Home studio artist taking commissions

Individuals buying personal gifts or pieces for their home, plus local businesses wanting something made for their space.

A fixed price per commission based on size, medium and time, usually with a deposit upfront and the balance on delivery. Prints of finished work can add small extra sales.

• Strong drawing, painting or other art skills
• A portfolio that shows your style
• Clear communication and keeping to deadlines

• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Register as a sole proprietor with your province and check when you need to register for GST/HST
• Be careful with copyright when copying photos or characters, and only use images you have rights to
• Income can be uneven, so keep a buffer and track your costs for tax

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $200 to $1,500, depending on the materials and equipment you already own and what you need to buy. You can work from a studio corner or spare room at home.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $200 to $2,000, depending on how many commissions you take and what you charge. Income can be uneven, so keep a buffer and track your costs for tax.

Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence, and register as a sole proprietor with your province. Check when you need to register for GST/HST, and take care with copyright, only using images you have rights to.