As a creative professional, I’ve always been fascinated by the potential of digital products to generate passive income. My journey into the world of selling Canva templates began with a simple realization: many businesses and entrepreneurs need high-quality, customizable design assets, but may not have the skills or resources to create them.

I started exploring the market for templates and discovered that Canva, a popular graphic design software, offers a vast array of opportunities for designers to create and sell their work. With no prior design experience, I began building my business, leveraging Canva’s user-friendly platform to craft templates that appealed to a broad customer base.

Through trial and error, I developed a successful strategy for creating and marketing my Canva templates, which eventually generated $20,000 in revenue. In this article, I’ll share my insights and guide you through the process of starting your own template business, even if you’re just starting out.

Key Takeaways

• Learn how to identify profitable template ideas that customers want to buy.
• Understand the basics of creating Canva templates that are both functional and visually appealing.
• Discover effective marketing strategies to reach your target audience.
• Get insights into scaling your template business for long-term success.
• Find out how to leverage Canva’s platform to simplify your design and sales process.

My Journey to $20,000 in Canva Template Sales

As I navigated a difficult career transition, I stumbled upon the opportunity to create and sell Canva templates. Everything started with my blog. A few years ago, things took a turn for the unknown, and I found myself lost and stressed, feeling like a failure. I had to make money, so I did whatever I could, freelancing as a web developer and working as a virtual assistant on and off.

How It All Started

I discovered Canva while working as a virtual assistant and freelance web developer. Initially, I used it to create graphics for my blog, but I quickly fell in love with its intuitive and powerful design capabilities compared to complex tools like Photoshop. I was creating various graphics, and my designs caught the attention of Canva, leading to an unexpected email inviting me to become a Canva Certified Creative.

My first template creation was a media kit for bloggers, which I initially offered as a free opt-in. However, it generated significant interest, laying the groundwork for my template business.

My First $1,000 Milestone

I set up my first WooCommerce shop with just five templates. Reaching my first $1,000 in profit took about a year, during which I treated it as a hobby-hustle. This milestone was a significant moment, as I realized that selling Canva templates could be more than just a side project. I decided to take my template business more seriously, focusing on creating more designs and expanding my template offerings to increase my monthly income from sales.

By doing so, I was able to turn my template business into a substantial source of income per month, eventually reaching $20,000 in sales.

What Are Canva Templates and Why Do People Buy Them?

The world of graphic design has become more accessible, thanks to platforms like Canva, which has revolutionized the way we create visual content. Canva is an online graphic design platform that makes design accessible to everyone, not just professional designers. It provides users with a wide range of templates that can be customized to suit their needs.

Understanding Canva and Its Popularity

Canva’s popularity stems from its intuitive interface and low learning curve, making it an ideal choice for individuals and businesses looking to create professional designs without the need for extensive design experience. Unlike professional design software like Adobe Photoshop or InDesign, Canva is easy to use, allowing users to create stunning visuals without the hassle. A Canva template is basically designs made with Canva that can be shared with other Canva users, who can then edit and customize these designs to create something unique.

The Growing Demand for Ready-Made Templates

The demand for ready-made templates is on the rise as more businesses move online and need consistent, professional visual content across multiple platforms. Business owners, marketers, content creators, and individuals who need professional designs but lack design skills or time are turning to Canva templates to meet their needs. By using a pre-designed template, users can save time and effort while still achieving a professional look.

Why Selling Canva Templates Is a Perfect Side Hustle

The business of selling Canva templates offers a unique blend of creativity and financial reward. It’s an opportunity that combines the freedom to design with the potential for significant passive income. For those looking to start a side hustle with minimal upfront costs and maximum flexibility, creating and selling Canva templates is an attractive option.

Low Startup Costs

One of the most compelling reasons to start selling Canva templates is the extremely low startup costs. You can begin with a free Canva account and upgrade to Canva Pro as your business grows. This means you can start creating and sell templates without a significant initial investment, making it accessible to anyone with a computer and an internet connection.

Passive Income Potential

The concept of “create once, sell infinitely” makes selling Canva templates a highly profitable venture over time. Once you’ve designed a template, you can sell it multiple times without having to recreate it. This passive income potential is a game-changer for those looking to earn extra income with minimal ongoing effort. For instance, working just a few hours a week, it’s possible to earn $2,000 each month from selling Canva templates online.

