Fundraising Programs For Schools FAQ
Children love to paint! At Original Works, we turn these amazing works of art into high quality products such as coffee mugs, grocery bags, ceramic tiles, key chains, and other office and home accessories that schools, churches, synagogues and clubs can sell to raise funds.
To learn more about our art based fundraising program, please read some of the commonly asked questions listed below. Didn’t see the answer you were looking for or need additional assistance? Contact us for more information, or learn more by browsing our school fundraising FAQ:
GENERAL PROGRAM FAQ'S
An art-based fundraising program is a creative and engaging way for schools and organizations to raise money while celebrating student artwork. Students create original artwork, which is then transformed into high-quality keepsake products that families can purchase. A portion of every sale goes directly to the school or organization, making it a meaningful and profitable fundraiser.
We offer multiple options, including:
- Traditional Order-Based Fundraising – Families order products featuring their child’s artwork.
- Online Ordering Program – A convenient option that allows families to place orders online, making fundraising even easier.
- Preview Product Program – Each student receives a “preview magnet” showcasing their artwork, making it easier for families to see and purchase.
- Tile Wall Fundraiser – A lasting legacy project where student artwork is turned into tiles that can be displayed permanently on school walls.
With no upfront costs, flexible scheduling, and high-quality products, our programs are a fun and rewarding way to support schools while fostering creativity.
Our art-based fundraising program provides a creative and meaningful way for schools and organizations to raise money while celebrating student artwork. Unlike traditional fundraisers, our programs:
- Encourage Creativity – Students take pride in seeing their artwork transformed into unique, high-quality keepsakes.
- Provides Flexibility – Schools can choose from different program options and schedule their fundraiser when it’s most convenient.
- Includes Free Standard-Size Paper – Making it easy for students to create their masterpieces without extra cost.
- Delivers Reliable Service – We are committed to on-time delivery and top-notch customer support to ensure a smooth fundraising experience.
Our art-based fundraising programs stand out because we combine creativity, quality, and exceptional support to maximize your school’s success. Here’s what sets us apart:
- The Original Art-Based Fundraiser – We pioneered this concept in 1989 and have decades of experience helping schools raise money through student artwork.
- Flexible Scheduling – Unlike rigid fundraising models, we allow schools to choose a timeline that works best for them.
- No Upfront Costs & Free Supplies – We provide standard-size paper at no cost, making it easy for students to participate without extra expenses.
- Top-Notch Customer Service – Our dedicated team supports you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and successful fundraiser.
- Multiple Program Options – We offer flexible fundraising options to fit your school’s needs, whether you prefer a traditional order-based program, an online-only fundraiser, preview product option or tile wall fundraiser, we’ve got you covered.
While we don’t have a minimum order requirement, we do have the following guidelines:
- Participation: A minimum of 25-30 students is best to get started.
- Free Product Shipping: A minimum of $300 wholesale sales is required for free shipping. Orders below this amount will incur a $25 shipping charge.
PROCESS & PROCEDURE FAQ'S
Getting started is easy! You can sign up for a fundraiser by:
- Filling out our online form
https://www.originalworks.com/contact-us/sign-up/ - Giving us a call at 518.584.9278
If you’re unsure which program is the best fit for your school, we’re happy to help! Reach out, and one of our team members will guide you through the options to find the perfect program for your needs
The best time to sign up is now! Anytime is a great time to offer an Original Works program. However, since our programs require a reservation and spaces fill up quickly, we recommend securing your spot as soon as possible to ensure availability. Don’t wait—reserve today!
Absolutely! We offer flexible scheduling and a variety of program options to ensure your fundraiser fits seamlessly into your school’s calendar.
The timeframe for each program varies depending on the program and lesson plans chosen. For fall programs artwork creation typically begins in August/September with completed keepsakes arriving in November/December.
Express Program is our quickest program, while Preview Magnet Program and Online Programs take longer.
Orders will be received at the school or organization 14 business days after arriving at our facility.
Yes! We provide a variety of promotional materials to help make your fundraiser a success. This includes flyers, posters, parent letters, email templates, and digital resources to spread the word and boost participation.
Yes! Students can create multiple pieces of artwork.
