Updated October 21, 2026
Where people look first
Many people start with online portfolios and social media to see recent work and process. Search terms often combine the service you need - for example illustration, mural, graphic design or product design - plus the county or town. Local galleries, craft fairs and community arts spaces are also places where you can meet makers in person and see work at full scale.
If you want a quick shortlist, look for portfolios that show finished pieces alongside sketches or process shots. That helps you judge whether the maker’s style and working method match your brief.
- Check Instagram, personal websites and portfolio platforms for recent work
- Visit local exhibitions or markets to see materials and finish in person
- Ask community arts offices or local cultural centres for recommendations
What to ask before you agree
Before you agree to a commission, get a clear written quote that lists scope, deliverables, deadlines and what is included - for example revisions, materials, travel or framing. Ask whether the quote includes VAT or other taxes.
Clarify ownership and usage rights - who will own the final artwork or design, whether you get exclusive rights or a licence, and what permissions the creator needs for third-party elements. Also ask about cancellations, refunds and expected communication during the job.
- Ask for a timeline and milestones
- Request a written agreement or simple contract
- Confirm who owns copyright and what usage is allowed
- Ask about deposits, payment schedule and receipts
Checks specific to Ireland
English is the main working language across the country; Irish is used widely in Gaeltacht areas and on some signage. If you need work in Irish, ask whether the provider can deliver in that language.
Many local authorities have arts officers and community arts programmes - they can point to makers who have worked on public projects. Also check whether the maker is a sole trader or registered company and whether that status affects invoicing or VAT on your purchase.
- Ask if the maker can work in Irish if needed
- Check whether the provider issues proper invoices or receipts
- Ask about public liability or professional insurance for on-site work
Quotations and payments in practice
Quotes should be clear about whether they include VAT. If you need an invoice for business accounting, ask for one at the start. It is common to be asked for a deposit before work begins and a final payment on delivery - confirm amounts and refund terms in writing.
Payment methods vary. Card and bank transfers are commonly used; many providers accept bank transfer for larger payments. On Websta, card payments from customers are routed through Stripe and paid out to the provider’s own bank account, and the provider sets the prices shown on their profile.
- Confirm whether quoted prices include VAT
- Agree deposit and final payment terms in writing
- Ask for an invoice or receipt for payments
Practical questions on schedule and materials
Ask about lead times early. Some creators have seasonal peaks - for example around festival programmes or the run-up to holidays - and turnaround can be slower during busy periods. If the work requires specific materials, ask who supplies them and whether costs are included.
If the job involves site work - murals, installation or workshops - ask about site visits, health and safety, and whether the maker needs permission or permits from the venue or local authority.
- Check expected delivery date and buffer for revisions
- Clarify who supplies materials and who pays for them
- Confirm any on-site requirements or permissions needed
How to check reliability and workmanship
Look for recent, relevant examples in the portfolio rather than only older signature pieces. Ask for references or contact details from recent clients if you need reassurance, and ask specific questions about timelines, communication and whether the maker met expectations.
If the work is technical - signage, certain forms of product design or structural installations - ask about previous similar projects and any insurance or certifications they can show that relate to that kind of work.
- Request recent examples similar to your brief
- Ask for references and follow up on one or two
- Check for any insurance certificates for on-site work
How a Websta profile helps you compare
A Websta profile presents a provider’s services, photos, a contact form and online booking where available. Many profiles also list prices set by the provider. Some pages were created from the public business register and show the registered trade and town for sole traders; those pages carry a notice that the person can claim or remove the page.
Using profiles side by side makes it easier to compare portfolios, listed services and practical details like booking options and contact methods. Use Websta to shortlist candidates, then follow up with the direct questions listed above before agreeing a commission.
- Compare portfolios, services and booking options on profiles
- Look for profiles sourced from public registers and note the claim notice
- Use the contact form or booking to request a written quote
Frequently asked questions
- How do I check an artist’s portfolio is genuine?
- Look for recent work with multiple views or process images, ask for references or past client contacts, and request a short video call or site visit to discuss the work in person.
- Should I ask for a written contract for a small commission?
- Yes - even a short written agreement that sets scope, deadlines, payment schedule and copyright clarifies expectations and reduces the chance of disputes.
- Who owns the copyright to commissioned artwork?
- Copyright usually stays with the creator unless you agree a transfer or an exclusive licence in writing. Make sure ownership and permitted uses are clear in the quote or contract.
- What if the provider is listed as a sole trader on Websta?
- A sole trader listing indicates the person trades under their own name or business; the profile may show registered trade and town if it was built from the public business register. You should still confirm invoicing, VAT status and any insurance directly with the provider.
About the numbers
Counts in this guide were read from the Websta catalogue when the text was written and are refreshed above from the live catalogue. Part of the catalogue was built from the public business register and is marked as such on each profile.
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