Art and Craft Sale Agreement

What a good one includes

• A detailed physical description of the artwork or craft, including dimensions, materials, and medium, to prevent any disputes about what is being sold.
• Clear payment terms that specify the total price, deposit requirements for commissions, and accepted payment methods.
• An intellectual property clause explicitly stating that you, the creator, retain all copyright and reproduction rights unless explicitly sold separately.
• Shipping and handling terms that outline who pays for transit, who is responsible for shipping insurance, and exactly when ownership transfers to the buyer.
• A straightforward return and refund policy, particularly detailing whether custom commissions are eligible for returns.
• A brief section outlining the proper display and care instructions to protect yourself from liability if the buyer damages the item through neglect.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming the buyer understands they only own the physical piece and not the legal right to print or reproduce your design on merchandise.
• Failing to secure a non-refundable deposit before starting work on a custom commission, which leaves you vulnerable to ghosting buyers.
• Neglecting to define who bears the financial loss if an irreplaceable piece is damaged or lost during transit.
• Using vague product descriptions instead of precise measurements and material lists, leading to buyer disappointment upon delivery.

Frequently asked questions