How to Start Art Commissions

Monetizing your artwork through commissions is one of the most fulfilling ways to transform your artistic passion into a thriving business. By accepting commissions, you can connect directly with clients, create personalized pieces, and sustain an income entirely through your creative talents. But how do you start art commissions successfully? Whether you’re an emerging artist or a seasoned creative looking to expand, setting up commissions requires planning, strategy, and confidence.

This guide will walk you through how to start art commissions, from pricing your work to finding clients to delivering exceptional results. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to do art commissions and turn your art into an income stream.

What Are Art Commissions?

Art commissions are custom pieces of artwork that artists create based on a client’s request. This process allows clients to specify what they’d like—whether it’s a portrait of a loved one, a pet illustration, or a unique piece of concept art. Artists can work across various mediums, from traditional painting and drawing to digital art and sculptures. For many artists, commissions provide a way to work collaboratively with clients while earning an income.

Unlike selling pre-existing artwork or merchandise, commissions involve creating something tailored for a specific customer. This makes them a highly personal and rewarding artistic venture.

Why Should You Set Up Art Commissions?

If you’re wondering why you should learn how to set up commissions for art, the answer is simple—opportunity. Commissions offer a way to build a direct relationship with your clients, showcase your talent, and gain exposure. Here are some key reasons to get started:

• Flexible Income: Art commissions allow you to set your own pricing and offer services that match your skill levels and time availability.
• Portfolio Building: Each commissioned piece you complete adds to your portfolio and demonstrates your ability to create personalized work.
• Creative Control: While the client gives you a specific request, you can still introduce your unique artistic style into the final piece.
• Networking Opportunities: Happy clients often lead to repeat business or referrals, helping you grow your customer base organically.

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how to start art commissions professionally.

Define Your Commission Offerings

Before promoting your services, it’s essential to define exactly what you’ll be offering. What type of commissions do you want to take on? Perhaps you want to create pet portraits, digital illustrations, fan art, or landscape paintings. Narrowing your focus ensures clarity for potential clients and allows you to perfect your skills in a specific niche.

Once you decide on your offerings, think about what format and medium you want to use. Do you prefer digital art with quick turnaround times, or traditional watercolor paint that requires more time but has a handmade appeal? Your medium and process impact how you market and price your services.

Decide on Pricing

Pricing is one of the most challenging steps when starting art commissions. Setting an unreasonably low price can lead to burnout, while setting an excessively high price can scare off potential customers. To strike the right balance, research other artists offering similar commission services and consider the following factors:

1. Time: Estimate how many hours it takes to complete a piece, and assign an hourly rate that feels fair for your experience level.
2. Materials/Software: Include the cost of physical supplies like paint, brushes, or canvases, or account for digital tools like software subscriptions.
3. Complexity: Adjust pricing based on the client’s request. For instance, a simple line drawing will typically cost less than a highly detailed piece with multiple characters or intricate backgrounds.
4. Experience: If you’re starting out, you might charge a little less to build your portfolio. Experienced artists can command higher prices based on their reputation.

Remember to set clear pricing tiers to simplify communication with clients. For example, you might charge $50 for a black-and-white sketch, $100 for a colored portrait, and $200 for a full background illustration. Transparency helps manage expectations right from the start.

Create an Art Commissions Portfolio

Every artist needs a standout portfolio to showcase their skills and attract clients. If you don’t have prior commission work to display, create practice pieces that represent the types of requests you’d like to fulfill. Use your portfolio to demonstrate versatility, technical skills, and an ability to accommodate custom requests.

Make your portfolio easy to access by hosting it on platforms such as ArtStation, Behance, Instagram, or even a personal website. You might also create a dedicated “Commissions” highlight or post on social platforms to drive inquiries. Include captions on portfolio pieces explaining how they align with potential commission styles.

Promote Your Services

Once you’ve defined your offerings, pricing, and portfolio, it’s time to promote yourself. Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are invaluable for showcasing your work and reaching potential clients. Share time-lapse videos, progress shots, and customer testimonials to drive engagement.

Be intentional about using hashtags like #ArtCommissions, #CustomArtwork, or #OpenForCommissions to increase visibility. Join online art communities and forums where art commissions are frequently discussed. Platforms like Reddit’s r/commissions and Discord art groups can be incredibly fruitful for first-time clients.

Offline promotion also works. Consider hanging flyers at local coffee shops, attending art fairs, or collaborating with other creatives who may refer you to their networks.

Draft a Clear Commission Agreement

Professionalism goes a long way in the commission process, which is why clear communication with clients is key. Draft a simple commission agreement or terms of service that outlines all necessary details:

• Scope of work (what the client is requesting)
• Timeline for delivery
• Pricing and payment terms (do you require an upfront deposit?)
• Revisions policy (how many changes are allowed)
• Usage rights (e.g., can the client resell your work or claim ownership?)

Having these details in writing ensures there are no misunderstandings and protects both parties.

Deliver High-Quality Work

Securing clients is only the first step—your long-term success depends on the quality of your output and customer satisfaction. Take your time to meet or exceed the vision your client has described. Communicate throughout the process, sending updates or sketches for feedback to ensure alignment.

When submitting the final piece, package it professionally. For digital pieces, this might mean sending high-resolution files in multiple formats. For traditional art, ensure safe packaging and shipping to maintain the integrity of the work.

Clients who receive personalized, high-quality service are far more likely to recommend you to others, growing your reputation organically.

Build Relationships with Clients

Your first commission doesn’t need to be the last interaction with a client. Building long-term relationships is one of the best ways to sustain yourself as an artist. Follow up after delivering the artwork to ask for feedback or gently request a testimonial. Consider offering your returning clients a small discount on future commissions as a gesture of gratitude.

Stay engaged with satisfied clients through social media or newsletters. Share updates on new styles, open slots for commissions, or special offers to keep your network informed and excited.

Art Commissions Open the Door to an Artistic Business

Starting art commissions can seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can pave the way for artistic freedom and financial independence. By defining your offerings, developing a professional portfolio, and fostering genuine client relationships, you’ll be well-equipped to turn creativity into a viable business.

Looking to take your commissions to the next level? Keep learning, experimenting, and expanding your skillset. Whether you want to grow your consumer base or raise your prices, remember—the key to success lies in unwavering dedication and the love for your medium.