🔥 Step 1: Hook Your Why

Ask Yourself:

“Have you ever thought about turning your art into a source of income?”

If yes, you’re in the right place. Starting art commissions isn’t just about drawing for money—it’s about building a brand, a client base, and a creative business you can be proud of.

💡 Step 2: Understand What Commissions Are

Art commissions are custom pieces of artwork you create for clients who pay you. Whether it’s portraits, character art, tattoo designs, or fan art—commissions can become a powerful income stream for digital and traditional artists.

They allow you to:

• Work directly with clients

• Develop a personal art style

• Monetize your skills and time

🚧 Step 3: Common Challenges Artists Face

Starting out can be intimidating. Here are the most common roadblocks:

• “How much should I charge?”

• “Where do I find clients?”

• “What if a client ghosts me or asks for too much?”

• “Is my art even good enough?”

These are normal fears. The key is to address them with strategy, not doubt.

🛠 Step 4: Set Yourself Up for Success

✅ Build a Portfolio

• Showcase 5–10 solid pieces of your best work

• Highlight the style or subjects you want to be commissioned for

• Use platforms like Instagram, ArtStation, or even Google Drive for easy viewing

✅ Decide What You’re Offering

• Portraits? Characters? Pet illustrations? Logos?

• Be specific—clients like clarity

• Start with 2–3 options with clear examples

✅ Set Your Prices (Start Fair, Not Low)

• Consider time spent, skill level, and complexity

• Create tiers or packages (e.g., Sketch: $30, Full Color: $60, Background: +$20)

• Or maybe you like to give your clients budget friendly like simple drawings could be $5 and complex drawings $10 or $20

• Don’t forget to factor in revisions, licensing, or usage rights

✅ Make a Commission Sheet

• Include: samples, pricing, turnaround time, contact info, and payment method

• Post it everywhere (socials, link in bio, stories)

✅ Choose a Platform

• Instagram, Twitter/X, Discord art servers, Tumblr, TikTok

• Or use commission platforms like Ko-Fi, Artistree, or Fiverr (if starting out)

✅ Communicate Clearly

• Use order forms or templates

• Set boundaries: turnaround time, number of revisions, payment upfront or 50/50

• Always use written agreements, even if informal

• Remember your human too your allowed to set rules and boundaries :)

✨ Step 5: Real Story, Real Motivation

Me personally, I started my commissions on Ko-fi. I started my prices budget friendly which received positive reviews from my clients since times are hard. I also set boundaries to let my clients know what I’m comfortable and not comfortable with. To prevent scams from getting into my inbox, I set messages as ‘Only when the client pays they can message’. As a bonus i set memberships like a sticker club and added free wallpaper and coloring pages I made :). Of course I have up and down days but so far I’m doing really good.

Check out my Ko-fi here if you want to see an example of how you may want to set-up : https://ko-fi.com/byzahraartz/shop

Takeaway: You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to start.

📝 Step 6: Final Tips & Takeaways

💪 Be Persistent

You might hear crickets at first. That’s normal. Keep posting, improving, and engaging.

📢 Market Yourself

Talk about your commissions! Share progress shots, finished pieces (with permission), and client reviews.

👀 Stay Professional

Your art is a business. Treat every client like it’s your best project.

🗣 Step 7: Call to Action

Now it’s your turn!

Are you starting your commission journey? Share your thoughts or struggles in the comments!