Small Art Prints: Practical Tips for Creating, Pricing & Selling

Small prints are a sweet spot for many artists. They cost less to produce, fit easily on a wall, and attract buyers who want a quick, affordable piece. If you’re wondering how to start, which size works best, or how to set a price that feels fair, you’re in the right place.

Pick the Right Size and Format

Most buyers look for prints that are 8×10, 11×14, or 13×19 inches. Those dimensions fit standard frames and keep shipping simple. Before you settle on a size, think about the original artwork. A detailed drawing may need a larger format to show its texture, while a bold graphic can shine at 8×10.

If you work with watercolors, check out our guide on rolling watercolor paintings. It explains when you can safely roll a piece for transport and when you should keep it flat. Keeping the paper flat helps preserve sharp lines and color consistency, which matters for those tiny prints.

Set a Price That Works for You and Your Buyers

Pricing can feel like a guessing game, but a simple formula helps. Start with your material cost (paper, ink, packaging) then add a labor charge—usually $5‑$10 per hour of work. Finally, multiply the total by 2.5‑3 to cover taxes, fees, and profit. Our "What Should I Charge for My Art Prints?" article walks you through real numbers for 2025, so you can see how the math looks for different print sizes.

Don’t forget to factor in platform fees if you sell on Etsy or similar sites. The "Selling Art Prints on Etsy: Worth It or Not in 2025?" post breaks down the latest stats, showing you how many prints you need to sell to cover those fees. If you prefer a gallery route, the "Most Profitable Way to Sell Art: Cracking the Art Exhibition Code" guide explains how exhibitions can boost your earnings with ticket sales and direct orders.

Promotion is key. A short Instagram story showing the print in a cozy corner can spark interest. Pair that with a clear price tag and a link to your shop, and you’ve got a quick sales funnel.

Finally, think about how you’ll ship. Small prints fit in sturdy mailers, but add a cardboard backing to prevent bending. A cheap bubble wrap layer costs pennies and saves you from returns.

With the right size, a solid pricing plan, and a few smart marketing moves, small art prints can become a reliable income stream. Start experimenting, track what sells, and tweak your approach. The more you sell, the easier it gets to fine‑tune your process and grow your art business.

25 May, 2025

Do Small Art Prints Sell? What Artists Need to Know

by Alaric Westcombe | May, 25 2025 | | 0 Comments

Are you wondering if small art prints actually sell? This article breaks down why smaller prints can be a smart move for artists and side hustlers. Learn real numbers behind small print sales, what buyers like about them, and where they fly off the shelves. Packed with practical tips on pricing, marketing, and presentation.