A little behind-the-scenes: working with clients

IlloGuild Question #3

Each month members of the IlloGuild are answering a question together, and this month it is: How do you take a commission from initial requirements to a completed artwork?

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Yay! You got some work! Now what?

An important first step is getting on the same page as the client. It makes the process much smoother for everyone, so definitely take time to align on expectations for the process and the finished piece.

This bunny is shaking its fluffy tail saying, “Yay! You got work!”

STEP 1: Client expectations

I communicate an outline of the whole process to my clients in a pdf that explains the timeline, prices, and options for my artwork. Having an easily sharable document like this will save you a lot of time, so I highly recommend making one. At least create a document with info that you can easily copy and paste into emails (I do this with my greeting card pitches). Here are the steps that my clients get to review:

Sample from the PDF I share with all new clients

STEP 2: Sign that contract and get paid

After the client and I are both on board, I draft up a contract that we review, and the first retainer payment is sent. Then I officially begin on the art! So before I even gather any reference images or begin sketching, I have done a lot of behind the scenes work to align with the client so we will both be happy throughout the process!

STEP 3: Finally time to draw!

Part A… sketching: Now I gather references, sketch a bunch, and learn the subject. I usually put together 1-2 final sketches for the client to choose, but I include all my sketches for them to see the work that led up to the final sketch. Revisions are welcomed at this point.

Part B… add color: After the client approves the rough sketch and I make any changes, I add color. Just like with the sketch, I send off the version in color and ask for any revisions. After that revision process, I upload the pieces, print them if needed, and send the final invoice.

And just like that, another commission gets checked off the list ✅

I hope you find these steps useful for your work with clients! And the best action steps you can take right now are:

• Make a client-facing, shareable document with info such as pricing and time line.

• Draft up a standard contract that you can use to make sure you and your client are on the same page.

See you next Wednesday, and until then, make sure to check out the answers from other IlloGuild members (so worth the read!)

- Katie