Flexibility and Creative Freedom

Selling Canva templates also offers the flexibility to work on your own schedule and the creative freedom to design templates that align with your interests and skills. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting out, you have the ability to create products that you believe in and that customers will value. This autonomy is a significant advantage for those looking to balance work with other aspects of their life.

In summary, selling Canva templates is a perfect side hustle because it offers low startup costs, passive income potential, and the flexibility to work creatively on your own terms. With the right approach, it’s possible to build a successful business that generates significant income.

Essential Tools and Resources You’ll Need

The journey to making $20,000 selling Canva templates begins with the right tools and resources. As a template creator, you don’t need expensive equipment or software to get started.

Canva Free vs. Canva Pro Account

Canva offers both free and Pro accounts, each with its own set of features. Canva Free is a great starting point for basic design needs, providing access to free photos, icons, templates, videos, and fonts. However, if you’re looking to access premium content and additional tools for more advanced design work, Canva Pro offers enhanced features and greater flexibility.

With Canva Pro, you get full access to all content, including premium photos, videos, and templates. Pro content has watermarks in the free version; users must pay a one-off fee to remove them. With Canva Pro, there are no watermarks as the Pro Content License is automatically included.

Other Helpful Tools for Template Creators

In addition to Canva, there are other tools that can complement your template business. These include mockup creators, file management systems, and basic photo editing software. As a template creator, having the right tool or platform can make a significant difference in your productivity and the quality of your templates.

Understanding Canva’s Terms of Use for Sellers

As I ventured into selling Canva templates, understanding Canva’s Terms of Use became crucial for my business’s success. Canva’s Terms of Use outline what you can and cannot do with their templates and elements, and it’s essential to comprehend these rules to avoid any potential issues.

What You Can and Cannot Sell

When selling Canva templates, it’s vital to understand that you’re not selling Canva’s elements themselves, but rather your designs that incorporate these elements. Canva prohibits the resale of their elements separately. For instance, you can’t sell a Canva icon or a photo on its own; however, you can sell a template that includes that icon or photo as part of your design.

To clarify, if you’ve created a template using Canva’s elements, you can sell that template. However, if you’re using Pro elements, you need to ensure you comply with the licensing rules.

Licensing Rules for Free vs. Pro Elements

Canva offers both Free and Pro elements. While Free elements are available to all users, Pro elements require a Canva Pro subscription or a one-time license fee for each use. For Pro users, Canva automatically issues new licenses for resized or new designs, making it more convenient to create and sell templates.

Element Type	Licensing Rules	Usage in Templates
Free Elements	No additional fees	Can be used freely in templates for sale
Pro Elements (for Free users)	One-time fee per design	Can be used in templates, but requires license for each design
Pro Elements (for Pro users)	Included in Pro subscription	Can be used freely in templates for sale, with automatic licensing for new or resized designs

By understanding these rules, you can create and sell Canva templates while staying compliant with Canva’s Terms of Use.

Finding Your Profitable Template Niche

The journey to making $20,000 selling Canva templates starts with identifying a profitable niche. To achieve significant sales, you need to understand what types of templates are in demand and align with your skills and interests.

To find your niche, you should consider both business and personal use templates. Business templates are consistently in demand, particularly those that cater to small businesses and freelancers looking for professional designs they can quickly customize for their branding.

Business Templates That Sell Well

Some of the most profitable business templates include:

• Business cards
• Social media post templates
• Pitch decks
• Email signatures

These templates work well because they help businesses establish a professional online presence. For instance, social media post templates can help businesses maintain a consistent aesthetic across their social media platforms, making their brand more recognizable.

Personal Use Templates With High Demand

On the other hand, personal use templates such as wedding invitations, birthday party flyers, baby shower cards, and resumes are also in high demand. People are willing to pay for stylish, customizable designs that they can use for personal milestones, especially if they lack the time or skill to create them from scratch.

To identify a profitable niche, it’s essential to research current market trends. Platforms like Etsy, Creative Market, and Pinterest can help you identify gaps and opportunities in the market.

