1. Give Your Existing Clients a Heads-Up
Professionalism goes a long way. Before raising your prices, let your existing clients know in advance. You don’t owe them a detailed explanation for the increase, but providing a heads-up builds trust and transparency.
You’ll be surprised—this can actually lead to more sales! Clients may act quickly to place an order before prices go up, or simply be reminded of your work and decide to purchase. It’s a clever little tactic that businesses use to boost sales.

2. Start with New Clients
If you’re hesitant about increasing prices across the board, start by raising your rates for new clients. This can be a smoother transition, especially if you offer a creative service like design or consulting.
Since services are harder to compare than products, it’s often easier to raise your design fees or hourly rates without much pushback. Keep existing clients on your older rates, and gradually introduce the new prices for fresh business.

3. Increase Prices in January
January is a prime time to raise your prices, especially if your business costs have gone up—think rising material costs or inflation. It’s common for businesses to raise their prices by a percentage at the start of the year, and no one bats an eye.
Another smart move: hold a sale to clear out old stock before you increase your prices. This gives your clients a last chance to buy at the current rates, while you prep for a profitable new season.

4. Discontinue Old Stock and Launch a New Collection
Sometimes the best way to raise your prices is to refresh your offerings. Discontinue products that are slow sellers or not as profitable, and focus on creating a new collection that speaks to your core audience.
Research your bestsellers and make sure you’re prioritising the most profitable items. Once you’ve streamlined your collection, relaunch at a higher price point. You’ll not only clear space but also create excitement for new designs.
Reach out to previous clients to inform them of the changes, and encourage them to snatch up the old stock before it’s gone!

5. Align Your Branding & Photography with Your Price Positioning
Ever wonder why some people can charge more than you? The answer often lies in their brand presence and how they present their work. High-quality branding and photography make a huge difference in how potential clients perceive your products.
A polished, professional image boosts the perceived value of your work, making it easier to justify a higher price. Think about how your online presence reflects your brand and pricing. A fresh photoshoot or revamped website could be all you need to elevate your business.

6. Sell in the Right Places
Where you sell plays a significant role in what you can charge. Pricing is relative—what’s considered expensive in one space may not be in another.
If you’re selling high-end, luxury pieces on platforms like Etsy or at local craft markets, you might be limiting your potential. Positioning yourself in the right environment, such as galleries or premium online boutiques, can justify higher prices.
Do some research into where your ideal clients shop and position yourself accordingly. It’s not just about where you sell—it’s about being where your target audience values your work.

7. Get More Confident. Stop Undercharging!
One of the biggest hurdles to increasing your prices is simply making the decision that you’re worth it. If you struggle to charge what you’re worth, it’s time to build your confidence.
Many creatives undercharge for a variety of reasons, but you can break this cycle. If you need a little guidance, I highly recommend the book Overcoming Underearning by Barbara Stanny. It’s a game-changer for shifting your mindset about money and worth.
Remember, the more confident you are in your pricing, the more your clients will believe in the value of what you offer.

8. Your Clients Might Actually Like It When You Charge More
Here’s a surprising truth: some clients actually like it when you raise your prices. If your work appeals to collectors or high-end buyers, they may see the price increase as a sign that your work is gaining value. Their collection is appreciating, and they get to say they supported you early on.
A price increase can build exclusivity, especially when collectors know they’ve secured your work at a lower price before it became more sought-after. So, while raising your rates might make you nervous, it could also solidify your standing as a sought-after creative.