Products Artists Use to Launch Small Shops
Starting a small shop as an artist is one of those “big leap” moments that feels both thrilling and terrifying. You have this body of artwork you’re proud of, and now you’re wondering how to translate it into something people will want to buy, cherish, and maybe even collect.
The truth? It all starts with the right mix of products — items that show off your unique style and make it easy for fans to connect with your work in a tangible way.
Key Highlights
- Picking the right products helps define your shop’s identity.
- Affordable small items encourage repeat buyers.
- Acrylic standees give 2D art a collectible, sculptural feel.
- Prints and homeware products let customers display your art proudly.
- Functional art products turn everyday moments into artful experiences.
- Great packaging boosts customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Source: freepik.com
Why Choosing the Right Products Sets the Tone for Your Shop
Your product lineup tells a story long before customers click add to cart. It signals your artistic identity, your values, and the type of audience you’re speaking to. Are you a character artist who brings fantasy worlds to life?
Do you focus on calming nature scenes or punchy graphic designs? The items you offer can help customers instantly “get” your vibe — and more importantly, feel excited to support you.
👉 Start with a small, curated selection rather than overwhelming yourself (and your audience) with too many choices. Three to five product types is a sweet spot for new shops.
Why Acrylic Standees Are a Game-Changer
If you’ve ever visited an artist alley or browsed indie shops online, you’ve probably noticed how popular acrylic standees have become — and for good reason. They’re a wonderful way to bring your characters or illustrations into 3D space. Unlike flat prints or stickers, a custom acrylic stand transforms your art into a display piece that feels premium and collectible.
Personally, I love designing these because they create such an impact on my fans’ desks and shelves. And the best part? You can order in small quantities to test which designs resonate before committing to bigger batches.
Why customers love them:
- They’re easy to display — perfect for desktops, bookshelves, or nightstands.
- They feel like mini sculptures — making the artwork look polished and special.
- They make fantastic gifts — fans often buy them for friends (or themselves!)
Small Items that Fans Love to Collect
One of the smartest strategies when building your first shop is to offer small, low-price-point items. They’re easy for fans to pick up on impulse, they travel well if you’re selling in person, and they encourage repeat purchases.
Here’s what I’ve seen work best:
| Product | Why it works |
| Stickers | Affordable, versatile, perfect for laptops, water bottles, journals. |
| Pins | Fans adore wearable art — it lets them show off their style. |
| Keychains/charms | Highly giftable, fun to collect, easy to produce in small runs. |
💡 Sets or themed series (e.g., seasonal sticker packs) can drive higher cart totals and bring customers back for new releases.
The Enduring Appeal of Prints and Postcards
If you want to showcase your artwork in its purest form, prints are still one of the best ways to do it. They allow people to hang your art on their walls, frame it, or send it as a gift. And they come with flexibility — you can offer everything from small 4×6 postcards to larger 11×17 posters.
Ideas for diversifying your print offerings:
- Limited edition signed prints — makes them feel exclusive and collectible.
- Mini prints bundled as a set — perfect for fans who can’t choose just one.
- Postcards that double as art or actual mail — yes, people still send postcards, especially with beautiful art on them!
Prints let your audience connect deeply with your work — they’re buying not just a product, but a piece of your creative world.
Functional Products: Turning Art Into Daily Joy
There’s something magical about turning your illustrations into items people use every single day. It’s a powerful way to make your work part of someone’s routine. I still remember the first time I saw someone using a tote bag with my art — it felt incredible.
Products that work well in this category:
- Tote bags – Reusable, practical, and perfect for showcasing bold or fun designs.
- Mugs – Everyone loves a cozy cup of coffee or tea, and your art can brighten that daily ritual.
- Notebooks and journals – These sell well at conventions and online, and they’re always in demand.
👉 Why functional products matter: They give your art staying power. A sticker might go on a water bottle, but a mug or tote gets seen (and used!) day after day.
Source: freepik.com
How Packaging Turns a Purchase Into an Experience
The product might be what customers are paying for, but the packaging is what often earns you that five-star review. Packaging shows care, thoughtfulness, and pride in your work — and it absolutely influences whether customers come back for more.
Easy ways to level up your packaging:
- Use eco-friendly materials like kraft paper, compostable mailers, or recycled tissue.
- Include a handwritten thank-you note (even just signing your name adds a personal touch).
- Add a small bonus (mini print, sticker, or coupon code for a future order).
Customers remember that extra bit of love you put into their order — and they’ll tell their friends.
Finding Balance: Variety without Overwhelm
It’s natural to want to try everything at once (been there!), but trust me — starting with a focused range of products is smarter and far less stressful. It helps you manage production costs, learn what sells, and build a loyal following who looks forward to your new launches.
A simple starting lineup might look like:
- Stickers
- Acrylic standees
- A print or postcard set
- One functional item (like a tote or mug)
Once you see what resonates, you can expand thoughtfully — maybe into enamel pins, apparel, or home goods.
The Heart of A Great Artist Shop
At the end of the day, your shop should feel like you. Your product lineup should reflect your style, your strengths, and your connection to your fans. People don’t just buy your art — they buy into your world. And that’s what makes running a small shop so rewarding.
So don’t worry about doing it perfectly right away. Pick products that excite you, stay true to your vision, and enjoy watching your art find its place in people’s lives.
