Super helpful book recommendation: Graphic Artists Guild Handbook.

. I have been sorting through my design and art book collection and found a book that I reference often for my one-on-one design client projects. 

Thinking that you might find this book very helpful as well as it shows the whole design and art field practices, fee recommendations, and legal guidelines.

I learn so much every time I review a new project type or direction and want the industry perspective on my project.

The title is Graphic Artists Guild Handbook: Pricing & Ethical Guidelines.

It is an ultimate pricing and best practices guide for working as a freelancer and licensing your designs in the creative field.​ 

Here are my most helpful suggestions on how to use this book.

1. It is NOT a how-to design book! It is meant to study the industry practices and pricing.

2. There is only a paper version, but it is well worth it. They publish an updated version every few years as the industry changes which is great as we can keep up with the news.

3. There is a dedicated Surface Pattern Design section which also includes working with an agent.

4. It is a very comprehensive, large book, so it might be difficult to read it whole in one sitting. I prefer to reference it and read up on needed things as I come to new projects.

5. If you are just starting out as a designer and still working on your skills the fees listed might seem very high for you. Do not dispair! These fees are a target to aim for after you as you mature and build your brand as a designer. It is ok to charge less for your design services when you are starting out but always aim to charge a fair rate as you get more experience.

I hope you find my tips and the book helpful.

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Grow, love, create!

Oksancia