First, I got 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 watercolor and colored pencil custom portraits, I size the art according to the pose and shape of the subject, and I don’t use stock sizes for those. The head, if a conventional portrait style is chosen, is typically seven to nine inches wide and ten to twelve inches tall; add a few more inches for the white space around 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 watercolor and colored pencil portrait, with just the head and shoulders of the pet, is $350 for the smaller size (head measures six to seven inches wide), and $500 for the larger size (head measures seven to nine inches wide).

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.