In an era where creativity meets global marketplaces freelance artists are thriving more than ever. Platforms like Fiverr have allowed illustrators from all corners of the world to monetize their talents offering custom artwork for clients ranging from casual anime fans to serious publishers. But how much can these freelancers really earn?
We looked into eight diverse illustrators analyzing their pricing number of orders (via reviews) and service offerings to estimate their gross earnings. What we discovered is a fascinating mix of artistry pricing strategy and work ethic that together form the foundation of their freelance success.
Top 8 freelancers
1. Anime Illustrator from Indonesia – Building a Global Fanbase
Hailing from Indonesia this artist specializes in elegant anime style illustrations offering tiered pricing for different levels of detail: $35 for a headshot $50 for a bust up and $80 for a half body portrait. Each comes with simple backgrounds and includes printable high resolution files. With over 1200 reviews its clear that this freelancer has built a dedicated client base.
Assuming an average order price of around $55 (a blend of the lower and higher tiers) this translates to estimated earnings of over $66000. The delivery timeline is 10 days for all packages which suggests a steady manageable workload. A fast average response time of one hour indicates excellent client communication a crucial factor in maintaining high review scores and generating repeat orders.
Their success demonstrates that pricing moderately while maintaining quality and communication can lead to strong long term results in freelance illustration.
2. Cartoon Character Artist from Turkey – Simplicity Meets Efficiency
This Turkish illustrator offers a slightly different approach creating cartoon characters ranging from simple figures to fully detailed scenes with props and backgrounds. Their pricing starts at $25 and goes up to $45, with turnaround times between 1 to 3 days. They offer just one revision reflecting confidence in their ability to deliver what clients want on the first try.
With nearly 1470 reviews this freelancer likely earns an average of $35 per order equating to estimated total earnings of around $51000. Their pricing is clever low enough to attract a broad audience but high enough in the upper tiers to justify detailed additions like swords, tech gadgets or background elements.
This approach is perfect for buyers looking for budget-friendly cartoon-style avatars or digital assets and the artists impressive order volume suggests theyre hitting the mark.
3. Comic Page Creator from Mexico – A Premium Storytelling Experience
Based in Mexico this illustrator offers high end comic book pages with options for black and white line art at $160 shaded manga style pages at $205 and fully colored rendered pages at $275. These are professional grade services geared toward serious clients including authors and game developers.
Although the review count is much lower at 125 the high pricing means the revenue per order is significantly higher. With an average of $210 per project this artist is estimated to have earned about $26000 possibly more when considering custom or multi page orders that go unreviewed.
This freelancer demonstrates that fewer clients paying premium prices can be just as profitable if not more than a high volume low cost strategy. Their work speaks to the power of niche expertise and professional presentation.
4. Cartoon Animal Artist from the U.S. – Warm Whimsical and Relatable
This U.S. based illustrator has carved out a charming niche: drawing cute cartoon animals. The offerings are simple black and white sketches for $15 flat color versions for $20 and fully shaded airbrush style artwork for $25. Each order includes two revisions and has a delivery time of 5 to 7 days.
With 487 reviews this artist has likely earned around $9700 based on an average order price of $20. What makes this gig appealing isnt complexity but emotional connection. These illustrations are perfect for childrens gifts social media mascots or personalized keepsakes. The approachable pricing invites buyers to return for multiple purchases.
While their earnings may be lower compared to others on this list the longevity and warmth of their art are clearly part of their success story.
5. Mascot Designer from Indonesia – Scaling Through Bulk Packages
Another Indonesian freelancer stands out with a clever business model: designing mascot characters in bulk. They offer $15 for one mascot $75 for five and $150 for ten. All packages include revisions and fast delivery making it ideal for startups or YouTubers wanting consistent branding across their media.
With 1018 reviews and an estimated average order value of $50 (accounting for many bulk orders) this artist could be earning over $50000. Their focus on scale allows clients to get multiple designs at once ensuring efficiency for both parties.
