How to Commission an Oil Painting (Step-by-Step Guide)

Camille Rokoff
May 10
3 min read

If you’ve ever thought about commissioning a painting but weren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. Most people hesitate because they’re unsure how the process works or how the final piece will turn out.

A well-run commission should feel clear, collaborative, and enjoyable from start to finish.

Start with a clear idea

The best place to begin is with a general direction. It doesn’t need to be perfect.

Think about:

Subject — a place, person, animal, or memory
Size — where the painting will hang
Feeling — calm, dramatic, light, or moody

It’s also helpful to know what you don’t want. That can be just as important as what you do want.

Choose the right artist

Not every artist is the right fit for every project.

Look for:

A style you naturally connect with
Consistent work across their portfolio
Experience with commissions

Instagram and Pinterest are a good place to start, but take time to review the artist’s full body of work before reaching out.

The Consultation Matters

A strong commission is built on clear communication.

At Rokoff Studio, we begin with a short questionnaire, followed by a conversation with the artist. This can be in person or over video.

Sometimes the most meaningful elements are subtle details that make the painting personal to you. These can be overlooked if all communication happens over email. We’ve found that a video call helps bring out ideas that may not come up in written communication.

This step helps define:

Composition
Color palette
Scale
Any personal details you’d like included

Based on the scale and subject, we provide a quote during the consultation. If the quote is approved, a 50% deposit is collected to begin the commission process.

Timeline & Pricing

Every project is different, but most commissions are completed with 6-10 weeks.

Mockup & Approval

Before the painting begins, a digital mockup is created.

This is not the final painting, but a guide for:

Composition
Color direction

This is the time to make adjustments. Once approved, the painting moves forward.

The Painting Process

After approval:

The artist begins the oil painting
The piece develops in stages
Final images are shared near completion

Early progress images can be misleading, so most artists wait until the painting is close to finished before sharing.

Final Approval & Delivery

Once the painting is complete:

We send you an image of the painting to review and approve
The remaining balance is collected
The painting is prepared for shipment

At Rokoff Studio, each painting is:

Packed in a custom wooden crate
Fully insured
Carefully tracked during shipment, with prompt updates if there are any changes to the delivery schedule

Why Commission A Painting

A custom painting allows you to create something that feels personal to your space.

It can reflect:

A place you love
A meaningful memory
The mood of your home

The result is a piece you’ll love for years to come, one that may be passed down through generations.

A Note From The Gallery

At Rokoff Studio, we guide each client through the process step by step. Clear communication early on leads to a smooth experience and a final piece that feels right from the moment it arrives.