27 Best Graphic Design Side Hustles for 2024

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In a world where opportunities to monetize your skills and passions abound, graphic design stands tall as a versatile and lucrative side hustle.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your design prowess could translate into a lucrative endeavor outside your full-time job, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

Graphic design side hustles not only offer creative freedom but also the potential for substantial income.

From making a little extra money on the side to earning complete passive income, graphic designers have a serious advantage when it comes to side hustles. 

Whether you’re a seasoned graphic designer or just starting your journey, here are the best graphic design side hustles that you can start today and replace your full-time income.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Best Graphic Design Side Hustles

1. YouTube Thumbnail Designer

2. Design Podcast Cover Art

3. Custom Emotes for Twitch

4. Design AI Art

5. Start a YouTube Channel teaching your design skills

6. Become an Anime Artist

7. Create Airbnb Guest Welcome Books

8. Make Travel Itineraries 

9. Design Instagram Story Highlight Buttons 

10. Create & Sell a Course That Teaches Graphic Design

11. Design Recipe e-Book Templates

12. Build Personal Trainer/Fitness Program Book Templates

13. Sell Quirky T-Shirt Designs on Print on Demand Websites

14. Design Logos for YouTubers & Bloggers

15. Design e-Book Covers

16. Design Printable like journals, planners & notebooks

17. Sell Pinterest Pin Templates

18. Create Coloring Books

19. Make Greeting Cards

20. Design Wall Mural Décor 

21. Design Wedding Invitations

22. Design Birthday Party Invitations 

23. Create Real Estate Flyers (e.g., open house flyers)

24. Design Car Decals

25. Open a Sticker Shop (with your unique designs)

26. Start a ‘How to’ Graphic Design Blog

27. Create UGC Related to Graphic Design & Sell it to Brands

How to Make Passive Income as a Graphic Designer

Beyond making money on the side, here are some more ways you can make passive income with your graphic design skills: 

Stock Graphics and Templates

Create and sell graphic design templates, such as logos, business card designs, website themes, or social media graphics, on platforms like Adobe Stock, Shutterstock, or Etsy. 

Once uploaded, these items can generate income every time they are downloaded or purchased.

Print-On-Demand

Partner with print-on-demand services like Redbubble or Printful to design custom products like T-shirts, mugs, posters, or phone cases. 

You earn a commission on each sale, and the printing and shipping are handled by the service.

Online Courses and Ebooks

Share your graphic design expertise by creating and selling online courses or ebooks.

Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Amazon Kindle allow you to reach a wide audience. 

You can also create resources that teach design skills, software tutorials, or design theory.

YouTube Channel 

Start a YouTube channel to share graphic design tutorials, tips, and advice.

Monetize your channel through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. 

Over time, your videos can continue to earn income as they accumulate views.

Affiliate Marketing

Promote graphic design-related products, software, or services through affiliate marketing. 

By including affiliate links in your blog, website, or social media content, you can earn commissions for every sale made through those links.

Printables and Art Prints

Design and sell printables or art prints through platforms like Etsy. 

You can create digital downloads that customers purchase, print, and use for personal or decorative purposes.

Merchandise Stores

Design and sell your own merchandise through an e-commerce store. 

This can include products like posters, clothing, stickers, or home decor items featuring your original designs.

Niche Blog or Website

Create a niche blog or website dedicated to graphic design or a specific design-related topic. 

Monetize it through display ads, affiliate marketing, and sponsored content.

Licensing Artwork

License your artwork to be used in various applications, such as on products, packaging, or in marketing materials.

Licensing agreements can provide ongoing royalties.