Pet Portrait Information and FAQ's
So you're interested in commissioning a pet portrait? AMAZING! I would be so happy to memorialize your pet for you. There are just a few things you should know before sending me a message. I've created this FAQ section to help ensure you have all the information you will need and I look forward to hopefully speaking with you soon!
** To note for anyone interested in commissioning something other than a pet portrait, these same guidelines apply, minus the photos needed for the piece, unless you do have some inspiration photos you'd like to share :D **
How much does a pet portrait cost?
Cost depends on a few factors
- The size of the piece
- The complexity of the piece
- The specific glass used - Some glass is specialty and is quite expensive which would therefore raise the price
I can say as an approximate guess that most cats I make range from $60-$90CAD, most dogs range from $75-$115CAD and horses usually range from $90-$150CAD.
If the pieces are more complex such as if they have a background, a boarder, 3D elements, complex wirework, or they are very large prices are likely to be higher.
All of my initial drawings/quotes are FREE of charge and I am happy to try my best to work within your budget. With that being said I am also always realistic if that budget is not realistic and will let you know when discussing your piece.
How long does the process take from start to finish?
The time it takes me to complete a piece is dependent on how many projects I have on the go at once. Some times I am not very busy and can complete a pet portrait from start to finish in 2-3 weeks and other times I am very busy and it can take 6-8 weeks to finish.
Around Christmas time from probably late October to Christmas day is the busiest time of year for me. I often cannot take anymore orders for Christmas after late November and usually the wait is about 6-8 weeks. Sometime I will take orders for January in November and December so the wait could be longer than 8 weeks at that time of year.
During the spring and summer however the wait is usually closer to 2-3 weeks.
I am always upfront about how long of a wait it is but that time line is approximate.
What should you send when you message me initially?
Please send me 2-3 photos of the pet you'd like to have immortalized in glass. I can use a variety of images and have been able to create pieces based off of some lower quality photos but for best results send me your best photos! If you're able to take photos or can find photos with a front or 3/4 view those are best as they will most accurately portray your pet.
See example images below:
Please also include any additional details such as:
- Your budget
- If you want anything added like a jump ring for a name tag, a specific colour collar, or any other details like a border.
- Anything that I should know one example would be that I completed a pet portrait once where the dog had a small mole and it was very important to the owner that I make the mole an integral part of the piece.
How does payment work?
In order to start your piece I require a 50% deposit and then when I am finished the piece I require the remaining balance due. I take e-transfer or cash at this time as I am not at a stage where I could accept any other payment options.
Do you ship?
Yes I do ship! Cost of shipping can range from $20-$60CAD depending on the size of the piece and is an extra charge on top of the cost of the stained glass. If you are within Canada I use the Canada Post flat rate shipping boxes so they are fairly affordable and usually arrive within 3 - 7 business days.
If you are outside of Canada the shipping is based on the weight, size of box and the country it is going to.
I also make no claims that your piece will arrive 100% intact. This is glass being shipped and while I do take every precaution possible and haven't yet had an item arrive damaged there is always a chance it may be broken during shipping. I am more than happy to fix your piece if that does happen but you would be responsible for the shipping in that case as well and depending on the damage there may be a cost to fix it as well. The Canada post boxes also do come with an automatic $100CAD liability coverage for damage or loss as well.