How I Identified My Most Profitable Niche

I identified my most profitable niche by paying attention to the needs and questions within the communities I was already part of. I realized that media kits and branding templates for bloggers were in high demand, and I was able to capitalize on this need. By understanding my audience and the market demand, I was able to create templates that met their needs, resulting in significant sales.

By following a similar approach, you can find a profitable template niche that aligns with your interests and meets the demands of the market.

How I Made $20,000 Selling Canva Templates (Beginner-Friendly!)

The journey to $20,000 in Canva template sales was a learning curve that I’m excited to share. When I first started selling Canva templates, I treated it as a hobby-hustle, not putting much effort into promoting my products. I relied solely on the traffic from my relatively new blog, which was getting around a hundred visitors on a good day.

My Step-by-Step Process

My journey began with designingtemplatesthat I thought would be useful. I started by creating a few basic templates and listing them on my blog. As sales started trickling in, I realized the potential of this venture. I then decided to take a strategic approach, focusing on creating high-demandCanva templates. I investedtimein understanding what buyers were looking for and tailored my products accordingly. I expanded my product line, optimized my listings, and started promoting mytemplatebusiness on various platforms.

Tosell Canvatemplates effectively, I had to understand the market. I researched popular designs, analyzed customer reviews, and adjusted my strategy to meet the demand. This involved creatingtemplatesthat were not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly.

Time Investment vs. Financial Return

Initially, I spent a considerable amount oftimedesigning and listing my templates. However, as my product line grew, I was able to generate passive income. Now, I work no more than a few hours a week to design new templates and promote my existing products. The financial return has been significant, with my sales averaging $2,000+per month. This return on investment has been a great motivator, encouraging me to continue improving and expanding mybusiness.

Scaling Up My Template Business

To scale my business, I focused on expanding my product line, optimizing my marketing efforts, and leveraging multiple selling platforms. I started by creating moretemplatesand listing them on various marketplaces. I also optimized my product listings to improve visibility and conversion rates. Byselling Canva templateson multiple platforms, I was able to reach a broader audience and increase my sales. This strategic approach has enabled me to maintain a steady income stream and continue growing my business.

By following this step-by-step process, I’ve been able to build a successful businessselling Canva templates. I’m now able tosell Canvatemplates with ease, and my business continues to grow.

Creating Your First Sellable Template

To create a successful Canva template, you need to know what your audience is looking for and design with them in mind. This involves a combination of research, creativity, and attention to detail. By understanding your customers’ needs and preferences, you can craft a Canva template that meets their expectations and stands out in the market.

Researching What Buyers Want

Research is a critical step in creating a sellable template. Start by analyzing bestselling templates on platforms like Canva and Etsy. Look at their design elements, features, and customer reviews to identify patterns and trends. Reading customer reviews helps you understand what buyers like and dislike about existing templates, giving you valuable insights to improve your design. By identifying gaps in the market, you can create a unique template that fills those gaps and attracts buyers.

Designing With User Experience in Mind

When designing your Canva template, focus on user experience. A well-designed template should be both visually appealing and easy to customize. Use clear placeholder text, organized layers, and thoughtful color schemes to make your template user-friendly. Consider the needs of your target audience and design with them in mind. For instance, if you’re creating a template for business owners, ensure it’s professional and aligns with their branding needs.

Design Element	Best Practice
Placeholder Text	Use clear and concise text to guide users
Color Scheme	Choose colors that are visually appealing and consistent
Layers Organization	Organize layers logically for easy customization

Testing Your Template Before Selling

Before listing your template for sale, test it thoroughly to ensure it works flawlessly. Have friends or potential buyers test your template and provide feedback. Check compatibility across different devices and Canva versions to ensure a smooth user experience. By testing your template, you can identify and fix any issues, ensuring that your customers have a positive experience with your product.

Setting Up Your Online Shop

The key to successfully selling Canva templates lies in setting up the right online shop. To maximize your reach and sales, you have multiple platforms to consider for showcasing and selling your digital products.

Selling on Your Own Website

Setting up a shop on your own website gives you control over customer relationships and avoids marketplace fees. You can use platforms like WooCommerce or Shopify to create an online store optimized for digital products, including your Canva templates. This approach requires more initial setup but offers long-term benefits.

