Custom figure commission guide: prepare a clear brief

A useful first inquiry explains what you have and what you want the finished piece to do. You do not need a complete technical specification before contacting the studio. A short idea and a few references can establish whether the project needs a sculpt, a resin print, paintwork, or a combination.

Choose the right starting point

A file made for animation or a virtual avatar may need adaptation for a physical object. Owning a file does not by itself establish permission for every use. Tell us where it came from so the scope and attribution can be reviewed before work is accepted.

Build a reference set that answers decisions

Separate references for the pose, face, costume, color palette, and finish. Label the feature you want from each image. If references disagree, identify which one should take priority. A short note such as “the pose in A, the costume in B, and the softer highlights in C” is more useful than a large unlabeled folder.

For an original character, include details that should not change: markings, asymmetry, accessories, and color relationships. State whether you want a literal match or room for an artistic interpretation.

Agree the scope and approval points

• Deliverable: figure, bust, kit finishing, or repaint; include the base and accessories.
• Dimensions: overall height, width, and depth, not just a scale label.
• Production roles: who creates the sculpt, prepares or prints the model, and paints it.
• Reviews: what you will see before the next stage, which changes are included, and how extra revisions are handled.
• Schedule: the production estimate, dependencies, and whether your deadline includes shipping.
• Commercial details: private quote, payment stages, and cancellation or change terms.

Review the written scope before authorizing work or payment. A digital image is a design reference, not proof of the exact physical color, texture, or structural strength.

Keep project credits specific

The Leda case study separates Bulkamancer's sculpt, 3Ready Prototyping Lab's print, and Luminary Studios' painting. That is a painting project, not evidence that Luminary originated the sculpt. The same distinction should be clear in your commission scope.

Plan the handoff before shipping

Confirm the destination, delivery options, packing, tracking, coverage conditions, and responsibility for customs charges. Ask which parts detach and how assembly works. Discuss how to document damage on arrival and who to contact; no packaging method eliminates every shipping risk.

Before dispatch, agree what finished-work photographs or other approval evidence you will receive. Keep the quote, approved references, and care or assembly instructions together for future reference.

A short first-message template

Character and sculpt rights remain with their respective owners. Portfolio examples do not claim official licensing or affiliation. A project is accepted only after its scope and relevant permissions have been reviewed.