Introduction
99designs is one of the world’s leading design platforms that connect clients and designers.
Founded in 2008, 99designs has quickly become a popular place where designers compete for projects and clients find talent for their specific needs.
As you can see, this platform is accessed by two and a half million visitors per month.
The platform allows freelancers to earn money by participating in design contests or direct contracts with clients.
If you are a graphic designer, illustrator, or web design professional, 99designs can be a great way to increase your income and build your portfolio.
In this guide, we will explore what 99designs is, how it works, and how you can use this platform to make money.
What is 99designs?
99designs is a global platform that connects clients with designers.
Clients set up tenders with detailed design requirements, such as logos, websites, brochures, or illustrations.
Designers then create proposals and submit them to clients, who choose the best design and pay a prize to the winner.
99designs differs from other freelance platforms because it focuses exclusively on design, which attracts specialized experts in the field.
Also, the platform offers the possibility of creating private projects, where the client can hire a designer without a tender, at an agreed price.
For this last option, you will need to be a professional author with an already established reputation.
How does 99designs work?
The application process to the platform includes several key steps:
1. Registration
On the main page, go all the way to the footer and look for the option
Become a designer or sign up here.
You have two options here. You will choose the first one if you want to have a design made for you.
You will choose the option I´m a designer if you want additional earnings.
Please enter your basic information as usual: first name, last name, e-mail address, and password.
You can also register through your Google, Facebook, or Apple account.
2. Create a username
The username you enter will be visible to clients on the platform, while your real name and data will remain anonymous.
3. Uploading a profile picture
The next step is to upload the profile picture, which should be 500×500 pixels.
In addition to the profile picture, uploading your logo or one of your works is possible.
4. Setting the time zone
Setting the time zone boils down to finding the name of your city from the drop-down menu.
If it is not on the list, you can choose the first major city in your region.
This is important for easier communication because your potential customers may be in another time zone.
5. Choosing a language for communication
After the time zone, you determine which language you use.
The official language used on 99designs is English, but you can also write in any language you know how to communicate.
6. Writing a short biography
Enter some basic personal information under the biography.
You can also state how long you have been designing, and where and for whom you have worked before.
You can also enter which areas you specialize in.
7. Sharing links to social networks
In the social network panel, you will enter a link to all important social network profiles.
8. Entering the address
For the address, you enter the country, street, city, region or state, postal code.
9. Uploading works
After entering the address, upload your best works. It is necessary to attach 6-12 pictures of your work.
These must be your best works because potential customers will certainly look at your profile.
10. Share your portfolio
The portfolio-sharing site is where you enter a link to your website.
If you do graphic design, it is assumed that you have a website where you present your work.
Verification process
Once you have set up your profile, the 99designs team will review your profile and portfolio to assess your level of expertise.
This approval may take up to seven days.
If everything is in order, you will be approved and can start participating in contests.
You will be informed via e-mail, but the same information will also be available on your profile.
According to the works you submitted, you can be classified into three levels:
- Entry level
- Intermediate level
- Top level
The entry level is for designers who meet the requirements but still need to work on perfecting their technique.
Design Groups on 99designs
On 99designs, projects tend to fall into a few basic categories:
- Logotypes and Branding: Logotypes, business cards, brand identity.
- Web Design: Design of web pages, applications, and user interfaces.
- Print Design: Brochures, posters, packaging, books.
- Illustrations and Graphics: Illustrations, icons, graphics for social networks.
- Packaging: Design of packaging and labels for products.
- T-shirt design: Designing unique graphics for t-shirts and other clothing items
As you can see, almost all branches of graphic design are included, including web design.
Modes of work on 99 designs
There are two ways to work on 99designs.
Through private projects and tenders.
How to participate in contests?
Contests usually last about seven days, but the procedure can vary depending on the client and the type of project.
Here’s a detailed overview of how the contest works and what you can expect:
Contest stages at 99designs
- Application phase (first phase) :
This phase usually lasts four days. During this period, designers submit their first proposals for the project. During this period, the client reviews the proposals and provides feedback, evaluating the designs, and making comments and suggestions for improvement. - Semi-final stage (second stage) :
After the application stage, the client selects up to six finalists who advance to the semi-finals. This phase lasts three days, and during this period the designers have the opportunity to make changes and improve their proposals according to the client’s comments. This is a key stage for aligning the design with the client’s vision. - Final phase :
After the proposals of the finalists have been finalized, the client decides on the winner of the competition. The process of selecting the winner may take several days, depending on the client’s time and decision.
Proposals are submitted in PNG, GIF, or JPG format.
The dimensions should be from 960×960 px minimum up to 2040×8160 px.
Procedure after the end of the contest
- Selection of winners :
The client will review all final proposals and select one winner. The winner will receive a prize that was pre-defined in the contest. - Transfer of Rights and Payments :
After the winner is selected, the designer transfers ownership of the final design to the client. This includes submitting all originals and required files. The 99designs platform then ensures that the designer receives payment. - Giving a review :
After the contest is over, the client can leave a review for the designer, and the designer can leave feedback for the client. These reviews help build a reputation on the platform.
Extension or earlier termination of the tender
Clients have the option to extend the tender if they have not received enough proposals or if they want more time to make a decision.
Also, if they find the perfect design early, they can decide to end the contest early and announce a winner.
Possibility of “Guaranteed” tenders
Some competitions on 99designs are guaranteed, which means that the client is obliged to pay the prize, regardless of the outcome of the competition.
These contests often attract more designers because they provide the certainty that someone will be paid for their work.
Payment and benefits
Payment of your fee is possible in two ways, via Payoneer or PayPal account.
Payout currency is currently USD only.
If you request a payment, it will be made within 10 working days.
How much will be deducted from your earnings?
For business expenses, you will be deducted 15% if you are at the entry level, 10% for the middle level, and 5% for the top level.
Free logo creation
If you want a quick, generic logo design for free, that’s possible too.
You can create a logo here.
Become a contributor to 99designs
If you don’t have much knowledge about graphic design and you are good at advertising, you can also apply as an associate on the platform.
In this case, it is enough to register to receive advertising links and advertising materials.
Cookies are valid for 60 days.
This means that if someone signs up and cancels, then returns within 60 days and makes a purchase, you will earn a commission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
We hope you find this guide on 99designs useful for building a successful career in design.
If you love creativity and are ready for challenges, 99designs can be the ideal platform for you.