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Free graphic design contract template (Word)

Reviewed by Clausery editors · · 3 min read

A contract between a graphic designer and client defining design scope, deliverables, revision rounds, fees, payment schedule, IP ownership and kill-fee terms.

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A graphic design contract defines what the designer will deliver (logo, brand identity, website mockups, marketing materials), the number of included revision rounds, fees and payment milestones, and who owns the final IP when payment is complete.

Killer clauses: revision limits (preventing endless iterations), kill fees (if the client cancels mid-project), and clear IP transfer on final payment.

What to include#

  • Parties and project. Designer name/business; client name; project name/brief; start date and estimated completion date.
  • Scope and deliverables. Specific list of deliverables (logo variations, brand guide, brochure, social assets), file formats (AI, EPS, PDF, PNG, JPG), and sizes/dimensions.
  • Revisions and approvals. Number of included revision rounds, what counts as a revision vs new scope, feedback turnaround expectations, and approval process for final deliverables.
  • Fees and payment. Total fee (flat, hourly), deposit/retainer (typically 50%), milestone payments, late fees, expenses (fonts, stock photos, printing), and payment methods.
  • IP, kill fee and credit. Copyright transfers to client on final payment; designer retains portfolio rights and right of credit; kill fee if client cancels mid-project; client retains rights to their provided materials.

How to fill it in#

  1. Step 1: Attach the brief

    Attach a creative brief/spec as an exhibit — vague scope kills design projects.

  2. Step 2: Limit revision rounds

    Include 2-3 rounds; charge hourly for additional rounds to keep scope controlled.

  3. Step 3: Tie IP transfer to final payment

    Copyright only transfers when final invoice is paid — protects you from non-payment.

  4. Step 4: Agree on kill fees

    If the client cancels mid-project, a kill fee (e.g. 50% of remaining or % of work completed) compensates work done.

  5. Step 5: Clarify stock assets

    State who pays for stock photos, fonts, templates and third-party assets, and who holds their licenses.

Web design contract

For web/digital design projects.

Freelance writing contract

Sister agreement for writing work.

Independent contractor agreement

Master contractor agreement.

Statement of work

For larger engagements with multiple deliverables.

Free contract templates

Full template library.

Questions

Who owns the design?

Usually the client on final payment; designer retains portfolio/moral rights and rights to unused concepts.

Can I use fonts commercially?

License fonts properly — the contract should state who buys the license (usually client).

How many revisions are normal?

2-3 rounds per deliverable is standard; additional rounds billed hourly.

What if the client hates the work?

A clear feedback/approval process plus revision rounds protects both sides; some designers offer a redo within limits.

Do I need a contract for small projects?

Yes — even a short contract prevents the 'just one more tweak' cycle and non-payment.

Browse all templates →

These are general templates, not legal or tax advice. Have anything unusual reviewed for your jurisdiction.

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