Frequently asked questions

  • We specialize in picture books for children ages 3–8, but are open to other formats like early readers, educational books, and select middle-grade projects if they align with our style and values.

  • Both! You can book just illustration, just layout & design, or the full publishing package through one of our three service tiers:

       •   🌱 Sprouting Acorn: Design only

       •   🌿 Growing Oak: Illustration only

       •   🌳 Mighty Oak: Full-service creation (illustration + design + prep)

  • It depends on the package:

       •   Sprouting Acorn: 3–5 weeks

       •   Growing Oak: 6–12 weeks

       •   Mighty Oak: 10–16 weeks

    These timelines vary depending on the scope of your project, our current availability, and your response times.

  • Here’s a general flow:

          1.    Discovery call or inquiry

          2.    Contract + deposit

          3.    Planning phase (brief, characters, thumbnails)

          4.    Sketches + revisions

          5.    Final illustrations

          6.    Layout + print-ready files

          7.    Optional launch materials

    We will guide you through every step with kindness, clarity, and plenty of communication.

  • How does payment work?

    A non-refundable deposit is required to book your project. Payment is typically split into 2–4 milestone installments, depending on the package.

    We accept payment via bank e-transfer or PayPal. Payment plans are available for larger projects.

  • Yes — through The Painted Acorn Press, we offer independent publishing support for children’s book authors.

    When you book the Mighty Oak package, we help you:

       •   Prepare your book for print and distribution

       •   Register ISBNs (optional or guided)

       •   Format files for platforms like IngramSpark, KDP, or your preferred printer

       •   Add polished back matter (Author Notes, Dedication, etc.)

       •   Create basic promotional materials to support your launch

    You maintain full ownership of your book and its content. While we operate The Painted Acorn Press as an independent publisher, we do not manage royalties, distribution, or act as your publishing administrator unless specifically arranged. Our role is to support, design, and equip you to self-publish beautifully and professionally — either under your name or under The Painted Acorn Press, depending on your preferences.

  • Reach out anytime. We are happy to walk you through the process or help you figure out which package fits best.

  • Yes! I'm a member of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) and CANSCAIP, a Canadian organization for children's book creators. These memberships help ensure I'm aligned with best practices in indie publishing and illustration.

Whimsical red squirrel illustration holding an acorn — mascot of The Painted Acorn, children’s publishing and illustration brand.