ACEO Pricing For eBay Auctions

This year I have created a lot of ACEO artworks for sale on eBay. ACEO stands for "Art Cards,Editions,and Originals." These miniature artworks always measure 2.5 x 3.5 inches. These charming little pieces are wonderful for those just beginning to sell their art to the public because you can find out what the public likes, will buy, and how much they will pay for your art. I work primarily in colored pencil, but have also sold ACEOs in watercolor and pen and ink, as well. My works are all one-of-a kind originals. Naturally, if you are offering reproductions you probably can sell them for less than a unique work. However, keep in mind, buyers won't pay any price for art if they don't like the image, or if the quality of the work is substandard.

Pictured is a sampling of the pieces I have sold this year. The Papillon colored pencil head study was listed at a starting price of $6.99 and had a final sale price of $10.50. The lowest price I will list my ACEO work for sale is $3.99. I have sold numerous pieces at this price, although $6.99 is currently my general starting price. If a piece doesn't initially sell, however, I will sometimes relist it, either at the same price several months later, or at a reduced sale price. I learn a lot from my pricing and I think it is important to offer works at various price points to attract potential customers. A great feature of eBay is the sales reports. I find that fully 40% of my eBay buyers are multiple, repeat customers. Price really isn't the object, they like my work. But keep in mind, folks like to think they are getting a bargain! And many people would prefer to own 10 of your ACEO works for a total outlay of $69.99 than one larger painting for the same price.

The picture of the Tibetan Mastiff puppy was listed on eBay for $6.99 at a Fixed Price,rather than at Auction, and it sold for that price. This is a relatively rare breed of dog and I did not anticipate that there would be lots of people wanting to bid on it. However, there is no need to give your artwork away, either. As it turns out, the person who bought the piece also asked if I would create some Tibetan Spaniel ACEOs, as well. Many of my customers request other breeds, particular colors or markings of certain breeds, or particular breeds as gifts for their friends. It other words, a $6.99 sale can generate other work and income for me. Keep your prices reasonable to start. Once you have figured out what types of work sell best for you, you can then adjust your prices according to demand. However, if there really is a bigger demand you will get a higher price (more often) if you let the market determine the final price at Auction, rather than selling at a Fixed Price. Finally, the Pug puppy ACEO was originally listed for $6.99 and had a final price of $16.38. Puppy pictures are always popular as are pictures that tell a story or have a whimsical nature.

I do not offer free shipping but charge a flat rate of $1.00 for USA purchases and $1.50 for international shipping. Shipping is more than a stamp. You must purchase the standard protective plastic sleeve for your ACEO, plus envelopes and card stock to protect the piece from damage in the envelope. And unless you are within walking distance of your post office, you must also buy gas for your car to get there. If you want to sell your work then think in terms of your cost of doing business and your return on investment. Unless you work relatively fast, you are not necessarily getting paid a very good hourly wage for your work. But, keep in mind, referrals from satisfied customers or requests for additional work - from just one sale - are accrued benefits that can compensate for the relatively low price of the art work you are selling. Remember, you must also deduct your eBay fees and PayPal fees from each listing and sale. You also need to calculate the cost of your art supplies as well, in order to determine a fair market rate for your work. If you are selling your work at aution for a penny and throwing in free shipping to boot, you might want to rethink your pricing policies!