Get up to $1,000 off* your first hire - Use code FIRSTHIRE at payment
*First-time clients only. 10% fee waived on first project ($500-$10,000 spend). Discount applies to Twine Vault payments only.

Hire expert freelance digital illustrators in Chicago, US

Post a job for free and connect with diverse freelance digital illustrators
1
Post your project for free
2
Hire top quality freelance digital illustrators
3
Join over 5,000 companies using us
Hire a freelance digital illustrator
Trusted by 5000+ companies of all sizes
Netflix logo
Experian logo
Avast logo
Skky Gavin

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Illustration, Artwork, Comic Strip
Illustration, Artwork, Comic Strip
Hi, I'm Skky Gavin! I'm passionate about writing, especially stories aimed at teenagers and adults. I love blending my creative skills in digital art, graphic design, and...
Mara Roldan

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Procreate, Illustration, Adobe Illustrator
I am a passionate Designer and Illustrator based in Chicago, proficient in Photoshop, Illustrator and Procreate and experienced in graphic design, illustration, vinyl and...
handmadebybuffy

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator, Illustration, Spot Illustration
Adobe Illustrator, Illustration, Spot Illustration
I am a Chicago based Illustrator, Designer & Product Developer with experience designing for apparel, giftware, home decor, publishing and toys/gaming.
salemmessner

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Tattoo Design, Artwork, Procreate
Tattoo Design, Artwork, Procreate
Illustrator, painter, aspiring tattoo artist
Jordibee

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Freelance Gig
Freelance Gig
Jordan Danalewich was an illustration major at the American Academy of Art in Chicago. She was heavily influenced by the painters and wood workers in her family. The comb...
Phoebe Huang

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Acrylic Illustration, Pencil Illustration, Narrative Illustration
Acrylic Illustration, Pencil Illustration, Narrative Illustration
I am an artist that specializes in stylistic illustration and comics. I am also a game programmer, trained in Unity and Unreal. Portfolio:kuroshi.artstation.com Lin...
thestudioq

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Adobe Illustrator, Illustration, GIF
Adobe Illustrator, Illustration, GIF
I have been experienced in Graphic Design for more than 10 years. My specialties are creating stunning vector illustrations, motion graphics for GIF or social media such...
Sylvia innocent

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Sylvia Innocent is a visual designer and illustrator based in Chicago with a background in architecture and a deep interest in storytelling through images. Her work blend...
Robert Kostadinov

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Hi, I’m Robert Kostadinov. I’m a versatile freelance artist based between Bulgaria and Chicago, with a focus on illustration, animation, and visual design. I have a stron...
Verity Woody

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
Explainer Video, Motion Graphic, Illustration
Explainer Video, Motion Graphic, Illustration
I am a creative professional with over 7 years of experience in motion graphics design and multimedia development. I'm passionate about using modern animation techniques ...
August Kelsey

Available

Freelance Digital Illustrator
August "Gus" Kelsey is a recent graduate with several years of combined experience with illustration and event management. They are based in Chicago and have a passion fo...

Loading name

Loading location
Loading roles
Loading bio

Loading name

Loading location
Loading roles
Loading bio
Woman holding a megaphone

Loading name

Loading location
Loading roles
Loading bio
We have over 14,500 freelance digital illustrators who've worked in many different industries and cover various styles and skillsets.
Start your search

