Selling Oil Paintings Online: My Tips for Reselling Success

When I first got into selling oil paintings online, I wasn’t an artist but a reseller.

Whether you’ve inherited artwork, found treasures at charity shops, or picked up pieces from car boot sales, selling oil paintings can be a profitable venture.

However, like any market, success depends on knowing where to sell, how to price, and how to present the paintings to attract buyers.

Here’s how you can maximising profits when reselling oil paintings.

Why Resell Oil Paintings?

The art world offers unique opportunities for resellers.

Oil paintings, in particular, hold significant value due to their craftsmanship, the history behind certain pieces, and their enduring appeal.

Whether you’ve found a hidden gem or a well-known artist’s work, reselling oil paintings can be a highly profitable niche if done correctly.

Best Platforms for Selling Oil Paintings

Choosing the right platform is key when selling oil paintings online.

Here are a few platforms for you to check out:

1. eBay – The Best for Global Reach

eBay is a well-known marketplace that’s perfect for selling a wide range of items, including oil paintings.

The platform’s global reach allows you to access art buyers from around the world.

Pros:

• Huge international audience

• Auction format can attract competitive bidding

• Option for fixed-price listings with “Buy It Now”

Cons:

• High seller fees

• Competitive marketplace

2. Etsy – A Hub for Vintage and Unique Art

Etsy is known for handmade and vintage items, making it a great platform for selling oil paintings - especially older, unique, or vintage pieces.

Pros:

• Strong community of art and vintage buyers

• Easy to set up an attractive online shop

• Global customer base

Cons:

• Fees can add up (listing and transaction fees)

• Can be slow-moving for high-ticket items

3. Facebook Marketplace – Local and Direct Sales

You may have success selling oil paintings locally through Facebook Marketplace.

It’s easy to use, and since there are no fees, you keep all your profits.

It’s especially useful for larger paintings where shipping costs would be significant.

Pros:

• No seller fees

• Direct communication with buyers

• Potential for local, no-shipping sales

Cons:

• Limited to local buyers (unless offering shipping)

• Some buyers may not be serious

How to Maximise Profits When Selling Oil Paintings

Reselling oil paintings is about more than just finding a buyer.

To maximise your profits, you’ll need to be strategic with your approach.

Here’s what has worked for me:

1. Research the Value of Each Painting

Before listing any painting, it’s crucial to research its value.

Look at similar works by the same artist or from the same period, and see how much they’ve sold for.

If you can identify a well-known artist, this can greatly increase the value of your piece.

2. Price Competitively

While you want to make a profit, overpricing your painting can turn buyers away.

Compare prices on multiple platforms, and take into account factors like condition, size, and provenance when setting your price.

Offering flexible options like “Best Offer” can also encourage negotiation without losing a sale.

3. Provide High-Quality Photos

Buyers can’t see the painting in person, so your photos must be top-notch.

Use good lighting and take close-ups to show texture and detail.

Include photos of the painting’s frame, any signature or identifying marks, and shots from different angles.

4. Write Detailed Descriptions

A well-written description is crucial for selling oil paintings.

Include the artist’s name (if known), the painting’s history, the medium, size, and condition.

If the painting has any certificates of authenticity or provenance, mention that in the listing.

The more information you provide, the more trustworthy your listing will seem to potential buyers.

5. Offer Shipping Solutions

Shipping oil paintings can be tricky due to their size and fragility.

Make sure to offer clear shipping options, and consider using professional packing services.

Some platforms, like eBay, allow you to offer free shipping to incentivise buyers, which can be factored into your pricing.

Final Thoughts on Selling Oil Paintings Online

Selling oil paintings online can become a profitable way for you to tap into the art market without creating art yourself.

By sourcing interesting and valuable pieces, choosing the right platforms, and presenting the paintings in the best possible way, you could generate significant returns.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your reselling business, these tips will help you succeed.