The Creative Juice Podcast
Hey there, I'm Meg!
I’ve built a thriving illustration business in small pockets of time, and now I help artists, makers and creatives grow their business with sustainable systems and intentional strategy.
36 \/\/ You Don't Need a Big Audience to Make Money as an Artist or Maker
First Published: February 5th 2026
You don’t need a big audience to start making money from your creative work...if you’re an artist or maker who’s been posting consistently, growing slowly, and waiting for sales to “catch up”, this video challenges the idea that audience size is what leads to income.
You don’t need a big audience to start making money from your creative work...if you’re an artist or maker who’s been posting consistently, growing slowly, and waiting for sales to “catch up”, this video challenges the idea that audience size is what leads to income. Instead, we’re talking about the behind-the-scenes structure that allows creatives to make sales before they build a following.
This isn’t about going viral, growing on Instagram, or chasing numbers. It’s about understanding what actually leads to sales in a creative business - even with a small audience.If you already have work you’re proud of, but your sales don’t match the effort you’re putting in - this one’s for you!
What I Cover In This Episode:
Why you don’t need a large audience to start making sales
The difference between visibility and conversion in a creative business
What actually needs to be in place before sales can happen
Feed-based platforms vs search-based platforms (and why this matters)
Why structure matters more than reach when it comes to income
How selling first can actually help you grow an audience later
Mentioned in this Episode:
SOCIAL 2 SALE
Learn how to create content that actually converts into sales (not just likes):
Mentioned Episodes:
Episode 35: 40 Ways to Make Money as a Creative - listen here
Speed up growth with my 1:1 coaching. Please fill out an application form here
Patreon: Free version available only - visit here
Links & Resources:
My Creative Hub
(the all-in-one dashboard that helps you price for profit, stay organised, and run your creative business with confidence)
Systeme*
(My favourite marketing platform: email provider, website builder, online course builder, automations, funnels & more.)
Community
(Subscribe to my Substack to read articles about growing your Creative Business and join the conversation)
Get inside The Creative Juice Club
Smart strategies, honest behind-the-scenes, and tools that help your creative business actually grow - delivered every week.
The Creative Juice Club
A home for busy creatives
Built by Meg - Illustrator turned Creative Business Mentor
© 2026 The Creative Juice Club