The reality of the publishing industry for kidlit artists - how I nearly quit

Financial challenges and practical tips

The world of children’s book illustration is a dream for many artists. The opportunity to bring stories to life, create magical worlds, and inspire young readers is incredibly rewarding. But let’s talk about the less magical side: the financial reality of working in the publishing industry :) Are you ready? This article comes perhaps at a right time - the end of the year, when we tend to plan things, or look back at the previous 12 months.

If you’re an aspiring or even seasoned kidlit artist, you’ve likely faced the challenges of delayed payments, long project timelines, and managing financial liquidity.

In this article, it is not my intention to be too negative :) But I would like this “truth” to be out there, so that some of you can get more mentally ready. And also those of you who are already in it - rest assured, you are not alone!

Here, I’ll break down the realities of the industry and share advice on how to navigate these challenges while staying financially stable.

The payment timeline: what to expect

One of the biggest surprises for many illustrators is how long it can take to get paid.

THE END of the article! Ha ha, I am joking, stay with me :D

Here’s a typical timeline for a children’s book project:

• Project start: Let’s say you sign a contract in the summer.

• Completion: The artwork is due by the fall or winter.

• Payment: Even after you’ve submitted your final files, you might not see payment until some months later - for me personally, around 2 months after I submitted my final files - and 1 extra month is due to me working with an illustration agency that also needs time to process their payments.

Publishers often pay in installments: an advance upon signing the contract, another payment upon delivery of sketches, and the final installment after the completed artwork is approved.

However - many publishers pay after the project is finished, and here a big call to action: please push some advance payments! It is much more motivating working on a project that takes 6 months, when you know that you were at least already payed for your concept sketches.

Why financial liquidity matters

When payments are delayed, maintaining financial liquidity becomes a big issue. Bills, groceries, and unexpected expenses don’t wait for publisher payments to clear. Without proper planning, it’s easy to feel the strain.

My “inspiration” for this article was that I was actually switching careers a bit - from pattern design to kidlit art. And initially I was planning in an X amount of income for the year 2024. What I didn’t know was the reality of this industry, and that left me around November 2024 completely devastated with my income forecast :( I was so close to simply quit. Not even for my ego, but the simple fact that I need to pay rent like everyone else.

Why your country matters

In some countries, the cost of living can significantly impact how you experience these delays. For example, Poland has a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries. If you’re being paid in euros or dollars, you might find that your earnings stretch further, offering a slight advantage and helping to compensate for the wait. Understanding these dynamics can be an essential part of planning your financial stability.

For me? Bad luck - I live in Germany and I have pretty high costs of living, especially after moving from Berlin to Potsdam.

Tips for financial stability as a kidlit artist

Here are some actionable strategies to help you prepare for and navigate these challenges:

1. Build a financial cushion
   Before diving into full-time kidlit work, aim to have three to six months of living expenses saved. This cushion can help bridge the gap between payments. I was lucky to work as a marketing specialist before, so I was able to put some money aside to prepare for my career switch.

2. Diversify your income streams
   Don’t rely solely on children’s book projects. Consider:

   • Selling prints, stickers, or other merchandise.

   • Teaching art classes online or in person, for example I teach on Skillshare.

   • Offering freelance design or illustration services in other industries.

   • Alternatively, keep your “main” job and consider kidlit projects as a side income for a while.

3. Use payment milestones wisely
   When you receive a payment, allocate it carefully. Prioritize essentials, set aside a portion for taxes, and save a chunk for future months.

4. Communicate with publishers
   If payment delays are affecting you, don’t hesitate to reach out to your publisher’s accounting department. Sometimes a gentle nudge can expedite the process.

5. Plan for long timelines
   Accept that children’s book projects often take a few months from start to finish. Be realistic about how many projects you can take on and what this means for your income.

6. Seek advances
   When negotiating contracts, always ask for an advance. This upfront payment can provide immediate funds to start the project without financial stress.

The long-term perspective

Despite the financial challenges, working in kidlit may be worth pursuing, if you are prepared financially and mentally. The joy of seeing your work in print, sharing your illustrations with the world, and being part of a child’s reading journey is amazing.

However, it’s so important to approach this career with open eyes and a solid financial plan. Preparation is key! Otherwise you may be like me - soooo close from quitting. What saves me right now are my Skillshare courses, so thank you everybody who’s been taking my classes!

If you’re passionate about children’s book illustration, don’t let the financial challenges deter you.

With smart planning, diverse income streams, and a proactive approach, you can build a sustainable and fulfilling career in this field. Remember, your talent and creativity are your greatest assets—use them wisely, and the rewards will follow. Don’t be afraid to price your work properly, know your value, and keep going!

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Hi! I’m Weronika Salach, a freelance illustrator specializing in children’s books, toy design and surface pattern design. Internationally I’m represented by Advocate Art. Over 40,000 happy students have taken my digital illustration courses and watched my YouTube videos. Let’s connect :)

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