Children’s Apparel Illustrator-Cozy Storybook Style (Baby/Toddler Boutique)

We are a new children’s boutique brand creating original apparel designs for babies and toddlers (newborn–4T). We are looking for an illustrator to create warm, whimsical, storybook-inspired graphics for clothing designs.

Our brand, Link & Littles, focuses on cozy childhood moments — morning snuggles, bedtime stories, and the small magical moments of early childhood. We are building collections that feel nostalgic, gentle, and timeless rather than trendy or loud.

This is a proof-of-concept phase, starting with a small collection of designs, with potential for ongoing collaboration if the style is a good fit.

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Artistic Style We’re Looking For

We love artwork that feels:

• Cozy and nostalgic, darling character design

• Soft and whimsical

• Storybook-inspired

• Playful but calm

• Timeless rather than trendy

Think:

• children’s book illustration energy

• gentle expressions

• soft line art

• muted but playful color palettes

NOT looking for:

• bold cartoon/comic styles

• modern minimalist text-only designs

• loud primary colors or commercial character styles

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Project Scope (Initial Phase)

We are commissioning 3–5 original illustrations to be used on baby apparel (onesies, rompers, toddler crews).

Design themes may include:

• cozy childhood imagery (stars, animals, bedtime moments)

• gentle fantasy elements (dragons, unicorns, fairytale creatures)

• storybook-style characters or scenes

• warm, sentimental motifs

Designs should work well for:

• Direct-to-film (DTF) printing

• Small garment placement

• Baby/toddler clothing aesthetics

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Deliverables

• High-resolution PNG (transparent background)

• Editable source file (AI or PSD preferred)

• Commercial usage rights for apparel printing

• Minor revisions included

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Ideal Designer

You might be a great fit if you:

• Have experience with children’s illustration or apparel graphics

• Enjoy whimsical or storybook aesthetics

• Can create original artwork (not clip art composites)

• Understand how designs translate onto clothing

Please include:

• Portfolio examples (especially children’s or character work)

• Any relevant illustration styles

• Your typical turnaround time

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Budget

Open to proposals for per-design pricing.

We are a small startup testing initial designs, but hope to build an ongoing relationship with the right artist.

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Brand Keywords (for style reference)

Cozy • Storybook • Gentle • Playful • Nostalgic • Warm • Whimsical

Please begin your proposal with the word “storybook” so we know you’ve read the full description. Thank you!

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