What is my illustration process like?​

 

There are certain steps that I like to follow when illustrating a children's book:

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1. Character Design

After carefully reading through the manuscript, I start my process by designing the characters. This means I will draw all the key characters in the story, full color and in different poses. I will also include some background elements or objects from the story.​

 

2. Storyboard

Next, I will create a rough layout of the entire book. These are quick sketches that show what’s happening on each page (or spread), along with suggested places for the text. This helps us make sure the pacing, storytelling, and page turns feel just right before moving to the actual illustrations!

 

3. Second Round of Sketches

Once the storyboard is approved, I’ll move on to more detailed black & white sketches. This is when everything starts to take shape. It’s also your chance to request any final changes before I begin coloring.

 

4. Cover Illustration

We can either use an image from the inside pages for the cover or create something custom. If you’d like a custom cover, I’ll sketch out three different options for you to choose from. The cover is also the first piece to be finished. That way, you’ll have something ready for marketing and preorders.

 

5. Final Colored Artwork

This is the exciting part! I’ll add colors to all the illustrations and send you low-resolution versions to review and approve. If everything looks good, I’ll prepare the final files.

 

6. File Delivery

You’ll receive all the artwork in high resolution (300 dpi), in multiple file formats, perfect for both print and digital publishing. I’ll also send the layered PSD files (if your designer needs them), plus a folder of extras: spot illustrations pulled from the main artwork. These are great for marketing, merchandise, or adding images to the pages that don’t have any illustrations yet.

 

Do I need to have my manuscript finished before reaching out?

 

Not necessarily. A finished manuscript helps, but if you're still drafting or just starting out, that’s okay too. When it’s time to start illustrating, that’s when I do need the final, edited manuscript. But even if you just have a rough idea of the story, we can still reserve you a spot in my calendar. 

 

How much does book illustration cost?

 

It depends! Currently I don’t handle pricing or contracts myself. My wonderful agent, Beth Snider, takes care of all that. I get to focus on things I do best, which is illustrating your beautful children's book! If you’re interested in working together, you can reach out to Beth for all the info!

What will I receive at the end of the project?

You will receive high-resolution illustrations in multiple file formats, including layered Photoshop files (if needed). The illustrations are ready to be formatted, which means I won’t be adding any text to them myself. I make sure to leave enough space for the text to make the formatting easy for the person who designs the book.

 

I recommend a professional book design firm such as TLC Book Design, who has years of experience in book formatting and editing services.

Do I own the illustrations?

 

You will receive an exclusive license to use the illustrations in your book (print or digital), book-related marketing (social media, website, etc.), and to create related merchandise (like stickers, coloring pages, bookmarks, etc.). I, as the artist, retain the original copyright.

Can I use the illustrations for marketing or crowdfunding?

 

Yes! I encourage you to use the artwork to promote your book on Instagram, Kickstarter, your author website, and more.

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Do I need to credit you as the illustrator?

 

Yes, please! I do ask that my name is included on both the book cover and the title page. It’s standard practice in children’s publishing and a small but meaningful way to recognize the work that goes into the illustration process.

Also, if you’re sharing your book online or doing any marketing, it’s always lovely (and super appreciated!) if you mention me there too. Word of mouth is how many authors find their illustrators!

How long does a project usually take?

 

The process has many stages, from character design to storyboarding, sketches, and final art. Depending on how many pages your book has and how many revisions there are, illustrating a book can take anywhere from 2 to 5 months. I’ll give you a timeline upfront and keep you updated throughout the process!

Can I see a sample or sketch before I commit?

 

Sure! I offer custom sample illustrations upon request. Please note that these are paid samples, as they require time and creative work to produce.

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I’m planning to go the traditional publishing route. Can I still work with you?

 

Yes and no. If you're submitting your manuscript to traditional publishers, it's usually best to hold off on hiring an illustrator. Most publishers prefer to choose the illustrator themselves (unless you're doing both the writing and illustrating). That said, if a publisher you're working with ends up needing an illustrator, I’d love to be considered! I mostly work with indie authors, but I’m always open to collaborating with publishers too.

Do you work with authors from the U.S.?

Yes! Even though I’m based in Finland, I love collaborating with authors worldwide. Finland has a population of under 6 million, so the indie children’s book scene here is quite small, which is why I’ve focused on working internationally.

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I understand standard U.S. trim sizes, file formats, and platforms like KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) and IngramSpark. I’ve also self-published my own children’s book, Stuck with a Stain, through KDP, which means I know the process from both an author’s and an illustrator’s perspective.

What if I need changes to the illustrations?

 

Revisions are part of the process. I typically include unlimited revisions during all sketching stages at no extra cost to ensure the artwork fits your vision. Once the illustrations are fully colored, major changes are no longer included for free.

Can you help with book layout too?

 

I currently don’t offer services like book formatting or preparing files for print or online publishing. For that, I recommend a professional design company such as TLC Book Design.

How far in advance should I book you?

 

My availability varies depending on the time of year and current bookings, so the earlier you reach out my agent Beth, the better! Even if your manuscript isn’t finished yet, feel free to get in touch and we’ll let you know my current availability.