Best Side Hustles for Graphic Design
Graphic design is one of the most versatile and in-demand skills in the digital age.
Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting, there are numerous opportunities to turn your skills into a lucrative side hustle. Below, we explore some of the best graphic design side hustles in Canada, their income potential, tools and resources, and how to get started.
Freelance Logo Design
Create unique and memorable logos for businesses, brands, and startups. Logos are essential for branding and often the first thing a company invests in.
Income Potential:
$200 to $1,000 per logo, depending on complexity and client budget.
Tools and Resources:
- Canva – Easy-to-use graphic design tool for creating logos.
- Adobe Illustrator – Industry-standard software for professional logo design.
- Logo Inspirations – A website for logo design ideas and trends.
How to Get Started:
- Sign up on freelance platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
- Create a portfolio showcasing your logo designs using platforms like Behance.
Social Media Graphics Design
Design visually appealing graphics for social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to help brands engage their audience.
Income Potential:
$20 to $100 per graphic or $500+ for a monthly package.
Tools and Resources:
- Canva Pro – For creating templates and graphics.
- Piktochart – A tool for designing infographics and visual content.
- Later – A social media management tool that integrates with graphic design workflows.
How to Get Started:
- Reach out to local businesses via email or social media.
- Offer your services on platforms like PeoplePerHour.
- Build a portfolio with sample posts and infographics.
T-Shirt Design
Create custom designs for t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel, and sell them through print-on-demand services or online marketplaces.
Income Potential: $5 to $15 per sale, with potential for passive income.
Tools and Resources:
- Printful – Print-on-demand service.
- Redbubble – A marketplace for custom designs.
- Procreate – A drawing app for creating unique designs.
How to Get Started:
- Set up an account on platforms like TeeSpring or Zazzle.
- Market your designs on social media or through Etsy.
Presentation Design
Help professionals and businesses create polished, visually engaging presentations for meetings, pitches, or conferences.
Income Potential:
$100 to $1,000 per presentation, depending on length and complexity.
Tools and Resources:
- PowerPoint – Classic tool for creating presentations.
- Keynote – Apple's presentation software.
- Envato Elements – A library of templates and graphics.
How to Get Started:
- Advertise your services on LinkedIn.
- Join networks like Toptal.
- Build a portfolio showcasing before-and-after examples of presentations.
Online Course Graphic Assets
Design course materials such as slide decks, worksheets, and eBook covers for online educators.
Income Potential:
$500 to $3,000 per project, depending on scope.
Tools and Resources:
- Adobe InDesign – For creating detailed layouts and documents.
- Visme – For designing interactive course materials.
- Creative Market – A marketplace for design assets.
How to Get Started:
Custom Illustrations
Create bespoke illustrations for books, marketing campaigns, or personal projects.
Income Potential:
$50 to $500+ per illustration, depending on complexity.
Tools and Resources:
- Procreate – A favorite among illustrators.
- Affinity Designer – Professional design software at a lower cost.
- Skillshare – Courses to improve your illustration skills.
How to Get Started:
- Create a portfolio on ArtStation.
- Promote your services on Etsy.
- Join communities like DeviantArt.
By choosing a side hustle that aligns with your skills and interests, graphic designers in Canada can create additional income streams while pursuing their passion. With the right tools, platforms, and a proactive approach, the possibilities are limitless.