Creative Template
Free Graphic Design Contract Template
A graphic design contract defines the creative scope, revisions, and ownership of design work.
Template
Copy this markdown, replace the {{variables}}, and send via API.
# Graphic Design Contract
**Designer:** {{designerName}}
**Client:** {{clientName}}
**Date:** {{date}}
## Project
{{projectDescription}}
## Deliverables
{{deliverables}}
## Timeline
{{timeline}}
## Revisions
{{revisionPolicy}}
## Fees
{{fees}}
## Ownership
All final deliverables transfer to Client upon full payment.
## Source Files
{{sourceFilePolicy}}Send for e-signature
curl -X POST https://signb.ee/api/send \
-H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" \
-H "Content-Type: application/json" \
-d '{
"content": "YOUR_RENDERED_MARKDOWN",
"senderName": "Your Name",
"senderEmail": "you@company.com",
"recipientName": "Recipient",
"recipientEmail": "recipient@email.com"
}'What happens next
- Signbee converts the markdown to a professional PDF
- Recipient gets an email with a signing link
- Both parties sign with an animated handwriting signature
- Both receive the signed PDF with a SHA-256 certificate
All signatures are legally binding under the ESIGN Act, eIDAS, and ECA.
More details
A graphic design contract protects both the designer and the client by defining what will be created, how many revisions are included, when ownership transfers, and whether source files are part of the deal.
The revision trap — why unlimited revisions kill projects: The single most important clause in any design contract is the revision policy. Without a cap, clients request endless changes, projects drag on for months, and the designer's effective hourly rate drops to near zero. Best practice: include 2-3 rounds of revisions in the base fee, then charge per round or per hour for additional changes. Define what counts as a 'revision round' (a batch of feedback) vs a 'new direction' (starting over, which is additional scope).
Source files — the hidden negotiation: Source files (Figma, Illustrator AI, Photoshop PSD, InDesign) contain the editable layers, vectors, and typography that make up the final design. Many designers exclude source files from the standard deliverable and charge extra for them. This protects the designer's work and ensures the client returns for future modifications. If the client needs independence, negotiate source file transfer as part of the contract — it typically adds 25-50% to the project fee.
IP transfer timing: Design work should only transfer to the client upon full payment. This is the designer's strongest protection against non-payment. If the client has the files but hasn't paid, enforcement is difficult and expensive.
Kill fee: If the client cancels mid-project, a kill fee compensates the designer for work completed and opportunities lost. Typically 25-50% of the total project fee depending on how far the project has progressed.
Frequently asked questions
Should graphic design contracts include source files?
It depends on the agreement. Many designers exclude source files (Figma, AI, PSD) from standard deliverables and charge extra for them. If the client needs full design independence, negotiate source file transfer as part of the contract — it typically adds 25-50% to the project fee.
How many revision rounds should a design contract include?
2-3 rounds is industry standard. Define what constitutes a 'revision round' (a batch of consolidated feedback) vs a 'new direction' (which is additional scope). Additional rounds beyond the included amount should be billed at an agreed hourly or per-round rate.
Can graphic design contracts be signed electronically?
Yes. Design contracts are valid with electronic signatures under ESIGN (US), eIDAS (EU), and ECA (UK). Sign before any creative work begins to ensure both parties agree on scope, revisions, fees, and ownership terms.
Related resources
Send this template for signing — free, no credit card.