Introduction
If you’ve ever wondered whether you can actually make money with Pinterest, the short answer is yes.
Pinterest is one of the few platforms where your content can keep bringing in traffic for months (or even years) after you post it. Unlike platforms where posts disappear quickly, Pinterest works more like a visual search engine.
That makes it an interesting platform for affiliate marketing.
If you’re a complete beginner, this guide will walk you through the basics of getting started.
What Is Pinterest Affiliate Marketing?
Pinterest affiliate marketing is when you create Pinterest content that helps people discover products, tools, or resources—and you may earn a commission if someone purchases through your affiliate link.
Example:
If you recommend:
- a website builder
- design software
- a digital product marketplace
- productivity tools
…and someone signs up through your referral link, you may earn income.
Why Pinterest Works for Affiliate Marketing
Pinterest can be useful because:
Long content lifespan
Pins can continue getting discovered over time.
Search-based traffic
People actively search for ideas and solutions.
No need to be an influencer
You don’t need a massive following to get discovered.
Multiple monetization options
Pinterest traffic can support:
- affiliate marketing
- digital products
- blog traffic
- email list building
Step 1: Choose a Specific Niche
Do not try to promote everything.
Good beginner-friendly niches:
- Pinterest marketing
- affiliate marketing
- blogging tools
- digital products
- productivity
- AI tools
The more focused your niche, the easier it is to build authority.
Step 2: Join Affiliate Programs
Look for affiliate programs relevant to your niche.
Examples:
Canva
Useful for creators and Pinterest users.
Hostinger
Relevant if you write about websites/blogging.
Etsy Affiliate Program
Can fit digital product or creative niches.
ShareASale / Impact
Affiliate networks with multiple brands.
Read each program’s policies carefully.
Step 3: Create Helpful Blog Content
Instead of immediately dropping affiliate links everywhere, create content that helps readers solve problems.
Examples:
- Best tools for Pinterest beginners
- How to design Pinterest pins
- Pinterest SEO basics
- Affiliate marketing mistakes beginners make
Helpful content builds trust.
Step 4: Design Pinterest Pins
Good pins are:
- vertical
- visually clear
- keyword-focused
- problem-solving
Examples:
- How to Start Affiliate Marketing
- Best Pinterest Tools for Beginners
- Pinterest SEO Tips
Canva works well for beginner design.
Step 5: Learn Basic Pinterest SEO
Pinterest behaves like a search engine.
Use keywords in:
- pin titles
- descriptions
- board names
- blog post titles
Think about what beginners actually search for.
Step 6: Track What Performs
Watch:
- outbound clicks
- saves
- impressions
- blog traffic
Double down on content that performs well.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Avoid:
- choosing a niche that’s too broad
- ignoring affiliate program terms
- publishing low-quality content
- inconsistent posting
- expecting instant income
Can Beginners Actually Make Money?
Yes—but it usually takes time, testing, and consistency.
Pinterest affiliate marketing is not guaranteed passive income overnight.
Think of it like building a content asset.
Final Thoughts
Pinterest affiliate marketing can be a legitimate beginner pathway if you’re willing to learn content creation, search optimization, and affiliate strategy.
Start simple, stay consistent, and focus on helping people solve real problems.