Last Updated: FEBRUARY 19th, 2018

We are excited for you to participate in the commission process. For all users, we recommend reading the general commission rules. In addition, there are a few small choices that can make the process easier for everyone involved.

For Sellers

Do put together a well-crafted price sheet. This can make commissions easier for both creators and users alike. When creating the price sheet, we recommend the following:

• Keep it simple. The faster someone can see your prices and expectations, the more likely they will reach out for a commission.
  • If you do need to add more detail about specific prices, consider having all of the prices at the top with more detailed paragraphs below. That way, potential buyers will get a quick snapshot of what you offer. Remember, you don’t have to outline everything – you’ll be able to quote people based on what they request.
• Clarify what content you will or will not create. Make it clear what medium you use (digital art, traditional media, short story, etc.) and if you are okay with mature or explicit content. If you have any other content guidelines, list those.
• Give examples, either in a visual price sheet or links. Linking to sample work or styles that you’ve done before will help people know what to expect.

Do discuss the specifics of the piece before creating the scope. This will help you figure out if a piece has elements that could increase the price of the commission.

• List an estimated time frame for completion. Many sellers have different time frames, and it’s helpful for the buyer to know when to expect the final product. If needed, give a date that takes into account any possible delays; buyers often are happy if the commission is finished early.
  • Please note that funds are not paid to the seller until the commission has been completed and approved by the buyer.

Do keep a line of communication open between you and the buyer. Communication can resolve potential problems before they become an issue. We recommend the following:

• Send milestone updates to the buyer. For example, sending lineart or a sketch may work as a milestone update with art. Milestone updates help you know if anything needs to change before working on the final product.
• Although we require responding to buyers within a week in order to remain responsive, we recommend responding sooner. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 30 minutes each day to respond to buyers.

Do not post in detail negative experiences with a buyer, especially during the commission. During the commission process, posting negative details about a buyer is unprofessional, rude, and may even be harassment. If you do post about an experience after the commission is over, remember that other potential buyers will be reading; the way you talk about that experience could cause others to no longer want a commission.

For Buyers

There are several things you as a buyer can do that will make the commission process easier. When sending a new commission request, we recommend the following:

Do be specific when outlining what you want in the commission. The more information you give, the easier it will be for the seller to create the piece for you. Avoid telling the seller to create “what they want” – they want to make you happy, and specific information helps them achieve that goal.

Do ask for an estimated time frame for the commission to be completed. This will help you know how long you can expect to wait before receiving the final product. Sellers may take shorter or longer depending on individual circumstances.