When you need things done right the first time.

As an illustrator, I understand how important it is to not just provide artwork to clients but also create a positive working relationship where projects expectations aren't just met but exceeded.

Since creating my home-based art business in 2008, I've had the great opportunity to work with not just individuals but companies and publishers as well. While DDM Creations offers a wide range of artistic services, this Guru profile is for the sole purpose of offering custom children's book illustrations.

If you are interested in any of the following services, please message me directly and we can discuss your project needs outside of the Guru site:

- Chalk Art Design
- Comic Book Illustration
- Indoor Murals
- Character Design

95% of my clients are repeat customers and I pride myself on being able to tackle not just short-term projects but long-term as well. Whether you need one-time art services or an illustrator to grow with, I can fit the bill.

With over a dozen children's books published, including series, I truly enjoy what I do and love working with others that are just as passionate about creating. I've worked with authors who are vets to the process and first-time authors so if you're worried about what to expect or have no idea what it's like to work with an artist, you can be rest assured that I will help you understand the process every step of the way.

Work Terms

Aside from travel dates and onsite projects, I work from home, which gives me the ability to provide quick turnaround times. Email is the preferred method of contact, followed by phone.

So how does my process work? It goes something like this:

1. You provide the manuscript and/or description of illustrations needed.
2. I do the 1st round of rough pencil sketches and submit them to you via email. This is the time when you can make changes and/or revisions.
3. I will resubmit revised images and won't move on to the final version until each sketch has been approved by you.
4. You will receive hi res illustrations in your preferred file format via email or Dropbox.

I charge per illustration, not hourly, unless the specifics of your project require a particular type of rate, such as a flat rate, which can be discussed in more detail.

Please note the following, as my process is set specifically to reduce miscommunication and make things flow smoothly:

1. I do not do free spec work before being hired. My portfolio reflects exactly the type of work and styles I do. If, after reviewing my portfolio, you still require a "test" sketch, I do charge a one-time $5 fee, which past clients have had no problem with. If this is at all off-putting to you, it is a huge sign that we would likely not be a good fit in a working relationship.

2. Clients are given unlimited revisions, with the understanding that the more revision requests there are (especially tedious ones) the more likely it will affect the time line for completion and could cause a delay in receiving the final work.

3. I do not do vector art, watercolor or animation projects.

4. Half of the agreed upon amount is due after approving pencil sketches, with the remaining balance due after the final work has been delivered.

5. I do not work in photo-realistic styles.

6. I draw and ink illustrations by hand and add color digitally, except for color pencil projects.