First, I go over all the photos I’ve received from the client and pick the one(s) that I can use. Then I have the client choose from those the photo that shows the pet the way the client wants to remember it. Then I do a preliminary sketch; once that’s approved, I go ahead and work on the finish artwork.

I use Pebeo Porcelaine 150, it’s meant for glass or china. Once the painting is finished, I let the piece dry for twenty four hours and then heat set it in my oven for thirty-five minutes. At that point, it’s relatively tough, but you can still scratch it with something sharp. These pieces should not be used with food—they are decorative only.

There are some set sizes for certain types of portraits according to the medium I use for them, for instance, a painted glass tile is either four and a quarter inches square or six inches square, depending on the box or frame size you choose.

For the pastel portraits, I will size the piece according to the pose and shape of the subject, and stock sizes don’t always fit the pose. The head, if a conventional portrait style is chosen, is typically six to nine inches wide and nine to twelve inches tall, not including the blank paper.

For the acrylic portraits, I have used standard cut gesso boards that are sized six by six inches, and other sizes are available. Once I have determined what size board I need, I will order it to use for the portrait.

The 4.25-inch painted glass tiles in a wood box or frame are $125.
The 6-inch painted glass tiles in a wood box or frame are $175.

A conventional custom pastel pencil portrait with head and shoulders of the pet is $500 for the smaller size portrait (head measures six to seven inches wide), and $700 for the larger size (head measures seven to nine inches wide).

Acrylic paintings on a six by six inch board are $400; Eight by eight inch board is $500; Larger pieces are priced accordingly.

If something more custom is desired, such as a full body portrait or one with a head and two extra designs incorporated, then I like to discuss the options with the client and come up with a price that is agreeable for both of us.