Frequently Asked Questions
What methods of payment do you accept?
i accept 4 methods of payment.
* Internet Banking
* Paypal
* Cash
Do you offer gift certificates?
i sure do, in whatever amount works for you. i can mail them to you via Canada Post for use in cards and such, or if you wish they can be emailed. They have a code on them that can be redeemed via email making things easier for people. Once it has been redeemed however the code will no longer count so the certificate should be marked void to prevent mistakes.
Do you have some sort of discount available if I order more then one thing?
Yes, if you order 2 or more things at once you will qualify for a special discount of 10% off your total order.
I've already ordered from you before, am I still eligible for the Facebook 10% off deal?
Yes, if you haven't used up that deal before. But once you 'cash it in' you won't be able to use it again as it is a one time thing. Be sure to let me know if you have 'Liked' the FB page at the time of ordering.
Do you require a down payment?
Yes, i require a down payment of 50% your total order (non refundable) at the time of placing, and then the rest upon completion. If you wish to pay everything in full at the time of order however you can.
How long does it usually take to complete an artwork?
Usually, once we have gotten through the initial consultation time and have agreed on a plan of action, i can have a standard artwork, under the size 16x20 done in a day or two.
However as life tends to happen, complications may arise and completion time will reflect that. Also too, if it is a busy time, there may be people ahead of you and your order will have to wait. i will keep you informed as accurately as possible.
Do you offer a rush on a painting?
Yes. If there are no other 'rush' orders currently ahead of you, for an additional $20.00 i can bump you to the front of the line. If there happens to be a rush order already in the works yours would be placed immediately after that.
What if I am not happy with the final product?
i try to work with you during all stages of the artwork to ensure i am on the right track. However, If you are not happy with your finished product, i will try to make it right. i strive for 100% customer satisfaction.
Is delivery available?
Not likely as i don't have a car, and few people to help me otherwise. Mailing your piece is always a viable option however if you are unable to pick it up from me. :)
What will you need from me to do the artwork?
In order to produce your portrait, i need to start with a selection of good photographs of the subject to be painted. They should be clear and in focus, and the image of the subject should be as large as possible within the frame of the photo, showing accurate details, such as coloring of fur/eyes, favorite pose etc, plus any other distinguishing features. Some details can be added, omitted or altered as required, such as collars, background etc.
Color Pencil or Paint?
i use a high grade of color pencils, that allow for a really rich, deep and luminescent color that is light-resistant (won't fade) and steadfast. Choosing this medium over paint (which is usually more thicker and bolder in appearance and feel) is usually personal choice. Both mediums are attractive and look great on any wall.
Paint offers a more wider variety of surfaces to be used and does not always have to be framed. Color pencil works generally must be done on smooth heavy paper, and must always be framed.
What size painting should I get?
Choosing a size can be a hard task in itself, but in the end comes down to personal choice. However some of the following things may help you make that decision.
What sort of impact do you want? Larger sizes do make a statement and can quickly fill up a lot of empty space on a wall. You can also get a vast amount of detail in big sizes as opposed to the smaller ones. However depending on what you get the work painted on (stretched canvas, paper etc) a larger size may require a large frame as well.
Smaller sizes are easier to frame and of course generally take up less space on a wall. With framing a smaller painting you can more freely choose the amount of impact you'd like the work to have by the frame size, type and possible matting. The amount of detail one can get in smaller works is limited however.
Number of subjects. If you have more then one subject in the artwork, the size of the work in my opinion is important. An 8x10 may work for a single subject, but keep in mind the more subjects you add, the smaller each one is going to have to become and the more detail will be lost.
For two or more subjects in a picture, i'd usually recommend considering a size of 10x13 at the very least, 11x14 ideally. Larger then that it more-so becomes what sort of impact you'd like to make.
What sorts of things do you paint on?
Pretty much everything. i can work on wooden plaques for camps/cottages and such or anything else you may want painted.
The standard choices however are:
That's a lot of choices! Which one should I choose?
If you want something done in color pencil, your choices are limited to simply paper with a smooth texture generally.
If however you wish paint as your medium, then the choice of which thing to have it painted on will depend on how you want the work to look- the general feeling of it. Anything canvas i find gives things a more dimensional feel and a more older look. However with canvases details can become a little skewed due to the texture of the material so if you want canvas, take into account what size you're getting as well as the subject matter.
Aside from those things, it may come down to framing. If you'd like the more relaxed feel of no frame, then the stretched canvas may be your ideal choice. Otherwise the other standard options can be framed and matted easily.
What are the 'standard' sizes? Do you do non standard sizes too?
The standard sizes are:
I have no idea which frame to choose/ I can't get out to get one. Can you help?
There are many different frame choices available, and choosing the perfect one for your picture something be a daunting task. For an additional cost, i could possibly choose a frame for you and save you the trouble. If this sounds like something you might like, we would discuss a price point before i went out/if I am able to get out.
Depending where you are delivery may be available, but again, at an additional cost since gas prices have become insane. Also something to note is that i don't have a car, and would need to find a ride to deliver the work to you- so you may have to be open to be flexible as to when it could be delivered.
