5 Free to Use Freelance Design Contract Templates

The most important and essential document a freelance designer should have is a rock solid and reliable contract. The worst thing is though, freelance web designers or graphic designers, especially when they are just starting out, can ill afford the expense of paying a lawyer to draw up a decent contract. As a possible cost effective solution for you, in this article, we have highlighted some freely available contract sample templates you could use. Contract Killer + Sample (24 ways) This contract, from Andy Clarke for 24 Ways, breaks through all of the nasty legal jargon and explains in clear and simple English, with a touch of humor, what you should have in your contract and clearly clarifies what is expected of both sides (client and designer). Freelance Web Designer Contract by Eskymo This contract has also been written so that there is not too much technical jargon and not full of legal speak. Sample Web Design Contract by Shawn Adrian from QuoteRobot Sample Contract Templates

How to charge an hourly rate? 3 Do or Die Graphic Design Business Tips Articles April 24, 2009 There are a lot of things that can turn an exciting new design project into a nightmare for a graphic design business. Many graphic design businesses have experienced these issues below, including myself. The best way to avoid stress and problems with clients is to educate yourself about what can go wrong ahead of time and take steps to protect your yourself. Below are 3 common problems that can go wrong and while they may sound simple and the solutions are simple, thousands of designers fall victim to these pitfalls. 1. We all want to get paid and there are several ways to protect yourself against not getting paid. You should also use invoicing software or fill out an invoice template and a contract and have them all signed by the client so you have the project and payment details in writing. 2. This is an easy one to forget. 3. If you don’t plan out a project to the last detail and set a time frame you will run into major issues as well.