Freelance set designer for stage and events

Community and regional theaters, schools and colleges, event planners, churches, small production companies and brands that run pop-ups or trade show booths.

A flat fee per design package or per production, sometimes with extra fees for revisions, site visits or overseeing the build. Larger jobs are often paid in stages.

• Drawing and 3D design software
• Reading scripts and creative briefs
• Understanding how sets are built safely
• Budgeting and clear communication

• General liability insurance, and check whether professional liability (errors and omissions) cover suits you
• Designs must follow venue safety and fire rules, so check with each venue or your local fire marshal
• Some venues and productions work under union agreements, so check what applies before you quote
• Home occupation permit or HOA/lease rules if clients visit, and check state sales tax rules for design services
• Late payments on big jobs, so ask for a deposit and use written agreements

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $600 to $3,000, depending on the design software and equipment you need. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many clients and projects you take on.

Check general liability insurance and whether professional liability (errors and omissions) cover suits you. Designs must follow venue safety and fire rules, so check with each venue or your local fire marshal. Also check union agreements and state sales tax rules for design services.

You need drawing and 3D design software skills, the ability to read scripts and briefs, an understanding of safe set construction, and budgeting. Plan on at least around 8 hours a week, and ask for deposits on big jobs.