This freelancer proves that bundling services strategically can lead to higher ticket sales without needing to increase individual prices.
6. Budget Cartoonist from Romania – Mastering the High Volume Model
One of the most prolific freelancers on this list comes from Romania with a massive 2389 reviews. This artist offers simple cartoon art at ultra affordable prices: $5 for black and white $10 for basic color and $20 for full color. With fast delivery and a straightforward process theyre a go to for quick fun illustrations.
While the pricing is low the sheer number of completed projects suggests strong demand. At an average order price of just $10 their estimated total earnings stand around $23000. Their model relies on efficiency and speed with minimal revisions allowing them to complete high volumes of work quickly.
This approach works well for clients with small budgets and tight timelines and shows that even lower priced gigs can be sustainable when handled at scale.
7. Comic Artist from Indonesia – From One Panel to a Full Story
This illustrator focuses on comics and storyboarding offering one panel black and white pieces for $20 simple six-panel colored comics for $55 and medium detail six panel comics for $85. The artist handles full-page storytelling based on client scripts appealing to indie creators and hobbyist writers.
With 361 reviews and an average estimated order price of $55 this freelancer has likely earned around $20000. Their strength lies in interpreting scripts visually and delivering emotional or humorous narratives through their artwork. They also allow one revision giving clients enough flexibility while maintaining a streamlined workflow.
Their service is especially attractive to content creators looking for personalized story content in comic format a growing trend in online storytelling.
8. Anime Illustrator from Ukraine – Premium Portrait Work with a Personal Touch
Rounding out our list is an anime illustrator from Ukraine offering highly detailed digital portraits. Prices range from $50 for headshots to $90 for full body art. Each order comes with a simple background multiple revisions and professional quality coloring.
With 1097 reviews and an average order value estimated around $70 this artist has earned approximately $76000. Their slightly slower response time (8 hours) suggests a more intensive production process likely due to the detailed nature of their work.
Their appeal lies in their polished style and flexibility ideal for commissions game avatars or even branding for digital influencers. Its clear that their quality commands premium rates and repeat business.
Conclusion: The Many Paths to Freelance Success
From $5 cartoons to $275 comic pages these eight illustrators have demonstrated that there’s no single formula for success. Some thrive on volume, others on premium pricing. Some offer specialised bundles while others focus on simplicity and speed. Yet across the board, three things are consistent: a well-defined style, clear pricing and excellent communication.
In total these freelancers have likely earned over $325000 combined just through reviews alone. The actual figure is likely much higher when you consider unreviewed orders tips, custom jobs and subscription savings.
Their success stories remind us that with talent structure and a bit of strategy freelance art can be more than just a passion it can be a sustainable global business.
All the freelancer pricing and earnings
Freelancer 1 – Anime Illustrator (Indonesia)
- Pricing Tiers: $35 (headshot) $50 (bust up) $80 (half body)
- Average Price per Order: ~$55
- Total Orders (via reviews): 1210
- Estimated Earnings: $66550
- Delivery Time per Order: 10 days
- Time Investment: With a 10 day delivery window the artist may be handling 10–15 clients at a time. Likely completes ~30–35 orders per month.
- Notes: This freelancer balances moderate pricing with strong demand. Their consistent delivery and communication help maintain a high order rate despite longer timelines.
Freelancer 2 – Cartoon Character Artist (Turkey)
- Pricing Tiers: $25 $35 $45
- Average Price per Order: ~$35
- Total Orders: 1469
- Estimated Earnings: $51415
- Delivery Time: 1–3 days
- Time Investment: Quick turnaround means they can manage 40–50 orders a month, depending on complexity.
- Notes: Works at a fast pace with minimal revisions. Appeals to clients looking for speedy stylized cartoon characters.