Using Etsy to Reach More Customers

Etsy is a popular platform for selling digital goods, attracting buyers looking for unique, customizable items. With approximately 96.48 million buyers in 2023, it’s a valuable marketplace for your Canva template sales. To succeed on Etsy, optimize your listings for search and ensure high-quality product images.

Learn More

Other Marketplaces Worth Exploring

Beyond your own website and Etsy, other platforms like Creative Market, Design Bundles, and Gumroad are worth considering. Each platform has its strengths and caters to different types of digital products. By diversifying your sales channels, you can reach a broader audience and increase your product visibility.

By setting up your online shop across multiple platforms, you can maximize your exposure and create multiple income streams from selling Canva templates. This multi-platform strategy has been effective for my business, and it can be for yours too.

Pricing Strategies That Maximize Profits

Maximizing profits from Canva template sales requires a thoughtful approach to pricing, one that takes into account various factors such as complexity, time investment, and market demand. When I first started selling my templates, I struggled to find the right balance between pricing my products competitively and ensuring I wasn’t undervaluing my work.

My pricing strategy evolved over time as I gained more experience and insights into customer behavior. I began by pricing my individual templates based on their complexity and the time invested in creating them. For instance, a simple template might be priced lower, around $10-$15, while more complex templates, requiring extensive design and customization, could be priced higher, up to $30 or more.

Pricing Individual Templates

When pricing individual templates, I consider several factors, including the time taken to design the template, the level of customization it offers, and how it compares to similar products in the market. This approach helps me set prices that are both competitive and reflective of the value my templates provide to customers.

For example, if a template requires a significant amount of time and effort to create, I will price it higher than a simpler template. This not only ensures that I’m fairly compensated for my work but also helps to maintain a high level of quality across my product offerings.

Creating Profitable Template Bundles

Another effective strategy I’ve implemented is creating template bundles. By packaging multiple related templates together, I can offer customers a better value proposition while increasing the average order value. For instance, a bundle of related business templates might be priced at $50, which is a discount compared to buying each template individually.

This approach not only benefits customers by providing them with a range of useful templates at a discounted price but also boosts my revenue. By creating bundles that cater to specific customer needs, I can attract a wider customer base and encourage repeat business.

When to Offer Discounts and Promotions

Discounts and promotions are valuable tools for driving sales and attracting new customers. I use these strategies judiciously, typically during holiday sales events or when launching new products. Limited-time offers create a sense of urgency, encouraging potential customers to make a purchase sooner rather than later.

For example, offering a 20% discount on all templates during a holiday weekend can significantly increase sales volume. Similarly, bundling a new template with existing products at a special introductory price can help generate buzz around the new release.

Creating Product Listings That Convert

Optimizing product listings is crucial for converting browsers into buyers in the competitive world of selling Canva templates. A well-crafted listing can make all the difference in attracting potential customers and driving sales.

To create effective product listings, it’s essential to focus on several key elements. First, you need to craft compelling product titles that not only incorporate important keywords but also clearly communicate the value of your templates to potential customers.

Crafting Compelling Product Titles

Your product title is often the first thing a potential customer sees, so it needs to be attention-grabbing and informative. For instance, instead of a generic title like “Marketing Template,” consider something more specific like “Social Media Marketing Template Bundle – 10 Ready-to-Use Canva Templates for Instagram and Facebook.” This title includes relevant keywords and clearly describes what’s included in the product.

To further illustrate the importance of product titles, consider the following table comparing generic vs. descriptive titles:

Generic Title	Descriptive Title
Template for Business	Professional Business Proposal Template – Canva Template for Entrepreneurs
Social Media Kit	Customizable Social Media Kit for Small Businesses – 5 Canva Templates

Writing Descriptions That Sell

Once you have a customer’s attention with your title, your product description needs to seal the deal. When writing descriptions, prioritize the benefits of your template, not just its features. For example, instead of just listing that a template is “fully customizable,” explain how this benefits the customer: “Easily customize this template to fit your brand, saving you time and ensuring a professional look.”

