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.

There are some set sizes for certain types of portraits according to the medium I use for them. I stock boards that are 4” square, 6” square, and 8” square that will fit into a ready made frame, offered in different wood tones of black, walnut, rosewood. I can also acquire wooden boxes that will fit these boards. I use acrylic paints on these boards as they are sturdy and have a nice finish on them.

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.