I hope this video can help you sell your first art commissions! This is a beginner's guide, so of course if you're more experienced or your art takes longer you can definitely charge higher than the amounts I mentioned. And don't forget, the first 500 people to use my link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/mimipurnellillustrator02241 🎉
I personally charge by type. So, if I do a black and white ink portrait (or car) I charge $80 for a single subject. $100 for color of the same and add $60 for additional subjects(I do discount depending on the situation, like only faces/size/it just feels like too much. I once had a commission with 10 subjects). I charge the same for digital and I make it clear that a print of the digital will cost more if I send it to the printer. Currently, my color process on my ink drawing is done in colored pencil but I recently got a watercolor set and plan on adding that to my process. Now, if I move to oils (which I’d love to get back into), my prices would be a lot higher. The paint cost more, canvas is more than paper, the brushes, the cleaners and lastly the amount of time oil painting takes. My low end would probably be more like $300 US plus shipping.
Love this video! I’ve been doing commissions for years now and everything you said is spot on. I recently did some Valentines commissions and here was my pricing: Headshot - full colour $90/line art $40 Half body - full colour $120/line art $70 Full body - full colour $150/line art $100 All in $CAD & price included two people, and a flat coloured BG (if it’s a coloured portrait). People could add text, additional people, and/or pets for an additional cost. & I always have a contract and deposit before I start any work. I’ve never had any issues with it
Hello all! I've been waiting for a new video, checking almost every morning in case the bell was broken. Hahaha I had an accident last year and stop painting since then, my soul kinda broke and lost inspiration. But I signed up to art classes in a community college close by, and start next Friday. Your videos have helped me a lot these months, even if I'm not doing art, just listening to your voice and looking at your videos make me feel better. A cup of coffee of tea + your videos =my cozy place. Lots of love, Mimi. 💜
Hello Mimi, I am finally taking the step to pursue my interest for arts that I have been procrastinating for the last decade. I just signed up for skillshare using your link, and I am taking a leaf of faith in this journey. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge w/ us. You have been really helpful to me. I am saving up some money to purchase your brushes and hopefully when finances get better, I will subscribe to your patreon. Have a wonderful day!
Great advice. I'm planing on putting my art out there this year and this video helps a lot to visualise better where I'm at and what to do ! Parker is so cute !
Oh finally someone who doesn’t use dark mode! Love your videos as always! Keep up the great work! I have wanted to start my own art biz and this is the year that I start….First step practise
Thanks for sharing this Mimi. It's very helpful. I personally find selling art more difficult than making art. I usefully get orders when I'm doing sales (up to 50%). Eventually I find it's not worth selling the art as the margin profit is so low. Still a lot to learn. I initially planned to close down my online shop but then decided to give it another try.
Thank you for your videos, ideas and inspiration. You really empower people to start or follow this dream. At least that is why I see your videos and follow you. Thank you. Look forward to really start and show you my progress
Thank you so much for making this video Mimi!✨ And thank you for all the wonderful tips and advice. Very soon i'm going to announce that i'm starting with pet commissions, and all your tips are very helpful!✨✨
Thank you so much for your video. It’s really inspired me to do pet portraits! I’ve just watched it again and I’m even made notes 😁 and it’s so great to get some ideas about alternatives to social media ..like your idea about the flyers. Thanks again 🙏
You give such amazing and valuable advice. Would you ever consider speaking about how to build your own portfolio website and make a strong portfolio for yourself? Thank you for all the videos so far they are lifesavers 💖👏🏻🌷
This was vwey helpful thank you. I think for me the hardest step is parting with original artworks, even if they're commisioned 😅 But I think moving forward I may go with digital and put them on Etsy. I generally like that the majority of your videos are in Aussie $ (I'm Aussie too) but when using Etsy and RUclips it makes sense to put the prices in US$. And I found it more helpful than I thought it would be
Very well done video, it was very informative! As someone who draws digitally and traditionally I am still unsure which kind I want to sell (or both?) and what exactly (prints, stickers etc.?) so I am informing myself as much as I can. May I ask what program you used for creating your art? I am only familiar with Procreate and Photoshop but this one looks different.
Thanks so much for this! I’ve been wanting to start doing commissions for a while. I already created a commission agreement form that lays things out for both customer and artist to keep me accountable and be super clear about what they can and cannot expect from me. I just struggle with marketing 😊. But I might try the local vets (I’m aiming to do animal and pet portraits).
When doing traditional media do you use any protective coating over your work at the end of the process- or just inform the client of the fragility of the particular media used (and cover it with protective cover sheet)? When mailing/shipping is it flat hard envelope or roll/cardboard canister? Thanx.
Thank you for the advice! I was hoping you would share some insight into how to trust someone who comes to you to commision a painting? I am so wary of strangers wanting to hire me for a painting and then just not paying? How do you do the transaction? Is it through PayPal? How does that work?
Great video 👏. I wonder, do you make a separate contract between you and your customer, where the customer has to agree with your terms? Maybe it's an idea for another video, how contracts look like and what to consider?
