frequently asked questions

What is the process for an illustration?

After you purchase your custom illustration and submit photos and details I will create a sketch within a few weeks of receiving that order. If I have any questions or need more information as I create your sketch I will reach out to you directly. Once your sketch is completed you will receive an email with a scan of the sketch attached. Please review the sketch and submit any edits (up to 4). If you have requested edits I will make them and re-send the sketch to you for your final approval. After all edits have been approved I will finalize the piece with pigment ink and watercolor and send you a scan of the final illustration or if you purchased a digital file of the illustration you will receive that. At the same time I will package and ship your original piece to you.

What type of photos do you need for a custom illustration?

A full body is best to help me understand height (and better if the individuals being illustrated are pictured together) and a close up so I can determine smaller details. I paint what I see so please ensure all details are featured accurately and the photos are represented in good light. The photos do not need to be in the clothing you want depicted; you can share other photos of the clothing items or send a written description of the requested clothing. All individuals or animals illustrated do not need to be photographed together or in the pose of the illustration- I can work with many different pieces to put it all together. Customers have also shared social media accounts with me for added insight.

What if I don’t want my custom illustration to reveal my wedding dress before my wedding?

If you want to conceal your wedding dress we can do so with strategic hair and floral bouquet placements or we can make a few slight alterations to your dress to differentiate it from the actual dress. Let me know what you would like to do!

I’m using my custom illustration for our wedding day, should we be wearing wedding attire or general clothing?

It’s up to you! I have worked with customers who have done either option. I hope you will feel excited to choose attire that suits your personal style best.

What size are your illustrations?

Custom illustrations are created on standard 8x10 watercolor paper. If your illustration does not have a full background I leave at least a ½ inch white boarder around the edges to accommodate different sized frames. If your illustration does have a full background there will be minimal to no boarder.

What kind of paper are your illustrations on?

Custom illustrations are created on premium cold press watercolor paper, 300 grams / 140 lb. - acid free, long life paper.

Do I get to choose my colors?

If you have color preferences please indicate so with your purchase and I will do everything I can to create it as you have requested. Specific color insights are helpful for banners, flowers and clothing. Illustrations are created by hand using watercolor and pigment ink so please allow artist discretion and grace.

How long do custom illustrations take to complete?

A custom illustration can take between 6 to 8 weeks to complete as all orders are created by hand. If you need your order sooner please contact me for availability at hello@viklundmade.com, rush-servicing fees may apply.

Can I send an illustration as a gift?

Absolutely! I love that you would want to gift one of my illustrations. If you want me to ship your illustration directly to the recipient please use their mailing address when you check out and email me if you would like a short (2 sentences or less) message included.

Can I use an illustration on my wedding invitation or other paper goods?

If you would like to reproduce an illustration please contact me at hello@viklundmade.com before doing so.

Do I get to make revisions to my order?

Up to 4 revisions can be made to the initial sketch (additional revisions can made at a $15 fee per revision) to keep the process timely. Please submit all revisions at once. Revisions cannot be made once the illustration is painted so please review your piece carefully. Be sure to double-check any words or names as well.

Will I get to see my order before it ships?

Yes! I will send you a scan of your illustration before it ships and if you purchased a digital file you will receive that before the original ships as well.

Do you do other custom illustrations?

Occasionally I take on other custom illustration projects if I feel they are a good fit. Please submit your custom illustration project to hello@viklundmade.com to see if it is something I am able to do!

How will my order ship?

Orders ship via United States Postal Service Priority Mail in a a bend-proof mailer. Each illustration is also wrapped in a clear cellophane sleeve to protect it during the shipping process.