If you have never asked an artist to make something for you, don't know how, or even if you have commissioned someone before, Every Artist is Different. How an artist handles business will vary from person to person, but there are some agreed upon common courtesy things to keep in mind.
- Check an artist's work before hiring them to make sure it's a style you want.
- Make all agreements in writing and in a place you can find messages easily.
- Don't pay until the artist asks for payment. The artist usually sends an invoice with the amount to be paid.
- The price for custom work is generally higher than you think. 😵💰
- Advertising, exposure or experience does not count as currency.
- Prompt communication is important for finishing a project by the deadline! We cannot read minds. 🧠👀
- We can work with your budget if you tell us what you can spend. (We should know of alternative materials that would lower the price a bit or break up the price so you don't have to spend much in one go.)
- Artists allow for different levels of client involvement throughout the process. Ask the artist early on how to best keep you in the loop.
FAQ
What do I need to do to ask for a commission?
My preference is for you to fill out a form (listed above) or to email me directly with the inquiry. I'm not an on-demand shop, these are requests. If I turn down a request, I will do my best to refer you to a capable alternative artist or a group where similar talent may be found.
One of the prerequisites for commission requests is my availability and current work-load.
You can view my Trello Board to see my current work-load. (It does include personal projects.)
Why won't you make (insert request here) for me?
There could be a myriad of reasons for me to refuse a request. Most commonly it has to do with time and ability. I do work a full time job in addition to Commissions, so if there is a due date that I know I can't make or it is beyond my current abilities, then I will not take on the project. I do not want to give you a rushed or shoddy product because of time constraints or my lack of skill. I love learning, but not at a client's expense.
Another reason may be that we may not be a good fit for working together. Commissions are a two-way street. Poor communication, unachievable expectations or over-estimating my skills will make the experience a poor one (in my experience. I've unfortunately had a few rough clients.)
There are also a few ideological subject matters I am not comfortable having attached to my name. I will reserve my right to refuse my business if it is in opposition to my value system. (Just as an example, I will not draw pornographic images.)
How do I pay?
Electronic payments are my preferred method of payment. I utilize Venmo, Paypal, Zelle or Bank Transfers in these cases. I will only take cash or checks from people I know in-person.
You are expected to pay after you get the invoice. In the invoice email, there will be links to the payment method. As well as any relevant help articles should you need assistance.
I can't afford a commission, can I get a discount?
For most of my rates, I have calculated in there the cost of my labor, materials, wear and tear of tools, and time. I am not making large profits off of commissions.
If you are on a budget, I can work with you by suggesting alternative materials to reduce cost or splitting up the payment to a "down payment" and then final payment.
I've noticed a mistake in the work you gave me. Can you fix it?
Please...don't look at it! I'm ashamed! 😠If there is a glaring mistake, please feel free to point it out. I will do my best to correct mistakes if I can.
For larger projects often times I look for feedback before moving too far along. I try my best to create things based off of descriptions and my interpretation may be off. Particularly for OC plushies, armor, and costume parts I will work closely with a client to get approvals during the process to avoid these kinds of mistakes.
I don't like the finished product. Can I get my money back?
No. I will only refund commissions I cancel. I can refund damaged items (shipment carrier's fault) or items that get lost in the mail if you ship with Insurance. I don't offer refunds for feelings.
Can I sell, trade or give away the finished product?
Yes and no. Trading, swapping or giving the product away is fine. Once you start thinking about selling there are a few limitations.
In regards to physical things I send (plushies, costumes, armor etc), you can sell these items since they are One of a Kind (OOAK) and not easily reproducible.
Digital art however, you cannot sell or use on merchandise without paying a licensing fee. You can put it on a sticker or t-shirt or mug or whatever if it is only for yourself.
More details on this are covered in my Terms & Conditions. It's kind of important to read that. I know it's long-ish and boring.
