General FAQs
What is Hobby Hires and how does it work?
Hobby Hires is building a platfrom that connects miniature painters with clients worldwide looking to commission miniature artists. Clients can post jobs, browse artists, and hire based on style, pricing and reviews. Artists list their services and look for commissions using our jobs feed.
Is Hobby Hires free to use for miniature painters?
Technically yes? Hobby Hires charges 0% commission, however, artists can join for small monthly subscription fee. That said, we are looking into providing different tiers of subscription, including a free basic package for fledgling miniature painters to get started.
Does Hobby Hires take a commission from artists?
Nope. Absolutely not. We’re not monsters! Artists keep 100% of what they earn. We believe creators deserve every penny they make.
How do I hire a miniature painter on Hobby Hires?
Simply post your commission request on our guild board, and expect a fair few artists to proactively contact you with proposals and offers. From there, you can browse artist listings, check portfolios and reviews, then message your chosen painter to get started.
Is Hobby Hires safe for both clients and artists?
Yes – artists go through an approval process when setting up their profiles, which includes inspecting their portfolio of past work. Messaging is secure and we’re committed to fair, transparent practices.
For Artists
Platform & Launch
Is Hobby Hires live yet, or still in development?
We’re currently in development. Before then, our Legacy Artists will be helping us test and refine the platform through alpha and beta phases.
Services & Flexibility
Can I list services beyond painting (e.g. conversions, sculpting, basing)?
Yes – Hobby Hires is designed to support a broad range of miniature services. You’ll be able to tag your profile so clients can find you for the specific work you do.
Will clients be able to filter searches?
Yes – they can filter by service type, style, and more, making it easier for the right clients to find you.
Will I be restricted to tiers or prescribed pricing models?
Yes – they can filter by service type, style, and more, making it easier for the right clients to find you.
Value for Artists
What’s the benefit of joining compared to just using Instagram?
Hobby Hires centralises commission opportunities, provides credibility through reviews and ratings, and markets artists beyond their own social media reach. Instead of waiting for DMs, you’ll have a Jobs Feed where you can choose projects that interest you.
What does Hobby Hires take from my commissions?
Nothing. You keep 100% of your fee. Hobby Hires runs on a subscription model, so artists pay for access to the platform while all earnings stay in your hands.
Expectations & Restrictions
Do I have to work exclusively through Hobby Hires?
No – you’re free to continue working however and wherever you want. Hobby Hires is here to support your business, not restrict it.
Can I post photos of commissions done through Hobby Hires on my own socials?
Absolutely. Your work is yours to share and promote as you like.
What responsibilities do artists have on Hobby Hires?
Keep your profile current, communicate clearly with clients, and respect our Terms of Service. Beyond that, you’re free to operate in your own style.
Accountability & Disputes
How are you tackling accountability or problem clients?
Hobby Hires doesn’t handle payments or shipping directly, so responsibility lies with the artist. We provide:
- Guidance on safe payment methods and contracts
- A Terms & Conditions template you can adapt
- A reviews and ratings system to build credibility and protect the community
Will Hobby Hires mediate disputes?
Not formally — we don’t have legal power to enforce outcomes. We will provide support where we can, and in the future we hope to offer stronger protections as the platform grows.
Pricing & Market Balance
How will you stop undercutting?
We’ll carefully balance supply and demand. Artist slots will open in batches so the platform doesn’t become oversaturated. Price discussions are private between artist and client, so there won’t be public bidding wars.
Jobs Feed & Commission Process
How do clients find me?
Clients submit commission requests through a form. These appear on the Jobs Feed, where you can browse and respond to projects. Clients can also browse the artist directory and invite you directly.
Portfolios & Profiles
How do I set up my profile?
Your profile will include:
- A gallery portfolio of your work
- A bio and work preferences
- Reviews and ratings from clients
- Achievements and titles (a gamified system to help showcase credibility)
Is there a limit to portfolio size?
There’s no strict limit, but we recommend curating your best work for maximum impact.
Payments
Since Hobby Hires doesn’t handle payments, what’s the best way to get paid?
We recommend using safe and traceable methods (e.g., PayPal Goods & Services, staged payments, deposits). We’ll provide guidance and templates to help you set clear payment terms.
