Launching a print collection should feel exciting, not overwhelming. But without a plan, it’s easy for the process to get chaotic fast…resizing files at midnight, rushing color corrections, scrambling to photograph products, and answering DMs before anything is actually ready.
A launch calendar solves all of that! It gives you structure, breathing room, and a smoother path from idea to release. And the best part? It doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective.
Let’s walk through how to build a launch calendar that keeps you organized and makes your next collection feel intentional and fun.
Start with Your Theme and Collection Size
A clear direction sets the tone for the whole launch. Whether you’re planning a botanical set, a series inspired by your travels, or a group of abstract pieces, knowing your theme keeps your collection cohesive.
Your collection doesn’t need to be big. In fact, many artists release three to five pieces at a time, which is just enough to feel substantial without overwhelming your audience.
Work Backwards from Your Ideal Launch Date
Instead of squeezing tasks into your schedule, give each step its own window of time. Working backwards helps you see the full picture and prevents that last-minute crunch.
A simple example:
6–8 weeks before launch: Digitize your artwork
4 weeks before: Approve color corrections
3 weeks before: Order test prints
2 weeks before: Photograph prints and write product descriptions
1 week before: Share previews and build anticipation
Launch week: Email, post, celebrate, rest
Even if your timeline is shorter or longer, this structure helps you stay grounded.
Build Buffer Time (your future self will thank you!)
Artwork takes the time it takes. Sometimes you need more revisions. Sometimes inspiration strikes and you add a new piece last minute. Life happens.
Adding small buffers to each stage makes the process feel calm rather than stressful.
Choose Your Print Sizes and Paper Early
If you’re unsure which sizes to offer, remember that our most popular sizes last year were 5x7 and 8x10. These sizes are easy for customers to frame and perfect for gifting.
Your paper choice matters too. Watercolor artists often gravitate toward textured options like cold press, while digital artists love archival matte for its clean, crisp finish. If you’re uncertain, we’re happy to help you choose the paper that complements your work best.
Prepare your Digital Files in Advance
Proper cropping, borders, DPI, and color mode adjustments can take more time than expected. Getting your files finalized before marketing begins makes everything smoother.
If you need scanning done, we can help digitize up to five artworks at a time, including up to three rounds of color correction per piece.
Plan your Marketing Moments
Your audience loves following along your creative journey, so include them in the process! Share glimpses of your inspiration, details about each piece, or the story behind the collection.
Marketing doesn’t need to feel salesy when it feels like storytelling.
Some artists develop a weekly rhythm:
Week 1: Sneak peeks
Week 2: Product photos
Week 3: Collection preview
Week 4: Launch announcement
Simplicity, consistency, and authenticity goes a long way.
Launch with Confidence
By the time your launch date arrives, your collection will be ready, your listings complete, your marketing scheduled, and your stress level low. That’s the gift of planning… you get to enjoy the launch instead of rushing through it!
You’ll also learn so much from each launch. The more collections you release, the clearer your rhythm becomes.
We're Here to Support Every Step
Whether you need scanning, test prints, paper recommendations, or drop-shipping to simplify fulfillment, our team is always ready to help you bring your collection to life.
Your art deserves to shine, and with a thoughtful launch calendar, it absolutely will!