Getting the most value from your art commission budget

How to Commission Character Art Like a Pro (Using the *Quintuplets* as Your Style Guide)

Commissioning character art is one of the most exciting ways to bring your favorite characters to life—but it’s also easy to get lost in the process. The key to a smooth, satisfying experience? Study the artist’s existing work first. Let’s break it down using the *Quintuplets* (you know, the five sisters from *The Quintessential Quintuplets*) as a perfect example.

Step 1: Study the Artist’s Style (Like You’re Studying the Quintuplets)

Imagine you want a piece of art featuring all five sisters—Ichika, Nino, Miku, Yotsuba, and Itsuki—but you want it to feel cohesive and true to the show. Before you commission anyone, look at their portfolio. Does the artist draw expressive eyes like the *Quintuplets*’ signature wide, sparkly gaze? Do they nail the distinct hairstyles (Miku’s side ponytail, Nino’s twin tails, etc.)? If the artist’s past pieces show they can handle multiple characters with different poses and expressions, they’re a strong candidate.

A good artist will also have character art price references listed on their site or social media. These are example pieces they’ve done at different price tiers—say, a simple bust ($50), a half-body ($100), or a full group scene ($300+). Compare these to the *Quintuplets*’ crowded scenes from the anime; a group shot is a huge undertaking, so expect prices to reflect that. Always check their “commissions” tag or pinned post for these references.

Step 2: Write a Brief That’s Clear as a Bell (and Fun to Read)

Once you’ve found an artist whose style screams “quintuplets energy,” it’s time to write your brief. A good brief is like a recipe for a complicated cake: specific, but not stifling. Start with the characters and their dynamics. For example:

*“I’d like a scene where the five sisters are at a festival, holding sparklers. Ichika should look confident in the center, Nino annoyed on the left, Miku shyly smiling in the back, Yotsuba excitedly waving, and Itsuki eating taiyaki on the right. Please keep their original hair colors and school uniform details (ribbons, skirts).”*

Then, add references—screenshots from the anime, fan art (if allowed by the artist), or even a quick sketch of the composition. Avoid vague phrases like “do whatever you want” unless you’re okay with surprises. Also, mention the medium (digital/watercolor), format (portrait/landscape), and deadline.

Step 3: Find Your Perfect Match (Without the Guesswork)

So, where do you find artists who can draw the *Quintuplets* in a style you love? Start on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or ArtStation. Search for tags like #animeartist, #characterdesign, or #commissionopen. Look for artists who already draw characters with similar facial features—big, emotive eyes, soft shading, or crisp linework. If they’ve drawn group scenes before, that’s a huge plus.

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