How to Start a Graphic Design Company From Home

Graphic designers create with computers.

Graphic designers plan and execute visual designs for their clients in order to communicate a message to a targeted audience. They use type, photos, illustration, animation and color to create images for print and electronic media. Many self-employed graphic designers work from studios in their homes. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the graphic design field is growing. Most professional graphic designers have a bachelor's degree in the field. Armed with a computer, graphics software, and your graphic design expertise, you can start your own home-based graphic design business.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Printer
• Graphics software

Instructions

1. Purchase and master industry standard graphics software programs. Choose from specialized programs for layout, logos, illustration, image editing, web graphics and animation, depending on your area of specialization. Most professional design software programs are available as downloads for a 30-day free-trial basis.

2. Assemble equipment for your graphic design business. Choose a computer that is powerful enough to work with graphic design software. Purchase a large format printer, capable of handling a tabloid size sheet of paper. Install a high speed Internet connection. Add standard office files, lighting, desk and chair.

3. Create a professional graphic design portfolio, showcasing your best work. Traditional portfolios present designs printed on paper and bound into a portfolio case or book. With the emergence of electronic media, your portfolio of designs may be saved to a CD or posted to a website.

4. Design and execute a multifaceted marketing program to attract clients to your business. Create a logo for your business that showcases your design skills. Print business cards with your logo and network with colleagues and local businesses. Compile a list of prospective clients. Phone them for an appointment to show your portfolio. Design a series of promotional postcards or mailers using your logo along with your graphic designs. Craft a strong sales message to include in the mailing. Post a website, blog and electronic newsletter promoting your business while demonstrating your graphic design talents. Join local graphic design and business associations and become active in them for networking purposes.

5. When a potential client requests a quote on a design job, compose a detailed document with specifications, including all outside expenses, your fees, reproduction rights granted, due date and a payment schedule. Have the client sign their approval of the quote prior to the beginning of work. Deliver the job when done and invoice the client. Sample invoices and contracts for graphic designers can be found online.

Tips & Warnings

• Pick an area of graphic design to specialize in; corporate identity, product packaging, advertising design or book design.

• Purchase a refurbished computer at a reduced price.

• Marketing your business is a process that you must budget time for. Remember that many new clients come from referrals from satisfied clients.

• It can take time to build a client base capable of sustaining a living wage. If possible, keep a part- time job while building up your business.

References

• bls.gov: Graphic designers

Resources

• Graphic Artists Guild Handbook
• Dell Outlet, refurbished computers