Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Coloring Pages Online

Starting your coloring page business is exciting—but it’s easy to make mistakes that slow your progress or hurt your sales. Whether you're just beginning or already have products online, avoiding these common pitfalls will help you grow smarter and faster.

In this post, we’ll explore the top mistakes creators make when selling coloring pages online and how you can avoid them.

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1. Ignoring Your Niche

Trying to appeal to everyone usually leads to appealing to no one.

The Fix: Choose a niche you enjoy and understand. For example:

• Mandala coloring for adults

• Kids’ educational coloring pages

• Affirmation and mindfulness pages

• Holiday or seasonal themes

When you niche down, your audience will recognize your style and return for more.

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2. Using Low-Quality Designs or Images

Blurry, pixelated, or cluttered designs reflect poorly on your brand.

The Fix:

• Use high-resolution images (300 DPI)

• Test your pages by printing them yourself

• Use clean, clear line art that’s fun to color

• Try using AI design tools, like the one at RoyaltyFreeColour.com, to generate quality images

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3. Lack of Proper SEO and Product Descriptions

If your listings don’t show up in search, they won’t sell.

The Fix:

• Research keywords using tools like Etsy search bar or Ubersuggest

• Include important terms in your title, tags, and descriptions

• Mention age groups, themes, use cases (e.g., stress relief, homeschooling)

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4. Poor Presentation and Previews

If buyers can’t clearly see what they’re getting, they’ll click away.

The Fix:

• Use mockups to show pages in real settings (on a clipboard, desk, etc.)

• Include zoomed-in previews of the artwork

• Show multiple pages if selling a bundle

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5. No Clear Branding

Branding helps you stand out and builds trust.

The Fix:

• Create a recognizable brand name and logo

• Use a consistent visual style

• Add a watermark or footer with your brand on free and paid downloads

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6. Pricing Too Low or Too High

Too low, and you undervalue your work. Too high, and you may scare away buyers.

The Fix:

• Research similar sellers and aim for competitive but fair pricing

• Offer bundle deals or seasonal discounts

• Consider perceived value (great previews, clear benefits, bonus content)

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7. Not Collecting Emails Early On

Email marketing is crucial for long-term sales and customer retention.

The Fix:

• Offer a freebie coloring page to encourage signups

• Use simple email tools like MailerLite or ConvertKit

• Send tips, new product announcements, and special offers regularly

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8. Over-Reliance on One Platform

Relying solely on Etsy or another marketplace is risky.

The Fix:

• Diversify by also selling on Gumroad, Payhip, your own site, or Teachers Pay Teachers

• Build your own email list and social following for independence

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9. Not Testing or Gathering Feedback

Assuming your designs are perfect can hold you back from improvement.

The Fix:

• Ask for feedback in creator communities or from customers

• Observe what sells best and why

• Continually improve your style and content based on feedback

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Final Thoughts

Selling coloring pages online can be profitable and fun—but avoiding common mistakes will help you succeed faster. Focus on quality, branding, visibility, and customer connection. Keep learning, adapting, and enjoying the process, and you’ll build a creative business that thrives.