Freelancer 3 – Comic Page Artist (Mexico)
- Pricing Tiers: $160 (line art) $205 (shaded) $275 (fully colored)
- Average Price per Order: ~$210
- Total Orders: 125
- Estimated Earnings: $26250
- Delivery Time: 2–4 days per page
- Time Investment: Likely completes around 10–12 high detail comic pages per month.
- Notes: Focuses on quality over volume. Each order requires in depth storytelling and rendering. Lower quantity higher quality = premium revenue model.
Freelancer 4 – Cute Cartoon Animal Artist (USA)
- Pricing Tiers: $15 $20 $25
- Average Price per Order: ~$20
- Total Orders: 487
- Estimated Earnings: $9740
- Delivery Time: 5–7 days
- Time Investment: Each drawing is light and whimsical. Can complete ~15–20 orders per month comfortably.
- Notes: Great for casual warm content. Probably used as a part time gig or side hustle with steady demand.
Freelancer 5 – Mascot Designer (Indonesia)
- Pricing Tiers: $15 (1 mascot) $75 (5 mascots) $150 (10 mascots)
- Average Price per Order: ~$50
- Total Orders: 1018
- Estimated Earnings: $50900
- Delivery Time: 2–5 days
- Time Investment: With many clients ordering multiple mascots time per order varies. Likely handles 20–30 clients/month.
- Notes: Focused on branding. Smart bulk packages allow efficient workflow and higher earnings per project.
Freelancer 6 – General Cartoon Artist (Romania)
- Pricing Tiers: $5 (B&W) $10 (simple color) $20 (full color)
- Average Price per Order: ~$10
- Total Orders: 2389
- Estimated Earnings: $23890
- Delivery Time: 3–4 days
- Time Investment: High volume fast turnover. Likely completes 50+ orders per month.
- Notes: A budget-friendly powerhouse. Keeps prices low but earns through sheer volume. Likely handles orders full-time.
Freelancer 7 – Comic Strip Artist (Indonesia)
- Pricing Tiers: $20 (1 panel B&W) $55 (6 panel color) $85 (6 panel w/ background)
- Average Price per Order: ~$55
- Total Orders: 361
- Estimated Earnings: $19855
- Delivery Time: 6 days
- Time Investment: Each project involves storytelling. Likely 10–15 projects/month.
- Notes: Ideal for indie creators or social media storytellers. Offers high creative value in each piece.
Freelancer 8 – Anime Portrait Artist (Ukraine)
- Pricing Tiers: $50 (headshot) $70 (half body) $90 (full body)
- Average Price per Order: ~$70
- Total Orders: 1097
- Estimated Earnings: $76790
- Delivery Time: 4–10 days
- Time Investment: Moderate pace due to high detail work. Likely manages 25–30 orders monthly.
- Notes: Professional grade artwork with a premium feel. Strong income due to quality and consistent demand.
Total Estimated Combined Earnings:
$324350+ (from reviews only)
Actual earnings are likely higher considering tips custom offers and unreviewed orders.
What different things are they doing
1. They Specialize Not Generalize
Most average freelancers offer generic services like “I will draw anything” which can come across as unfocused. These top freelancers own a clear niche:
- Freelancer 1 & 8: Specialize in anime illustrations with headshot bust up half body or full body options. This attracts anime fans or clients wanting stylized character portraits.
- Freelancer 2: Focuses strictly on cartoon characters with or without objects/backgrounds perfect for branding or web avatars.
- Freelancer 3 & 7: Experts in comic book and panel illustration. They dont just draw they tell a story. That sets them apart from basic sketch artists.
- Freelancer 4: Offers one charming niche cute cartoon animals. This emotional appeal works well for pet lovers gift buyers or even small businesses wanting cute mascots.
- Freelancer 5: Focused on mascot design a very specific market that targets brands YouTubers or businesses.
- Freelancer 6: Offers budget friendly cartoon style versions of anything a broad appeal but focused on casual use like gifts or profile art.
Why this matters: Buyers trust specialists more. Niching down makes them stand out in crowded marketplaces and signals expertise immediately.
