Commissionit.co.uk Review

Based on checking the website, Commissionit.co.uk appears to be a legitimate platform for commissioning bespoke art, furniture, and various creative projects. The site offers a wide array of services from pet portraits to CNC manufacturing, connecting clients with independent artists and makers.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Transparency: High. The site provides clear sections on “About Us,” “Privacy Policy,” “Terms and Conditions,” and “How it works” for both clients and artists.
• Service Variety: Excellent. It covers a vast range of artistic disciplines and bespoke manufacturing, which is impressive.
• Ethical Considerations: Moderate. While many services like art commissions, furniture, and digital art are permissible, the inclusion of “Bespoke Jewellery” is a significant concern for ethical consumers. Jewellery often involves elements like gold for men, interest-based financing, or excessive displays of wealth, which are not aligned with Islamic principles. Furthermore, art reproductions, depending on the source material (e.g., idolatrous imagery or forbidden depictions), could also raise ethical questions.
• User Experience: Seems well-structured with clear navigation, FAQs, and a detailed process for creating a brief and getting a quote.
• Security: Standard cookie consent is present. However, details on payment security or dispute resolution are not immediately prominent on the homepage, though a “Dispute Resolution” link exists in the footer.
• Red Flags: The prominent mention of “Bespoke Jewellery” without specific ethical disclaimers is a primary concern. The site’s focus on “Oil Paint Reproductions” also needs careful consideration to ensure the subject matter is permissible.

While Commissionit.co.uk offers a comprehensive service for bespoke creative projects, the inclusion of “Bespoke Jewellery” without clear ethical guidelines for its creation or sale is a notable drawback. For those seeking bespoke artistic creations, especially within an ethical framework, it’s crucial to scrutinise the specific types of commissions offered and ensure they align with principles of modesty, avoiding excess, and steering clear of anything that might lead to haram (forbidden) outcomes, such as gold for men or reproductions of impermissible imagery. The platform’s broad scope means users must exercise diligence in their choices.

Here are some better alternatives that focus on ethical, permissible services:

Best Alternatives for Ethical Bespoke Creations & Services:

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1. Etsy

   

   • Key Features: Global marketplace for handmade and vintage items, and craft supplies. Offers extensive customisation options and direct communication with artists. Strong community focus.
   • Average Price: Varies widely depending on the artist and complexity; generally competitive for bespoke items.
   • Pros: Huge variety of ethical products, direct artist interaction, strong buyer protection, easy to find independent artisans.
   • Cons: Quality can vary; requires diligent searching to find ethically compliant sellers.

2. Notonthehighstreet.com

   • Key Features: Curated online marketplace for unique and personalised gifts from small businesses and artisans, primarily based in the UK. Focus on quality and distinctiveness.
   • Average Price: Mid to high-range, reflecting the bespoke and artisanal nature of products.
   • Pros: High-quality, often unique items; strong focus on independent UK businesses; excellent for personalised gifts.
   • Cons: Generally higher prices; selection is smaller than global marketplaces.

3. Fiverr for Custom Digital Art

   • Key Features: Platform for freelance services, including a vast array of digital art commissions (illustrations, graphic design, animation). Artists offer “gigs” with clear pricing.
   • Average Price: Starts from as low as £5, scales up based on complexity and artist’s expertise.
   • Pros: Extremely diverse talent pool, competitive pricing, quick turnaround for many digital projects, clear project scopes.
   • Cons: Quality can vary significantly; requires careful selection of artists; less suited for physical bespoke items.

4. Local UK Craft Markets & Guilds

   • Key Features: Physical and online listings for local artisans and craftspeople. Often associated with guilds or associations that ensure quality and ethical standards.
   • Average Price: Varies by artisan and location, often negotiable for bespoke work.
   • Pros: Direct interaction with the maker, supports local economy, often offers truly unique pieces, strong ethical transparency.
   • Cons: Limited geographical reach, less convenient for broad searching, inventory may be smaller.

