Graphic Design Contract Template

A graphic design contract keeps a project from drifting: it pins down what you'll design, how many rounds of changes are included, when you're paid, and when the client owns the work. This template covers each of those, plus third-party fonts and images and what happens if a project is cancelled.

  • 1. The Project
  • 2. Process and Revisions
  • 3. Client Materials and Approvals
  • 4. Fees and Payment
  • 5. Ownership
  • 6. Cancellation
  • 7. Limitation of Liability
  • 8. Independent Contractor
  • 9. Agreement
  • Signatures from both parties
Free, no account needed to start. Not legal advice.

Use it for a defined design project, such as a brochure, packaging, a report, or a campaign, with a new or existing client.

The full template

Words in brackets, like [Client Name], fill in automatically from your client's details when you use the template in Clientary.

In the editor, you can change any section or add your own. Once you send it, your client signs online from any device. Edit this template online

This Graphic Design Services Agreement is made on [Contract Date] between [Company Name] ("Designer") and [Client Name] ("Client").

1. The Project

Designer will design [describe the project, for example: a 24-page annual report, print-ready and as an accessible PDF, using Client's existing brand guidelines] (the "Project").

2. Process and Revisions

  • Designer will present initial designs within 10 business days of receiving Client's content.
  • Two rounds of revisions are included. A round is one set of consolidated feedback from Client.
  • Further rounds, or changes to approved designs, are billed at $150 per hour, with Client's approval before work begins.
  • Client will give feedback within five business days of each presentation. Delays in feedback or content move the schedule by the same amount.

3. Client Materials and Approvals

Client will provide final text, images, logos, and brand guidelines, and confirms it has the right to use them. Client is responsible for proofreading and approving the final files before they're printed or published.

4. Fees and Payment

The Project fee is $[amount]. 50% is due on signing and 50% on delivery of the final files. Printing, stock imagery, fonts, and other third-party costs are billed at cost with Client's approval. Invoices are due within 15 days. Final files are delivered once paid in full.

5. Ownership

On full payment, Client owns the final designs created for the Project. Designer keeps ownership of preliminary concepts and anything not used in the final designs. Fonts and stock images remain the property of their makers and are licensed under their own terms. Designer may show the finished work in its portfolio once it's public, unless Client asks otherwise in writing.

6. Cancellation

Client may cancel the Project with written notice. Client will pay for work completed to that date, and no less than 25% of the Project fee, to compensate for time reserved. Designs not paid for in full aren't transferred to Client.

7. Limitation of Liability

Designer's total liability for any claim related to the Project is limited to the Project fee. Designer isn't responsible for errors in text or images Client provided or approved, or for printing errors.

8. Independent Contractor

Designer is an independent contractor and is responsible for its own taxes, equipment, and insurance.

9. Agreement

This is the entire agreement between the parties for the Project and may only be changed in writing. By signing below, both parties agree to these terms.

How to use this template in Clientary

  1. Edit it online. Change any section or add your own. No account needed.
  2. Preview it as your client will see it. Fill in who it's for and pick a design.
  3. Start your free trial to send it. Confirm you'll have it reviewed, since templates aren't legal advice, and your contract is waiting in your new account with your client's details filled in.
  4. Send it to be signed. Your client reviews and signs online, and you can see when it's viewed and signed.

Learn more about contracts and e-signatures in Clientary.

Frequently asked questions

Should a design contract limit revisions?

Yes. Stating how many rounds are included, and what a round is, keeps feedback focused and protects your schedule. Further rounds can be billed hourly, with the client's approval first.

What is a kill fee?

A payment due if the client cancels a project partway through, compensating the designer for the time reserved and work done. This template sets it as the work completed to date, with a minimum of 25% of the project fee.

Is this graphic design contract template free?

Yes. Read and copy the full text on this page, or edit it online and see it as your client will. When it's ready, start a free Clientary trial to send it or download it as a PDF.

Has a lawyer reviewed this template?

No. It's a general starting point written by Clientary, not legal advice, and it hasn't been reviewed by a lawyer for your situation or the laws where you and your client work. Have your own counsel review it before you use or sign it.

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