Get freelancing

Thinking of becoming a freelancer now or in the future? We can help with events, resources and support.

Learn the basics of how to become a freelancer or sole trader and discover the wider support available with our service and beyond. We run a specific Freelancer's Workshop aimed at those interested in freelancing. The workshop will give you an insight into what it takes to become a successful freelancer including how to operate lawfully, marketing yourself and ensuring you get paid.

You don’t need any experience, everyone is welcome, no matter what you’re studying. Whether you don’t have a clue where to start or you already sell your own products/service. Give freelancing a go.

While you can dive in at any point below are some suggestions for the best starting point.

 

Freelancer's Workshop

Learn the basics of how to become a freelancer or sole trader and discover the wider support available with our service and beyond.

We will help you explore the possibility of becoming a freelancer or accelerating your already established freelancing journey. Our Freelancer's Workshop will give you insight into what it takes to become a successful freelancer including how to operate lawfully, marketing yourself and ensuring you get paid. You'll hear from an experienced freelancer with an opportunity to ask any questions.


It was so useful in every aspect. The speakers were really patient and knowledgeable. 

One of the most (maybe THE most) useful sessions I attended; I now have more clarity on freelancing. 

Freelancer resources

The UK Government provides useful information about Working for Yourself.

Creative Enterprise Toolkit includes useful handbooks, worksheets and case studies to help you shape your idea into a successful business.

Cultural Enterprise Office – read an inspiring story of a Glasgow-based artist who re-established her creative career and became a freelancer.

Freelancer Club is a website that allows freelancers to showcase their work, connect with others and access a wide range of benefits.

A guide on how to price your work from the Artists Information company. Particularly useful for visual artists.

If you are looking for some books and publications with helpful tips and facts about the world of work, The Bloomsbury creative careers section is for you.

Jess Kelly teaches the 'Business of Craft' course at Edinburgh College of Art and runs a Pinterest page for the course. On the page, you will find information about identifying craft value and skills, building brand awareness and positioning, Gallery/Commission/Agent relationships, business planning, marketing, entrepreneurship, accountancy and the use of online promotional & e-commerce tools.

From this Pinterest page, we identified some books and resources that can be of interest to freelancers in certain industries and at certain stages:

Check out this map of maker spaces by the Edinburgh College of Art:

Makerspace map (2.95 MB PDF)

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