Hello, this is ashleyrynne, creator of the eBay store: "Ashley Dietrich Art Gallery."  I hold 2 BFA's: one in Studio Art and the other in Art History from Oklahoma State.  I have done graduate work at Notre Dame and in Europe.  I have been a freelance artist for almost 10 years, and am always updating eBay store to sell my paintings. 

Here are some guidelines I have found helpful to follow when commissioning a piece of art.  This guide is primarily about commissioning paintings, but it can apply to other varieties of art as well: 

1.  For those who don't know exactly what they want to commission:  you probably have a certain space in your home/office/etc. where you would like to add original art.  Decide on a rough size and general color(s) you want for the piece - as well as preferred media.  Remember that the more information you give an artist, the better he/she will be able to meet and exceed your expectations.  Photos, fabric swatches, etc. can help as well.

2.  Searching for an artist is the most difficult part of this process.  Keyword searches for the general style of art (such as Pop, Abstract, Realism...) can be of use, as well as large sites that host many artists.  Keep in mind that buying from an artist's site directly, and through eBay will get you the best price - since the fees are much lower.  An artist does not often do ONLY one type of work.  Often, there is variety in a portfolio.  It is important to choose an artist whose completed pieces in some way correspond to what you like/want.  An existing painting is an excellent starting point.

3.  At this point, if not sooner, determine your budget.  You should get an idea about the going rate for the type of art you are interested in by researching artists.  You have to begin with what you are willing to pay for it, even if you aren't exactly sure what you want. 

4.  Once you have selected one (or a few) artists, contact them to see if they accept commissions.  Some do not, simply because it is more time consuming and sometimes risky - not everyone out there is trustworthy!  Good communication with your artist and asking all the right questions up front is a must.  Do not be afraid to use an existing piece as an example of what you like and dislike, but be cordial.  (For example:  "I like the texture and style in painting X, but the color is not what I'm looking for.")  An artist experienced with commissioned will be able to help you with your project, but we are not mind-readers: I would much rather have someone make a negative comment about one of my paintings in the context of their project than complete the painting not knowing the client's taste.

5.  As a freelance artist, I always provide a written contract describing the finished project in detail and sometimes including sketches, color swatches, and other support material.  Having an agreement in writing protects both YOU and the artist in the unlikely event of a disagreement.  If your artist does not offer a commission contract, it would be wise to ask for one. 

6.  Commissioning work is VERY different than buying an already-made piece.  Typically the painting(s) will be non-refundable and will require a downpayment of 50% before the artist begins work.  This ensures that the artist is paid for his/her time and effort, as well as supplies, should the client decide not to purchase the finished product.  The final payment of the other 50% is typically paid before the artist ships / delivers the finished piece.  Again, payment information is a standard part of the commission agreement.  I have found it helpful in some cases to correspond with my clients and send pictures of the work in progress to make sure the project turns out as expected.

7.  Don't be afraid to give commission work a chance!  Although it is much easier to purchase an existing painting, commissions are suited exactly to you.  For a very large project, it may be wise to commission something smaller with your chosen artist first, to see how well suited he/she is to your needs.  It is certainly easier to work with a repeat customer than a new one, and often returning customers and those buying more pieces receive better rates.

Feel free to contact me with any questions about online art!  I am always adding new guides, so drop me a comment or suggestion.