7 Things About a Calligraphy Business I Wish I Knew Before Starting

Before I started my calligraphy business, I wish someone had told me about the ins and outs of running a small business. It’s not as easy as it looks! Here are seven things I wish I had known before starting my own calligraphy business.

You need to be REALLY good at calligraphy

Many people think they can start a successful calligraphy business with just a steady hand and some Pinterest inspiration, but in reality it takes much more than that. To truly shine as a professional calligrapher, you need to have the ability to flawlessly recreate various styles and understand the nuances of letterforms. You also need to be able to adapt your style to suit the needs of different clients, whether it be for a wedding invite or a corporate event.

So before starting your own calligraphy business, make sure you have honed your craft to the highest level possible. Only then can you truly succeed in this competitive industry.

You need to invest in quality supplies

In the world of calligraphy, using high quality tools is crucial for success. Cheap, low-quality pens can result in inconsistent lines and smudges, leading to unsatisfied customers. Investing in top-notch supplies may cost more upfront, but it will pay off in the long run with beautiful and professional results. In addition, quality materials can often last longer and require less maintenance, ultimately saving money in the long term.

As a calligrapher starting a business, don’t skimp on supplies – invest in the best materials you can afford to ensure your work stands out and impresses clients. Your investment today could lead to a successful and profitable business tomorrow.

Promote, promote, promote!

If you’ve mastered the art of calligraphy and are ready to turn your hobby into a business, promoting yourself is key. It’s important to first identify your target audience and create a brand that speaks to them. Once you have a clear vision, start spreading the word through social media platforms, newsletters, networking events, and word-of-mouth.

Offer special deals for first-time customers or bundle services with complementary businesses in the wedding or event planning industry. And don’t forget about creating a website with samples of your work, testimonials from happy clients, and easy ways for potential clients to contact you. The more you promote yourself and your unique calligraphy skills, the more success your business will see.

Don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth

When starting a calligraphy business, it can be tempting to offer low prices in order to attract clients. However, this mindset can quickly lead to burnout and stress as you struggle to make ends meet. It’s important to remember that your time and skill are valuable, and you deserve fair compensation for the hard work you put into each project.

Charging what you’re worth may mean losing some clients, but it will also attract those who appreciate and value your talent. In the long run, charging a fair price for your services will lead to happier, more sustainable success as a calligrapher. Don’t be afraid to demand payment for the value you bring to the table – after all, you deserve it.

Be patient—it takes time to build a successful business

Starting a successful business takes time, especially in the creative field of calligraphy. It can be tempting to jump straight into selling your services and trying to make a profit, but it’s important to first establish yourself as a skilled and reliable artist. This means taking the time to hone your craft through practice, workshops, and perhaps even collaborations with other calligraphers. Building a strong portfolio and social media presence will help attract potential clients and gain their trust.

In addition, setting realistic goals and creating a detailed business plan can ensure that you are financially stable and able to handle any challenges that may come up along the way. It may be challenging to stay patient during this process, but in the end, it will pay off by establishing a successful calligraphy business.

Get organized from the start

Starting a calligraphy business can be both exciting and overwhelming, but organization is key to success. First, gather any necessary materials or equipment, such as calligraphy pens, ink, paper, and storage solutions. Next, create a schedule for yourself and set aside dedicated time to practice and work on projects. It’s also important to keep track of tasks and deadlines by setting up a filing system or utilizing a digital calendar.

Finally, consider how you will market your services and reach potential clients – making use of social media or networking events can help grow your client base. By staying organized from the start, you’ll be ready to face any challenges that may arise in running your calligraphy business.

Seek out advice from others in the same boat as you

Starting a new business can be a daunting task, especially in a niche market like calligraphy. It can be tempting to try and go it alone, but seeking out the advice of fellow calligraphers is an invaluable asset. Not only do they have first-hand experience in this field, but they can offer insights on things like pricing, promotion, and navigating the industry as a small business owner.

Additionally, joining a community or network of calligraphers can open up opportunities for collaborations and partnerships, expanding your reach and client base. So don’t hesitate to reach out to others in the same boat as you – their experiences and expertise can be invaluable in launching your own successful calligraphy business.

Even though there’s a lot that goes into running a small business, it’s still possible to achieve success if you’re willing to put in the hard work. If you’re thinking about starting your own calligraphy business, keep these seven things in mind—they just might make all the difference between struggling and succeeding.

About Jeremy Reis

Jeremy Reis is a serial entrepreneur from the Franklin, Tennessee area. Jeremy is the founder of multiple businesses and is the VP of Marketing for CRISTA Ministries. Jeremy has his MBA with a focus in Entrepreneurship from The Ohio State University.