2. Smart Pricing Strategy with Tiered Packages
Each freelancer uses a three tier pricing model: basic standard and premium. This gives them:
- Scalable income: A $25 customer may upgrade to $75 just for background or extra characters.
- Client flexibility: Buyers choose based on needs and budget reducing drop offs.
- More perceived value: Clients compare options and see how much more they get at the next tier.
For example:
- Freelancer 1 charges $35–$80 depending on headshot bust or half body.
- Freelancer 3 goes from $160 to $275 based on color/detail levels.
- Freelancer 6 starts at just $5 for basic B&W but still earns high volume due to upsells.
Why this matters: Packages give clarity and make it easier to upsell while serving different client needs without extra negotiation.
3. Fast Consistent Communication
Theyre not just good artists, they act like professionals:
- 1 hour average response time for most of them (quicker than many freelancers).
- Frequent order deliveries even daily in some cases.
- Some are multilingual like Indonesian English Spanish French which opens them up to a global client base.
Why this matters: Fast replies reduce buyer anxiety and help move orders forward. Many clients choose sellers just because they responded faster.
4. Efficient Time Management and Delivery
These freelancers plan their delivery windows strategically:
- They dont overpromise (e.g. 10 days for full body illustrations) but often deliver earlier.
- They set realistic expectations: Freelancers 3 and 7 offer 2–6 days for comic pages which require more effort.
- Batching work: Some freelancers like 5 or 6 work on multiple pieces at once especially bulk mascot or cartoon orders.
Why this matters: Managing client load, setting boundaries and avoiding burnout help ensure consistent 5 star results.
5. Outstanding Reviews and Repeat Clients
They all have high ratings (4.8–5.0) and hundreds to thousands of reviews. This signals:
- Reliability – Clients come back again and again.
- Referrals and visibility – More reviews mean more visibility in search algorithms on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
- Quality control – Even when working at scale they maintain quality and positive feedback.
Why this matters: Social proof is one of the biggest deciding factors for new clients.
6. They Add Value with Extras
Many include free revisions high res files and commercial rights even in basic or mid level packages. This does a few things:
- Builds trust clients feel theyre getting more than expected.
- Creates loyalty the buyer is more likely to come back for the professionalism.
- Encourages tips and custom offers some clients pay more when they feel well taken care of.
Summary: What Makes Them Different?
| Feature | These 8 Freelancers | Average Freelancer |
| Niche Focus | Clear and specific | General or unclear |
| Tiered Pricing | Thoughtful and scalable | Flat rates or vague pricing |
| Response Time | 1–2 hours | 6–24 hours or more |
| Reviews | Hundreds to thousands 4.8–5.0 stars | Low review count or mixed ratings |
| Communication | Fast polite multilingual | Inconsistent or minimal |
| Extra Value | Source files revisions high res files | Often limited or extra cost |
| Delivery Time | Strategic (fast for simple longer for complex) | Often rushed or vague |
How to set up a gig
Step by Step: How to Set Up a High-Converting Gig Title
Step 1: Understand What Clients Are Searching For
Before writing anything think like a buyer. What would someone type if they wanted your service?
For example:
- If they want an anime drawing: “anime art” “anime character” “anime portrait”
- If they want branding help: “custom mascot” “cartoon logo” “brand character”
- If they need storytelling: “comic page” “draw my comic” “illustrate my script”
Tip: Use Fiverr/Upworks search bar and type keywords youll see whats trending.
Step 2: Use a Proven Structure
Use this format:
“I will [what you do] [what you offer] [how or in what style]”
Or
“I will create/design/draw a [style/format] for your [goal or project]”
Why this works:
- “I will” is mandatory on platforms like Fiverr.
- “Draw/create” is the action.
- “Anime character” or “comic page” is what the client wants.
- “For your story/brand/in your style” is a personal touch.
