How I launched Patreon as a doll artist
I've considered creating Patreon for a long time now, but recently it became more and more attractive for me and my business as a doll artist. Over the years, I’ve created five online classes that became very popular amongst my followers. I often receive requests to create new lessons about certain topics. Unfortunately, I can’t put out well-crafted classes as quickly as I want to. Finally, I found an option that satisfies all parties - Patreon! New video tutorials, Patreon exclusive, will cover different topics about doll making each month. So, let’s talk about how it works!
Tiers and rewards
Friend $2
Behind the scenes content
Early access to some content
I included this small tier as an option to show support if you’re not that interested in making dolls yourself but curious about the process. I take a lot of pictures of my doll-making process, but most of them don’t end up on Instagram. Just because they’re not “pretty” enough or too technical for my casual followers. Patreon is a wonderful place to post them.
Apprentice $5
Patreon exclusive video tutorial each month
10% discount in my Etsy shop
Behind the scenes content
Early access to some content
This tier was the main reason I started my Patreon account. I wanted to share short form (20min) video tutorials about a certain topic of doll making. A lot of my students were interested in more content and not necessarily in online classes. I’m so happy I’ll be able to offer new content each month.
Penpal $7
Postcard sent to you by mail
Patreon exclusive video tutorial each month
10% discount in my Etsy shop
Behind the scenes content
Early access to some content
With these tiers, I decided to have some fun and do something I’ve never tried before. Over the years, I took hundreds of beautiful photos that include my dolls. Doll photography is one of my passions, so being able to put it on paper and not just Instagram means a lot. I’ve researched printing technologies and picked offset printing instead of a digital one. The quality of these postcards is so nice! Turned out better than I’d expected.
Doll maker $46 (Limited to 30 spots)
A curated box of doll making supplies each month
Postcard sent to you by mail
Patreon exclusive video tutorial each month
10% discount in my Etsy shop
Behind the scenes content
Early access to some content
This tier is probably the most fun because I’ll be able to share my favorite doll-making supplies with you! I’ll curate a box of goodies each month that will include supplies or something that I make to help you on your doll-making journey. It will be a special doll artists club!
Patreon is a beautiful concept if done right. I think it can bring the communities closer and erase some lines between the creator and followers. It’s so valuable these days. I want to connect more, share something worthwhile and enjoy this community. Let me know if you have any questions!