“The key to a great product description is to focus on the customer’s needs and how your product solves their problems.” –

Successful Etsy Seller

Creating Eye-Catching Mockups

Mockups are a crucial element in showcasing your templates in a real-world context, helping customers visualize how they can use your designs. To create professional mockups, you can use tools like Canva or specialized mockup software. The goal is to present your template in a scenario that resonates with your target audience.

For example, if you’re selling a resume template, create a mockup that shows the template used by a professional in a realistic setting. This not only makes your product more relatable but also demonstrates its potential value to the customer.

By focusing on these key areas—crafting compelling titles, writing descriptions that sell, and creating eye-catching mockups—you can significantly improve your product listings’ conversion rates. Remember, the goal is to make it as easy as possible for potential customers to see the value in your Canva templates and make a purchase.

Marketing Your Canva Templates

As I reflect on my journey to $20,000 in Canva template sales, I realize that marketing played a pivotal role in my success. Effective marketing strategies allowed me to reach a wider audience and drive sales. In this section, I’ll share the approaches that worked best for me.

Social Media Strategies That Worked for Me

Utilizing social media platforms was instrumental in promoting my Canva templates. I found that Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok were particularly effective for showcasing my products. On Pinterest, I created boards for different template categories, making it easy for users to find what they were looking for. On Instagram, I used a mix of organic posts and paid ads to reach a broader audience. TikTok allowed me to create engaging, short videos demonstrating how to use my templates, which resonated well with my followers.

Building an Email List of Buyers

Building an email list was another crucial strategy. I offered a free Canva template as a lead magnet to encourage visitors to subscribe to my mailing list. Over time, this list became my most valuable marketing asset, allowing me to notify subscribers about new templates and promotions directly. Regular newsletters helped maintain customer engagement and drove repeat sales to my shop.

Collaborating With Influencers

Collaborating with micro-influencers and content creators in my niche helped expand my reach to new audience segments. I worked with influencers who were interested in Canva and design, providing them with free templates in exchange for promotions on their social media platforms. This strategy not only increased my visibility but also built credibility among potential customers, driving more traffic to my shop.

Delivering Templates and Managing Customer Service

As a seller of Canva templates, I’ve learned that smooth delivery and top-notch customer service are essential for repeat business and positive reviews. Delivering high-quality Canva templates and supporting my customers has been crucial in building a loyal customer base.

Clear Instructions for Buyers

One of the most effective ways to reduce customer confusion and negative feedback is by including clear instructions with your template explaining how buyers can edit the design in Canva. I’ve found that providing step-by-step guides on how to access and customize my Canva templates has significantly reduced support requests.

For example, I create a comprehensive instruction guide that walks buyers through the process of editing my templates, even if they’re complete beginners with Canva. This guide includes screenshots and detailed explanations to ensure that customers can easily understand how to use Canva to customize their purchases.

Handling Customer Questions and Issues

Despite clear instructions, customers may still have questions or encounter issues with your products. I’ve developed a system for efficiently handling customer service inquiries, including template access problems, customization questions, and technical difficulties.

Common Issues	Solutions
Template access problems	Provide clear download instructions and offer support via email or chat.
Customization questions	Create video tutorials or step-by-step guides on how to edit the template in Canva.
Technical difficulties	Troubleshoot common issues and provide solutions on your website or through customer support.

For more information on selling Canva templates on platforms like Etsy, check out this guide on how to sell Canva templates on. By delivering high-quality templates and providing excellent customer service, you can build a loyal customer base and drive repeat business.

Scaling Your Template Business

I’ve discovered that scaling a template business is about working smarter, not harder, and I’m excited to share my insights. As I grew my business from a small side hustle to a significant income stream, I learned valuable lessons about expanding my template collection, streamlining operations, and reinvesting profits.

Expanding Your Template Collection

To scale my business, I focused on creating a diverse range of templates that appealed to a broader customer base. I achieved this by developing complementary designs and responding to customer requests, rather than randomly adding new products to my shop. This strategic approach helped me increase my sales without proportionally increasing my workload.

Automating Your Business Processes

Automation was a game-changer for my business. I implemented tools and systems to automate template delivery, customer onboarding, and marketing. By doing so, I saved a significant amount of time, which I could then invest in creating more templates and growing my business. This strategic move allowed me to scale my operations efficiently.