Now lets break down 3 strong examples and why they work:
Example 1: Anime Art
“I will draw a stunning anime character illustration in your style”
Why it works:
- “Draw” = clear action
- “Anime character illustration” = exact keyword clients search
- “In your style” = sounds custom and flexible (big selling point)
- “Stunning” = adds emotional appeal without being over the top
Variation ideas:
- “I will illustrate your OC in professional anime style”
- “I will create anime headshot or full body character art”
Example 2: Mascot Design
“I will create a custom cartoon mascot for your brand or channel”
Why it works:
- “Create” = implies design not just drawing
- “Custom cartoon mascot” = highly searched keyword
- “For your brand or channel” = targets YouTubers streamers businesses
- Sounds professional and scalable
Variation ideas:
- “I will design a fun cartoon mascot for your business”
- “I will illustrate a unique mascot for your logo or product”
Example 3: Comic Art
“I will draw your comic book page from script in any style you want”
Why it works:
- Direct and clear: client knows what theyll get (a comic page)
- “From script” = adds value shows storytelling ability
- “Any style you want” = assures flexibility
- Great for writers authors and indie publishers
Variation ideas:
- “I will illustrate your comic script with detailed panel work”
- “I will turn your story into a full comic book page”
What to Avoid in a Gig Title:
| Dont Use | Why its Bad |
| “I will draw anything” | Too vague doesnt inspire trust or clarity |
| “I will art for you” | Grammatically unclear; lacks keywords |
| “I will do anime” | Doesnt explain what about anime you do |
| “Custom draw pic” | Not searchable and looks unprofessional |
Final Advice
Keep it under 80 characters – shorter titles show fully in search results
Use keywords your audience is typing – not just what you would say
Add emotion or benefit when possible – “stunning” “cute” “in any style”
Make it clear what the deliverable is – character? comic? mascot? Avatar?
What I Can Do to Help You as a Freelance Artist
I can help you:
Write high converting gig titles
Craft professional trust building gig descriptions
Define clear appealing packages (Basic Standard Premium)
Suggest SEO friendly tags/keywords
Improve your profile bio and FAQs
Create custom offers upsells and client messages
Offer tips for getting more 5 star reviews and repeat clients
Example 1: Anime Character Portrait (For Artists Specializing in Anime)
Gig Title:
I will draw a custom anime character illustration in your chosen style
Description:
Bring your imagination to life with a custom anime character illustration! Whether its an original character (OC) a fan art piece or your own portrait in anime style I will create a clean expressive and colorful drawing tailored exactly to your vision.
High resolution files
Full color with clean lineart
Choose from headshot half body or full body
Commercial rights available
100% hand drawn no AI
Please message me first if you have complex poses or background ideas Im happy to discuss your project before you place the order!
Packages:
| Tier | Price | Includes |
| Basic | $35 | Headshot simple background PNG file 2 revisions |
| Standard | $60 | Half body simple background PNG + JPG + source file 3 revisions |
| Premium | $90 | Full body detailed background all source files 4 revisions commercial rights |
Tags:
anime illustration, anime drawing, custom anime character, anime portrait, OC art
Example 2: Cute Cartoon Animal Art (For Pet or Gift Art)
Gig Title:
I will draw a cute cartoon animal that will make you smile
Description:
Need a charming animal illustration for a gift profile picture or product? I specialize in drawing adorable cartoon style animals that capture personality emotion and fun in every line!
Great for:
- Pet lovers
- Birthday or anniversary gifts
- Childrens books
- Stickers or merch
Each drawing is 100% custom and hand drawn (no AI) and delivered as high resolution PNG or JPG. Just send me a photo or description and let the cuteness begin!