5. Gumtree (Local Listings for Bespoke Services)

   • Key Features: UK-based classifieds website where individuals and small businesses list services, including bespoke furniture makers, artists, and repair services.
   • Average Price: Highly variable, often budget-friendly due to direct negotiation.
   • Pros: Excellent for finding local, affordable bespoke services; direct contact with providers.
   • Cons: Less structured and curated than dedicated marketplaces; requires more due diligence from the buyer; quality and reliability can vary.

6. The Design Trust (UK-focused for Creative Professionals)

   • Key Features: While not a direct marketplace, The Design Trust is a UK organisation supporting creative businesses. Their website and networks can be excellent resources for finding ethical and professional designers and makers for bespoke commissions.
   • Average Price: Generally professional rates, reflecting high-quality and established artists/designers.
   • Pros: Connects you with reputable, often award-winning designers; focuses on professional standards; valuable resources for ethical practices in creative industries.
   • Cons: Not a direct commissioning platform; requires more effort to connect with artists.

7. Specialist Bespoke Furniture Makers (Directly via Web Search)

   • Key Features: Many independent furniture makers, woodworkers, and artists operate their own websites. A direct web search for “bespoke [item] UK” can uncover highly specialised artisans.
   • Average Price: Often premium pricing due to craftsmanship and customisation.
   • Pros: Direct communication and commissioning, very high level of customisation, often superior quality and craftsmanship.
   • Cons: Requires individual research, may have longer lead times, less centralised review system.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Commissionit.co.uk Review & First Look

Commissionit.co.uk presents itself as a dynamic hub connecting individuals and businesses with independent artists and makers for a wide array of bespoke projects. A first glance reveals a sophisticated platform designed to facilitate custom creations, from intricate art pieces to large-scale CNC manufacturing. The homepage immediately highlights its core proposition: “THINK it, Create it, Commission it” – a clear call to action for anyone seeking unique, custom-made items. This initial impression suggests a comprehensive service, striving to be a one-stop shop for bespoke needs.

What is Commissionit.co.uk?

Commissionit.co.uk operates as an intermediary, streamlining the process of commissioning custom artistic and manufacturing work. It aims to bridge the gap between clients with specific creative visions and skilled artisans or manufacturers capable of bringing those visions to life. The platform prides itself on supporting UK independent artists and makers, encompassing everything from traditional crafts to modern production techniques like 3D printing. It explicitly mentions serving both consumer and commercial clients, showcasing its broad appeal. For example, their homepage proudly lists corporate clients such as Google, Converse, IKEA, Channel 4, and Rolls Royce, lending a significant degree of credibility to their operations. They even declare themselves a “registered Social Enterprise, People & Planet before Profit!” which is a commendable statement of intent.

Initial Impressions of the Homepage and Navigation

The homepage is well-organised, featuring clear navigation menus that categorise their extensive services. Users can easily browse by “Commissions,” “About Us,” “How it works,” and “My Account.” The “Commissions” section is particularly detailed, breaking down services into categories like “Art Commissions Overview,” “Bespoke Furniture,” “CNC Manufacturing & 3D Printing,” and “Digital Commissions,” among many others. This structured approach makes it easy for potential clients to find what they’re looking for, even given the sheer breadth of offerings. The site also prominently features a “Get A Quote” button, indicating a straightforward process for initiating a project. Furthermore, a “Find Creative Inspiration” link and an “online sketchpad” suggest tools to assist clients in refining their ideas, which is a thoughtful touch for bespoke services.

Ethical Considerations: A Detailed Look

While the premise of connecting clients with artisans for custom work is inherently valuable and often permissible, the specific services offered by Commissionit.co.uk warrant a closer look through an ethical lens. The platform’s broad categories include some areas that require careful discernment for ethically conscious consumers.

