Craft Artists
Craft artists create handmade objects for sale and exhibition using techniques such as welding, weaving, pottery, and needlecraft. They work in studios, workshops, galleries, and maker spaces, producing one-of-a-kind or limited-edition pieces. Most craft artists are self-employed or work for craft studios and artisan businesses.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against craft artists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A craft artist's week involves hands-on work at their medium—throwing clay, operating a loom, welding metal, or stitching textiles. Time is split between production, finishing pieces, photographing work for sales or gallery submissions, managing inventory, and handling business tasks like pricing and shipping. Many also spend time at craft markets, galleries, or studio open houses to sell directly to customers and build their customer base.
Who this work suits
Holland code RAE. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You do well in this work if you value making tangible things with your own hands and seeing realistic results from your effort. You're drawn to visual and tactile problem-solving, and you have the patience to refine techniques and repeat processes until pieces meet your standards.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $62,500 | $100,540 | $130,360 | 170 |
| Missouri | $50,120 | $61,780 | $66,470 | 140 |
| Wisconsin | $37,630 | $58,650 | $71,540 | 190 |
| Texas | $46,800 | $54,690 | $58,240 | 870 |
| Maine | $36,830 | $53,380 | $57,310 | 50 |
| Oregon | $46,380 | $51,060 | $70,840 | 170 |
| New York | $33,830 | $49,020 | $57,540 | 50 |
| Georgia | $31,510 | $48,880 | $92,960 | — |
| Florida | $40,980 | $48,710 | $53,910 | 270 |
| Massachusetts | $39,870 | $47,660 | $59,810 | 50 |
| Arizona | $37,900 | $46,300 | $58,830 | — |
| Washington | $40,230 | $44,120 | $48,570 | 80 |
All 23 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against craft artists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 27-1012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.