How Much Should You Charge as a Beginner Graphic Designer?

Freelance Pricing Guide

Find out how much beginner freelance graphic designers should charge. Learn standard hourly rates, project pricing, and tips for starting out with confidence.

How Much to Charge as a Beginner Graphic Designer

Setting your rates as a beginner graphic designer can feel challenging, but having a clear structure will help you price your work fairly while building confidence and experience. Whether you're freelancing full-time or offering services alongside studies or a job, this guide outlines industry benchmarks and practical tips for setting your prices.

1. Standard Beginner Graphic Design Rates

Hourly Rates (UK Guidelines):

• £15–£30 per hour is typical for beginners

• £15/hour if you’re just starting out and gaining confidence

• £25–£30/hour if you have some client experience and a growing portfolio

When starting out, hourly pricing is often easiest to manage until you have a solid idea of how long each task takes. You can adjust over time as you gain experience and streamline your workflow.

2. Typical Project-Based Pricing (Beginner Level)

For common graphic design services, these are beginner-friendly starting rates in the UK:

Service	Typical Beginner Rate
Logo Design	£100–£300
Social Media Graphics	£20–£50 per set
Poster or Flyer Design	£30–£100
Branding Package (basic)	£200–£600

Prices will vary depending on the complexity, client needs, and time required, but these figures provide a general baseline.

3. Hourly vs Flat Rate: Which Is Best?

Hourly pricing is recommended for new designers who are still gauging how long tasks take. It’s also useful for revisions and open-ended projects.

Flat-rate pricing works well when:

• You can estimate time accurately

• The project scope is clearly defined

• You want to streamline invoicing

You can always start with hourly rates and gradually transition to fixed pricing as you gain clarity on your work process.

4. Working for Free or Discounted Rates

It’s common for beginners to consider free or discounted work to build their portfolios. If you choose to take on unpaid projects, ensure:

• The work aligns with your goals and showcases your skills

• You define clear boundaries and deliverables

• You treat the project professionally with a brief and deadlines

However, it’s important to charge fairly as soon as possible. Every project, regardless of your experience level, takes time, effort, and creative thinking.

5. Tips for Setting Prices with Confidence

• Track your time to better understand project duration

• Create professional invoices and contracts to protect your work

• Review your pricing regularly and increase it as your skills and demand grow

• Research what others in your niche/region are charging to stay competitive

Always be transparent with clients about what your pricing includes (e.g. number of revisions, file formats, timelines) to avoid scope creep and confusion.

As a beginner graphic designer, your rates should reflect both your developing skillset and the value you provide. Start with realistic prices, maintain professional boundaries, and adjust as your experience grows. With each project, your confidence, efficiency, and pricing structure will strengthen.