Graphic design contract template

This a graphic design contract template sample that you can use free of charge. You can copy and paste it into Microsoft Word or Google Docs and edit as you like.

Graphic Design Contract

This Graphic Design Contract (the "Contract") is entered into on _________________________ [Date] by and between:

Graphic Designer: _________________________ [Designer or Company Name] located at _________________________ [Designer Address] (the "Designer").
Client: _________________________ [Client Name] located at _________________________ [Client Address] (the "Client").

1. Scope of Services

The Designer agrees to provide graphic design services to the Client as outlined below:

1. Service Description

The Designer shall create, modify, or deliver graphic design materials for the Client’s project(s) located at _________________________ [Project Description or Business Name] starting on _________________________ [Start Date].

2. Services Included

The graphic design services shall include but are not limited to:

_________________________ [Logo design and brand identity development]
_________________________ [Social media graphics and templates]
_________________________ [Marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, or posters]
_________________________ [Website and digital asset design]
_________________________ [Product packaging design]
_________________________ [Revisions and updates as agreed upon]
_________________________ [Other design tasks as mutually agreed by both parties]

3. Deliverables

The Designer shall deliver the final design files in the following formats: _________________________ [e.g., JPEG, PNG, PDF, AI, PSD] by _________________________ [Delivery Date].

4. Revisions

The Client shall be entitled to _________________________ [Number] rounds of revisions. Any additional revisions beyond this amount may incur an extra fee of $_________________________ [Amount] per revision.

2. Terms of Contract

This Contract shall commence on _________________________ [Start Date] and continue until all deliverables are completed and approved by the Client, unless terminated earlier as provided herein.
Any additional services requested by the Client outside the original scope shall require a separate written agreement or amendment to this Contract.

3. Payment Terms

The Client agrees to pay the Designer a total sum of $_________________________ [Amount] for the services rendered.
Payment shall be made as follows:
- _________________________ [% or amount] deposit upon signing this Contract.
- Remaining balance due upon delivery and approval of final designs.
Payments shall be made via _________________________ [Payment Method] within _________________________ [Number] days of receipt of invoice.
Late payments shall incur a late fee of $_________________________ [Late Fee Amount] per week past due.

4. Ownership and Rights

Upon full payment, the Client shall own the final approved design(s).
The Designer retains ownership of all preliminary designs, concepts, and unused drafts.
The Designer may display the final work in their portfolio or marketing materials unless otherwise stated in writing by the Client.

5. Termination

Either party may terminate this Contract by providing written notice _________________________ [Number] days in advance.
In the event of termination, the Client shall pay for all work completed up to the termination date.
Any deposit made by the Client is non-refundable unless the Designer fails to deliver agreed-upon work.

6. Confidentiality

Both parties agree to keep any confidential or proprietary information shared during the project strictly confidential and not to disclose it to third parties without prior written consent.

7. Warranties and Liability

The Designer warrants that all designs are original and do not infringe upon any third-party rights.
The Designer shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of the delivered designs.
The Client is responsible for final proofing of all materials before publication or printing.

8. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of _________________________ [Your State or Country]. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of _________________________ [Your State or County].

9. Entire Agreement

This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes all prior negotiations, understandings, or agreements, whether written or oral.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Contract as of the date first above written.

Designer
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name and Title]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

Client
Signature: _________________________ [Signature]
Name and title: _________________________ [Name]
Date: _________________________ [Date]

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What's a Graphic Design Contract?

A graphic design contract is a legal agreement between a designer and a client that outlines the terms, conditions, and expectations for a design project. This contract ensures both parties are clear on deliverables, timelines, payment, ownership rights, and other key details. In this article, we'll explore the essential components of a graphic designer contract, its importance, and how it helps protect both the designer and the client in professional engagements.

1. Definition and Scope

A graphic designer contract defines the scope of design services to be provided. This may include logo design, branding, digital graphics, print materials, or website assets. It should clearly describe the project objectives, deliverables, and deadlines to prevent misunderstandings. The contract can also specify design revisions, formats for final deliverables, and how additional work outside the original scope will be handled.

2. Parties Involved

The contract identifies the two main parties: the Designer (the individual or design agency providing the services) and the Client (the person or company requesting the work). It includes contact information for both and outlines their roles, ensuring mutual understanding of responsibilities and expectations throughout the project.

3. Terms and Conditions

A graphic designer contract outlines all key terms and conditions governing the relationship. These include payment terms, pricing structure, deposit requirements, cancellation policies, and procedures for revisions or additional work. It may also cover late payment penalties, intellectual property rights, and dispute resolution processes to ensure both parties are protected.

4. Duration and Renewal

The contract specifies the project’s duration — from the start date to the estimated completion date. Some contracts may include a clause for ongoing design work or a retainer agreement for continued collaboration. Renewal terms, termination conditions, and notice periods should also be clearly stated to avoid confusion.

5. Project Deliverables and Ownership

One of the most important aspects of a graphic designer contract is defining deliverables and ownership rights. The contract should specify which materials the client will receive (e.g., editable files, final images, print-ready files) and who retains the copyright. Typically, ownership transfers to the client only after full payment, while the designer retains the right to showcase the work in their portfolio unless otherwise agreed.

6. Legal Compliance

Graphic design contracts must comply with applicable intellectual property and copyright laws. Designers should guarantee that their work is original and not infringing on third-party rights. The agreement may also address client-provided materials, ensuring the client holds the necessary rights or licenses for their use.

7. Confidentiality and Privacy

A confidentiality clause helps protect sensitive information shared during the project. Designers often work with unreleased products, brand strategies, or proprietary business details. The contract should include provisions to ensure such information remains confidential, maintaining trust and professionalism between both parties.

Conclusion

A graphic designer contract is an essential tool for establishing a clear, professional relationship between designer and client. It sets expectations, protects creative work, and prevents potential disputes by defining deliverables, payment terms, and ownership rights upfront. Whether you’re a freelance designer or a business hiring one, having a well-written contract ensures transparency, legal protection, and a smoother creative process for both sides.