Things to Know if You Want to Try Graphic Design for Profit - Part Three

[Jennifer’s questions about graphic design for profit ran last week.]

[Layout by Eileen using Scrap Girls digital products.]

Fonts are a different matter. With very few exceptions, once you have purchased a font (whether in a software program or individually), you are free to use it as you wish - even for items to sell - as long as you use it within the version of the software program it came with.

I learned just about everything I know about digital design at ScrapGirls.com. They sell beautiful digital products including commercial use items. I'm not trying to sidetrack you away from the cupcake topper and party décor idea - lol.

It's just that Scrap Girls provides a very accessible and affordable way to learn digital design. They occasionally feature hybrid products such as you want to make: tutorials, as well as templates and elements.

Is digital design hard? Yes and no. You need both artistic and technical ability. Since you've mastered Photoshop Elements on your own, I doubt you'll have trouble with the technical end.

I've been an active member of Scrap Girls for almost four years and one thing I've learned is how little I really know about graphic design. Yet I had a thriving craft business designing and selling calling cards, greeting cards, candy matchbooks and other paper items before launching The Artful Crafter website.

I've used my own photos and photos taken by customers. I've scanned my own drawings and small household items or patterns. I've even made a few digital products of my own (papers, alphas, brushes and embellishments like the gold key below).

Good luck!
Eileen

Tags: original cupcake toppers, craft for profit, copyright issues, graphic design software, digital graphics, commercial use license, terms of use, work from home