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Commissioning an Oil Painting: The Process from Start to Finish

Writer's picture: Christina HornyakChristina Hornyak

There’s something incredibly special about owning a one-of-a-kind piece of art, especially when it’s been created just for you. Commissioning an oil painting is a deeply personal experience, where your ideas and vision come to life on canvas. If you’ve been thinking about commissioning a piece or giving one as a meaningful gift, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect when working with me on your custom oil painting.


Step 1: The Initial Vision & Consultation


It all begins with your vision. When you’re ready to commission a painting, you can reach out to me through email or text. I’ll ask you to share what you’re imagining—whether it’s a portrait, landscape, or something abstract. This is where your ideas, style preferences, and any specific details you’d like to include come into play.


Google Photos is an excellent tool for sending me images or references that inspire you, or if you'd like to include a specific photo in the painting. The more you share, the better I can understand what you want to see on canvas. From here, I’ll create a rough sketch to give you a preview of the composition.


Step 2: The Sketch & Payment


Once we’ve settled on the design, I’ll send you a rough sketch preview of what the final piece will look like. This is your chance to request any tweaks or adjustments before the painting process begins.


After we agree on the sketch, payment is due in full. I know how important it is to ensure the artwork is perfect, and I put a lot of time and energy into each piece. To protect my time and effort, I require full payment upfront before I begin the painting. However, in the future, as my prices increase, I may switch to a deposit system.


I can invoice you directly to make the payment process easy and transparent. Once the payment is completed, I’ll begin creating your custom painting!


Step 3: The Magic of Oil Paints & Drying Time


One of the most rewarding aspects of commissioning an oil painting is knowing you’re investing in the highest quality of artwork. Oil paints are unmatched in their vibrancy, depth, and durability. They have a richness that other mediums simply can’t replicate, making them a popular choice for collectors and art lovers alike.


However, one important thing to know about oil paints is that they take time—both to paint and to dry. Depending on the size and complexity of the piece, my paintings take about two months to complete. The drying process is slower compared to acrylics, but that’s exactly what makes oils so beautiful. The slow drying time allows me to blend colors seamlessly, add multiple layers of depth, and create a polished, professional finish. Trust me—it’s worth the wait!


Step 4: Progress Updates—Your Choice!


While the painting is in progress, you can decide if you’d like to receive updates or if you’d prefer to be surprised with the final product. Some clients enjoy watching their vision take shape and appreciate seeing the various stages, while others love the anticipation of unveiling the finished piece all at once. It’s entirely up to you!


You can expect me to keep you in the loop about the timeline, and if you choose to receive updates, I’ll send you photos of each phase of the painting.


Step 5: A Meaningful Gift or Personal Treasure


Commissioned oil paintings make extraordinary, meaningful gifts for loved ones. Whether it’s a portrait of a family member, a favorite pet, or a memory frozen in time, these custom pieces go beyond ordinary gifts. They represent thoughtfulness and artistry, capturing moments and emotions that will last a lifetime.


Alternatively, if you’re commissioning the piece for yourself, you’re creating a personal treasure that reflects your taste, style, and story. Every painting I create is deeply personal to me, and it’s an honor to share that with you.


Final Thoughts


Commissioning an oil painting is a collaborative process—one that results in a timeless, custom work of art that you’ll cherish forever. From the first consultation to the last brushstroke, I strive to make the experience enjoyable and stress-free. The attention to detail, quality of the materials, and time invested all contribute to creating something truly special.

If you’re ready to bring your ideas to life, I can’t wait to work with you! Reach out, let’s talk about your vision, and we’ll get started on a piece that’s tailored just for you.

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