How to Sell Art Prints Online

Selling art prints online isn’t just for artists - it’s also a fantastic opportunity for resellers like me.

Over the years, I’ve discovered that charity shops and second-hand stores are treasure troves for unique and valuable art prints.

With a bit of effort, you can turn these finds into a profitable side hustle or even a full-time business.

In this post, I’ll share my process for sourcing, listing, and selling art prints online.

Why Resell Art Prints Online?

There’s a growing market for pre-loved and vintage art prints.

Here’s why it’s a profitable niche:

• Affordable Sourcing: Charity shops and car boot sales often sell prints at a fraction of their value.

• Wide Appeal: Art prints cater to a variety of tastes, from modern minimalism to vintage nostalgia.

• Sustainability: Reselling second-hand art supports eco-friendly consumption trends.

• High Potential Margins: Unique or limited-edition prints can fetch a premium price.

Where to Source Art Prints for Reselling

• Charity Shops: These stores often stock framed prints at incredibly low prices. Look for well-known artists or interesting designs.

• Car Boot Sales: Sellers frequently offload art prints for a quick sale.

• Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree can also yield bargains.

What to Look for When Sourcing Art Prints

Here are the factors I always consider when shopping for art prints:

• Artist Reputation: Well-known artists’ prints tend to be more valuable.

• Condition: Avoid prints with water damage, tears, or heavy fading.

• Framing Quality: A well-framed print can sell for more, saving buyers the hassle of reframing.

• Uniqueness: Prints with limited availability or a distinct style can stand out online.

• Trends: Certain themes or styles, like botanical or mid-century modern, are consistently popular.

How to Sell Art Prints Online

1. Choose the Right Selling Platforms

Different platforms cater to different audiences.

• eBay: Great for both general and niche audiences.

• Etsy: Perfect for vintage or unique art prints.

• Facebook Marketplace: Ideal for local sales to avoid shipping costs.

2. Craft Engaging Listings

A standout listing can make all the difference.

Here’s how I approach mine:

• Write a Strong Title: Include keywords like “vintage”, “limited edition”, or the artist’s name (e.g., “Vintage Botanical Art Print – Framed – 1960s”).

• Use High-Quality Photos:

  • Take clear pictures of the print and frame.

  • Include close-ups of signatures or edition numbers if applicable.

  • Show any flaws honestly to build trust.

• Provide Detailed Descriptions:

  • Include dimensions, materials, and any identifying details.

  • Mention the print’s origin, if known.

  • Highlight any unique selling points, like its age or theme.

3. Set Competitive Prices

Pricing can be tricky, but here’s my approach:

• Research Similar Listings: Check sold items on eBay or Etsy for comparable prints.

• Factor in Costs: Include the cost of the print, any refurbishing (e.g., cleaning or reframing), and shipping.

• Offer Flexibility: Use “Best Offer” features to attract more buyers.

Packaging and Shipping Art Prints

Shipping art prints safely is crucial.

I’ve found the following tips to be invaluable:

• Use Sturdy Packaging:

  • Cardboard tubes for unframed prints.

  • Foam board or bubble wrap for framed pieces.

• Protect Glass: Tape an “X” on glass to minimise damage if it breaks.

• Offer Tracked Shipping: This reassures buyers and protects against disputes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When I first started, I made a few missteps.

Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overlooking Flaws: Even small damages can affect a print’s value.

• Ignoring Trends: Some prints might sit unsold if they’re not in demand.

• Under-pricing: Don’t undervalue unique or vintage pieces.

• Skipping Research: Learn as much as you can about the artist or print to maximise its appeal.

Final Thoughts on How to Sell Art Prints Online

Reselling art prints online is a rewarding way to combine creativity with commerce.

By sourcing wisely, creating engaging listings, and focusing on quality, you can turn overlooked pieces into sought-after treasures.

Whether you’re doing this as a hobby or a serious business, there’s immense potential in this niche.

Happy reselling!