Whenever I receive custom orders. I would always ask what exactly do they have in mind. If they have images or something off the net. Most of the time, I'm happy to say, they are very specific. Very rarely I would need to make changes with my sketch.
There was one order from my friend. I have always wanted to draw this squirrel (image below)
Isn't he adorable? Anyways, when I finished the card. I was so happy with it. I can clearly see that I have improved so much.
I'm sure, I will make even more progress in the years to come. Like the famous quote says "Practice Makes Progress" WOOHOO!!!