Packages:
| Tier | Price | Includes |
| Basic | $15 | Black & white line art 1 animal simple pose 2 revisions |
| Standard | $20 | Full colour with flat shading simple background, 2 revisions |
| Premium | $30 | Full color airbrush shading custom background print ready file |
Tags:
cute animal drawing cartoon pet kids illustration animal avatar cartoon art
Example 3: Comic Page Illustration (For Storytellers)
Gig Title:
I will illustrate a professional comic page from your story or script
Description:
Do you have a story that needs to come alive through comics? I will professionally draw a comic page based on your script or idea. Whether its a manga action scene romantic story or slice of life Ill deliver storytelling through expressive panel art and dynamic characters.
What you get:
- Up to 6 panels per page
- Line art or full color (your choice)
- Script reading and layout planning included
- Commercial rights included in Premium
Lets build your comic universe one panel at a time!
Packages:
| Tier | Price | Includes |
| Basic | $60 | 1 B&W comic page (up to 5 panels) 1 revision |
| Standard | $90 | B&W + screentones and shading (manga style) 2 revisions |
| Premium | $140 | Full color comic page pro shading & effects commercial rights 3 revisions |
Tags:
comic artist manga illustrator draw comic page custom comic art storytelling illustration
Would you like me to help you write your own gig from scratch based on your art style or services? If you tell me:
- What kind of art you do (anime cartoon chibi comic pet portraits etc.)
- What your top 1–2 services are
I can create your personalized gig in full just like above.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Freelance Gig
1. Vague or Confusing Gig Titles
- Mistake: Using unclear or generic titles like “I will do art for you” or “Drawing service.”
- Why to avoid: Clients wont know exactly what you offer and your gig wont show up in search results.
- Fix: Use specific keyword rich titles like “I will draw a custom anime character illustration.”
2. Poor or Short Gig Descriptions
- Mistake: Writing very short unclear or unprofessional descriptions.
- Why to avoid: Buyers cant understand your value or whats included so they skip your gig.
- Fix: Write detailed client focused descriptions that clearly explain your process what clients get and why they should pick you.
3. No Clear Packages or Confusing Pricing
- Mistake: Offering one vague package or prices that dont reflect the work complexity.
- Why to avoid: Clients like options and clear pricing they want to understand what they get at each level.
- Fix: Create 3 clear packages (Basic Standard Premium) with distinct deliverables and prices.
4. Ignoring Communication and Response Time
- Mistake: Not replying promptly to inquiries or messages.
- Why to avoid: Slow responses lead to lost clients and bad reviews.
- Fix: Keep your response time fast and professional; set realistic delivery times.
5. Using Low Quality Images or No Portfolio Samples
- Mistake: Posting low res or unprofessional examples of your work.
- Why to avoid: Your portfolio is your shop window poor samples hurt your credibility.
- Fix: Showcase your best clean high quality work with clear presentation.
6. Overpromising or Under delivering
- Mistake: Promising fast delivery or unlimited revisions but not keeping up.
- Why to avoid: Leads to unhappy clients and negative reviews.
- Fix: Be honest with your delivery times and revision limits; set boundaries.
7. Ignoring Keywords and SEO
- Mistake: Not using relevant keywords in your gig title tags or description.
- Why to avoid: Your gig wont show up in search results where clients are looking.
- Fix: Research popular keywords and include them naturally in your gig setup.
8. Not Asking Questions or Clarifying Client Needs
- Mistake: Starting work without fully understanding what the client wants.
- Why to avoid: Misunderstandings lead to revisions and unhappy clients.
- Fix: Use the FAQ or client messages to ask clarifying questions before starting.
9. Not Offering Commercial Rights Clearly
- Mistake: Forgetting to mention if clients get usage/commercial rights.
- Why to avoid: Confusion over rights can cause disputes.
- Fix: Clearly state whether commercial rights are included and in which package.
10. Ignoring Reviews and Feedback
- Mistake: Not requesting reviews or not learning from negative feedback.
- Why to avoid: Reviews build trust and influence future buyers.
- Fix: Politely ask clients for reviews and always try to improve your service.
Summary
To succeed be clear professional prompt and detailed. Set realistic expectations and show your best work upfront!