How to Purchase Original Art for Less than Prints or Reproductions

You don't have to settle for prints or reproductions to buy affordable art. In fact, buying original art is often less expensive and offers you greater variety. This is a great time to beautify your home, invest in an art collection, and support a talented artist.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet
• 5 Dollars (at least)

1. Browse ~ Visit one of the many online galleries and auction sites that deal in original art. For the best deals, you will want to find art sold directly from the artist. Ebay is a popular place to buy original artwork. ArtByUs and Etsy offer amazing variety and even better pricing. View their selections by category or search by keyword.
2. Register ~ You will need to register an account with the site (Ebay, ArtByUs, Etsy, etc.) in order to bid on or purchase an item. You may also need to establish a PayPal account if you will be paying electronically.
3. Questions? ~ Before you bid on or buy an item, make sure you have all the necessary information. What will shipping cost? Where is the item located? What are the dimensions? Bids and purchases are not easily retracted or canceled.
4. Buy or Bid ~ Follow the site's instructions for buying or bidding on an item. If you are bidding, keep an eye on the auction as time progresses. If you are outbid you will have to increase your bid or give up on the item.
5. Pay ~ Make payment in accordance with the item details. Some sellers will only accept PayPal payments. Others will refuse Paypal payments. This information will be posted within the item listing.
6. Feedback ~ Remember to leave feedback for the item you have purchased. If you are pleased with the purchase, leave a positive comment in the seller's feedback history. If you are displeased, contact the seller first. If you are unable to negotiate a satisfactory resolution, you may wish to leave negative feedback.

Tips & Warnings

• Feel free to contact an artist to ask questions. Artists love to talk about their work.
• Always know where the artwork will be shipped from. China, for example, is notorious for producing and selling fraudulent artwork online.
• Always check the shipping cost BEFORE bidding or buying.
• Always read the auction thoroughly before bidding to make sure you know what you are getting.
• Check the seller's feedback to see what other buyers have experienced.