Trusted by companies around the world

"I loved working with Cecilia. She always responded to my queries fast, and always keep me on track on how to make the scenes for my ads better. I love how she illustrated everything, and I must say its a big YES to working with her again. Thanks."
Albert @ Leeds Housing Buni
Dec 1, 2025
"Yess, i would definitely recommend her to almost any project with designs, she delivered professional work with fast turnaround which was great for me, so I'll definitely give you a 5 star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"
Jess @ Bright Jessi
Nov 29, 2025
"Working with DJohnny was the best decision I made for my business. He completely redesigned my Shopify store and implemented powerful conversion-boost strategies that instantly improved the look, structure, and performance of my shop. His attention to detail, clear communication, and deep understanding of what actually..."
Read more
Hoffman @ Whitmore Creative Imports Ltd
Nov 29, 2025
"I am extremely impressed with the quality of work delivered. The work was handled professionally, with great attention to detail and a strong commitment to excellence. Communication was clear and timely throughout the project, making collaboration smooth and efficient. Highly recommended for anyone seeking reliable and..."
Read more
adekorede @ Honourable DPO Enterprises
Nov 28, 2025
"Working with Jimmy Ruby on our brand explainer video was an amazing experience. He handled everything from the 2D character design to the final animation, and the results were smooth, engaging, and exactly what we needed. BrightWave Media will definitely hire him again."
Tracy @ BrightWave Media
Nov 27, 2025
"Oreofe Oluwatipin was a pleasure to work with. We worked for a year on my story book. He was always there when I needed him. His level of professionalism and trust is exceptional. What I also enjoyed in working with Oluwatipin is his preparedness to listen and take on board how I felt, my vision and then bring it to life..."
Read more
Usifu @ Cowfoot Prince
Nov 26, 2025
"Working with Twine enabled us to scale projects quicker than before and the Twine Business makes it so easy to manage and pay contractors over the world."
-Josh Bolland
CEO, J B Cole
"I found an amazing designer and she's fast. I now send her my ideas and she transforms them into great design. The collaboration is fast, professional and easy. It feels like she is already part of our team."
Headshot of Achim Kohli
-Achim Kohli
CEO, Legal-i
5 star reviews

Clients Rate Twine Freelance Digital Illustrators

4.99

/ 5.0

on average across

1186
1186

reviews as of December 7, 2025

Twine
Animators Freelance Services
Hire the best animators freelancers with Twine.
Trustpilot logo
5 star rating
108 reviews

How we work

1

Post your project for free

This only takes 3-5 minutes and choose how you want your experts to contact you.
2

Matched to expert talent

Within days, we'll introduce you to the right expert for your project. Average time to match is under 24 hours.
3

Hire securely and fast

You can choose Twine to manage your payments securely or use your own payment system for free.
Post your project

Why businesses
rely on Twine's
freelancer network

Free to post a job

Post a project or job with no upfront cost. Twine's success based pricing is cheaper than any recruiter.

Global reach

We have a global community of over 400,000+ freelancers from 190+ countries.

Speed

Receive pitches as soon as your job is approved by our internal team.

Secure payments

Make payment to hire a freelancer, release funds only once the project is delivered.

Hire freelance experts

Our freelancer experts have skills in thousands of different software tools and hardware.
Post a project
Apple
Blender Icon
Cinema 4D logo
Webflow
Apple
Blender Icon
Cinema 4D logo
Webflow
AWS
Procreate Icon
React
AWS
Procreate Icon
React
Shopify
PHP
Adobe
VSCode
Shopify
PHP
Adobe
VSCode

OTHER CREATIVES IN YOUR AREA

We've got more than freelance digital illustrators in Chicago, United States

Choose Your City

See which of Twine's top rated Animators are near you
Or widen your search to global freelance digital illustrators

From the blog

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Freelance Digital Illustrator do?

A Freelance Digital Illustrator specializes in creating visual content using digital tools and software. They produce illustrations for various applications, including books, magazines, websites, advertisements, and more. Their work often involves:

  • Developing concepts and sketches based on client briefs.
  • Utilizing software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or Procreate to create high-quality images.
  • Collaborating with clients to ensure the illustrations meet project specifications and deadlines.
  • Revising illustrations based on feedback to achieve the desired outcome.

Freelance Digital Illustrators can work across multiple styles, from whimsical and cartoonish to realistic and detailed, making them versatile assets for creative projects.

How to Hire a Freelance Digital Illustrator in Chicago, US?

Hiring a Freelance Digital Illustrator in Chicago involves a few key steps. Start by identifying your project needs, including the style of illustration, timeline, and budget. Next, utilize platforms like Twine to find vetted professionals. You can:

  • Post your job with clear project details.
  • Search for illustrators based in Chicago.
  • Review portfolios to assess their style and expertise.

Once you've shortlisted candidates, reach out to discuss your project in detail and ask for quotes. This allows you to find a suitable illustrator who fits both your creative vision and budget.