That's a good question! I've personally never done a contract with a custom commission unless it's a larger commissioned project like a picture book or a client job.
@@MimimooIllustrationPaying upfront gives you the certainty to get paid for your work, I guess then it's okay that way. Thank you! 👍🏻 I am still interested in how to set up contracts, maybe the topic is a bit boring for some people, but I would like to learn more about that. 😊
It’s definitely not procreate because procreate is only available on iPad. Looking at the UI, it’s Photoshop. Clip Studio Paint, however, is a cheaper alternative if you’re looking to draw on PC with a graphic tablet, and is more friendly to people starting digital art. Also it seems to be a tablet-laptop hybrid, since my friend had a similar laptop with the same type of pen. But don’t take my word for that last one.
I'm too scared and have enormous doubts offering commissions of my digital paintings.. even my photomanipulations which I'm strongest at, cause I fear that I'll be asked to create something that I may feel stuck in or that I'll spend hours doing but then the customer doesn't like or want. I've seen people with much lower skills than my own get commissions but for some reason I'm just too scared to do it.
A well put together video. ✨️🤍😊 I truly appreciate you and your partner for your good intentions and the all the work that you do to make these videos. 😊 My process was the same but wow! I charged 20 and even less than 20 dollars for photorealistic portraits, framed and had bargaining customers! They were more than satisified in the end but they don't know how to value the artist. I was in need of money so I went with it. I and my friend felt like I undersold but it's fine. I might not be taking orders now or in the future as I am more into doing my own artwork and selling them rather taking up commissions. 😊 Congratulations on your commissions! 👍🏻✨️❤
I hope this video can help you sell your first art commissions! This is a beginner's guide, so of course if you're more experienced or your art takes longer you can definitely charge higher than the amounts I mentioned. And don't forget, the first 500 people to use my link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/mimipurnellillustrator02241 🎉
I personally charge by type. So, if I do a black and white ink portrait (or car) I charge $80 for a single subject. $100 for color of the same and add $60 for additional subjects(I do discount depending on the situation, like only faces/size/it just feels like too much. I once had a commission with 10 subjects). I charge the same for digital and I make it clear that a print of the digital will cost more if I send it to the printer. Currently, my color process on my ink drawing is done in colored pencil but I recently got a watercolor set and plan on adding that to my process. Now, if I move to oils (which I’d love to get back into), my prices would be a lot higher. The paint cost more, canvas is more than paper, the brushes, the cleaners and lastly the amount of time oil painting takes. My low end would probably be more like $300 US plus shipping.
Love this video! I’ve been doing commissions for years now and everything you said is spot on. I recently did some Valentines commissions and here was my pricing:
Headshot - full colour $90/line art $40
Half body - full colour $120/line art $70
Full body - full colour $150/line art $100
All in $CAD & price included two people, and a flat coloured BG (if it’s a coloured portrait). People could add text, additional people, and/or pets for an additional cost. & I always have a contract and deposit before I start any work. I’ve never had any issues with it
Hello all! I've been waiting for a new video, checking almost every morning in case the bell was broken. Hahaha I had an accident last year and stop painting since then, my soul kinda broke and lost inspiration. But I signed up to art classes in a community college close by, and start next Friday. Your videos have helped me a lot these months, even if I'm not doing art, just listening to your voice and looking at your videos make me feel better. A cup of coffee of tea + your videos =my cozy place. Lots of love, Mimi. 💜
Aw so glad that my videos have helped! And sorry about the delay on this one haha, I had a little holiday at the start of the month 💖
So much good advices (that aren't just applicable for illustrations but anything around creations). Plus, thanks making such relaxing vidéo!
Hello Mimi, I am finally taking the step to pursue my interest for arts that I have been procrastinating for the last decade. I just signed up for skillshare using your link, and I am taking a leaf of faith in this journey. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge w/ us. You have been really helpful to me. I am saving up some money to purchase your brushes and hopefully when finances get better, I will subscribe to your patreon. Have a wonderful day!
Good luck to you! Its definitely worth it in the end especially when its something you love to do.
So excited for you to hear that you've gotten started - that's a big step! 💖
I begun digital art worth portraits and I love drawing them. But sometimes I like drawing something simple too
Great advice. I'm planing on putting my art out there this year and this video helps a lot to visualise better where I'm at and what to do ! Parker is so cute !
Oh finally someone who doesn’t use dark mode! Love your videos as always! Keep up the great work! I have wanted to start my own art biz and this is the year that I start….First step practise
Hi Mimi! Great video as usual ❤ woul you consider doing one on scams and how to spot red flags?
Your videous always come out just when I need them 💕✨
Love your watermelon bow 🤍
Thanks for sharing this Mimi. It's very helpful. I personally find selling art more difficult than making art. I usefully get orders when I'm doing sales (up to 50%). Eventually I find it's not worth selling the art as the margin profit is so low. Still a lot to learn. I initially planned to close down my online shop but then decided to give it another try.
