FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Will my painting or print come framed?
All custom pet portraits and original works are created on canvas or cradled board, making them ready to hang right out of the box. Original works on paper and prints are packaged in a protective cello sleeve and a sturdy rigid envelope to prevent bending. Framing is not included to ensure safe delivery. This allows you to select a frame that best fits your personal style and decor.
How are payments handled for my commissioned painting?
For custom paintings priced under $1000, full payment is required upfront. This secures your spot in the queue and allows me to dedicate the necessary time and materials to your artwork. For pieces over $1000, payment plans are available to make the process more flexible and convenient. Once full payment, including shipping costs, is received, your portrait will be shipped to you.
How much is shipping?
Shipping rates depend on the postal service's charges and vary based on the size, weight, and destination of your order. Deliveries to remote areas, such as acreages and farms, may incur higher fees compared to urban areas. Within North America, most prints ship for $20-$45, while custom portraits range from $45-$150.
How long does it take to complete my portrait?
Please allow 4-6 weeks for your portrait to be completed, plus additional time for shipping. While I often complete portraits faster, this time frame generally works best. During busy periods, such as the holiday season, the turnaround time may extend beyond 6 weeks, as portraits are completed on a first-come, first-served basis.
I would like a portrait painted for my friend (or family member). What do you need from me?
I love working on secret commissions—they're some of my favorites! To create the perfect portrait, I'll need 2-5 high-resolution images of your friend's pet. If you can't get that many, don't worry; I've successfully painted portraits from just one fuzzy photo. However, keep in mind that clearer, closer images help me capture more detail.
PLEASE NOTE: For international orders, Canada Post requires a mailing address, email address, and phone number before shipment.
I notice you post on social media a lot. How can I keep my friend from seeing that you're working on their pet portrait?
No worries! If you're giving a portrait as a gift, just let me know that you'd like the project kept under wraps. I'll make sure to keep all progress pictures, videos, and updates off social media until after your friend has received their gift. Once the surprise is revealed, I can share the journey and the finished portrait with everyone. And by the way, you're an amazing friend for planning such a thoughtful surprise!
Some of your paintings have bold backgrounds and others are more subdued. Will mine have a background?
All of my commissioned paintings, whether of pets or spirit animals, feature bold abstract backgrounds. These can be customized to suit the recipient's decor. If you have specific color preferences, please let me know, and I'll incorporate them as closely as possible. However, exact matches might not be possible due to variations in computer screens and the quality of the reference photos provided. If no preference is specified, I'll use my artistic expertise to create a background that best expresses the essence of the animal being portrayed. This ensures that each piece is unique and beautifully highlights the subject.
I would like my two pets on one portrait, but one of my pets has passed away. Can you paint them together if I don't have a picture of them together?
Firstly, I am so very sorry for your loss. Yes, I can absolutely paint your pets together even if you don't have a photo of them together. I've had the honor of creating several portraits like this, bringing pets together on one canvas. I'll need 2-5 high-resolution photos of each pet separately, and I'll select the best ones to combine for their portrait.
PLEASE NOTE: For each additional animal in a custom portrait, there is an extra charge of 50% of the base price. This applies to all portrait sizes.