5 Signs You're Undercharging for Your Creative Work (And How to Fix It)
I see it all the time in my coaching practice: incredibly talented artists and makers who are practically giving their work away. You pour your heart, soul, and countless hours into creating something beautiful, only to price it at barely above your material costs. Sound familiar?
If you're nodding along, you're not alone. Undercharging is one of the biggest mistakes creative entrepreneurs make, and it's often rooted in fear, self-doubt, and a lack of understanding about what your work is truly worth.
Here are five telltale signs you're undercharging for your creative work—and more importantly, how to fix it.
Sign #1: You're Barely Breaking Even (Or Losing Money)
Let's start with the most obvious red flag. If you're calculating your material costs, adding a tiny markup, and calling it a day, you're likely losing money on every sale. I've worked with ceramic artists who were selling gorgeous handmade mugs for $15 when they should have been charging $45.
The Fix: Start tracking everything. Your time, materials, overhead costs, and the value you bring through your expertise. Don't forget to pay yourself a fair wage for the hours you invest. Your prices should cover all costs AND generate profit.
Sign #2: You're Always Busy But Never Have Money
This is the classic "busy but broke" syndrome. You're constantly working, your calendar is packed with projects, but your bank account doesn't reflect all that effort. When your prices are too low, you have to take on way more clients or orders to make ends meet, leading to burnout and resentment.
The Fix: Raise your prices and take on fewer, higher-value projects. It's better to work with five clients who pay you well than fifteen who drain your energy for pennies. Quality over quantity, always.
Sign #3: Clients Don't Bat an Eye at Your Prices
I know this sounds counterintuitive, but if every single potential client immediately says "yes" to your pricing without any hesitation, you're probably charging too little. When your prices are appropriate for the value you provide, some people will need to think about it—and that's okay.
The Fix: Test higher price points gradually. Increase your rates by 20-30% for new clients and see how the market responds. You might be surprised at how many people are willing to pay more for quality work.
Sign #4: You Feel Resentful About Your Work
This one breaks my heart because it's so common. When you're undercharging, every project feels like you're being taken advantage of, even when clients are lovely. You start dreading commissions and feeling bitter about the time you're investing.
The Fix: Remember that proper pricing isn't just about making money—it's about creating a sustainable business that allows you to keep doing what you love. When you charge appropriately, you can show up with enthusiasm and energy for every project.
Sign #5: You're Afraid to Talk About Money
Do you find yourself stumbling over pricing conversations? Do you apologize for your rates or immediately offer discounts? This discomfort often stems from not truly believing your work is worth what you're charging—which usually means you're not charging enough.
The Fix: Practice talking about your prices with confidence. Write out your pricing structure and practice explaining the value behind it. The more comfortable you become with your rates, the more confident you'll sound when discussing them with clients.
Moving Forward: Your Pricing Power Plan
Ready to stop undercharging? Here's your action plan:
This Week: Calculate your true costs, including your time at a fair hourly rate. Most creatives are shocked when they see the real numbers.
Next Week: Research what others in your field with similar experience are charging. Don't just look at the lowest prices—look at the full range.
This Month: Implement a strategic price increase. Start with new clients or projects, and grandfather existing clients at current rates if needed.
Remember, charging appropriately for your creative work isn't greedy—it's necessary. When you price your work fairly, you create space to grow your business, invest in better materials, and ultimately serve your clients at an even higher level.
Your creativity has value. Your time has value. Your expertise has value. It's time your prices reflected that truth.
Ready to transform your creative business pricing strategy? Book a free discovery call to learn how my Creative Momentum Collective can help you build a profitable, sustainable creative business that honors both your artistry and your financial goals.