Thank you for your videos, ideas and inspiration. You really empower people to start or follow this dream. At least that is why I see your videos and follow you. Thank you. Look forward to really start and show you my progress
Thank you so much for making this video Mimi!✨ And thank you for all the wonderful tips and advice. Very soon i'm going to announce that i'm starting with pet commissions, and all your tips are very helpful!✨✨
Thank you for your tips and advice, Mimi. It is really hard not to go too low for the first commissions. Although I have more motivation now ❤
So many amazing tips, I love it ☺☺☺
Thank you so much for your video. It’s really inspired me to do pet portraits! I’ve just watched it again and I’m even made notes 😁 and it’s so great to get some ideas about alternatives to social media ..like your idea about the flyers.
Thanks again 🙏
I'm so glad you found it helpful! 💖
You give such amazing and valuable advice. Would you ever consider speaking about how to build your own portfolio website and make a strong portfolio for yourself? Thank you for all the videos so far they are lifesavers 💖👏🏻🌷
This was vwey helpful thank you. I think for me the hardest step is parting with original artworks, even if they're commisioned 😅 But I think moving forward I may go with digital and put them on Etsy. I generally like that the majority of your videos are in Aussie $ (I'm Aussie too) but when using Etsy and RUclips it makes sense to put the prices in US$. And I found it more helpful than I thought it would be
Very well done video, it was very informative! As someone who draws digitally and traditionally I am still unsure which kind I want to sell (or both?) and what exactly (prints, stickers etc.?) so I am informing myself as much as I can.
May I ask what program you used for creating your art? I am only familiar with Procreate and Photoshop but this one looks different.
Beautiful Parker and mum ❤
Thanks so much for this! I’ve been wanting to start doing commissions for a while. I already created a commission agreement form that lays things out for both customer and artist to keep me accountable and be super clear about what they can and cannot expect from me. I just struggle with marketing 😊. But I might try the local vets (I’m aiming to do animal and pet portraits).
Absolutely love your videos
Thank you for your advice.l am a beginner so it's really help me a lot ☺️
When doing traditional media do you use any protective coating over your work at the end of the process- or just inform the client of the fragility of the particular media used (and cover it with protective cover sheet)? When mailing/shipping is it flat hard envelope or roll/cardboard canister? Thanx.
Ko-fi also has a commission platform!
Thank you for the advice! I was hoping you would share some insight into how to trust someone who comes to you to commision a painting? I am so wary of strangers wanting to hire me for a painting and then just not paying? How do you do the transaction? Is it through PayPal? How does that work?
Thank you for this video! I was wondering what size and resolution you draw in?
Usually I draw at 3000x3000 pixels 300DPI 😊
@MimimooIllustration you're wonderful thank you!!☺️☺️✨️
@MimimooIllustration Hi Mimi, do you use the same specs for sending customers the comissions? Is 300dpi enough for a good print quality? 😊💕
Great video 👏. I wonder, do you make a separate contract between you and your customer, where the customer has to agree with your terms? Maybe it's an idea for another video, how contracts look like and what to consider?
That's a good question! I've personally never done a contract with a custom commission unless it's a larger commissioned project like a picture book or a client job.
@@MimimooIllustrationPaying upfront gives you the certainty to get paid for your work, I guess then it's okay that way. Thank you! 👍🏻 I am still interested in how to set up contracts, maybe the topic is a bit boring for some people, but I would like to learn more about that. 😊
Hello! what drawing software do you use for your art 😊
I wish they still made Surface Books ❤
I started out painting murals and walls plus plaques for hanging, prob under charged a lot lol but i was young and stupid 😝
Really great info
How much should you charge if a customer wants to commission at a time
Thank you for sharing
Are you using photoshop or procreate on your illustration? Also, are you using a tablet? Just curious about your setup. Thanks!
It’s definitely not procreate because procreate is only available on iPad. Looking at the UI, it’s Photoshop. Clip Studio Paint, however, is a cheaper alternative if you’re looking to draw on PC with a graphic tablet, and is more friendly to people starting digital art.
Also it seems to be a tablet-laptop hybrid, since my friend had a similar laptop with the same type of pen. But don’t take my word for that last one.
I'm too scared and have enormous doubts offering commissions of my digital paintings.. even my photomanipulations which I'm strongest at, cause I fear that I'll be asked to create something that I may feel stuck in or that I'll spend hours doing but then the customer doesn't like or want. I've seen people with much lower skills than my own get commissions but for some reason I'm just too scared to do it.
A well put together video. ✨️🤍😊 I truly appreciate you and your partner for your good intentions and the all the work that you do to make these videos. 😊
My process was the same but wow! I charged 20 and even less than 20 dollars for photorealistic portraits, framed and had bargaining customers! They were more than satisified in the end but they don't know how to value the artist. I was in need of money so I went with it. I and my friend felt like I undersold but it's fine. I might not be taking orders now or in the future as I am more into doing my own artwork and selling them rather taking up commissions. 😊 Congratulations on your commissions! 👍🏻✨️❤
and for* all the work
This video is great but i wanna ask iis it posible to send commissions through email?
Living artist deserve a living wage and that's going to depend on where you live.
Are you a hungarian as well?
I choose my type of art to sell but... do people like to commission me with *countryballs* ???