Making art books & Kickstarter success ✶ behind the scenes Part 1

The Kickstarter ends Nov 30! bit.ly/SBartbooksKickstarter
This video shares my experience making art books and running a successful Kickstarter campaign. Nowadays you don't have to be published by a big company to have your own art books made and distributed. You can do it yourself!
This is my second Kickstarter book project, but it was a whole new beast. So I'll show you the process and take you behind the scenes to what it was like preparing for the Kickstarter launch and beyond.
00:00 Intro
00:19 Chapter 1: Stamina
02:27 Chapter 2: Mistakes
05:33 Chapter 3: The Finish Line
08:40 Chapter 4 : Launch Day
15:26 Chapter 5: Relief
17:37 Next Time
FAQ
- I am printing my books with Mixam.co.uk - I used them for my previous Kickstarter (Tree Girl, a children's book) and they were amazing to work with. Plus they are local which I love.
If you live in the US I can recommend Blurb, I used them in the past for various book projects and loved them and they have a really great free design program you can download.
- My shipping boxes are made by Lil Packaging and they are the C3 large letter boxes. I order them in bulk to get a better deal.
- I designed my books in Adobe Indesign using the templates from Mixam.
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➤ My Supply List: bit.ly/SBfavesupplies
➤ Tutorials & Blog: fearlessbrush.com/painting/
➤ Patreon: bit.ly/sburnspatreon
➤ Instagram: bit.ly/sburnsinsta
➤ Prints: bit.ly/sbbookshop

[@anayansi5275]

You are my ARY HERO! Such a great example of the “real life” of an artist “extraordinaire!!! Thank you so very much for all your hard work. Your videos are appreciated and your voice has been my company during the entire pandemic. Blessings to you.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much 😀

[@vitamincalmasmr]

My dad would always say.." You are your own worst critic." I battle this every time I do a drawing/painting. Your work is incredible. I will definitely buy a book or 2 🤗

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much 😀

[@DavZell]

I have no idea how I missed this launch! I'm so glad I saw this video. You have one more double book order from the US!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Aww cool thank you! ☺ its OK I know there's a lot going on in the world and each of our lives.

[@jwilliams5273]

Yeah, sooooo, I cried! Tried not too but, NOPE cried for you girl!

[@MedievalMary]

I think you underestimate how amazing of an artist you are. You are not an amateur. Your skills are rich with the labors of your journey. You are a success because of your hard work and dedication. Your art is beautiful, your style is captivating. You are also an over achiever, because not only do you create beautiful things you inspire others to do so as well. You have inspired me to keep painting even when my paintings don't turn out the way I wanted. You have taught me that every brush stroke matters, even if only realized on another piece far in the future. You have encouraged me to see the beauty outside my front door and to appreciate it. So many "master class" artists make "good" art seem unachievable. I have learned from you that my best creations are obtainable one sketch at a time. Stroke by stroke I can get there. Sarah Burns taught me that.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Aww I'm going to cry! Thank you for this message 🥰 I am constantly battling those negative thoughts about my work. I know I'm not an amateur but I still have a long ways to go to achieve my goals. I follow so many amazing artists who seem to create flawless beauty without struggle. Social media paints an unrealistic picture of what it really takes. I need to constantly remind myself!

[@MedievalMary]

@@SarahBurnsStudio 🤗 I didn't buy two books from those flawless masters. They aren't relatable to me. I bought yours because you are. I think we should be kinder to ourselves yes?

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

@@MedievalMary yes, a life lesson I continue to learn ☺

[@jamestierney7123]

Please Know You are NO imposter and total vindicated in 1 Day ! I’m so excited for you both 👏🏻 You totally deserve this.CONGRATULATIONS🙏🏼👍🏻👨🏻‍🎨🍾 God Bless you guys🙏🏼

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much!!

[@LadyLaddy]

You are so much more than just an amateur artist. You are super inspiring, honest and you are sharing your thoughts and process with us. You love what you do and that is what is incredibly motivating and inspiring to me. Thanks to you I started gouache and I learn new things every day. I think every artist is unique no matter where they are in their career. So thank you Sarah and I'm looking forward to your books.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you for your encouragement!

[@perinilan4364]

Wow! You should be so proud of your goal setting and ability to work towards achieving them.

[@variasonersen2199]

Geez... I just found you and your channel today.. subscribed and then watched this.. Missed the Kickstarter by one day.. hopefully you do it again!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Welcome! I'll be selling the books on my webshop in the future (probably February) and of course I'll post about that when the time comes :)

[@VictorianStudio]

I was going to say amazing and unbelievable - but you are totally amazing already and incredibly believable... well deserved Sarah! You work so hard and you are so talented and inspiring you totally deserve all the wonderful things. Congratulations!!!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

You are so sweet!!

