Starting strong by skipping the missteps
When you're first stepping into the world of art licensing, everything feels exciting—and a little overwhelming. There’s this mix of possibility and pressure, especially when you're putting your heart into your art and hoping to see it out in the world (on beautiful products, no less).
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to learn everything the hard way. I’ve gathered some of the most common mistakes I see beginners make (and yes, I’ve made a few of these myself!) so you can steer clear of them and move forward with more confidence and clarity.
Let’s get into it:
1. Waiting Until Everything is "Perfect" Before Pitching
This one’s big. I get it—you want the perfect portfolio, the perfect website, the perfect pitch. But perfection is a moving target, and waiting too long can keep you stuck. The truth is, your work (and your confidence) will grow the more you put it out there. Start with what you have, and polish as you go.
2. Pitching Too Soon Without Knowing What You're Pitching
On the flip side—some artists get excited and start sending out emails without a real plan. Licensing is more than just sharing pretty patterns. Are your designs formatted correctly? Do you understand the market you're reaching out to?
Research the companies you’re pitching to—a little homework goes a long way.
3. Not Understanding Usage Rights and Contracts
Licensing is a business relationship. If you’re unclear about what rights you’re giving (or keeping), you could unintentionally lose control over your work.
Take time to understand terms like “exclusive,” “non-exclusive,” and “territory” so you're empowered when contracts come your way.
(P.S. If you missed last week’s blog post on licensing contracts, it’s right here.)
4. Using the Same Portfolio for Every Pitch
Every brand is different, and your pitch should be too. Sending a children’s brand your moody botanicals or emailing a stationery company your large-scale wallpaper repeats? Not the best fit.
Tailor your portfolio to the recipient—it shows you’ve done your research and that your work truly aligns. I've created more than one portfolio just for these instances, and it's made a huge difference.
5. Not Following Up
So many missed opportunities happen right here. You finally send that email... and then crickets.
Following up (politely and professionally) is part of the process—not pushy. People are busy. Your reminder might be the thing that bumps you to the top of their list.
6. Thinking Licensing is One Big Break
It’s more of a journey than a jackpot. Many successful artists build their licensing career step by step—one contract, one relationship, one collection at a time.
Stay consistent. Keep creating. Stay visible. It can be a slow burn—but it builds.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling nervous about doing it "right," that’s totally normal. But don’t let fear of mistakes hold you back. Every experience—yes, even the bumpy ones—is helping you grow into the artist and business owner you’re becoming.
Want to keep learning with me? I’ll be back in your inbox soon with more honest guidance from someone who’s been there.
You’ve got this.
— Deanna Marie
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