Commission Art: Your Practical Guide to Getting and Pricing Work

If you’re an artist, a commission can be the quickest way to turn your hobby into cash. But jumping in without a plan often leads to underpayment or missed deadlines. Below you’ll find straight‑forward steps to find clients, price your work, and deliver results that keep them coming back.

Finding Your First Commission

Start where people already look for art: social media, art forums, and local groups. Post a clear picture of a recent piece, add a short caption that says you take commissions, and include a simple price range. Use hashtags like #commissionart and #customportrait so the right eyes see you. When someone reaches out, ask quick questions – what’s the subject, size, medium, and deadline? A short questionnaire helps you gauge effort before you quote.

Don’t overlook platforms that specialize in custom work, such as Etsy, DeviantArt, or dedicated commission sites. These sites let you set up a shop, display pricing tiers, and protect both you and the buyer with built‑in contracts. Even a simple pricing sheet posted on your website can cut back‑and‑forth emails and make you look professional.

Pricing Your Work Fairly

Pricing is the biggest worry for many artists. A good rule of thumb is to start with your hourly rate – think of what you’d earn in a regular job. Multiply that by the estimated hours for sketching, painting, revisions, and shipping. Add a material cost (canvas, paints, prints) plus a 10‑15% buffer for unexpected expenses.

Look at similar commissions on the market. Our post “How Much to Charge for a Portrait Painting” breaks down real‑world numbers: beginners charge $100‑$200 for a small portrait, while experienced painters can ask $500 or more for larger, detailed work. Adjust your price based on your skill level, the client’s budget, and the project’s complexity.

Offer clear packages – for example, a basic line‑art sketch, a mid‑tier digital color version, and a premium oil painting. Packages make the decision easier for buyers and let you upsell without extra negotiation. Always write the price, what’s included, and the revision policy in writing before you start.

When a client asks for a discount, evaluate the trade‑off. A lower price might be worth it if the client will give you strong exposure or a testimonial. Otherwise, stick to your rates – you’ll attract buyers who respect your value.

Once the project is underway, keep communication simple. Send a quick progress update after the sketch stage, ask if the client wants any changes, and confirm the final details before shipping. A short, friendly email can prevent misunderstandings and build trust.

Finally, protect yourself with a basic contract. Include the scope, timeline, payment schedule (often 50% upfront), and rights (personal use vs commercial). You don’t need a lawyer for most small commissions, but a simple template can save headaches later.

Commission work can become a steady income stream if you treat each job like a small business. With clear pricing, honest communication, and a showcase of happy clients, you’ll find more commissions rolling in without sacrificing your creative freedom.