[@hArtyTruffle]

Such an inspiration Sarah! Well done! Love your absolute humaness ❤️ and “Hi to Wolfy” 👋🏼

[@j.s.elliot7121]

Congratulations, Sarah! I wish I could've gotten print copies of both of them, but I'm still looking forward to the digital edition. 💖

[@danibouchard191]

Congratulations and we'll deserved! You are an amazing artist!

[@virginiarparker9503]

You give us hope.

[@juliedowling1430]

I’m so so thrilled for you Sarah, much deserved 👍

[@carolturner1976]

Sarah, you should be so proud of all of your work. You are so talented, and creating two books is phenomenal. Editing and finding mistakes or needed changes is all part of the process, and I bet your books are fabulous. I can’t wait to purchase both. You are appreciated!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much!! Yes it's been a ton of work but very worth it, as it's something that will be "alive" for a long time even after the kickstarter ends :)

[@maryemma7368]

So excited watching this. Well done you deserve it. Can’t wait for my delivery. Either my birthday present or Christmas present depending on when it arrives 😊

[@henriquejanuario881]

Congratulations! You deserve all this success! And I hope this help you to develop other beautiful projects! Thanks for sharing these videos!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you!! It's definitely a huge boost!

[@SarahNewburyArt]

I am so excited for you Sarah! Huge congratulations! 😊🥰 🎉

[@DavidBerlin07]

Well deserved success. Keep up the good work :)

[@angiepen]

Hi Wolfy! :) Sarah -- congrats hon! That's freakin' awesome. :D War stories: Re: shipping, yeah, a lot of folks have been stung by that. And not only shipping, but packing materials too. One hears of folks who are all, "Hey, I've got these old prints/T-shirts/mugs/etc. filling the spare bedroom -- I'll use them as a stretch goal! I have them already, so they're free, and I get my spare room back, bonus!" They don't think about postage, but they also don't think about the box/tube/padded envelope or whatever, or the tape, or the mailing labels. Someone in this kind of hole, the more people who support their project, the more in the hole they end up. :/ And another one. A huge success can be your biggest downfall. Howard Tayler, who did the web comic Schlock Mercenary (which wrapped up earlier this year) used to do big, glossy books collecting however many strips each year or so. He did a blog post a while back talking about how it went. He had so many orders for this book -- in which he'd promised to hand-draw a picture of one of his characters, of the purchaser's choice -- that he had to *rent a small warehouse* to have the huge stacks of boxes delivered too. Big enough to run a bunch of (rented) rectangular office tables down the center, with (rented) office chairs along the tables, for all the people he had to find to help him do the packing and shipping. On top of the packing materials, tape, labels, etc. Howard spent the whole time at a table in a corner drawing, with someone whose sole job it was to make sure he drew the right character in the right book, and that each book with the right character made it into a package to the right customer. This was a huge, insane, and expensive undertaking. And because of the drawings in each book (which he always did; if you buy a book from him at a convention, he'll draw a picture in it for you right there) he couldn't just upload the order list and have the books dropshipped from the printer. So, warehouse. But seriously, think about having so much success that you have to rent a warehouse and office furniture to do the packing and shipping? That could bankrupt a small artist living on the margins, right there, if they calculated their expenses based on having eight or ten or twenty boxes shipped to their apartment, and doing packing/shipping themself evenings and weekends for a week or two. Or more likely, it'd crash their Kickstarter, and they wouldn't be able to fulfill at all, because logistics and money. :/ People don't think about that. Everyone thinks about what they'll do if they fail horribly, but very few people think about what they'll do if they're insanely successful. Luckily, Howard was ready for it. A lot of folks wouldn't have been.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Wow that's nuts! I can't imagine that happening to me at least not now. But I did learn a ton from running my last kickstarter and I was more prepared. It's also why I didn't offer any stretch goals this time, and not as many originals. I just figured, people either want the book or they don't. A free sticker isn't going to change their mind! But hey, if I decide to throw in a special gift, it will just be a bonus surprise :D

[@lpayne91]

Congratulations Sarah, I could only afford to get both books digitally but one day hope to get a printed copy too..can’t wait to read about your creative journey and see all your beautiful art work 🥰

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much!

[@maryanntaylor2179]

Loved watching the excitement build in this video! Can't wait to receive the books I ordered (as my own Christmas present). Will wait for you to explain how you confirm the shipping address and approximate arrival date. I don't want the books to get wet so I will be anxious if we have winter weather. Congratulations!

