Craft Artists
Create or reproduce handmade objects for sale and exhibition using a variety of techniques, such as welding, weaving, pottery, and needlecraft.
Common Job Titles
- Artist
- Designer
- Furniture Maker
- Glass Artist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeCreate original handmade objects using diverse craft techniques for sale and exhibition, integrating fine arts principles with production and processing knowledge.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform welding, weaving, pottery, and needlecraft techniques with precision using specialized tools and equipment in studio settings.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate quality and aesthetic merit of craft works against design standards and customer expectations throughout production.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop marketing and sales strategies for handmade goods independently managing small business operations and inventory.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate multi-step craft production workflows scheduling firing cycles, drying times, and fabrication sequences independently.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate customer feedback with artistic vision when adapting designs to balance commercial viability and creative integrity.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate kilns, potter's wheels, looms, and fabrication equipment following established safety protocols and material specifications.Developing
- MindsetEngage with customers and gallery audiences when selling, demonstrating, and explaining handmade artworks.Developing
- KnowledgeApply design principles and material properties to plan and execute custom craft projects meeting client specifications.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate raw materials including clay, fiber, metal, wood, and glass using hand tools and power equipment to achieve desired forms and finishes.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze production processes and material costs to optimize efficiency and profitability while maintaining artistic quality.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Craft Artists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
4,370
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $22,620. 25th percentile: U.S. $31,350. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,480. 75th percentile: U.S. $52,070. 90th percentile: U.S. $65,850. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $22,620 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $65,850 |
| Workers on average earn | $45,340 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Fine Arts3.9/5
- Sales and Marketing3.8/5
- Production and Processing3.8/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.8/5
- Design3.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Technology Skills
- DRAWSTITCH Artistic Sewing Suite
- Electric Quilt Quilt Design Wizard
- Email software
- Embroidery design software
- Floriani MDQ My Decorative Quilter
- John Hesselberth and Ron Roy GlazeMaster
- Pattern design software
- Sales management software
Tools & Equipment
- Alcohol lamps
- Allen wrenches
- Aluminum silkscreening screens
- Angled paint brushes
- Artists' air brushes
- Artists' paint brushes
- Artists' palette knives
- Artists' palettes