They say most successful entrepreneurs have multiple streams of income. That might sound overwhelming, but when some of those streams are passive or naturally aligned with your creative work, it can feel less like juggling and more like designing a life on your own terms.

Whether you’re an architecture student, designer, or creative professional, there are plenty of ways to use your skills to earn extra income and build financial freedom. Here are ten side hustles to consider (many of which I’ve tried myself).

1. Sell Your Work on Etsy or Your Own Website

Etsy remains one of the easiest ways to start selling creative work online, especially if you already draw, paint, or design. From prints and commissions to digital downloads like calendars, templates, and planners, you can turn your creative skills into a steady side income.

Pro tip: Skip the shipping stress by focusing on digital products that buyers can instantly download - they sell while you sleep.

Explore my online shop here

2. Create Digital Artwork and Print Patterns

Platforms like Society6, Redbubble, and Creative Market let you upload artwork, illustrations, or patterns that can be printed on products ranging from notebooks to tote bags.

If you’re fluent in Adobe or Procreate, you can also create logos, fonts, or templates to sell to other creatives - another easy way to turn your design skills into income.

3. Start a YouTube Channel

YouTube is still one of the most powerful long-term income streams, but it’s also one of the slowest to grow. If you start a channel, make it educational, inspiring, or tutorial-based. Think “Sketch With Me,” “Architecture Tips,” or “Creative Business Advice.” Be consistent, post what you love, and optimise your videos for search. It’s a great way to attract clients, students, or collaborations, even before you’re monetised.

Check out my YouTube channel here

4. Teach What You Know

Teaching is one of the best ways to turn your expertise into income. You can create an online course, offer 1:1 mentoring, or host live workshops. Platforms like Skillshare, Teachable, and Thinkific make it easy to share your knowledge. Or, if you already have an audience, host your courses directly through your website for more control and higher profit margins.

This is exactly what I help creatives do inside my coaching program - turning your skills, story, and experience into digital offers that sell.

5. Freelance Online

Freelancing is perfect if you want flexible work that fits around other commitments. Sites like UpWork, Fiverr, and Toptal offer opportunities to design logos, write blog posts, or create social media graphics for clients worldwide. You can also pitch your services directly to design studios, start-ups, or fellow creatives who need extra help.

6. Build a Blog or Personal Brand

Blogging and content creation aren’t dead - they’ve just evolved. Your blog can become a portfolio, resource hub, and marketing funnel that attracts ideal clients or students. Write about your creative process, architecture tips, or life as a designer - and use your content to naturally promote your products, commissions, or coaching.

Remember: your personal brand is your biggest long-term asset. If you’d like guidance on how to build it strategically, that’s exactly what I teach inside my Creative Business Coaching offer.

7. Declutter and Sell What You No Longer Need

Sometimes, extra income starts right at home. Decluttering your studio or home can free up both physical and mental space, and earn you a bit of money. List items on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Vinted, or host a mini studio sale for prints and materials. It’s simple, satisfying, and surprisingly effective.

8. Offer Local Services or Odd Jobs

Not every side hustle has to be digital.
Use your creative eye and organisational skills for local jobs like:

Home styling or organising
Babysitting or tutoring
Photography
Pet sitting or dog walking
Personal shopping or event styling

These can build your confidence, network, and even lead to creative collaborations.

8. Offer Local Services or Odd Jobs

Not every side hustle has to be digital. Use your creative eye and organisational skills for local jobs like:

Home styling or organising
Babysitting or tutoring
Photography
Pet sitting or dog walking
Personal shopping or event styling

These can build your confidence, network, and even lead to creative collaborations.

9. Rent Out Space or Host Experiences

If you have a spare room, consider listing it on Airbnb or hosting a creative experience.

Before my kids were born, I hosted Sketching Walking Tours around Reykjavík, showing visitors my favourite spots while sketching together in cafés when the weather turned wild. Think about how you can combine what you love with what others would pay to experience - it’s a beautiful blend of passion and profit.