Jewellery and Adornment in Islam

The inclusion of “Bespoke Jewellery” is a significant point of concern. In Islam, there are specific guidelines regarding jewellery. For example, men are forbidden from wearing gold or silk. While women are generally permitted to wear various forms of jewellery, the emphasis is often on modesty and avoiding excessive display of wealth (israf). A platform facilitating bespoke jewellery should ideally address these nuances, perhaps by allowing clients to specify materials and designs that align with Islamic principles. Without such clarity, the service could inadvertently lead to transactions or creations that are not permissible. The very nature of “bespoke” items can sometimes encourage opulence and extravagance, which are generally discouraged. Do-you-have-an-emissions-claim.co.uk Review

Art Reproductions and Imagery

Another area to consider is “Oil Paint Reproductions.” While art in itself is not forbidden, the subject matter of art is crucial. Reproductions of idolatrous images, depictions of living beings in a way that mimics creation, or artwork that promotes immodesty, polytheism, or any form of shirk (associating partners with Allah) would be impermissible. Ethical platforms dealing with art should have clear guidelines or a vetting process to ensure the content of commissions adheres to universally accepted ethical standards, particularly for those with religious convictions.

General Principles of Consumption

Beyond specific items, the broader philosophy of commissioning bespoke luxury goods should align with Islamic principles of moderation, avoiding waste, and being grateful for what one has. While customisation can be practical and beneficial (e.g., bespoke furniture for a specific space), it can also easily stray into excessive consumption or status-seeking. The platform’s mention of “Gift Card/Voucher” for art commissions could also encourage extravagant gifting rather than focusing on needs.

Commissionit.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating a platform like Commissionit.co.uk, it’s crucial to weigh its advantages against its potential drawbacks. This section outlines the observed pros and cons based on the website’s content and structure.

Cons

• Bespoke Jewellery Concerns: As highlighted previously, the prominent offering of “Bespoke Jewellery” without explicit ethical disclaimers or material restrictions is a significant drawback. This can lead to the creation and sale of items that are not permissible for all consumers, especially within strict Islamic guidelines concerning gold for men, or the encouragement of excessive display of wealth. Given the nature of bespoke items, there’s an inherent risk of promoting israf (extravagance).
• Art Reproduction Ambiguity: The “Oil Paint Reproductions” service lacks specific guidelines regarding the subject matter. This ambiguity means clients could commission reproductions of impermissible imagery (e.g., idolatrous figures, immodest depictions, or representations that might be seen as shirk), which is ethically problematic.
• Lack of Specific Ethical Stance for Products: While the website states it’s a “Social Enterprise, People & Planet before Profit!”, this broad statement doesn’t translate into specific ethical guidelines for the products themselves, particularly concerning religious or moral compliance. There’s no explicit filter or guidance for users to ensure their commissions align with specific ethical frameworks (like Islamic finance or art principles).
• Potential for Excessive Consumption: The emphasis on “totally unique Art made just for you!” and various bespoke luxury items, while appealing, could inadvertently encourage israf (extravagance) and materialism, which are discouraged in many ethical frameworks.
• Limited Transparency on Maker Vetting: While the site connects clients with artists, the depth of vetting for these artists’ ethical practices or adherence to specific quality standards beyond their portfolio is not immediately clear on the homepage. This is important for bespoke items where craftsmanship and material sourcing are critical.
• Dispute Resolution Process Unclear on Homepage: Although a “Dispute Resolution” link exists in the footer, the immediate visibility and clarity of the process for clients and artists are not as prominent as other features. For custom work, disputes can be complex, and a very clear, easy-to-access outline would be beneficial.
• No Explicit Pricing Structure: While a “Get A Quote” button is available, there are no indicative pricing ranges or examples for different types of commissions. This means a user must initiate a full quote request to get a sense of cost, which can be a barrier for those simply exploring options. For instance, knowing that a “Pet Portrait from Photo” might typically start from £150 could help manage expectations.

Commissionit.co.uk Alternatives

For those seeking bespoke creative services while adhering to strong ethical principles, particularly concerning Islamic guidelines, exploring alternatives to Commissionit.co.uk is essential. These platforms or approaches offer similar services but may provide more transparency, ethical filtering, or simply allow for greater control over the nature of the commissioned work.

