEOPLE TO DISCOVER (AND BUY) YOUR ART

Wondering how to get more people to find (and fall in love with) your art? Whether you're selling original paintings, fine art prints, or posters, this guide walks you through what really matters, from how you present your work to how you talk about it, and how to spark curiosity in the right kind of audience.

Image at position 4

SELLING YOUR OWN ART

A Guide for Artists

Selling the art you’ve created with your own hands and heart can feel both exciting and vulnerable. Maybe you're wondering: Is my art good enough? How do I price a print vs. an original? Where do I even begin?

This guide is for all visual storytellers, whether you’re a hobbyist or emerging pro, who are ready to take the next step and share their art with the world.

We know how much soul, time, and detail goes into every art piece. And here’s what we also know: there are people out there who are looking for exactly what you create.

WHO IS THIS GUIDE FOR?

It’s for you if:

• You create original art, posters, prints, illustrations, photography, or mixed media

• Friends or followers have started asking if they can buy your work

• You’ve sold a few pieces via DMs or at markets and want to go further

• You dream of building something of your own, on your own terms

You don’t need a formal art education or a big following. You don’t even need a registered business (yet). You just need the desire to share your art.

 

CAN YOU SELL YOUR OWN ART?

Yes! As long as the artwork is created by you (not copied or resold), you can absolutely sell it. You can begin as a private individual, especially if you’re only selling occasionally, but if you start selling regularly or at higher volumes, it’s time to register a business.

 

HOW SHOULD YOU PRICE YOUR WORK?

Pricing is often one of the trickiest parts for artists, but remember: your time, skills, and artistic vision have value.

Tips:

• Research what other artists charge for similar styles and formats (originals vs. prints)

• Consider time, materials (like paper, ink, paint, framing), and packaging

• Don’t undervalue your work, higher prices can communicate quality and confidence

• Use tiered pricing: offer affordable small prints alongside higher-priced originals

Read more in our Pricing Guide

WHERE CAN YOU SELL YOUR ART?

You don’t need your own website or thousands of followers to start. At Cay Collective, you can sell your originals and prints directly to a like-minded, art-loving community, with full control over your own shop.

Here's how it works:

1. Apply to become a seller (we respond within a week)

2. Upload your products with high-quality images and descriptions. Read more in our Best practices for Descriptions and Photos

Get discovered from day one – your art is visible on Cay and may be featured in campaigns, newsletters, and seasonal promotions

Image at position 2

SHOW WHO YOU ARE

People don’t just buy art, they buy a feeling, a story, a part of you. Don’t be afraid to share:

🎨 Behind-the-scenes of your creative process

📸 What your studio or workspace looks like

💬 What inspires you and what your work means to you

🖼 How you want your art to make people feel in their homes

Your art is not a product, it’s an experience. You can also upload content to the Content page in your Cay Creator account to tell your story visually and connect with new customers.

FAQs

Do I need to have a registered business to sell my art?

No, not in the beginning. You can start as a private individual. But if you begin selling frequently or over a certain amount (per Skatteverket), you should consider registering an Enskild Firma or other form of business. We’re happy to guide you.

What if no one buys my art at first?

Don’t worry, that’s normal. It takes time to find your audience. Try different images, price points, and product types (e.g. test a print version of an original). Be patient, and stay consistent.

How can I make my art more sellable?

Great photos are key. Use natural lighting, style your art in a space (like a gallery wall or shelf), and add close-ups of textures or framing. Include dimensions, paper type, and if it’s limited edition, say so, it adds value.

What does it cost to sell on Cay Collective?

Creating an account is free. We only take a 25% commission (ex. VAT) on each sale, and offer ongoing support, marketing opportunities, and a creative network.

Do I need to be VAT-registered?

Only if you go over the Swedish VAT threshold. Not sure what that means? We’re happy to help.

READY TO BEGIN?

Your art holds value, not just in how it looks, but in how it feels, what it says, and the care behind it. By sharing your work, you’re giving others the chance to bring something truly meaningful into their lives.

Apply here to sell on Cay Collective!

Let your art find new homes. Let your voice be seen.

GOOD LUCK ON YOUR SALES!

XOXO The Cay Collective Team