10 Creative Ways to Make Money with Procreate

If you're a digital artist with a passion for creativity, chances are you've heard of Procreate—the popular iPad app that has taken the digital art world by storm. Procreate’s intuitive interface and powerful features have made it a go-to tool for artists everywhere. But what if I told you that it could also be your ticket to a profitable side hustle—or even a full-blown career?

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Let’s dive into 10 exciting ways on how can make money with Procreate, from freelancing and selling digital products to crafting a personal brand that truly shines!

1. Commission Custom Illustrations: Bring a client’s vision to life—your way!

One of the easiest ways to monetize your Procreate skills is by offering custom illustrations. Whether it's a whimsical portrait, a pet illustration, or a bespoke mandala, people love personalized art. You can take requests for unique, one-of-a-kind digital pieces that capture your client's specific desires. Commissioned art is a personal and profitable venture—you get to tap into your creativity while making someone’s day. Use platforms like Instagram, Behance, or Fiverr to showcase your work and attract clients.

2. Create and Sell Digital Products: Turn your Procreate skills into passive income.

If you enjoy creating brushes, textures, or unique assets, why not monetize them? Thousands of Procreate users are always on the hunt for the perfect brush pack or texture bundle. Whether it’s textured watercolor brushes, inking tools, or fun stamp brushes, selling these digital assets can bring in a steady stream of income. Sites like Gumroad, Etsy, and Creative Market are perfect for selling these products.

3. Design for Print-on-Demand Products: Turn your digital art into physical products.

Ever wanted to see your designs on more than just a screen? Print-on-demand services like Redbubble, Zazzle, Society6, and Teespring allow you to upload your Procreate creations and turn them into products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and wall art. With no upfront costs, this is a fantastic way to monetize your art while reaching a global audience. Procreate’s flexible canvas sizes make it easy to adapt your designs for any product.

4. Freelance Illustration and Graphic Design: Expand your skill set and your client list.

Procreate isn’t just for creating artwork; it's also a powerful tool for graphic design. You can freelance as a designer and offer services like logo design, branding, or custom illustrations for businesses. Whether you’re working on website graphics, social media banners, or promotional posters, the possibilities are endless. Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or even your own social media profiles to advertise your services.

5. Sell Digital Art as NFTs: Step into the future of digital art ownership.

The rise of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) has opened up an entirely new way for digital artists to make money. You can create unique digital artwork using Procreate and then mint them as NFTs on platforms like OpenSea, Rarible, or Foundation. NFTs allow collectors to own a digital file, and depending on demand, these artworks can sell for significant amounts. It’s an exciting new frontier that’s perfect for artists looking to innovate and reach new audiences.

6. Craft and Sell Printables: Merge art and functionality for profit.

Design printables—whether it's a daily planner, a printable mandala, or even custom stickers. People love these downloadable products that add a personal touch to their lives. Procreate’s flexibility lets you craft everything from coloring pages to beautiful wall art that your customers can print at home. By offering instant downloads on Etsy or your website, you can earn passive income with minimal ongoing effort.

7. Illustrate Book Covers and Editorial Artwork: Turn your illustrations into a storytelling tool.

If you have a knack for visual storytelling, offer your skills to authors, publishers, or editorial websites. Illustrating book covers, chapter headings, or even magazine spreads can be highly lucrative. Not only do you get paid for your artwork, but you also see your work in print—an incredible boost to your portfolio! Reach out to authors or collaborate with publishers to land these gigs.

8. Teach Online Classes or Create Tutorials: Share your knowledge and build a community.

If you’ve mastered Procreate, why not teach others? Platforms like Skillshare, Udemy, and Teachable are perfect for hosting online classes. You could also share bite-sized tutorials on YouTube or Instagram to build your audience, then monetize your content through ads, sponsorships, or paid courses. People are always looking for Procreate tips and tricks, from beginner-level basics to advanced illustration techniques.

9. License Your Artwork: Let your artwork work for you!

Licensing your Procreate creations can provide a steady stream of income over time. License your patterns, illustrations, or designs to be used on products like stationery, home décor, or clothing. Every time a product is sold featuring your artwork, you receive a royalty payment. Sites like Printify and Society6 also offer licensing opportunities, or you can approach brands directly for collaborations.

10. Create Social Media Content: Monetize your art by helping others stand out online.

Businesses and influencers are always on the lookout for fresh, eye-catching content. You can use your Procreate skills to create custom social media graphics, animated posts, or Instagram highlight icons for brands. On the flip side, you can monetize your own social media by posting Procreate time-lapses, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes videos. Sponsored posts, collaborations, and ad revenue from YouTube or TikTok can turn your content into a reliable income stream.

Final Thoughts: Monetize Your Passion

The beauty of using Procreate to make money is that the possibilities are nearly endless. Whether you want to freelance, sell products, or teach, Procreate offers you a way to turn your passion for digital art into a thriving business. So, go ahead—open that canvas, get creative, and start earning!

Make Money with Procreate today and turn your art into a profitable career!