Focusing on Ethical Craftsmanship and Digital Art

The primary concern with Commissionit.co.uk for an ethically-minded consumer, as noted, revolves around the ‘Bespoke Jewellery’ and ‘Oil Paint Reproductions’ categories, which can easily lead to non-permissible outcomes. Therefore, alternatives should either avoid such categories or offer clear mechanisms for ensuring ethical compliance. Bishoponthebridge.co.uk Review

1. Etsy – A Global Marketplace for Handmade & Vintage:

   

   • Why it’s a good alternative: Etsy is a vast marketplace where individual sellers create and sell handmade items. This decentralised nature means you can directly vet sellers and their products. Many artisans on Etsy explicitly state their materials, processes, and even ethical stances (e.g., sustainable sourcing, vegan products). You can search specifically for items that align with your ethical criteria, such as “halal art,” “modest homeware,” or “ethical woodworking.” The direct communication feature with sellers allows for in-depth discussions about the nature of the commission.
   • Key Features: Custom order requests, diverse product range (home decor, digital prints, accessories, clothing), seller reviews, robust search filters.
   • Use Case: Ideal for custom art prints, unique home decor, personalised gifts (non-jewellery), or bespoke wooden items.

2. Notonthehighstreet.com – Curated UK Artisan Gifts:

   • Why it’s a good alternative: This platform focuses on unique, often personalised, gifts from small UK businesses. It has a more curated feel than Etsy, often implying a higher standard of craftsmanship. While not explicitly religiously ethical, its focus on “thoughtful giving” and quality often aligns with general ethical consumption. It’s easier to find bespoke items like custom illustrations, personalised wooden signs, or unique pottery that are less likely to fall into ethically questionable categories.
   • Key Features: Personalisation options, UK-centric artisans, emphasis on unique and thoughtful gifts, good for home decor and non-permissible art.
   • Use Case: Excellent for thoughtful custom gifts, bespoke home accessories, or personalised stationery that are clearly permissible.

3. Fiverr / Upwork for Digital & Design Commissions:

   • Why it’s a good alternative: If your primary need is for digital commissions (e.g., custom illustrations, graphic design, 3D modelling, architectural visualisations), these platforms offer an immense pool of talent. You can specify your ethical requirements in detail within the project brief. For instance, when commissioning a digital illustration, you can explicitly state that it must not contain living beings or should adhere to modest themes. This puts the onus on you to specify, but gives you full control.
   • Key Features: Global talent pool, competitive pricing, project-based work, clear communication tools, milestone payments.
   • Use Case: Perfect for custom logos, website design, architectural renders, digital calligraphy, non-representational abstract digital art, or 3D models for non-prohibited items.

4. Local Artisan Networks & Directories: Ordertakeaways.co.uk Review

   • Why it’s a good alternative: Searching for “bespoke furniture maker UK,” “custom woodworking London,” or “ethical ceramic artist Manchester” will often lead you to individual workshops or local artisan collectives. Engaging directly with local makers allows for transparent discussions about materials, processes, and the ethical implications of the design. You can visit their studios, see their work, and ensure their practices align with your values. Many small businesses are keen to discuss specific ethical needs.
   • Key Features: Direct communication, local economy support, often higher transparency, potential for unique, one-of-a-kind items.
   • Use Case: Ideal for large bespoke furniture pieces, custom architectural elements, unique sculptures (non-living forms), or handcrafted ceramics.

5. Trove.co.uk – Sustainable & Bespoke Furniture (UK):

   • Why it’s a good alternative: Trove focuses specifically on ethical and sustainable furniture in the UK. While not a broad art platform, it caters to a significant segment of Commissionit.co.uk’s offerings. Their emphasis on reclaimed materials, upcycling, and sustainable practices aligns well with Islamic principles of responsible consumption and avoiding waste.
   • Key Features: Sustainable materials, bespoke furniture, upcycling services, UK focus.
   • Use Case: When looking for custom furniture that is both ethically sourced and tailored to your space.

