One of the most common questions I get as an artist and muralist is: “What’s the process for commissioning a custom mural?” Whether it’s a large commercial mural for a growing business or a statement piece inside a private space, the journey from blank wall to finished artwork follows a thoughtful, collaborative path. Here’s exactly how it works.
1. Initial Consultation: Vision & Goals
Every custom mural begins with a conversation. This is where I listen more than I talk. For commercial mural projects especially, I want to understand the brand, audience, and purpose of the space.
Is the goal to attract foot traffic? Inspire employees? Create a social media moment? Honor local history?
We’ll discuss timeline, budget range, wall dimensions, surface condition, and overall aesthetic direction. This stage lays the foundation for everything that follows.
2. Site Visit & Evaluation
If the project is local, I conduct a site visit to assess the wall in person. Photos help, but nothing replaces seeing the space firsthand. I evaluate:
- Wall material (brick, drywall, concrete, metal)
- Texture and necessary prep work
- Lighting conditions
- Accessibility and equipment needs
For a commercial mural, logistics matter just as much as design. Understanding the environment ensures the artwork will last and look its best.
3. Concept Development & Custom Design
This is where the creative work truly begins. Based on our discussions, if we decide to move forward I take a sketching fee and create initial concept sketches or digital mockups tailored specifically to the space. A custom mural should never feel generic — it should feel intentional.
Clients receive visual proposals that show scale, color palette, and placement. We refine the concept together through feedback and revisions. Collaboration is key. My goal as an artist isn’t just to execute an idea, but to elevate it.
Once the design is approved, we finalize the agreement, timeline, and deposit to secure the project.
4. Wall Preparation
Preparation is one of the most overlooked — yet most important — stages. Depending on the surface, this can include cleaning, sanding, patching cracks, priming, or applying base coats.
A strong foundation ensures the mural adheres properly and maintains its vibrancy for years. Skipping prep work may save time in the short term, but it compromises longevity. I never cut corners here.
5. Installation & Painting
This is the stage most people picture — the transformation happening in real time. For commercial mural projects, I work efficiently to minimize disruption to business operations while maintaining precision and detail.
I map out the design, establish key lines and proportions, and build the image layer by layer. Some murals take several days; larger or more intricate installations may take weeks. Throughout the process, I maintain clear communication so clients always know what to expect.
6. Finishing & Protection
Once the artwork is complete, I apply protective coatings when needed — especially for high-traffic or outdoor murals. Sealants guard against UV damage, moisture, and everyday wear.
We then do a final walkthrough to ensure every detail meets expectations.
Commissioning a custom mural is more than hiring a muralist — it’s entering a creative partnership. From first consultation to final brushstroke, the process is built on collaboration, preparation, and craftsmanship.
When done right, a mural doesn’t just decorate a wall — it transforms a space and leaves a lasting impression.