- Express Program: Each piece of artwork must be submitted with a separate order form for processing.
- Online Programs: Only one piece of artwork can be uploaded, but additional pieces can be submitted using a paper order form.
Yes, students can use artwork created at home. However, to ensure the best reproduction quality and avoid any issues or returned artwork, it’s important to follow our art guidelines carefully.
Yes! The more participants, the greater the profit for your fundraiser. Just be sure our art guidelines are followed to ensure the best reproduction quality.
Orders are organized in the same order in which they were submitted to us. For easy distribution, we recommend that orders be sent to us organized by grade and then teacher.
We welcome late orders or second orders from satisfied customers. Please collect and submit them using the late order shipping form included in your coordinator guide. You will receive full profit on all late orders.
If you are a parent, please notify the program coordinator at the school of the issue. If you are the coordinator of the program, then please contact our Customer Service department at 800-421-0020 or cs@originalworks.com. We will work to resolve the issue as expeditiously as possible.
ARTWORK FAQ'S
Yes. All original artwork is returned either during or at the conclusion of the program.
Yes, you can use your own paper. However, based on our experience, our provided paper offers the best reproduction quality for artwork. If you must use your own paper, please be sure to use a high quality, 70# 8 ½” x 11” art paper. Please consult our art instructions for complete details.
Markers (no fluorescent), tempera paints, water color paints and crayons (press hard for rich color) work the best. Please consult our art instructions for complete details.
We recommend keeping names, dates and other important details 1” from the edge of the artwork. Many of our products are full bleed, which means the artwork extends right to the very edge of the product. If important details are too close to the edge of the artwork, they may be partially or completely cropped during production. Please consult our art instructions for further information.
All lesson plans and related materials are available on our website in the Customer Care Center section. Please contact our customer service department should you require the password.
Due to stringent copyright laws, we cannot accept and reproduce copyrighted images. Any copyrighted images submitted will be returned without being processed.
PRODUCT FAQ'S
There is often some variation in color. This is due primarily to the variety of product textures and surfaces onto which the artwork is reproduced.
Yes. Our 11 oz. & 15 oz. mugs are dishwasher and microwave safe. Other ceramic products, such as tiles/trivets and plates should be washed by hand using mild soap and water, and should not be microwaved.
Currently 70% of our products meet the stringent Made In The USA designation. In addition, 100% of our products undergo final production and assembly in the USA. All Made In The USA products are clearly identified in our printed materials and online.
PROFIT & COST FAQ'S
Unlike other programs, you determine your profit! Our suggested retail pricing is based on a 33% profit level, which is higher than many competitors. The more you promote and increase your sales, the more you can earn. Our team will work closely with you to help maximize your fundraising potential!
Our Online Ordering program offers profit from 25% to 36%
Our Online Direct FreeShip program offers 20% profit on all orders, no participation requirements.
No, there is no cost to get started. We provide art paper and marketing supplies to get you started.
A minimum of $300 wholesale sales is required for free shipping on orders being delivered to your school/organization. Orders below this amount will incur a $25 shipping charge.
Original Works provides a prepaid shipping label to cover the cost of sending artwork & orders to us for processing.
Original Works covers the cost* of shipping your main order as well as one additional/later order shipment.
* A minimum of $300 wholesale sales is required for free shipping. Orders below this amount will incur a $25 shipping charge. After your first additional/late order shipment each will incur a $10 shipping charge.
Express & Preview Magnet Programs: Your school collects the total retail amount and is invoiced for the wholesale cost. Your profit is the remaining amount. Invoices are sent to the school within 2 weeks of product shipment.
Online Ordering Program: Your profit check is mailed within 2 weeks from the date orders are shipped.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT FAQ'S
You will work with one of our dedicated Account Managers, who will guide you through your entire program, providing helpful reminders and support. Additionally, our outstanding Customer Service Team is available to assist with any questions, order placement, or product-related issues.
CONTACT INFO: 518.584.9278 CS@ORIGINALWORKS.COM
Please contact our Customer Service Team immediately and they will work with your to identify and resolve the issue.
CONTACT INFO: 518.584.9278 CS@ORIGINALWORKS.COM