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Step-by-Step: How to Create and Sell a Canva Template (Even If You’re Not a Designer)


Step-by-Step: How to Create and Sell a Canva Template (Even If You’re Not a Designer)

Did you know you can turn your eye for design into passive income—without being a professional graphic designer?


That’s right. Selling Canva templates is one of the easiest and most beginner-friendly ways to start making money online. Whether you want to sell Instagram posts, business planners, eBooks, or client welcome kits, Canva makes it possible to design beautiful, easy-to-use templates fast—and sell them on Etsy, Gumroad, or your own website.


Let’s break down exactly how to create and sell a Canva template, step-by-step.


🧠 Step 1: Decide What Kind of Template to Create


Start with what people need. Canva templates sell best when they solve a specific problem or save time.


Here are some popular Canva template ideas:


  • Social media posts (Instagram carousels, Pinterest pins, Reels covers)

  • Business templates (client welcome packets, brand kits, pricing guides)

  • eBooks or lead magnets

  • Planners (daily, weekly, content calendars)

  • Resumes or media kits


💡 Tip: Think about your niche. Are you a VA, coach, or content creator? Make templates YOU would use.


🖌 Step 2: Create the Template in Canva


Head to Canva and choose a size (or start with a preset).


Then:


  1. Use a consistent color palette

  2. Choose easy-to-read fonts

  3. Keep the layout clean and user-friendly

  4. Add placeholder text and image blocks

  5. Name your layers for easy editing


📌 Don’t use Pro elements unless you’re offering the template only to Pro users—or provide a free-only version.


🔗 Step 3: Create a Shareable Canva Template Link


Once your template is finished:


  1. Click Share > Template Link

  2. Choose “Share a link to use as template”

  3. Copy the link—this is what your customer will use to access their copy


They’ll be prompted to “Use template” and Canva will duplicate it into their own account.


📸 Step 4: Design Mockups & Marketing Images


Presentation matters! Make your product pop with beautiful mockups and promotional graphics.


You can use:


  • Canva’s Smartmockups tool

  • Styled flat-lay images

  • Screenshots of your template in use


Create at least 3–5 preview images to showcase your product on Etsy, Gumroad, or your site.


💰 Step 5: Upload & Sell Your Canva Template


Now it’s time to sell! Choose a platform that fits your goals:


  • Etsy – Great for digital product beginners with built-in traffic

  • Gumroad – Simple, direct, and easy to use

  • Payhip – Free and great for low-volume sellers

  • Your website – More control, better for long-term branding


When uploading, include:


  • A clear title with keywords (e.g. “Minimal Instagram Carousel Canva Template”)

  • A detailed description of what’s included

  • Instructions for how to access the Canva template

  • Your mockup images


🛍 Bonus: Add a PDF Download or Instruction Page


To avoid confusion, create a simple PDF that includes:


  • A “Thank You” message

  • Instructions on how to open and use the Canva link

  • Any usage rights or licensing info


This helps keep things smooth and professional for your buyer.


💡 Pro Tips to Boost Sales


  • Offer bundles (e.g. 5 Pinterest Templates instead of just 1)

  • Create seasonal or niche-specific designs

  • Promote your templates on Pinterest for free traffic

  • Add your product to Gumroad + Etsy for more reach

  • Collect emails so you can sell more templates later!


🎉 Final Thoughts


Selling Canva templates is a low-barrier, creative way to make passive income—and once you’ve created your first one, it gets easier and faster to build more.


Whether you want to make a little side cash or build a full-on digital product business, this is a fantastic place to start.


So go ahead—open up Canva, create something helpful, and start making money from your creativity. You’ve got this. 🙌

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