[@mariavarga863]

Congratulations! 🎉🎉🎉

[@AmandaInEly]

Well done! I'm looking forward to getting my books!

[@zoefletcher6135]

Congratulations Sarah, I am so pleased for you, I know the work involved in creating a book and I can't do the digital side yet. I really admire your skill set and determination.

[@BunNessa_Art]

I wasn't able to get the kickstarter books but will definitely buy both once they hit your etsy!!!

[@hayleypbop6997]

Congratulations. Well deserved and can’t wait to see the book.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much!

[@kstutz230]

How exciting! Congratulations from the US!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you!

[@Tonisfarm2024]

Sarah...you are AMAZING! Your hard work and dedication is soo inspiring. I have been following you since you first started and to see your growth in both your art, your video content and quality, just...everything...has been amazing. 💗 Congratulations on your successful Kickstarter. I NEVER had any doubt!👏 Toni

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you! I'm so grateful 🥰

[@rcouncilman8992]

I just love your art, you so talented. I watch all your videos, they’re so awesome.😍

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you 🥰

[@debracarty170]

I just saw this , I'm so excited for you, and of course this project was going to be successful, you are an amazingly talented, genuine personable person! Your videos are entertaining, visually and emotionally (which I can feel in your art)....all I can say is, continue to kick ass! By the way, you and Wolfy are so freaking adorable together! I wish you two the best, which is what you deserve!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much!

[@Cerydwyn87]

Congratulations Sarah! Well deserved. It’s fascinating to see just how much work goes into producing a book. Also, you and Wolfy are so freaking adorable together 💚💚

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much!

[@jorgeluisalbino9620]

You'll be a good mother of tweens, 😂🤣, two books at the same time is insane. I admire your art talent but also you knowledg of all aspects of run an art business to make it profitable. And last but no less important you share all that knowledg with tha world. Thank you very much. 🙏👍

[@bahaven1896]

YAY, I just paid for your Kickstarter books - can't wait to see them! You've been an inspiration to me since I followed you when you lived in the states! :)

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Wow, thank you!

[@beckyisj]

so excited to be a part of this!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Yayyyyy!

[@emilydeaton1169]

I work in the publishing industry and love these behind-the-scenes look at things! Getting printed proofs is sooo important, and it’s so fun to finally see your work come to life! Congratulations! 💕

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

It's such an amazing feeling to hold your art in your hand like that!

[@lovinpickles08]

I just supported you on Kickstarter! Looking forward to the books! All the best! ❤️

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Awesome! Thank you! That means we just hit a HUGE milestone - we went over £10k!!

[@whereisbobidontknow]

Congratulation!! Well deserved!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much 😀

[@emory_arts]

I am so beyond happy to see you succeed in this endeavor!!! I've been watching you for a few years now, and seeing your following grow has been super heartwarming. I recently sent an order to Mixam too, of an illustrated self-published short story of my own, and this video found me smiling at all the moments you were because I felt the exact same way as I was proofreading, seeing preorders come in, losing my mind with InDesign, etc. While I can't afford to purchase your books just yet, I am looking forward to doing so in the future. I admire your hard work and really look up to you. Congratulations! :'D

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you!! Haha you totally get it...the rollercoaster of making your own books...it's daunting but so rewarding!

[@THEMAYQUEEN1]

This is really exciting lol i have been writing a children's book and will illustrate it. Congratulations on your books!!!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Yay awesome!

[@SorrensSorrow]

Your Wolfy is great! Happy you got funded!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you so much!!

[@joelleledoux6351]

Bravo!👏🎨🇫🇷

[@aliciamolloy5948]

Congratulations Sarah!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you!

[@angelalewis4213]

cogratulations!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thanks!

[@fuzzydragons]

congrats n getting the kickstarter funded!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

thank you!!

[@c.f.callier]

This is so amazing! I am so happy for you that this has turned out so well! Thank you for putting in the time to make them. I am looking forward to getting my books! Supportive husband = 💜💜💜

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

😄

[@jorgeluisalbino9620]

I'm waitng to buy both starter kits or a bundle👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

So exciting!

[@moma-b]

Congratulations again and again and again! You deserve the success so much. Also eyeliner looks good on Wolfy indeed. But tell him not to sleep with make-up on. That's not good for the skin and the eye. 😁

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

😄 thank you

[@djhadaverde]

Congrats! I'm so happy for you. You should listen to your heart, and not to the "grinchy imposter syndrome demon" trying to screw it all. Listen to us, your subscribers and follow the good path as you did. Thank you, your art and projects inspire me for good. Greetings from Gran Canaria!

