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.
How Long Does It Take to Process Orders?
Processing times vary depending on the fundraising program and time of year.
Each school receives a customized program schedule with important dates, including artwork submission, ordering deadlines, and anticipated delivery.
Our team works closely with coordinators to keep their fundraisers organized and on schedule.
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 [email protected]. 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.
Where Can I Find Lesson Plans and Fundraising Resources?
Visit OWY’s Creative Studio, your go-to resource for a successful Original Works fundraiser!
You’ll find creative lesson plans, artwork guidelines, program instructions, promotional materials, and helpful tips to guide you through your fundraiser.
Whether you’re preparing artwork or getting ready for ordering, we’re here to help every step of the way.
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
How Much Profit Can Our School or Organization Earn?
At Original Works, your school has the flexibility to choose a profit structure that fits its fundraising goals!
Our Express and Preview Magnet programs offer a 33% base profit, with the freedom to customize retail pricing.
With Online Ordering and Online Direct, schools can choose from 25%, 33%, or 36% profit options, with no participation minimums or sales thresholds required to qualify for their selected percentage.
Our Online Direct FreeShip option offers a fixed 20% profit, with free home shipping for families.
No matter which program you choose, our team is here to help you make the most of your fundraising opportunity!
No, there is no cost to get started. We provide art paper and marketing supplies to get you started.
Is Shipping Free for School Fundraising Orders?
Original Works offers free shipping to schools on qualifying orders of $300 or more at wholesale value.
Shipping arrangements vary by fundraising program. Our Online Direct Program ships orders directly to families, with shipping paid at checkout. Our Online Direct FreeShip option includes free home shipping.
Your Original Works representative can help you understand the shipping options for your selected program.
Original Works provides a prepaid shipping label to cover the cost of sending artwork & orders to us for processing.
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.
Can We Submit Additional Orders After Our Fundraiser Ends?
Absolutely! We understand that families sometimes miss ordering deadlines.
Schools may submit additional orders after their main fundraiser. The first additional order shipment to the school is free, and subsequent shipments are $10 each.
Please keep in mind that additional orders are processed separately from your original fundraiser. Delivery dates are not guaranteed, especially during our busiest production periods.
Our team is happy to help you with the additional ordering process!
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 [email protected]
Please contact our Customer Service Team immediately and they will work with your to identify and resolve the issue.
CONTACT INFO: 518.584.9278 [email protected]