How Long It Really Takes — and Why Most Delays Happen
One of the most common questions creators ask before commissioning a VTuber model is simple:
“How long will this take?”
Unfortunately, most answers online are either overly optimistic or dangerously vague. This leads to missed debut dates, frustration with artists, rushed decisions, and sometimes failed projects.
This guide explains realistic VTuber model commission timeline expectations, broken down by model type, production stage, and common delay factors—so you can plan accurately and avoid unnecessary stress.
Why VTuber Model Timelines Are Often Misunderstood
VTuber model creation is not a single task. It’s a multi-stage production pipeline involving:
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Concept design
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Asset preparation
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Rigging
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Testing and calibration
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Revisions
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Final delivery
Delays usually happen between stages, not because artists are lazy or unreliable—but because expectations were never aligned.
Typical VTuber Model Commission Timelines (Realistic Ranges)
Below are real-world averages, not best-case scenarios.
PNGTuber Timeline Expectations
Typical range:
3–10 days
What affects speed:
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Number of expressions
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Reactive states (idle/talking/blinking)
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Queue size of the artist
PNGTuber models are the fastest option because:
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No complex rigging
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Minimal testing
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Fewer revisions required
Best for:
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Beginners
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Budget-conscious creators
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Quick launches or testing phases
Live2D VTuber Model Timeline Expectations
Typical range:
3–8 weeks
Live2D timelines include two separate workloads:
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Art & asset separation
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Rigging & physics
Breakdown:
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Character design & PSD prep: 1–3 weeks
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Rigging & testing: 2–5 weeks
Live2D delays often come from:
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Poor asset separation
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Complex hair or outfits
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Excessive physics requests
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Revision loops
Live2D is the most common model type—and also the most frequently delayed when expectations are unclear.
3D VTuber Model Timeline Expectations (VRM / FBX)
Typical range:
4–12+ weeks
3D models take longer because they require:
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Modeling
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Texturing
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Rigging
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Blendshapes
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Physics
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Optimization
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Platform testing (VRChat, Unity, etc.)
Factors that increase time:
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Full-body tracking
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VR compatibility
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Multiple outfits
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Performance optimization passes
3D timelines vary the most and should never be rushed.
Timeline by Production Stage (What Actually Takes Time)
Understanding where time goes helps you spot real delays vs normal progress.
Stage 1: Brief & Planning (1–5 days)
Includes:
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Defining scope
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Clarifying usage rights
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Confirming deliverables
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Locking timeline expectations
Most timeline problems begin here if this step is rushed.
Stage 2: Concept & Design (3–14 days)
Includes:
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Character sketches
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Color palette
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Outfit design
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Approval rounds
Delays happen when:
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References are unclear
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Concept keeps changing
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Approval feedback is slow
Stage 3: Asset Production (1–3 weeks)
Includes:
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PSD separation (Live2D)
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Mesh + textures (3D)
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PNG state creation (PNGTuber)
This stage is often invisible to clients—but it’s where most technical quality is decided.
Stage 4: Rigging & Testing (1–4 weeks)
Includes:
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Deformation setup
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Physics tuning
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Expression creation
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Tracking calibration
Good rigging takes time because it must look natural under motion, not just in preview images.
Stage 5: Revisions & Finalization (3–10 days)
Includes:
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Fixing tracking issues
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Adjusting expressions
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Performance optimization
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Exporting final files
Unlimited revisions = unlimited delays.
Clear revision limits = predictable timelines.
The Biggest Causes of VTuber Model Delays
Most delays are preventable.
1. Scope Changes Mid-Project
Adding features late resets timelines.
2. Slow Client Feedback
Artists can’t proceed without approvals.
3. Poor Initial Brief
Unclear goals create revision loops.
4. Overloaded Artists
Popular artists often juggle multiple projects.
5. Technical Fixes Late in Production
Optimization discovered too late costs time.
Rush Orders: Do They Actually Work?
Rush commissions can shorten timelines—but with trade-offs.
Pros:
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Faster delivery
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Priority queue
Cons:
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Higher cost
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Reduced revision flexibility
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Higher risk of mistakes
Rush orders are safest for:
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Simple PNGTubers
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Minor upgrades
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Experienced creators who know exactly what they want
How to Set Timeline Expectations With Your Artist (Before Paying)
Always ask these questions in writing:
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When does the timeline start (payment or brief approval)?
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What counts as a “revision”?
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How long do revisions typically take?
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What causes timeline extensions?
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What happens if deadlines are missed?
Clear answers = realistic expectations.
Sample Timeline Planning (Safe & Professional)
If you’re planning a debut, work backward:
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Final model delivery: 2–3 weeks before debut
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Testing & OBS setup: 1 week
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Buffer for delays: 1–2 weeks
Never debut on the exact delivery date.
When Delays Are a Red Flag (And When They Aren’t)
Normal delays:
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Small extensions with explanation
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Technical fixes during testing
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Schedule updates communicated clearly
Red flags:
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No communication for weeks
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No progress previews
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Constant excuses without deliverables
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Requests for more money to “continue”
Context matters more than speed.
Timeline Expectations by Experience Level
First-time creators
Expect:
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Longer planning
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More revisions
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Slower approvals
Experienced VTubers
Expect:
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Faster briefs
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Fewer revisions
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Shorter total timelines
Your experience level directly affects how fast projects move.
Quick Timeline Reference (Save This)
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PNGTuber: 3–10 days
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Live2D: 3–8 weeks
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3D: 4–12+ weeks
If someone promises significantly faster without clear justification—be cautious.
Final Thoughts
Realistic VTuber model commission timeline expectations protect:
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Your budget
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Your debut plans
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Your mental health
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Your relationship with the artist
Fast doesn’t mean professional.
Clear expectations do.
A well-planned timeline almost always produces a better model than a rushed one.