Can I ask for deposits or staged payments?
Yes – you control your payment terms and we encourage clear agreements with clients.
Shipping & Logistics
Who handles model supply?
That’s up to you. Some artists prefer clients to send minis, others include them in their fee. Make sure to set expectations before starting.
Who pays for shipping?
Again, your choice – you can include it in your price or charge separately. Just confirm the terms upfront.
Reviews & Reputation
How do reviews work?
Clients leave a star rating and written review after each commission. These build your credibility and visibility on the platform.
Can I review clients?
Not at launch, but we’re exploring this feature to help protect artists from bad actors.
Job Progress Tracking
Will there be a Work-in-Progress (WIP) feature?
We’re testing a WIP page so clients can follow your updates more easily – like tracking an order in real time. We’re toying with the idea of an ‘experience bar’ that tracks progress.
Subscription Details
How much will the subscription cost once open to paying members?
We’re waiting to see what value the site provides to our Legacy Artists in the first period after launch. We’ll then set a subscription price that offers the best value for money while keeping the platform sustainable.
Data & Privacy
How does Hobby Hires handle my personal data and portfolio images?
We comply with strict data protection regulations (like GDPR). Your data is securely stored, never sold, and only used to operate the platform with your consent.
For Clients
Platform & Launch
Is Hobby Hires live yet, or still in development?
We’re currently in development. Check our website and social media for updates.
Can I use Hobby Hires now to find an artist?
Not yet – but you can follow our updates and be among the first to know when we open commission requests.
Commissioning Artists
How does the commission process work?
You’ll fill out a simple commission request form. Your request will appear in the Jobs Feed, where artists can respond, or you can invite specific artists directly from the directory.
Can I choose which artist I work with?
Yes – you’re in control. You can invite specific artists to your project or see who responds to your job post.
Do artists set their own prices?
Yes – every artist on Hobby Hires sets their own rates. We’ll give you “what to expect” guides to help you budget, but all pricing is agreed directly with the artist.
Payments
Does Hobby Hires handle job payments?
No. You and the artist will agree on the payment method and terms directly (for example, PayPal Goods & Services, staged payments, or deposits).
Is it safe to pay artists directly?
We’ll provide guidance on safe payment methods and template agreements. Artists are encouraged to use secure, trackable methods, and our reviews system helps you choose trusted professionals.
Do I have to pay upfront?
That depends on the artist. Many require deposits or staged payments – make sure you confirm the arrangement before starting.
Shipping & Logistics
Who supplies the miniatures?
This is decided between you and the artist depending on the situation. Make sure you and the artist are clear on who will supply models and if building and cleaning are required.
Who pays for shipping?
Usually the client, but it’s up to you and the artist to agree on terms before work begins.
Do artists ship internationally?
Many do, but not all. You’ll see this on their profile or can ask directly.
Reviews & Accountability
How do reviews work?
After each commission, you can leave a star rating and written review of your experience. This helps future clients and builds trust in the artist community.
Can I see reviews before booking?
Yes – artist profiles include reviews, ratings, titles and achievements to help you make informed choices.
What if something goes wrong with a commission?
Hobby Hires doesn’t directly handle disputes or refunds, but we provide tools, guidance, and a reviews system to promote accountability.
Platform Features
How do I find the right artist for my project?
You can:
- Post a commission request to the Jobs Feed
- Browse the artist directory
- Filter by service type, style, or availability
Can I see an artist’s portfolio before booking?
Yes – every artist has a profile with portfolio images, a bio, reviews, and achievements.
Will I be able to track progress on my commission?
We’re testing a Work-in-Progress (WIP) feature where artists can upload updates that you can follow in real time.
Costs & Transparency
Does Hobby Hires add fees to the artist’s price?
No – Hobby Hires doesn’t take a cut of commissions. What you agree with the artist is what you pay.
How much should I expect to pay for a commission?
Prices vary widely depending on the artist’s style, skill level, and the project scope. We’ll provide a “what to expect” guide on how the industry functions and will include loose ranges, but the final cost is agreed between you and the artist.
Data & Privacy
How does Hobby Hires handle my personal data?
We comply with strict data protection regulations (like GDPR). Your information is securely stored, never sold, and only used to operate the platform with your consent.
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
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