Pencil Portraits
Please read through the topics below to learn more about commissioning a Pencil Portrait. You are welcome to contact me with questions or special requests.
General…
Every portrait is done by hand (I do not use computer imaging) and takes 30 – 60+ hours for me to complete depending on the size and the number of subjects. Your graphite portrait will be drawn on heavy weight, acid free paper with a smooth Vellum finish. Colored pencil portraits can be drawn on the same paper, or colored, heavy weight, acid free paper with a smooth finish.
Subjects and Backgrounds…
Subjects are the focus of your portrait and can include people, animals, buildings, vehicles, etc. I can draw a single subject or several subjects in your portrait, although there are limitations based on the size portrait that you choose (see Pricing page).
Backgrounds can be anything from landscape (clouds, trees, water, etc.) to other objects (tools, furniture, pumpkins, etc.) and can involve as much work as an additional subject.
Most of the images in my Gallery have the subject & background count in the caption if you would like to see examples, or you are welcome to contact me with questions.
Photos…
I will need a clear photo that shows the subject’s personality. The more detailed and focused the photo(s), the better the drawing I will produce. I can combine multiple subjects from different images into one portrait, but I will not be able to make a subject look younger than in the images, nor can I change their expression or position. If you are not sure whether your chosen photo will work for a portrait, just contact me and we can discuss it.
If you would like me to create your portrait from professional photos, you must obtain a copyright release from the photographer or studio!
Size…
I currently offer Portraits in 8 x 10, 9 x 12, 11 x 14 and 16 x 20 (inches). The size of your portrait represents what you will see through the opening in your frame and/or mat, but the paper I draw on is about an inch or two larger than the portrait on all sides to allow for easy framing.
Cost…
Please see my Pricing page.
Payment…
I prefer credit card payments through Paypal (no PayPal account needed), but can accept checks as well.
Gift Certificates…
You can choose the size, type, and number of subjects/background for the portrait that you want to give and I will provide an e-gift certificate. The recipient then supplies their favorite image(s) and works directly with me on the layout and approval of their portrait. Look for the Gift Certificate option on my Quote Request form.
The Process…
When you follow the Quote Request link below, you will be taken to a form that helps me know who you are and what you are looking for.
For normal portraits, I will respond with an estimated start date, total cost and any questions or clarifications. Shortly before I begin working on your portrait, I will request a 50% deposit. I will email you a proof of the portrait when it is finished, delivery will be made upon your approval and my receipt of the balance of payment.
If you are ordering a Gift Certificate, I will reply with a total cost, and send the GC out to you as soon as payment is received. I will then work with the recipient to complete the process as above, but without deposit or final payment.
Quote Request…
Ready to get started? Click here to go to request a quote.