How to Prepare a Useful Commission Brief

A vague first message — "I'd like something custom made" — usually means several rounds of back-and-forth just to get to a quote. A little preparation up front gets you a faster, more accurate response.

What to include

1. The basics — what you want made, and roughly for what purpose or occasion.
2. Size or scale, if relevant — actual dimensions, or the space/context the piece needs to fit.
3. Reference images — even imperfect matches communicate style, color, and mood faster than words alone.
4. Budget range — a real range, not just "affordable"; this alone saves everyone time by ruling out mismatched expectations early.
5. Timeline — when you need the piece by, and how firm that date actually is.
6. Any must-haves or must-avoids — specific colors, materials, symbolism, or elements that matter to you.

One thing not to include: a finished design you expect the creator to simply execute exactly as drawn. Most commissioned creative work benefits from the maker's own expertise in translating an idea into their medium — treat your brief as a clear starting point for collaboration, not a fixed blueprint.