How much does it cost to hire a Freelance Digital Illustrator in Chicago, US?

The cost of hiring a Freelance Digital Illustrator in Chicago varies based on experience levels:

  • Beginner: $25 - $50 per hour
  • Junior: $50 - $75 per hour
  • Mid-level (industry average): $75 - $100 per hour
  • Senior: $100 - $150 per hour
  • Expert: $150+ per hour

These rates can fluctuate based on project complexity, the illustrator's reputation, and the specific requirements of your project. Always discuss rates upfront to avoid misunderstandings.

What qualities set exceptional Freelance Digital Illustrators apart from the rest?

Exceptional Freelance Digital Illustrators possess several key qualities that distinguish them from their peers:

  • Creativity: They bring unique artistic styles and innovative ideas to projects.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in digital tools and software is essential for producing high-quality work.
  • Communication: They effectively communicate with clients to understand their vision and provide updates.
  • Flexibility: They adapt their style and approach based on client feedback and project needs.
  • Reliability: Meeting deadlines and maintaining professionalism are crucial for client satisfaction.

These qualities ensure that the illustrator can meet diverse client needs and deliver outstanding results.

How do you recognize the perfect Freelance Digital Illustrator in Chicago, US for your needs?

To find the perfect Freelance Digital Illustrator in Chicago, consider the following steps:

  • Review Portfolios: Examine their previous work to ensure their style aligns with your vision.
  • Check Reviews: Look for feedback from past clients to gauge reliability and work quality.
  • Assess Communication: Initiate conversations to evaluate their responsiveness and understanding of your needs.
  • Discuss Availability: Ensure they can commit to your project timeline.

By following these steps, you can effectively identify an illustrator who matches your project requirements and aesthetic preferences.

What are the key questions to ask in a Freelance Digital Illustrator interview?

When interviewing a Freelance Digital Illustrator, consider asking the following key questions:

  • Can you share examples of your previous work? This helps assess their style and ability.
  • What is your process for creating illustrations? Understanding their workflow can indicate how they handle projects.
  • How do you handle feedback and revisions? This reveals their flexibility and willingness to collaborate.
  • What are your rates and payment terms? Clarity on costs prevents future misunderstandings.
  • Can you meet our project deadlines? Ensure their availability aligns with your timeline.

These questions will help you gauge their fit for your project and facilitate a productive working relationship.

What’s the difference between hiring a Freelance Digital Illustrator and working with an agency in Chicago, US?

Hiring a Freelance Digital Illustrator and working with an agency both have distinct advantages:

  • Cost: Freelancers typically offer more competitive rates compared to agencies, which may charge higher fees for overhead costs.
  • Direct Communication: Working with a freelancer allows for direct interaction, which can enhance collaboration and understanding.
  • Flexibility: Freelancers can often adapt more quickly to changes in project scope or timelines.
  • Agency Resources: Agencies may provide a wider range of services and access to a team of specialists, which can be beneficial for larger projects.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your project scope, budget, and preferred working style.

What should be in a Freelance Digital Illustrator project brief / job description?

A well-crafted project brief for a Freelance Digital Illustrator should include the following elements:

  • Project Overview: A summary of the project, its goals, and the intended audience.
  • Style and Inspiration: Examples of styles or references that resonate with your vision.
  • Deliverables: A list of specific outputs required (e.g., image formats, sizes).
  • Timeline: Key deadlines for drafts and final submissions.
  • Budget: Indicate your budget range to attract suitable candidates.

A comprehensive brief ensures that potential illustrators understand your requirements and can provide accurate proposals.

How do I hire a Freelance Digital Illustrator in Chicago, US on Twine?

Hiring on Twine is simple.

  1. Post a job with your project details, timeline, and budget.
  2. Browse portfolios of vetted Freelance Digital Illustrators and invite those who match your needs.
  3. Receive proposals and compare experience, pricing, and reviews.
  4. Communicate expectations, set milestones, and finalize the hire.
  5. Securely pay through Twine, ensuring protection for both parties. Twine connects you with top Freelance Digital Illustrators, making it easy to find the perfect creative professional for your project.

Hire expert freelance digital illustrators with Twine

Get Started
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture
A freelancer profile picture