[@recoveringsoul755]

Congratulations I hope I can get my finances sorted to get one or both. That looks like so much work. So the printers reproduced the colors accurately ok? Loved seeing your cats, I had one like your tabby cat but he was old and I had to let him go a week ago. I can't even put away his food bowls yet...

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Yes the printer is great. I'm sorry for your loss 🖤

[@ArtasiaLand]

I love how you edit your videos!!! ❤ Do you do the editing of your videos yourself or do you outsource that??? If you do it yourself, I’d love to see a video where you teach your process of how you do it 😊

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you! Yes I do it all myself…concept, filming, editing, etc. it’s SO much work 🙃 I mainly learned by lots of trial and error over the years. I use Premiere Pro and taught myself how to do things by watching KZbin tutorials and then just countless hours of editing actual videos.

[@SereneStudio]

I'm so glad you didn't let imposter syndrome get the best of you! And the books are so absolutely beautiful! They are my Christmas gift to myself and also just one small way I get to support you. You've been an incredible light during my painting journey and I know you work incredibly hard in your business- your success is well deserved! :D Also, you and Wolfy are so cuuuute! (BTW how long did it end up taking you to edit the book, more than 3 hrs I'm guessing lol!)

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

You are the sweetest!! Your messages always make me smile :) So yea that 3 hour editing session turned into 3 days (not like non-stop for 3 days, but many many hours, three days in a row). I should have mentioned that to give the full picture.

[@susanweller2121]

Congratulations. They looks absolutely stunning. Will hard (not digital) copies be available after the kickstarter closes? I don't understand kickstarters.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Yes, I will sell copies on my webshop in the future. After kickstarters get their copies

[@susanweller2121]

@@SarahBurnsStudio I'm so glad. Thank you. 🙂

[@marionwigzell7334]

Congratulations Sarah. You deserve it, you have worked very hard. I don’t understand what “kickstarter” is, and what the 6000+ means as opposed to the backers? Sorry I’m not very tech savvy (-: Marion

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Thank you! Kickstarter is a growd funding platform. If you want the books, you can order then through the link. It's kind of like a pre order. Once the Kickstarter ends I will be able to send the designs to the printer and have them made

[@lzal3583]

Amateur paintings?? Girl you can’t be serious. Cut it out with the self doubt!!! You are out of your mind. Glad you are doing these books.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Imposter syndrome strikes at the worst times!

[@LisaZoe86]

I just tried to order the books via the kickstarter-link in the description but unfortunately the only payment method seems to be via credit card, which I don't have. :/ Otherwise I would have loved to buy them!

[@thiagomenezes6850]

I got a friend whos in trouble. She lives with her son and a very toxic husband. She have no way out, no place to go. Shes an amazing writer and draw amazing things. Her mom always told her to believe in her art. Now that she passed away, my friend decided to start a business selling her art online. Im so worried for her. Im really scared no one buys her things and her hopes get crushed.

[@joywhitley3141]

I’m watching this months after it first posted but have a question: In the U.S. we have a ‘book rate’ which saves a massive amount on postage. Have you looked into this? ❤️ Your work is amazing!!

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Unfortunately there is nothing like that when shipping from UK. And now it’s even more complicated because of brexit.

[@joywhitley3141]

@@SarahBurnsStudio Sorry to hear that but best wishes on the sale of your books❣️

[@juliastevenson9212]

I love your work. Just interested why you call your painting amateur? Do you class your self as a professional artist? I am an artist too but class myself as semi -professional because I have sold work but it is not my main job. Is there a set of rules to call oneself a professional artist? I think your art work is professional. #amazing.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

Well first of all, that was a comment about my destructive thoughts that creep in when I do big projects. I am a professional artist and have been making a living off my art for 5 years, yet I STILL have destructive thoughts that I have to actively push away. I want to share that side because on social media you often only see the perfect stuff and you think "wow that person has all their shit together" lol I've always had a fear that "more successful" artists look down on me, and that I could never achieve what my heroes have. It's really dumb, but I'm working on it.

[@juliastevenson9212]

@@SarahBurnsStudio Thanks for you reply. I tthink I have got a long way to go before I can call myself a professional artist, even though my children say I should call myself one. I have done several commissions but feel unless I make my living from my art, I shouldn't call myself a professional artist.

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

@Julia Stevenson I think the term "professional artist" is used to explain a career, but it can have another meaning, which is that you are a dedicated professional, working towards your goal of being your best version. A doctor may also be a professional wrestler. A pilot might also be a professional award winning fly fisherman (not sure if that's even a thing 😂)

[@debracarty170]

By the way, how do I get them?

[@SarahBurnsStudio]

There is a kickstarter link in the description:)