🐾 How It Works: My Pet Portrait Process Walkthrough

🐾 How It Works: My Pet Portrait Process Walkthrough

From photo to finished piece

What to expect when you commission a custom portrait of your pet.

Whether you're looking for a meaningful gift, a tribute to a much-loved companion, or just something fun and personal for your home, commissioning a pet portrait should feel easy and enjoyable.

Here’s a full look at how I work, from choosing the right photo to receiving your finished piece, plus answers to the most common questions I get.

🐶 Step 1: You Send Me Your Favourite Photos

Great portraits start with great references. The clearer the photo, the better I can capture your pet’s personality and detail — especially their eyes and fur markings.

Not sure if your photos are suitable? No problem. Just send over a few and I’ll let you know which works best — or give tips for snapping a new one if needed.

🖌️ Step 2: We Finalise the Details

We’ll agree on:

  • The size of the portrait

  • How many pets to include

  • Any specific background, colour themes, or personal touches you'd like

Can I include more than one pet? Absolutely. I can draw multiple pets in one portrait — just let me know what you have in mind and I’ll advise on layout and pricing.

Want a custom background or a theme? Definitely! Whether it’s your dog on a beach or your cat in a favourite chair — I’m happy to include specific elements.

You can take a look at previous examples of my works for inspiration here. 

A 25% deposit secures your booking. The rest is paid once the piece is finished and approved.

✍️ Step 3: I Get Drawing!

I use pastel pencils to create a soft, detailed finish. You’ll get updates along the way, and I’ll send a photo of the finished piece before posting.

Can I request changes? Of course, up to two rounds of small revisions are included, so you can be 100% happy before it’s posted.

📦 Step 4: Delivery

Once you approve your portrait, you’ll receive:

  • A secure, carefully packaged portrait (currently sent unframed)

  • The final invoice, including any postage costs

Do you ship internationally? Yes! I’m based in Glasgow, UK and ship worldwide. I’ll give you a custom quote for shipping once your portrait is finished.

Framing? I currently don’t frame pieces, but I’m happy to recommend local options that will suit your home and your new artwork.

🎁 Giving It As a Gift?

Pet portraits make thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts. I can post the portrait directly to the recipient and include a handwritten note, just mention it at checkout.

I also offer

Father’s Day, birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and even memorials- these pieces are especially popular as meaningful gifts, so do get in touch early if you have a deadline in mind.

I also offer gift cards!

Extras

Need a digital version too? I can provide a high-res image for an extra fee — ideal for social media or reprints.

Other animals? While dogs and cats are most popular, I’ve also drawn horses, birds, rabbits, and even more unusual pets. Just ask — I’d love to help.

💌 Thinking of Commissioning a Portrait?

Get in touch via email, Instagram, or my contact form. I’ll be happy to walk you through anything or give a no-pressure quote.

Quick FAQs Recap:

  • Turnaround time: 3 days to 2 weeks depending on schedule

  • Shipping: UK & international — quote provided at the end

  • Deposit: 25% upfront to secure your booking

  • Revisions: Up to 2 rounds included

  • Gifting? Yes! Notes and direct delivery available

  • Framing: Unframed, but advice provided

  • Digital copies: Available on request

  • Themes/backgrounds: Customisable

  • Other animals: Yes, not just dogs and cats!

Ready to bring your pet to life on paper?
Let’s make something you’ll treasure. 🐾

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