I'm not sure how I'd go about it, but you could try this post: http://artists-beware.livejournal.com/553863.html

:)

There is no real way to turn people down that works uniformly with everyone. Just be honest and let them know you aren't comfortable with taking the commission and that you have to decline. Some people will react in less than desirable ways and you just have to roll with it. It'll rub you the wrong way and put you in a bad mood, but it can't be helped sometimes.

I have to agree with Huginn here. The best thing you can do is be honest and firm, and as clear as possible as to what your reasons are. No, it's not a fun thing to turn someone down on something because you know what direction things will go. But you're the artist, and you have the right to refuse service to anyone.

Be polite. Be efficient. Have a plan to kill everyone you... wait. Sorry. I'm not sure where I was going with that.

"Thank you for your interest in placing a commission with me! It's always appreciated. Unfortunately at this time and for the forseeable future I am not and will not be taking commissions featuring the specific content you were after"

Is a good one if you aren't comfortable with the content they want

Now, if it's the person themself?

"I'm sorry to say that while I appreciate the interest in my work and thank you for choosing to bring your commission idea to me, but unfortunately I do not wish to do this piece of artwork for you or take on this commission;

Due to your hostile nature and poor treatment of artists/me
Your excessively poor reputation amongst artists as a commissioner
I have no really looking to or interested in drawing the content you are after"

Are somewhat blunt but effective ones for getting rid of people you do not wish to draw for. it can be hard at times, but unfortunately sometimes your own well being necessitates being somewhat harsh with others.

It might be a good idea to be honest about it with them. A simple "Our previous transactions were unpleasant, so I'm going to decline this commission." may be the best way to go.

I agree with Huggins and Bandit.

This is your business, your artwork, and you are sharing your amazing talent by being generous and drawing commissions for us. We can't make you draw for us. We pay you because we love your art and I think most of us here feel you're a friend :3

However, if someone is simply treating you as an art producing robot, then it is well within your right as the artist and as a small business owner to decline any and all work they want you to do. And sometimes you cannot say that gently, but I think you've gotten some good advice so far :3

Mine is echo the 'be honest and firm' part. Tell them you don't want to do their commission, and you won't accept their money. I would say point them to another artist you know, but if the person is being hostile and toxic, I would not wish them on anyone else.

I've gotten flat a "no" before. I didn't mind it (and respected it) simply because I wouldn't want an artist to draw what they don't want to draw.

I'd have to agree with Hugin. If things have gotten that bad. then it's probably best to get it over with in as direct and professional a manner as possible. Who knows, they might even learn from the experience.

Here's what I've said to people directly, who've wanted me to do a commission oil-on-canvas for them, when I know I'm not that good (more than 60% of the time); maybe this will help.


"Thank you for taking an interest in my artwork, and I appreciate your interest in commissioning me to do (MLP) for you. But, I must decline. It's not from lack of interest, but I feel, at my present skill level, it wouldn't be of the quality you're looking for (or desire)."


At least this is how I've approached it. 99% of the time it seems to work.

Just set up guidelines of what is and is not acceptable.

Nice idea in theory, but you can't cover everything, and from what I'm been reading, people are being put off by overly long and complex ToS argeements with artists. Besides, you shouldn't have to tell people, "Don't be obnoxious and abusive". Personally, treating clients like adults has been working pretty well so far.

I'll say this, You need to learn to say no to some people, a person in your position will be on the rare occasion needing to say this to a few people. To be honest I am a little surprised this hasn't happened before.

But still these type of people need to be simply strapped to a rocket and sent on there merry way. Here is a good visual reference http://www.furaffinity.net/view/10383916/

trouble is there is no easy way sadly, but its better to be honest. It is troublesome but sometimes there is no other choice. Even if they may keep poking or use the whole "...but you used to do this before" excuse, telling them directly [and in private] to drop the truth. If they dont come back thats just maybe one grumpy costumer and you will get a new one to take that spot. If they actually do care for your art they will atleast accept the truth and try to fix the problem. [sometimes i wish this happened more often]. honesty never hurt, unless they are butthurt from the start

Be honest that you aren't comfortable drawing something and tell them politely. If they throw a hissy fit then they're not worth dealing with. If someone is willing to commission you, they LIKE your art and they will still want a piece of it. A sensible commissioner will just think up something different and still be happy with the result.

"I don't feel comfortable drawing that. My apologies."

keep it short, and sweet, no meaness.
If they've been a problem in the past then the answer is no. Odds are they violated terms of service then, so there's your reason if you feel you need to give one.

You're a person, an artist, and a business, not vending machine. You don't have to accept work if you don't want to.
No thanks, offer declined, I'm not interested in taking this project, etc. Should be enough. And if their on AB then you can give that as a reason if you feel the need.

Sent you a PM with my take on it.

Be as plain-spoken as honest as possible.

A simple, "Sorry, but I must decline your offer" will suffice.

If they pres the issue, then just tell them the truth as plainly a you can. If it upsets them, then it may be more their issue than yours.

Just say "No" as neutral as possible! :3 a straight face always work, and if they keep asking say it again. Don't get angry don't get sentimental, dont get happy. :P