As far as different types of frames are concerned, there are ones made of wood, glass, metal, plastic and mixtures of those. The designs can range from simple to wildly complex with engravings, bevels and more. It is important however, not to let the frame over power the art- or it will become less then it can be. (the art not the frame.)
When choosing a frame consider where the art is to be hung in your home (no good picking out a frame that isn't going to work with your decor, or even fit on your wall properly) and then consider the painting you want to frame. See if there are any particular colors you want brought out or highlighted and choose a frame that helps do that. Choose the color, character and style of frame based on the color, character and style of the art.
Look at the subject matter. Is it nature, art deco etc. Choose a frame that will flow with the energy of the painting and not against it. For example if you has a beautiful nature image it might not be wise to pair it with a metal monstrosity of a frame. Instead consider a more natural material like wood.
Here is a youtube link about choosing a frame as well.
If really in doubt or if this is a gift for a good friend, take the work to a professional framer and have them suggest something perfect. Use your common sense if you do this however, try not to be lured in by someone who just wants to sell some stuff. If it doesn't look right, don't buy. You may also want to consider going to a place like Micheal's where they have regular coupons for money off frames and framing. You might be able to get some free suggestions on which frame to buy from the person behind the framing counter.
Should I add a mat?
According to the American Framing website, adding a mat when framing art adds value to the piece. Using an art mat helps designate the art as important to the beholder's eye. It suggests that the art collector has taken the extra step when framing the art. Also, using a mat can protect the art from damage. Mats create a space between the work of art and the frame, which allows air to flow freely.
However some people don't like mats at all. Works of art framed in a skinny frame may look squeezed and overcrowded with the addition of an art mat, or the mat may be the wrong color and hideously detract from the piece.
In the end it's personal choice.
How to choose a mat color.
i accept 4 methods of payment.
* Internet Banking
* Paypal
* Cash
Do you offer gift certificates?
i sure do, in whatever amount works for you. i can mail them to you via Canada Post for use in cards and such, or if you wish they can be emailed. They have a code on them that can be redeemed via email making things easier for people. Once it has been redeemed however the code will no longer count so the certificate should be marked void to prevent mistakes.
Do you have some sort of discount available if I order more then one thing?
Yes, if you order 2 or more things at once you will qualify for a special discount of 10% off your total order.
I've already ordered from you before, am I still eligible for the Facebook 10% off deal?
Yes, if you haven't used up that deal before. But once you 'cash it in' you won't be able to use it again as it is a one time thing. Be sure to let me know if you have 'Liked' the FB page at the time of ordering.
Do you require a down payment?
Yes, i require a down payment of 50% your total order (non refundable) at the time of placing, and then the rest upon completion. If you wish to pay everything in full at the time of order however you can.
How long does it usually take to complete an artwork?
Usually, once we have gotten through the initial consultation time and have agreed on a plan of action, i can have a standard artwork, under the size 16x20 done in a day or two.
However as life tends to happen, complications may arise and completion time will reflect that. Also too, if it is a busy time, there may be people ahead of you and your order will have to wait. i will keep you informed as accurately as possible.
Do you offer a rush on a painting?
Yes. If there are no other 'rush' orders currently ahead of you, for an additional $20.00 i can bump you to the front of the line. If there happens to be a rush order already in the works yours would be placed immediately after that.
What if I am not happy with the final product?
i try to work with you during all stages of the artwork to ensure i am on the right track. However, If you are not happy with your finished product, i will try to make it right. i strive for 100% customer satisfaction.
Is delivery available?
Not likely as i don't have a car, and few people to help me otherwise. Mailing your piece is always a viable option however if you are unable to pick it up from me. :)
What will you need from me to do the artwork?
In order to produce your portrait, i need to start with a selection of good photographs of the subject to be painted. They should be clear and in focus, and the image of the subject should be as large as possible within the frame of the photo, showing accurate details, such as coloring of fur/eyes, favorite pose etc, plus any other distinguishing features. Some details can be added, omitted or altered as required, such as collars, background etc.
Color Pencil or Paint?
i use a high grade of color pencils, that allow for a really rich, deep and luminescent color that is light-resistant (won't fade) and steadfast. Choosing this medium over paint (which is usually more thicker and bolder in appearance and feel) is usually personal choice. Both mediums are attractive and look great on any wall.
Paint offers a more wider variety of surfaces to be used and does not always have to be framed. Color pencil works generally must be done on smooth heavy paper, and must always be framed.
What size painting should I get?
Choosing a size can be a hard task in itself, but in the end comes down to personal choice. However some of the following things may help you make that decision.
What sort of impact do you want? Larger sizes do make a statement and can quickly fill up a lot of empty space on a wall. You can also get a vast amount of detail in big sizes as opposed to the smaller ones. However depending on what you get the work painted on (stretched canvas, paper etc) a larger size may require a large frame as well.
