Programs FAQ

Questions About Our Story Programs

Straight answers about how our illustration formats, story commissions, and activity kits work for families, classrooms, and small publishers.

What exactly is included in a custom storybook commission?

A personalized storybook commission covers a complete narrative built around your child's name, favorite animals, or a specific theme you choose. You receive a finished manuscript, hand-painted watercolor illustrations, and a print-ready PDF layout sized for standard 8.5 x 8.5 picture books. The process usually takes four to six weeks from the initial story outline to the final file delivery.

Can you adapt an existing manuscript into a picture book?

Yes. If you have a story already written, we can develop character sketches, plan page spreads, and create full illustrations that match your manuscript's pacing. We review the text first to suggest a page count and identify natural breaks for page turns. This format works well for small publishers and teachers preparing classroom storytime books.

What age range are the downloadable activity kits designed for?

Our activity kits target children aged three to eight. Each kit includes coloring pages based on original illustrations, simple maze games, cut-and-fold paper characters, and a short reading guide for parents or educators. Kits are delivered as printable PDF files and can be used at home, in libraries, or during classroom breaks.

Do you offer illustration services for school reading programs?

We do. Schools often commission short illustrated stories for literacy events, seasonal celebrations, or reading challenges. We can produce a single story with accompanying discussion prompts and printable visuals. For these projects, we work on a tighter schedule and provide files in formats that are easy to share across classrooms or project onto a screen.

How do revisions work during a project?

Each commission includes two revision rounds. The first round happens after the initial character sketches are approved, and the second after the full color layouts are shared. We keep the process straightforward: you leave notes directly on the draft images, and we adjust the artwork or text accordingly. Additional revision rounds can be arranged if needed.

What file formats do you deliver for print-ready books?

Final book layouts are delivered as high-resolution PDF files with embedded fonts and CMYK color profiles suitable for commercial printing. We also provide individual illustration files in PNG format with transparent backgrounds if you need them for promotional materials or classroom handouts. Source files remain with the studio unless a full licensing agreement is discussed.

Need more details about a specific format? Reach out with your questions and we will walk you through the options.

Programs & Formats

Ways to Work With the Studio

Every commission starts with a conversation about the child, the occasion, or the classroom moment you have in mind. From there we shape a format that fits your timeline, your budget, and the story you want told.

Personalized Storybook

A one-of-a-kind hardcover tale starring your child, their pet, or a beloved imaginary friend. We weave real details — a favorite blanket, a first lost tooth, a new sibling — into a gentle woodland adventure with hand-painted watercolor scenes.

  • 32 illustrated pages, print-ready PDF included
  • Character sketch approval before final art
  • Dedicated page for a personal dedication message

Custom Story Commission

You bring the idea, we shape the narrative. Perfect for schools designing a literacy unit, families celebrating a milestone, or small publishers testing a new character. We handle plot structure, pacing, and read-aloud rhythm.

  • Two revision rounds on the manuscript
  • Word count tailored to age group (2–8)
  • Optional read-aloud recording guide

Activity Kit Design

Printable companions that extend a story beyond the last page. Each kit is built around a specific book or theme and tested with real young readers to keep instructions clear and hands busy.

  • Coloring sheets, paper puppets, and memory games
  • Discussion prompts for parents and teachers
  • High-resolution files for home or classroom printing

Illustration for Publishers

For small presses and independent authors needing a consistent visual voice across a series. We deliver finished interior art, cover concepts, and character sheets that keep every spread cohesive.

  • Character turnaround sheets for series consistency
  • Trim-size and bleed-ready file delivery
  • Collaborative style guide for future volumes

Not sure which format suits your project? See how we approach each stage

Programs & Formats

Ways to Bring a Story to Life

Every commission starts with a conversation about the reader, the mood, and the moment the book will live in. These formats show how a tale can take shape — from a single illustrated story to a full classroom set.

One-Off Storybook

A single original picture book with 24 illustrated pages, hand-painted in watercolor and ink. Perfect for a family keepsake or a first-time author testing an idea.

  • Character design & storyboard
  • Print-ready PDF layout
  • Two revision rounds
Start a story

Personalized Tale

A custom story built around a real child — their name, a favorite toy, a place they love. The narrative is written from scratch and illustrated to match their world.

  • Character based on the child
  • Dedication page included
  • Hardcover-ready files
Commission a tale

Classroom Edition

A picture book plus a downloadable activity kit for teachers and librarians. Includes discussion prompts, coloring sheets, and a simple craft tied to the story.

  • Storytime read-aloud guide
  • Printable activity sheets
  • School visit add-on available
See school options

Series Development

For small publishers or authors planning multiple books. We develop a recurring cast, a visual style guide, and a story arc that holds across three or more titles.

  • Character style guide
  • World-building notes
  • Cover concept sketches
Explore our craft

Not sure which format fits? Tell us about your reader and the occasion — we will suggest a structure before any commitment.

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