6. The Crafted – UK-based Contemporary Craft & Design (Directory):

   • Why it’s a good alternative: The Crafted is a directory and showcase of contemporary craft and design in the UK. While it’s not a direct commissioning platform, it’s an excellent resource for discovering high-quality British makers and artists. You can browse portfolios and then contact artists directly to discuss commissions. This gives you full control over the ethical specifications of your project.
   • Key Features: Curated selection of high-end UK craftspeople, direct contact information, often strong professional reputations.
   • Use Case: For finding established UK artists for unique, large-scale commissions (e.g., abstract sculptures, public art installations, or architectural glasswork) where direct engagement is preferred.
7. Art Schools & University Art Departments (UK):

   • Why it’s a good alternative: Many art schools and university departments (e.g., Royal College of Art, Central Saint Martins) have public-facing exhibitions, graduate showcases, or even commission services. You can often connect with emerging artists directly, offering a chance to commission unique, ethically considered pieces at potentially more accessible price points. These institutions often encourage innovative and socially conscious art.
   • Key Features: Access to emerging talent, academic rigour, potential for unique and experimental pieces.
   • Use Case: For avant-garde abstract art, unique sculptural pieces (non-living forms), or collaborations on socially impactful art projects.

These alternatives provide robust options for commissioning bespoke items and art while allowing consumers to maintain their ethical standards and avoid categories that may be problematic.

Commissionit.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the pricing model of a bespoke commissioning platform like Commissionit.co.uk is essential for potential clients. Given the highly custom nature of the services offered, a fixed price list is naturally impossible. Instead, Commissionit.co.uk operates on a quotation-based system, which is standard for custom work. Classicvolvoparts.co.uk Review

The Quotation Process

The website clearly outlines a “Get A Quote” process. This indicates that potential clients need to submit a detailed “brief” outlining their requirements, budget, desired style, materials, and medium. The platform then uses this brief to connect the client with suitable artists or makers who can provide an estimate.

• No Upfront Pricing: There is no visible general pricing guide or estimated cost ranges on the homepage or readily accessible sections for any of the listed services, such as “Pet Portraits from photo” or “Bespoke Furniture.” This means you won’t get a quick idea of costs without submitting a request.
• Brief-Dependent Costs: The cost will vary significantly based on:
  • Complexity: A simple digital illustration will cost far less than a complex large-scale sculpture or a bespoke furniture piece.
  • Materials: High-end materials like rare woods, specific metals, or specialised paints will increase the cost.
  • Artist/Maker Experience: Highly sought-after or renowned artists will command higher fees.
  • Timeframe: Urgent commissions may incur additional charges.
  • Size and Scale: Larger projects naturally require more resources and time.
• Non-Committal Quote Request: The website explicitly states, “Submitting a quote request does not commit you to anything.” This is a crucial point, as it encourages users to explore options without financial obligation upfront.

How to Get an Estimate:

1. Create Your Brief: The site encourages users to “clarify exactly what you want,” which is called a brief. This should include:
   • The outline of what you want made.
   • The desired style.
   • Your budget (this is key to help artists tailor their proposals).
   • The preferred materials and medium.
2. Submit the Request: Clients can either email details, click the “Get a Quote” button and complete a short form, or use their “online sketchpad” to draw their requirements.
3. Discussion and Refinement: The site notes that clients can discuss material and medium details with artists/makers or Commissionit.co.uk staff after submitting their basic requirements. This iterative process helps refine the project scope and, consequently, the final price.

Potential Financial Implications

While the quote system is standard, the lack of any indicative pricing can be a barrier for those unfamiliar with commissioning bespoke work. For example, a “Bespoke Furniture” piece could range from a few hundred pounds for a small item to tens of thousands for a large, intricate installation. Similarly, an “Oil Painting Reproduction” could vary significantly based on size, detail, and the artist’s reputation. This lack of transparency up front means a higher commitment of time for the client just to get an initial idea of cost.