Smaller sizes are easier to frame and of course generally take up less space on a wall. With framing a smaller painting you can more freely choose the amount of impact you'd like the work to have by the frame size, type and possible matting. The amount of detail one can get in smaller works is limited however.
Number of subjects. If you have more then one subject in the artwork, the size of the work in my opinion is important. An 8x10 may work for a single subject, but keep in mind the more subjects you add, the smaller each one is going to have to become and the more detail will be lost.
For two or more subjects in a picture, i'd usually recommend considering a size of 10x13 at the very least, 11x14 ideally. Larger then that it more-so becomes what sort of impact you'd like to make.
What sorts of things do you paint on?
Pretty much everything. i can work on wooden plaques for camps/cottages and such or anything else you may want painted.
The standard choices however are:
- Stretched canvas.- Can be framed but not required. It usually stands off the wall about an inch or so (can vary) and allows for a 'wrap around' effect where the painting can continue over the edges on the sides and give it a dimensional look instead of just the standard flatness.
- Canvas board.- Has the same texture as stretched canvas but is as easily frame-able as paper. It is more durable then paper as it is essentially canvas stretched over a thick cardboard. Frames do not need glass.
- Masonite Board- Masonite is a manufactured product made from wood that is broken down to its basic fibers and then rearranged to form hard panels. Its single tempered side gives a harder, paintable surface, greater strength and more resistance to liquid and water. Masonite boards are 3mm (2/16") thick. These are great for people who want a smooth surface without any buckling you may get from paper. Works done on this board don't have to have glass in the frame.
- Canvasette- This is generally a 'plastic'-like paper with a similar texture to canvas. Much thinner and lighter then canvas board. i find the texture is a little more relaxed then actual canvas a well. It frames like paper and frames should have glass.
- Paper- Paper comes in a wide variety of sizes, thicknesses and textures. Color pencil work is usually done on heavy smooth paper for best appearance, while paint can boast attractiveness on many of the other available textures. Which texture to use i will discuss with you before hand if you choose this as the preferred option.
That's a lot of choices! Which one should I choose?
If you want something done in color pencil, your choices are limited to simply paper with a smooth texture generally.
If however you wish paint as your medium, then the choice of which thing to have it painted on will depend on how you want the work to look- the general feeling of it. Anything canvas i find gives things a more dimensional feel and a more older look. However with canvases details can become a little skewed due to the texture of the material so if you want canvas, take into account what size you're getting as well as the subject matter.
Aside from those things, it may come down to framing. If you'd like the more relaxed feel of no frame, then the stretched canvas may be your ideal choice. Otherwise the other standard options can be framed and matted easily.
What are the 'standard' sizes? Do you do non standard sizes too?
The standard sizes are:
- 4 X 6
- 5 X 7
- 8 X 10
- 11 X 14
- 16 X 20
I have no idea which frame to choose/ I can't get out to get one. Can you help?
There are many different frame choices available, and choosing the perfect one for your picture something be a daunting task. For an additional cost, i could possibly choose a frame for you and save you the trouble. If this sounds like something you might like, we would discuss a price point before i went out/if I am able to get out.
Depending where you are delivery may be available, but again, at an additional cost since gas prices have become insane. Also something to note is that i don't have a car, and would need to find a ride to deliver the work to you- so you may have to be open to be flexible as to when it could be delivered.
As far as different types of frames are concerned, there are ones made of wood, glass, metal, plastic and mixtures of those. The designs can range from simple to wildly complex with engravings, bevels and more. It is important however, not to let the frame over power the art- or it will become less then it can be. (the art not the frame.)
When choosing a frame consider where the art is to be hung in your home (no good picking out a frame that isn't going to work with your decor, or even fit on your wall properly) and then consider the painting you want to frame. See if there are any particular colors you want brought out or highlighted and choose a frame that helps do that. Choose the color, character and style of frame based on the color, character and style of the art.
Look at the subject matter. Is it nature, art deco etc. Choose a frame that will flow with the energy of the painting and not against it. For example if you has a beautiful nature image it might not be wise to pair it with a metal monstrosity of a frame. Instead consider a more natural material like wood.
Here is a youtube link about choosing a frame as well.
If really in doubt or if this is a gift for a good friend, take the work to a professional framer and have them suggest something perfect. Use your common sense if you do this however, try not to be lured in by someone who just wants to sell some stuff. If it doesn't look right, don't buy. You may also want to consider going to a place like Micheal's where they have regular coupons for money off frames and framing. You might be able to get some free suggestions on which frame to buy from the person behind the framing counter.
Should I add a mat?
According to the American Framing website, adding a mat when framing art adds value to the piece. Using an art mat helps designate the art as important to the beholder's eye. It suggests that the art collector has taken the extra step when framing the art. Also, using a mat can protect the art from damage. Mats create a space between the work of art and the frame, which allows air to flow freely.
However some people don't like mats at all. Works of art framed in a skinny frame may look squeezed and overcrowded with the addition of an art mat, or the mat may be the wrong color and hideously detract from the piece.
In the end it's personal choice.
How to choose a mat color.