How a Pet Portrait Commission Works
- ripleygosling11
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
This post walks you through the steps involved in one of my pet portrait commissions. Every commission is a bespoke, hand-painted piece, so the process may vary slightly depending on the brief, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect and hopefully demystify the journey from enquiry to finished artwork.
All of my portraits are painted traditionally using Winsor & Newton Professional watercolours on hot press watercolour paper. This paper has a beautifully smooth surface that’s perfect for capturing fine details. The paints I use are lightfast, meaning they won’t fade over time. That said, I recommend framing your portrait behind museum glass and keeping it out of direct sunlight to keep it looking its best for years to come.
Step 1: Enquiry
You send me your ideas! This can include preferred dimensions, reference photos, and any details you’d like me to include. Don’t worry if you don’t have the perfect photo, I can work from multiple images and create a composite. In fact, the more photos the better, as they help me capture your pet’s personality. If you’ve seen a previous piece of mine that you like, let me know so I know the sort of thing you're after.
Step 2: Deposit & Thumbnails
Once all the details are agreed, I take a 50% deposit upfront, with the remaining 50% due on completion.
I’ll then create a series of small thumbnail sketches to explore different compositions and find the strongest layout.
Step 3: Sketch
After choosing the best composition, I’ll create a full-scale pencil sketch on the watercolour paper. I’ll email this over for your feedback, and we can make any adjustments if neccessary at this stage before moving on.
Step 4: Ink Outline
Once the sketch is approved, I’ll carefully add an ink outline, which helps define the forms and prepares the piece for painting.
Step 5: Painting
This is where the magic happens! I begin painting using watercolour, building up colour, texture, and detail layer by layer. See the photos below for how I build up the layers.
Step 6: Final Artwork
When the painting is complete, I’ll send you a photo of the finished artwork for approval. Then the remaining 50% balance is paid.
Step 7: Packaging & Post
Your portrait is then carefully packaged to ensure it arrives safely, and sent on its way to you!
FAQ’S
What pets do you paint?
I paint all pets! Dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, birds, crocodiles
What medium do you use?
I work in watercolour and ink on paper unless otherwise requested
How long does it take to make a pet portrait?
This depends on the size and complexity! Can be from a few days to a couple of weeks. If you need it for a special date, let me know early.
Can you include more than one pet?
Absolutely! Multiple-pet portraits are available, pricing varies depending on the number of pets and complexity.
Can you paint from old or low-quality photos?
Yes!
Do you offer background options?
Yes, you can choose a simple white background, a soft colour wash, or something inspired by nature. Let me know your preferences. Complicated backgrounds will cost more.
Is this a good gift?
Pet portraits make lovely gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, or as a memorial piece. Gift vouchers are also available.
Do you ship your artwork?
Yes! I carefully package and post portraits. UK shipping is available, and international shipping can be arranged.
Do you take revisions?
Small adjustments are included at the sketch stage, but because each piece is hand-painted, major changes after completion may not be possible.
Price Guide Estimates
For Pet Portraits only, for other projects (editorial / publishing / other) do get in touch!
Size | A6 | A5 | A4 | A3 |
Price Estimate | £40-£60 | £80-£120 | £140-£180 | £200-£240 |
Additional Pet | +£15 | +£30 | +£45 | +£60 |
These are for a watercolour painting on hot press paper, framing and mounting are not included.
If you can't see what youre looking for, let me know your budget and what youre after!
You can contact me on ripleygosling11@gmail.com
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