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Matthew R. Paden Illustration

Otter cartoon character design by Matthew R. Paden

Premium Bespoke Freelance Cartoon Illustration

Experienced and Reliable Story-driven Illustration & Design Since 2007

Featured Work

A curated showcase of my latest illustration and cartoon projects—highlighting character design, storytelling, and whimsical creativity across a variety of styles and clients.

How To Hire A Freelance Cartoonist?

Cartoon Gangster Illustration by Matthew R. Paden

Hiring a freelance cartoonist starts with knowing what you need—whether it’s character design, comic strips, storyboards, or custom illustrations. Begin by researching artists whose style matches your project’s tone and personality.

 

Review their portfolios carefully to gauge versatility, storytelling ability, and consistency. Once you’ve found a few candidates, reach out with a clear brief that includes your vision, deadlines, and budget.

 

Ask about their process, revision policy, and rights usage to avoid surprises later. A good freelance cartoonist doesn’t just draw—they collaborate, bringing ideas to life with creativity and professionalism.

 

The best hire feels like a creative partner who understands your goals and helps make your project shine.

What People Are Sayin'

How Much Does A Cartoonist Cost?

The cost of hiring a cartoonist can vary widely depending on their experience, style, and the scope of your project.

 

For example, quick spot illustrations or simple character sketches might range from $75 to $250, while full-color, production-ready artwork or complex character designs can run anywhere from $300 to $1,500 or more.

 

Some cartoonists charge hourly, while others offer flat rates or package deals for multiple illustrations.

 

Keep in mind—you’re not just paying for the drawing itself, but for the artist’s creativity, storytelling ability, and years of skill that bring your ideas to life.

 

A great cartoonist doesn’t just deliver art—they deliver personality, emotion, and impact that make your project unforgettable.

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I Understand My Clients

Mad Scientist Cartoon Illustration by Matthew R. Paden

With over 17 years of experience as a freelance cartoonist, I’ve learned that truly understanding my clients is just as important as creating great artwork.

 

Every project—whether a large commercial campaign or a small personal commission—starts with listening.

 

I take the time to learn what my clients envision, what emotions they want to evoke, and who their audience is.

 

That foundation of understanding allows me to tailor each illustration to fit their goals perfectly. I value communication, clarity, and collaboration at every stage, because great customer service builds the trust that fuels great art.

 

My mission is simple: to make the creative process as enjoyable and rewarding as the final piece itself.

How I Approach My Work

I start with a rough sketch, refine it into clean digital ink, then add color, light, and shadow—bringing each piece to life with depth, energy, and personality.
My Character Design Process

Explore the Collection

Suit up with Dash Solaris! Explore tees, mugs, and accessories featuring the fearless intergalactic hero. Bold designs, playful details, and cosmic style for fans and collectors alike.

Cartoon Hippo Baseball Player Illustration by Matthew R. Paden

Sketchbook

My sketchbook is where ideas take shape.

 

It’s a space filled with loose drawings, character explorations, and early concepts that capture the heart of each story before refinement begins.

 

Every page reflects experimentation, discovery, and the creative process behind my finished designs.

My Blog

I share thoughts, tips, and inspiration from life as a working cartoonist.

 

From deep dives into character design and the creative process to career advice, opinion pieces, and bursts of inspiration, this blog explores what it means to draw, dream, and stay inspired in the world of cartoon illustration.

 

Grab a cup of coffee and join me as I unpack the art, craft, and career of being a cartoonist.

Matthew R. Paden's Illustration blog
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Like What You See?

Let’s bring your ideas to life with fun, dynamic cartoon illustrations—crafted with care, creativity, and guaranteed satisfaction.

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