How to grow an art business while working full-time
What if slow growth isn’t a setback—but a secret strength? In this video, I open up about building my art business while working full-time, the pressure to grow fast, and why I’ve come to love the pace I’m moving at.
Overnight Success? Not Quite.
Building a creative business while holding down a full-time job isn’t exactly a straight line to fast success. There are definitely days when I’m frustrated, exhausted, or doubting everything. But that slow growth? It’s helped me build something that feels intentional and authentic.
Having a full-time job has taken a lot of pressure off. I’ve been able to test products, launch courses, and explore licensing—all without needing every decision to be financially perfect.
The Highlights So Far
- 2020: Took the Immersion course by Bonnie Christine (and learned a ton)
- 2022: Opened my Etsy and Spoonflower shops
- 2023: Launched a Skillshare class, created my own artist pitching course, and landed my first licensing deals
- 2024: Reopened my Etsy store with a fresh focus
None of it happened overnight. It’s been step-by-step progress, with some messy middle moments in between. And honestly? I wouldn’t trade it.
What Slow Growth Has Given Me
Having a job that supports me has let me:
- Experiment with different kinds of work
- Create without chasing every trend
- Take creative risks without panic
- Avoid (or at least delay) burnout
- Discover what I actually love doing
If I’d gone all in before I was ready, I would’ve probably ended up Googling “how to be a full-time artist without selling your soul.” Thankfully, I’ve never had to type that.
The Comparison Trap Is Real
Let’s be honest—we all scroll. We see the art director features, the “I just went full-time” posts, the studio upgrades. But we don’t see the years behind those moments. The failed launches. The slow seasons. The tears.
So if your biggest win this week is updating your portfolio, or organizing your art supplies, that counts. It all counts.
Because most “overnight success” stories? They’ve been in the works for years.
Why I’m Choosing Slow
Slow growth has allowed me to build a business that reflects me. It gives me the freedom to be selective, the space to stay grounded, and the time to connect with my audience in a real way.
Every product, every licensing deal, every email subscriber—it all feels more meaningful when you’re building intentionally.
If you’re juggling a full-time job, family, or other commitments, and it feels like everything is moving slowly, you’re not behind.
You’re building something that lasts.
Watch the Full Video + Subscribe
In this video, I share the honest truth about slow growth and why it’s been the best thing for my business. If you’re growing a creative business step by step, this one’s for you.
Click here to watch on YouTube and subscribe to my channel for more creative business tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and encouragement to keep going—even if it’s slowly.
OTHER POSTS YOU MIGHT LIKE:
Leave a Reply
I'm Kristi I'm an artist, surface pattern designer, and online educator.
Read more about me
I'm so glad you're here
Hello!