Reinvesting Profits for Growth

Reinvesting my profits was crucial for accelerating the growth of my template business. I made informed decisions about where to invest my earnings, focusing on strategies that would yield the highest returns. By reinvesting in my shop and products, I was able to increase my income significantly over time.

By following these strategies, I was able to scale my template business effectively, achieving a substantial income without being overwhelmed by the demands of a growing business. As I continue to grow, I’m committed to maintaining the quality of my templates and the efficiency of my operations.

Common Challenges and How I Overcame Them

As I navigated the world of selling Canva templates, I encountered several challenges that tested my resolve. Building a successful business in this competitive market required more than just creating great designs; it demanded strategic planning, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach.

One of the primary hurdles I faced was the increasing competition in the template market. As more sellers entered the scene, it became essential to differentiate my products and find underserved niches.

Dealing With Competition

To stand out, I focused on creating unique templates that catered to specific customer needs. I analyzed market trends and customer feedback to identify gaps in the market. By doing so, I was able to establish my shop as a go-to destination for high-quality, niche-specific templates. This strategic approach not only helped me attract a loyal customer base but also allowed me to maintain a competitive edge in a crowded market.

Handling Copyright Concerns

Navigating copyright concerns was another significant challenge. To ensure my designs were original, I made it a point to stay updated on the latest design trends while being mindful of intellectual property rights. I also took the necessary steps to protect my own creations by understanding and adhering to Canva’s licensing rules. This not only safeguarded my business but also helped build trust with my customers.

Maintaining Motivation During Slow Periods

There were times when sales were slower than expected, and it was crucial to maintain motivation. During these periods, I used the time to refine my template offerings and enhance my marketing strategies. By focusing on improving my products and reaching more customers, I was able to stay positive and keep my business moving forward. This proactive approach ultimately helped me achieve my goal of selling Canva templates successfully.

Conclusion

After making $20,000 from selling Canva templates, I can confidently say that this is a business opportunity worth exploring. My journey has shown that with quality templates, a well-chosen niche, and effective marketing, you can achieve significant income.

To succeed, focus on creating relevant and usable designs that meet the needs of your target audience. With around 30 templates in my shop, I earn over $2,000 per month on average. By dedicating more time to designing and marketing, you can scale your business and increase your earnings.

I encourage you to take the first step in building your template business. With persistence and the right strategies, you can turn selling Canva templates into a profitable business that brings both financial and creative fulfillment.

FAQ

What is Canva, and how do I get started with creating templates?

Canva is a popular graphic design platform that offers a range of tools and features to create visual content. To get started, sign up for a free or pro account, and explore the various template categories and design elements available.

What kind of Canva templates are in high demand?

Business templates, such as social media graphics and presentation templates, are consistently in high demand. Additionally, personal use templates like planners, journals, and wedding invitations are also popular.

Do I need a Canva Pro account to sell templates?

While a Canva Pro account offers more features and benefits, you can still create and sell templates with a free account. However, having a Pro account can give you access to more design elements, fonts, and features that can enhance your templates.

How do I price my Canva templates?

Pricing depends on the type of template, its complexity, and the target audience. Research your competition, consider the time and effort you put into creating the template, and test different price points to find the sweet spot.

Can I sell Canva templates on multiple platforms?

Yes, you can sell your templates on your own website, as well as on marketplaces like Etsy, Creative Market, or Gumroad. This can help you reach a broader audience and increase your sales potential.

How do I handle customer service and support for my template sales?

Providing clear instructions and support resources can help minimize customer inquiries. Be prepared to respond to customer questions and issues promptly, and consider creating a FAQ section or support email address.

Are there any copyright or licensing concerns when selling Canva templates?

Yes, it’s essential to understand Canva’s terms of use and licensing rules for free and pro elements. Ensure you’re not infringing on any copyrights or licenses, and consider using royalty-free or licensed elements in your templates.

How can I market and promote my Canva templates?

Utilize social media platforms, email marketing, and collaborations with influencers or other designers to promote your templates. Optimize your product listings with compelling titles, descriptions, and mockups to attract potential buyers.