Should I consider the companies that print my art cards and publish my book, contractors so I can claim them as erxpenditures?

Yes, but it depends on how they pay you.

If they pay you on a W-2 you are an employee, and can not file a Business with that as income.

• I don't expect that that is the case, so you can file a Schedule C for a small business.
• This can be done and included with your personal tax return.
• You will need Online Premium or Desktop Home & Business.