[wnolens]

I did this for a few years.

Find companies for whom you are a total catch of a full time hire, and negotiate a part time contract.

I was on a 20h/wk max retainer for one co, and another I could flexibly bill anywhere from 15-40h max depending on load. They both asked me to come full time before and after working a few months. But I held the advantage. I also worked for slightly less pay than ideal, but the lifestyle was the point for me.

That's my big takeaway from freelancing. The power relationship is different. You want to be in a position where they really need you.