Some stories need to be seen as well as read. The right illustrations make characters unforgettable and turn a picture book into one a child asks for again and again.
We create original illustrations for UK authors, from character design and full picture books to cover art, with clear written rights to the artwork and files prepared for UK printers.
Illustration for UK Authors
Good illustration starts with the story. We read your manuscript, understand your readers and agree the characters, setting, mood and style before drawing a single page.
Children notice everything, so consistency matters. Characters, colours and settings stay the same from the first page to the last.
In the UK, an illustrator owns the copyright in their artwork unless it is transferred in writing. Many authors only discover this when they want to print a new edition or use a character on merchandise.
Our agreements set out in writing how you can use the artwork, so you can publish, reprint and promote your book with confidence.
Full illustration of your picture book, planned spread by spread around your text.
Characters developed from your descriptions, with a reference sheet to keep them consistent.
Spot illustrations and chapter openers for older young readers.
Cover art that works as a full print cover and a small online thumbnail.
Maps, settings and endpapers for fantasy and adventure stories.
Final artwork at print resolution with bleed, for UK printers and print on demand.
You approve the characters and direction before the full book is illustrated.
START MY ILLUSTRATIONSYour manuscript, audience, age group, references and ideas.
A page-by-page plan showing where text and pictures sit.
Character designs for your approval before full illustration.
Rough layouts so you can check composition and storytelling.
Full-colour illustrations, refined with your feedback.
Files prepared for your printer, trim size and formats.
UK Author FAQ
Under UK law the illustrator owns the copyright in their artwork unless it is assigned to you in writing, or you agree a written licence. Our agreements make clear that you can use the artwork on every edition of your book and in its marketing, so there are no surprises later.
Many picture books are 32 pages, with an illustration on most spreads, but the right number depends on your text, age group and format. We plan the page-by-page layout with you before any artwork starts.
Yes. Character designs are developed and approved first, so the characters stay consistent on every page.
Yes. We prepare final files at print resolution, with bleed (usually 3 mm) and colour set up for your chosen printer and trim size.
No. Share books and artwork you like, and we will propose a direction that suits your story and readers.
Yes. We create cover illustrations that work as a full-size print cover and as a small thumbnail on Amazon.co.uk.
Tell us about your story, your readers' age, how many illustrations you need and any styles you love. We will suggest a direction and send a fixed quote.
