From idea to artwork.
Rough sketch to finished piece — here is the map
I start from what you tell me about the image in your head and propose one rough sketch: the one closest to it. We then adjust that rough until you are happy with the details, and only after that does the final artwork begin.
To keep things moving
Having these ready before you enquire makes the work go much faster
Reference images (required)
Please prepare two or three illustrations or images that show the mood you are after. A Pinterest link, or a hand-drawn sketch at stick-figure level, is just as welcome.
Character details
Send me the hairstyle, clothing, accessories and personality. For an existing character, front and side references make the likeness much closer.
Where it will be used, and at what size
Let me know whether it is for a social media icon, merchandise, print and so on. The resolution and the commercial-use fee depend on it.
Budget and preferred deadline
A rough figure is fine. I will suggest the plan that fits your budget best. If you are in a hurry, ask me about rush delivery.
The eight steps
Green tag = we can still try things freely / Pink tag = minor adjustments only, once the rough is fixed
- 1
The brief Preparation
We talk through the image you have in mind, the style, and the character details.
If you have a quick sketch, I will work from that. If the picture in your head is still vague, sharing reference images makes this stage much easier.
- 2
Rough proposal One proposal
Based on the brief, I propose one rough sketch: the one closest to what you described.
⚠️ What I need from you: this is where the composition, the expression and the overall colour are decided.
- 3
Adjusting the rough Try as much as you like
I revise and adjust the rough. We can go around as many times as it takes for you to be happy with it.
We settle the composition and the basic shape of the character properly here.
- 4
Rough locked in Final artwork starts here
The rough is fixed. From here on I can make minor adjustments only.
Larger changes, such as a different composition, are quoted separately as extra revisions.
- 5
Line art Minor adjustments only
I draw the clean line art over the rough.
- 6
Colouring Minor adjustments only
I colour the illustration, adjusting shading and the way light falls.
- 7
Final pass Minor adjustments only
I balance the piece as a whole and refine the details.
- ★
Finished and delivered
The illustration is done. You receive the high-resolution files. Thank you for working with me!
What I promise, and what I ask
A few ground rules so the work stays enjoyable for both of us
While we are at the rough stage
Up to and including step 3, we can try things as many times as you like. I would rather we get it right together than rush past it.
After the final artwork starts
Once the rough is locked in, I can make minor adjustments such as small colour changes. Larger changes, such as the composition, are charged as extra revisions (¥7,500 each).
Replying to me
To keep to the schedule, please reply within one business day of each proposal. If that is difficult, just let me know in advance.
How long it takes
From the brief to delivery, please allow two weeks at the shortest. It varies with the content and with how quickly we can go back and forth.
Three plans to fit your budget
Choose by how the artwork will be used and how much detail it needs (all prices Excluding tax)
Icon Face Up
Light
From ¥15,000 (Excluding tax)
≈ $95
- For social media icons and web profiles
- One-point cuts in articles
- Background is monochrome or transparent
Who it suits
Ideal for when you need a face-focused illustration or a simple illustration without a background. Available at a low price and short delivery time.
Character Bust Up Illustration
Standard
From ¥25,000 (Excluding tax)
≈ $160
- Character Bust-Up Upper Body Illustration
- Drawing decorations and costumes
- Includes simple background patterns and effects
Who it suits
Create an illustration centered on the upper body of the character. It's the way I write that I'm best at.
Full Body Illustration
Premium
From ¥40,000 (Excluding tax)
≈ $250
- Specify pose with movement
- For posters and covers
- Background and effects included
Who it suits
It is a dynamic illustration production plan such as book covers, game main visuals, advertising posters, etc.
Add-ons
Anything not covered by the base price is quoted separately
| Add Expression/Pose Difference | ¥4,000/ per variant onwards Add facial expression differences such as kiyomochi, or simple part pose changes such as arm. |
|---|---|
| Character Design Fee | ¥15,000 onwards From the lack of clear settings, we will devise the design of the character on a zero basis. |
| Commercial use/secondary use fee | 30% ~ of production cost Occurs when goods are sold using illustrations or diverted to uses other than the original purpose. |
| Expedited Delivery (Express Shipping) | Extra 30% of production cost Applicable if you want to deliver earlier than the normal schedule (2 weeks) |
| Original Data (PSD Layered) Delivery | 50% increase in production costs We will provide you with editable PSD data that is layered in detail for each part. |
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my own rough sketch?
Yes, please do! Even a stick-figure sketch makes the composition and the mood much easier to read, and the work goes more smoothly because of it.
Is the copyright transferred to me?
As a rule I do not transfer copyright. You are free to use the artwork within the agreed scope, such as on your website or social media. If a transfer of copyright is essential for you, please ask and we can discuss it.
How and when do I pay?
By bank transfer. As a rule, half is paid as a deposit when the rough is locked in (step 4), and the remaining half on delivery. That is the same point at which free cancellation ends, so up to the rough stage you can talk to me with no cost attached.
Can I cancel partway through?
Before the rough is locked in (step 4), you can cancel free of charge. After the final artwork has started, a cancellation fee applies according to how far the work has progressed (50% ~ of production cost).
Thank you for reading this far!
If anything is unclear, please just ask.
A quote, or a question on its own, is always welcome.