Given the ethical focus, it’s worth noting that the financial model relies on individual quotes, which in itself is not problematic. However, for large commissions, clients should be mindful of potential interest-based financing options that might be offered by external lenders (though not directly by Commissionit.co.uk), which would be impermissible. Always opt for upfront payment or interest-free instalment plans if available.

How to Cancel Commissionit.co.uk Subscription

Based on the publicly available information on the Commissionit.co.uk homepage, there isn’t an explicit “subscription” model for clients to cancel in the traditional sense (like a monthly service fee). The website appears to operate on a project-by-project commission basis. This means clients engage for specific projects, rather than subscribing to a recurring service.

Client-Side Engagement (Non-Subscription Model)

For clients, the process involves requesting a quote for a specific art or manufacturing project. Once a quote is accepted, a commissioning contract is likely established for that particular project. Therefore, cancelling a “subscription” isn’t the relevant term. Instead, it would be a matter of: Jaguarpcpclaims.co.uk Review

• Cancelling a Quote Request: If you’ve submitted a quote request but haven’t yet committed to a project, you can simply decline any received quotes or inform the platform/artist that you no longer wish to proceed. The website states, “Submitting a quote request does not commit you to anything,” which implies a straightforward withdrawal.
• Cancelling an Active Commission/Contract: If you have formally agreed to a commission and a contract is in place, cancelling would fall under the “Dispute Resolution” or “Terms and Conditions” policies. Typically, cancelling an active bespoke project would involve:
  • Reviewing the Contract: The commissioning contract (mentioned on the homepage) would outline cancellation clauses, including any penalties, non-refundable deposits, or payments for work already completed.
  • Direct Communication: The first step would be to contact Commissionit.co.uk and the assigned artist/maker directly to discuss your intention to cancel and the terms as per the contract.
  • Dispute Resolution: If an amicable agreement cannot be reached, the “Dispute Resolution Code of Conduct” would likely come into play. This mechanism is designed to mediate disagreements between clients and artists.

Artist/Maker Side (Potentially Subscription-Based)

While clients don’t seem to have a subscription, artists and makers might have a different arrangement, possibly involving a subscription or fee structure to be listed on the platform or access commission opportunities. However, the homepage text doesn’t provide details on this for artists either, beyond inviting them to “View & get commissions for any art project, create your portfolio now.” If an artist or maker wishes to cease their involvement, they would typically manage this through their “My Account” section or by contacting Commissionit.co.uk support directly, following any terms outlined in their artist agreement.

Key Takeaways for Cancellation:

• No Recurring Client Fees: Clients generally won’t have a “subscription” to cancel.
• Project-Based Agreements: Any financial commitment is tied to specific commissioned projects.
• Consult Your Contract: For active projects, cancellation terms will be detailed in the individual commissioning contract.
• Utilise Dispute Resolution: If issues arise, the platform’s dispute resolution mechanism is the intended path for formal disagreements.

In essence, rather than a cancellation process akin to a SaaS product, clients on Commissionit.co.uk would typically manage their commitments on a project-by-project basis, adhering to the terms agreed upon in their individual commissioning contracts.

Commissionit.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Commissionit.co.uk, it’s useful to compare its offerings and operational model against other platforms or methods for commissioning bespoke work. The competitive landscape for custom creations is diverse, ranging from large e-commerce marketplaces to dedicated artisan directories.

Commissionit.co.uk’s Niche and Strengths

Commissionit.co.uk positions itself as a streamlined intermediary for a very broad range of bespoke art and manufacturing services. Its key strengths include:

• Broad Category Coverage: From “Pet Portraits” to “CNC Manufacturing & 3D Printing” and “Bespoke Furniture,” its breadth of services is considerable, aiming to be a single portal for diverse custom needs.
• Focus on UK Independent Artists/Makers: It explicitly supports local talent, which can be appealing to those wishing to support the UK creative economy.
• Structured Commissioning Process: The emphasis on creating a “brief” and facilitating quotes, along with features like an “online sketchpad,” suggests a professional, guided approach to commissioning complex projects.
• Social Enterprise Stance: Declaring itself a “People & Planet before Profit” social enterprise could appeal to ethically conscious consumers, though this needs to be examined against actual practices.

Comparison with Key Competitors:

1. Vs. Etsy (General Handmade Marketplace)

• Commissionit.co.uk: Offers a curated, guided commissioning service, particularly for more complex projects like “Installation Art” or large-scale “CNC Manufacturing.” It’s less of a browse-and-buy platform and more of a project initiation service.
• Etsy: Primarily a marketplace where artists list existing items or offer customisation for simpler products. While custom orders are possible, the process is less formalised than Commissionit.co.uk’s “brief” system. Etsy’s sheer volume means more choice but also more noise, requiring more effort to find specific artisans for bespoke work. Ethical filtering is largely reliant on individual seller descriptions.
• Verdict: Commissionit.co.uk is better for large, complex, or commercial bespoke projects requiring a formal brief process. Etsy is superior for smaller, more direct customisations or purchasing existing handmade items.

2. Vs. Notonthehighstreet.com (UK Curated Gifts & Personalisation)

• Commissionit.co.uk: Focuses on comprehensive, often high-value, bespoke art and manufacturing commissions, including industrial processes like CNC.
• Notonthehighstreet.com: Specialises in unique, personalised gifts and home items, usually from UK small businesses. While customisable, the scale and complexity of projects are generally lower than what Commissionit.co.uk appears to handle. It’s strong on “gifting” concepts.
• Verdict: Commissionit.co.uk is for serious bespoke art/manufacturing projects. Notonthehighstreet.com is for bespoke gifts and decorative items.

3. Vs. Fiverr / Upwork (Freelance Digital Services)

• Commissionit.co.uk: Covers a broader range of physical and digital art forms, and specifically bespoke manufacturing. Its digital offerings seem to encompass more traditional art forms.
• Fiverr/Upwork: Dominate the digital freelance market, offering a vast array of services from graphic design and illustration to video editing and 3D rendering. They are highly efficient for project-based digital work with clear deliverables. They offer strong search and filtering for specific digital art styles or services.
• Verdict: Commissionit.co.uk is suitable for mixed media or physical art/manufacturing. Fiverr/Upwork are unbeatable for quick, specific digital art and design needs.

4. Vs. Independent Artisan Websites / Direct Commissioning:

• Commissionit.co.uk: Acts as an aggregator and facilitator, potentially reducing the client’s effort in finding suitable artists and managing initial communications. It offers dispute resolution and contract templates.
• Direct Commissioning: Involves finding an artist independently (e.g., via social media, exhibitions, or referrals) and negotiating directly. This offers maximum control but requires more effort from the client to vet artists, manage contracts, and resolve disputes.
• Verdict: Commissionit.co.uk provides a structured, intermediary service for convenience and reassurance. Direct commissioning offers flexibility and direct relationships but demands more client involvement.

Ethical Edge in the Competition:

While Commissionit.co.uk has a “Social Enterprise” claim, its competitors, particularly Etsy and individual artisan websites, often allow for more granular ethical filtering based on seller declarations (e.g., vegan products, sustainable sourcing, non-representational art). For a consumer with strict ethical criteria, directly vetting individual sellers on broader platforms or contacting artists directly might offer more control and transparency over problematic categories like jewellery or certain art reproductions. Commissionit.co.uk could enhance its appeal to ethically-minded consumers by offering explicit ethical filters or guidelines for its commission types.

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FAQ

What is Commissionit.co.uk?

Commissionit.co.uk is an online platform based in the UK that connects individuals and businesses with independent artists and makers for bespoke art commissions, furniture, CNC manufacturing, 3D printing, and various other custom creative projects.

Is Commissionit.co.uk a legitimate website?

Yes, based on the information provided on its homepage, Commissionit.co.uk appears to be a legitimate social enterprise that facilitates bespoke art and manufacturing commissions. They list reputable corporate clients such as Google, Converse, IKEA, and Rolls Royce.

How does Commissionit.co.uk work for clients?

Clients submit a detailed project “brief” outlining their requirements, style, budget, materials, and medium. Commissionit.co.uk then uses this brief to connect the client with suitable artists or makers who can provide a quote for the custom work.

Does Commissionit.co.uk offer a free trial?

No, Commissionit.co.uk does not appear to offer a free trial as it operates on a project-by-project commission basis, not a subscription model. Submitting a quote request is free and non-committal. Phoenixnorthwales.co.uk Review

How do I get a quote from Commissionit.co.uk?

You can get a quote by clicking the “Get A Quote” button on their website, completing a short form with your project details, emailing your brief, or using their online sketchpad to draw your requirements.

What kind of art can I commission on Commissionit.co.uk?

You can commission a wide range of art, including abstract art, digital commissions, pet portraits from photos, murals & graffiti, oil paint reproductions, sculpture commissions, and more, across various styles and mediums.

Can I commission bespoke furniture through Commissionit.co.uk?

Yes, Commissionit.co.uk offers bespoke furniture commissions, connecting clients with skilled furniture makers for custom joinery, carpentry, and other unique furniture pieces.

Are there any ethical concerns with Commissionit.co.uk’s services?

Yes, the platform includes “Bespoke Jewellery” and “Oil Paint Reproductions.” For ethically conscious consumers, particularly within Islamic guidelines, bespoke jewellery can raise concerns about gold for men or excessive display of wealth, while art reproductions require careful consideration of the subject matter to avoid impermissible imagery.

What is the pricing model for Commissionit.co.uk?

Commissionit.co.uk uses a quotation-based pricing model. There are no fixed prices or price ranges listed on the website; the cost depends entirely on the complexity, materials, artist’s experience, and scope of the individual commission. Norscotwindows.co.uk Review

How do I cancel a commission with Commissionit.co.uk?

You do not “cancel a subscription” as Commissionit.co.uk operates on a project basis. To cancel an active commission, you would need to refer to the terms outlined in your specific commissioning contract. For quote requests, simply decline any offers.

Does Commissionit.co.uk support UK artists?

Yes, the website explicitly states that it supports “UK independent artists like Lee Campbell and makers of bespoke unique works,” highlighting its commitment to the local creative economy.

Is Commissionit.co.uk suitable for commercial projects?

Yes, Commissionit.co.uk caters to both consumer and commercial projects, offering services like installation art, public art commissions, shop fittings, and signage for businesses.

What is a “brief” on Commissionit.co.uk?

A “brief” is a detailed outline of exactly what a client wants to commission, including the desired style, budget, materials, and medium, which is used to communicate requirements to artists.

Does Commissionit.co.uk offer gift cards?

Yes, Commissionit.co.uk offers “Art Commission Gift Voucher” as a flexible gift option for bespoke art, furniture, or 3D printed items. Mhdetails.co.uk Review

How does Commissionit.co.uk handle disputes?

The website has a “Dispute Resolution Code of Conduct” and a “Dispute Resolution Service” mentioned in its footer, indicating a formal process for mediating disagreements between clients and artists.

Can I use my own design or CAD file for a commission?

Yes, the website states that if you already have a brief created or a design/CAD file, you can simply email them the details to get started.

Does Commissionit.co.uk provide inspiration for commissions?

Yes, the website has a “Find Creative Inspiration” page, and it references browsing over “4 thousand example contemporary art commissions” to help clients generate ideas.

What is CNC Manufacturing & 3D Printing on Commissionit.co.uk?

It refers to bespoke commercial services offered by Commissionit.co.uk where clients can commission projects involving Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining and 3D printing for various custom parts, prototypes, or art pieces.

Is there a direct contact number for Commissionit.co.uk?

While a “Contact Us” link is available, the homepage text does not explicitly provide a direct phone number, though it mentions emailing for details. Punthub.co.uk Review

How does Commissionit.co.uk ensure quality of work?

While the website mentions “supporting UK independent artists” and showcasing client testimonials (Google, IKEA, etc.), specific details on their quality assurance or artist vetting process beyond portfolio review are not extensively detailed on the homepage.