Online paintings shop

Home decorators, gift buyers, small offices, cafés and people who want affordable art from Canadian artists.

You either buy prints in small batches and resell them, or sell originals on commission, usually keeping a share of each sale as your margin.

• An eye for art that sells
• Product photography and listing writing
• Building relationships with artists
• Packing and shipping fragile items

• Written agreements with artists covering ownership, copyright, pricing and returns, check with a lawyer if unsure
• Only sell prints you have permission to reproduce
• GST/HST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and provincial sales tax rules (check the CRA and your province)
• Insurance for artwork in transit and damage claims, plus clear return policies
• Check whether a home-based business licence is needed in your municipality

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $3,000, depending on how you build your website, your photography and packing supplies, and how many pieces you list at launch.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $300 to $3,000, depending on the artists and pieces you list, your photos and how well you promote the shop. The estimated minimum time is about 6 hours a week.

Check written agreements with artists covering ownership, copyright, pricing and returns, and only sell prints you have permission to reproduce. Also check GST/HST and provincial sales tax rules, insurance for artwork in transit, and whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence.