Starting a creative design practice from scratch can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible with dedication and the right approach. I am 14 year into my journey of creating a design practice from scratch. I have made a lot of mistakes and have learned from them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started and hopefully avoid some of the mistakes I have made:
- Stop Making Excuses: Recognize that excuses won’t get you anywhere. Accept that the journey will be tough but rewarding. There are always a million reasons why you shouldn’t do something, but if you do that thing and succeed, you will be rewarded for the risk.
- Take Risks: Be willing to take calculated risks in your creative endeavors. Creativity often thrives when you step out of your comfort zone. As that old saying goes, no risk, no reward.
- Say Yes to Projects: In the beginning, be open to various projects, even if they’re not your dream projects. This will help you gain experience, build your portfolio, and make connections.
- Network and Outreach: Reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances to let them know about your creative design practice. Networking can lead to your first clients and collaborations, allowing you a low-risk way of building your portfolio.
- Create a Cash Reserve: While you may not have a steady income initially, building a financial safety net to cover your basic expenses while you grow your business is crucial. As your income starts to grow, manage your finances wisely. Consider setting aside funds for taxes, business expenses, and personal savings. If you are financially secure, you will be able to turn down jobs you don’t want in favor of the ones you do want to do.
- Build an Online Presence: Start by creating a professional website showcasing your work. Use social media platforms to share your projects, even if you have no following yet. The algorithm is hard to crack, but possible clients expect you to have a social media presence. Clients will view your socials to get a sense of who you are to be sure they are comfortable with hiring you.
- Be Strategic with Online Marketplaces: While platforms like Etsy and Facebook Marketplace can be useful, don’t rely solely on them. They can help you reach a wider audience, but having your website provides control over your brand and presentation. You don’t have control over what happens on Etsy. They have no problem showing other people’s work to your customers, taking away a potential sale.
- Leverage Other Audiences: Collaborate with others in your industry. Become a guest instructor, writer, or speaker in your niche. This exposes you to new audiences and builds your credibility.
- Portfolio Alignment: Ensure your portfolio reflects the type of work you want to do. If you want to be known as a custom furniture maker, showcase your furniture designs prominently. Your clients need to see themselves in your work. If your portfolio is full of cutting boards, potential clients will never think of you as a custom furniture maker. They will think of you as a cutting board maker.
- Learn and Improve: Continuously improve your skills through workshops, online courses, and self-learning. Staying up-to-date in your field will help you offer better services.
- Seek Feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask peers, mentors, or clients for feedback. Constructive criticism can help you refine your work.
- Patience and Persistence: Building a successful creative design practice takes time. Be patient and persistent, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks.
Remember that success in the creative field often comes from a combination of talent, hard work, and effective marketing. Keep refining your skills, building your brand, and seeking out opportunities, and over time, you can turn your creative passion into a sustainable business.
