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Tips for Commissioning Artists
Oh, hey! Is this your first time commissioning someone?
Or do you just want to get an idea of what artists like seeing detail-wise?
This may be just your page!
Do take note that these tips are subjective and every artist has his/her own preferences!
Many of these are, however, commonly found to be appreciated among most artists.
Let's begin!
[Recommended to be viewed on desktop as mobile has issues with the Glossary points resulting in a lot of scrolling. ): ]
Glossary
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1. Don't be too formal. Get to the point.
We understand that you may want to show respect for our process or be clear about every detail. However, overly long messages can make communication more difficult than it needs to be.
Keep things clear and concise where possible! Replies may also take time due to time zones and day-to-day schedules, so unnecessarily drawn-out conversations can delay the commission by days—or even weeks.
Please try to avoid doing this.
Client: Hi! Are your commissions open?
Artist: Yes!
Client: I’d like to commission my character.
Artist: Sure! What did you have in mind?
Client: [Explains the idea.]
Artist: Sounds good! Could you send their references?
Client: [Sends references.]
Artist: Great! Here’s the price and payment information.
Nothing is wrong with being friendly! But spreading information across several messages can create unnecessary back-and-forth, especially when replies aren't immediate.
Instead, try this.
Client: Hi! I’d like to commission a waist-up cel-shaded piece of my character sitting alone in a warm café. I’ve attached their references below. I’d be cool if you to decide on the background details. Please let me know if you need anything else and what the total would be!
That's it! The artist now has enough information to confirm the commission, clarify anything necessary, and provide a quote.
2. Have your Character References ready.
Unless you’re commissioning a character design from scratch, most commissions require at least 1–2 existing images of your character. A proper character reference sheet isn’t always necessary, but it’s certainly helpful! The clearer your visual references are, the more accurately the artist can portray your character.
3. Avoid lengthy and wordy descriptions.
Most artists are visual people, so long paragraphs of written descriptions can be difficult to process—especially when describing a character. Try to keep your instructions concise and relevant to the commission. Ideally, your initial message should be easy to understand at a glance.
An example of good and concise commission instructions:
“Can I get a cel-shaded, waist-up illustration of my character sitting at a table? ___ is a quiet character who doesn’t interact much with others. I’d like him sitting alone in a café drinking tea, wearing a brown trench coat. If possible, I’d like the setting to feel warm despite his solitude.”
Commission Type ☑
Body cut-off ☑
Brief description of character personality ☑
Composition/Mood idea ☑
Lovely.
We understand how important your characters are to you—we have OCs too! However, you don’t need to include details that aren’t relevant to the commission. Hobbies, relationships, or extensive backstories are best left out unless they affect the piece you’re requesting. Focus on the information the artist needs to create the artwork you want.
4. Read their Terms & Conditions.
But don't be afraid to ask questions.
Before asking questions, check whether the artist has already answered them in their Terms & Conditions or commission information. These often cover important details such as wait times, refund policies, pricing, commercial usage, and what the artist will or won’t draw.
Every artist’s terms are different, so give them a read before commissioning!
If your question hasn’t been answered, don’t be afraid to ask. Professional artists want their clients to feel informed and comfortable throughout the commission process.
5. Artistic Freedom. Is it for you?
Artistic freedom means giving the artist more control over the composition and creative direction of your commission.
Some artists love this option as it gives them room to explore what they feel works best, rather than following a fixed set of instructions. This usually applies to the composition, mood, and overall direction of the piece—your character’s design will remain unchanged.
This is personally something I really enjoy! <3
If you’re unsure of what you want, artistic freedom can be a fun option to explore. However, if you already have a specific vision in mind or prefer greater control over the outcome, it may not be for you.
6. Rushing a Commission/ Checking up on us.
Deadlines
If you need your commission by a specific date, such as for a birthday or gift, always discuss this with the artist beforehand. If they agree to the deadline, you can reasonably expect your commission by that date. Should an unexpected delay occur, a responsible artist should communicate this with you.
Checking for Updates
For commissions following a regular turnaround, try to avoid repeatedly checking on progress while the artist is still within their stated timeframe. This timeframe exists for a reason! Artists often have multiple commissions and responsibilities scheduled alongside yours, so your piece may not be worked on continuously from start to finish.
An estimated turnaround of 1–2 months, for example, doesn’t mean your artwork requires two months of active work—it means the artist expects to complete it within that period.
Frequent check-ins can add unnecessary pressure and disrupt an artist’s workflow. Unless progress updates or check-in points have been agreed upon, give them the space to work within the timeframe provided.
However, if the stated turnaround has passed without an update, it is completely reasonable to check in and ask about your commission.
7. Full Payment, Instalments & Tipping
Depending on the artist and commission price, you may be offered the option to pay in full or in instalments. Always check the artist’s payment terms beforehand, as these can vary.
Full payment upfront is common and offers artists greater protection against non-payment. For larger commissions, partial payments may be offered instead, sometimes tied to specific progress stages such as the sketch or final approval.
If paying in instalments, be prepared to make each payment when requested. Artists may pause work until the next agreed payment has been received.
Tipping is never required, but is always appreciated! <3
Ren: "I hope this has helped you as much as it helps artists get more precise commission requests!
Happy Commissioning!"