How to build a Websta profile as an artist or designer in Thailand

What your profile page should show

Your Websta profile is a standalone page that acts as your online presence. Unlike social media, it stays under your own URL and is searchable by people looking for your type of work in your area. For an artist or designer in Thailand, your profile should include a clear description of what you do - whether that is graphic design, illustration, photography, craft work, painting, sculpture or another discipline.

Add photos of your work. Show finished pieces, projects you have completed, or your process if that is relevant to what you offer. If you do custom work, show examples of what customers have commissioned from you. Photos should be clear and well-lit. If you work in person - in a studio, workshop or at a client's location - include photos of your space or setup.

List the services you offer. Be specific: for example, 'logo design', 'portrait illustration', 'product photography', 'custom jewellery', 'mural painting'. Describe what is included in each service and what the customer can expect. If you offer different types of work at different scales or for different purposes, list them separately so people can find exactly what they need.

Add a profile photo of yourself. People want to know who they are working with. Choose an image that looks professional and friendly.

Booking and quote requests

Websta lets you set up online booking for fixed services or accept quote requests for custom work. For artists and designers, both approaches work depending on what you do.

If you offer a standard service - such as a headshot photography session, a set size of custom illustration, or design work for a specific deliverable - you can set up booking slots. Customers book directly and confirm their appointment on your calendar.

If much of your work is custom or bespoke, use the quote request option. Customers fill in a form with details of what they want, and you can respond with a proposal. This works well for large projects, commissions, or work where the scope needs to be discussed first.

Photos and presentation

The quality of your photos matters more than the quantity. Show 6 to 12 pieces of your best work. Include a mix of finished work, detail shots, and context shots if relevant. If you work across several styles or disciplines, group similar work together so it is easy for a viewer to find what interests them.

If you take time to complete work - for instance, a large mural or a complex design - consider taking process photos. These show your skill and give people confidence in your work.

Write short captions for each photo if possible, noting the medium, materials, or technique you used. This helps people understand what you do and makes your profile more searchable.

Languages on your profile

Websta profiles in Thailand can be published in Thai, English, or both. Thai reaches local clients who search in Thai. English is useful if you work with international clients, tourists, or expats in Thailand.

At minimum, write your main description and service titles in Thai so that Thai-speaking clients can find you. If you have the time, add English translations of your key information so that non-Thai speakers can understand your work. You do not need to translate everything word-for-word; short, clear descriptions work better than long translations.

How people in Thailand search for artists and designers

On Websta, people search by service type and location. Someone looking for a graphic designer will search in the artists and designers category, possibly filtered to their province or city. Websta also has a marketplace where customers can post a task - for example, 'I need a logo designed for my restaurant' - and providers can make offers.

Many people in Thailand still search on Google, Facebook, or Instagram for local artists and designers. A Websta profile helps you show up in local searches on Websta, but it does not replace social media or word of mouth. Consider whether you want to link your Websta profile from your Facebook page or Instagram bio so people can find your booking page.

Clients often search for specific services. Instead of just 'designer', people search for 'logo designer Bangkok', 'product photographer Chiang Mai', 'tattoo artist Phuket', or 'jewellery maker'. The more specific your service descriptions, the better people can find you.

Working as an independent artist or designer in Thailand

Thailand does allow sole traders and self-employed people to work in arts and design. However, rules around business registration, tax, and work permits vary depending on your nationality, the type of work you do, and how you operate.

If you are a Thai national, check with your local Tambon Administrative Organization (TAO) or district office about whether you need to register as a sole trader or as a home business. Many small artists work informally, but registering gives you official status and may help with tax and credibility.

If you are a foreigner, the rules are stricter. You may need a work permit from the Thai Ministry of Labour if you are paid directly by customers. Some work - such as selling your own artwork online or doing freelance work for foreign clients - may be treated differently. You should check with the Immigration Bureau or a work permit officer about what applies to your situation.

For payments, Websta uses Stripe to pay out to your bank account. You can set your own rates. Keep records of your earnings, as you may need to file tax returns or social contributions depending on your earnings and status in Thailand.

What to write in your first hour

Start with the essentials. Write a clear, one or two-sentence description of what you do. For example: 'I create custom logos and branding design for small businesses and startups in Thailand', or 'I paint murals, portraits and custom artwork in acrylic and oil'. Be specific about your discipline.

List 3 to 5 of the main services you offer. Give each one a clear name and a short explanation. If you offer design work, say whether you design logos, packaging, websites, or something else. If you do art, specify the medium - oil, watercolour, digital, sculpture, print.

Upload at least 3 to 4 clear photos of your work. They do not have to be perfect; they should show what you actually do.

Write where you are based - your province or city. This helps local clients find you. If you work across Thailand or travel to clients, mention that.

Add a way for people to get in touch. Websta provides a contact form on your profile. You can also link to your email, phone, or social media if you prefer.

Set up either booking slots for a standard service or a quote request form for custom work. Start simple - you can refine this later as you get inquiries.