How much does a craft artist make?

A craft artist may sketch an idea, choose materials, then cut, mold, weave, or join them by hand and add a finish. They may also pack pieces, talk with customers, and promote or sell work online or at a craft show.

Did you know? Some cheap factory-made goods are designed to look handmade—and the BLS says they can compete with craft artists’ work.

In the U.S., practice a craft, take art classes, and build a portfolio; a degree is not usually required, though schooling can help. There’s no fixed starting age, and repeated practice builds skill.

School needed: Vocational school or a few years' experience

Good for people who like creating and building and doing

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., earnings can differ with experience, location, and whether an artist works for an employer or sells their own pieces. Sales, reputation, and busy-season hours can matter too; many artists hold another job, and BLS wage estimates leave out self-employed people.