A commissioned piece — something made specifically for you, to your brief, by a specific person — is one of the best things the handmade market offers. Most people who would like one do not know how to ask. Here is the process.
Step 1: Know what you want (roughly)
You do not need a precise specification to start a commission conversation. You need a general idea: the type of object, the approximate size, any colours or materials that matter, and what it is for or who it is for. A jeweller does not need you to know the exact gauge of wire; they need to know whether you want something minimal or substantial, in silver or gold, for everyday wear or an occasion.
The more context you give, the better the result. “A necklace for my sister’s 30th birthday — she likes dark colours, wears silver not gold, works in an office, and has this kind of aesthetic (reference image)” is far more useful than “a necklace for a woman.”
Step 2: Find the right maker
Look at a maker’s existing work and ask whether it already contains evidence of what you want. If you want a hand-thrown mug with a particular glaze character, find a maker whose existing mugs show that character. If you want a painting in a specific style, find an artist whose portfolio shows that style. A commission asks a maker to apply their skill to your brief — it does not ask them to work in a style they do not do.
Many makers note in their shop descriptions whether they take custom orders. If it is not clear, send a message and ask.
Step 3: Make contact clearly
Use the maker’s shop messaging system. Introduce yourself briefly, describe what you want, state your deadline and budget, and ask whether they can help. Be honest about all three. A maker who cannot meet your deadline or budget will say so — this saves both of you time.
Step 4: Agree the details before any money changes hands
Before paying a deposit, confirm: the final dimensions and specification, the materials, the timeline, what happens if the piece is not quite right, and the payment terms (deposit, balance on completion, or full payment upfront). Most experienced makers have handled all of these questions before and will have clear policies.
Step 5: Let them make it
Once the brief is agreed, the best thing you can do is give the maker room to work. Checking in once for a progress update is reasonable; doing so every few days is not. Trust the brief and the maker’s skill. If something is significantly wrong when you see the piece, a good maker will address it — but small variations from a mental image are normal and expected.
Step 6: Leave a review
A detailed review of a commissioned piece — describing the brief, the communication, the result, and whether you would commission again — is worth significantly more to an independent maker than a star rating. Take five minutes to write it properly.
Find UK makers who take commissions on Numonday. Browse the seller directory and contact them directly through their shop.
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