Which animals will you make into a portrait?
I will use your photograph to create a portrait of any animals. Any of your pets - your animal family members - including dogs, cats, horses, iguanas and others that you love will be beautiful in fabric. I can do your backyard chickens and goats all the way to your animals that you show at the fair including rabbits, pigs and cows. I will turn your photos of your competitive animals such as barrel racers, show horses, AKC show and agility dogs into fantastic works of art.
How do you determine the price?
The finished size and the package level you choose will determine the final price of your artwork. As a general rule, I charge by the square inch for commissioned artwork. For example, a portrait measuring 12”x 12” (144 square inches) will cost roughly $216 to $288 depending on the package. Keep in mind that it is not always possible, with certain photos, to create a piece at the smaller sizes. The smaller sizes will need to be only head and shoulder views of a single animal. See the Packages / Pricing page for details.
How long does it take to finish?
The time it takes to complete your piece varies depending on the size and complexity of the design. Most pieces can be completed in 4-6 weeks with larger or more intricate pieces taking longer. Deadlines and delivery dates will be determined when we have our planning call and we are both in agreement on the details of the piece. There may be an extra charge for rush deliveries.
Can you create a design based on any and all photographs?
No because there are some legal and ethical limitations. I cannot create artwork using a copyrighted photo, licensed design or another artist's work unless there is written permission from the copyright holder.
Not all photos work well to use. The quality of your photo does influence the art piece. Clear, well-lit, close up photos of your pet are best. I request that the photos are sent to me in an email using a jpeg. I find that the best results are when the photo is sent via email at its actual size. I can use a paper photo if there are no other options. I have used a photo of a photo but that is not optimal. Once I have the actual picture to look at we may have to discuss alternate options or interpretations of photos in order to agree on the best approach.
Not all photos work well to use. The quality of your photo does influence the art piece. Clear, well-lit, close up photos of your pet are best. I request that the photos are sent to me in an email using a jpeg. I find that the best results are when the photo is sent via email at its actual size. I can use a paper photo if there are no other options. I have used a photo of a photo but that is not optimal. Once I have the actual picture to look at we may have to discuss alternate options or interpretations of photos in order to agree on the best approach.
Can I choose the fabrics you will use?
We will discuss general options as far as color choices but for the most part I will choose what I feel is the best fabric for the piece. I always use high quality threads and fabrics, including silk, satin, batiks and quilting cottons by well-known companies. I use high quality thread when quilting to continue "painting" the piece to help define the features, add textures such as with fur and to highlight certain areas. I do not buy my materials at large box stores. The exception of you choosing fabric for the portrait is with the Blue Ribbon package where you may add in special fabrics to be used in the piece such as a blanket, clothing or a show ribbon.
Can I see the artwork while you are making it?
Yes I will send you “in progress” photos while working on your piece. I have found that as I am working on the piece “on the wall” that I need to change some of the fabric choices to bring out the best in your pet. There will be variations of the piece before I am totally satisfied with the design, and sometimes it may look a bit different than it did at earlier stages, however it will not be a drastic change. That is part of the process and is to be expected. We will also talk about the background and borders as I get to that stage and depending on the package you have chosen. Although I will take your opinions into consideration ultimately as the artist, I must have the final word on creative decisions, and that responsibility is important to me.
How do Gift Certificates work?
You can purchase a gift certificate for the size and package you want. This is a great way to go in on a gift with other people. The recipient can add to your gift if they wish to get a bigger size or a higher-level package. I will either snail mail or email the certificate to you to give as you wish or I will send the certificate to the recipient for you. When I send a gift certificate for you it will be in a lovely card with your message inside. Each certificate is dated and can be used for up to one year from the purchase date.