Soft pastel is a beautiful, traditional fine art medium. I truly love the depth and vibrancy it allows me to bring to each pet portrait. Iβm able to build different textures, tones, and fur styles to create a lifelike piece that truly feels like your pet.
When ordering you will have the option to choose a background for your portrait. I offer a selection of solid colors at no additional charge. If you are unsure of what color to choose, I am happy to offer my artistic opinion!
If youβre interested in a detailed background from your original photo or if you have a custom idea, it may require an additional fee based on the level of detail involved. Please feel free to fill out my contact form and Iβd be happy to talk it over with you and provide you with a quote before you order.
Framing your pastel
Your pastel portrait will arrive matted, and you can choose between a white or black mat to complement your artwork.
When shopping for your frame, remember that the frame size corresponds to the mat size, rather than the artwork itself.
5 Γ 7 portrait β 8 Γ 10 frame
8 Γ 10 portrait β 11 Γ 14 frame
12 Γ 16 portrait β 16 Γ 20 frame
16 Γ 20 portrait β 20 Γ 24 frame
Once you have your frame, simply place the matted portrait inside and you're ready to enjoy!
I do not spray or seal my pastel artwork with any fixatives. While fixatives can help prevent smudging, they can also yellow over time and alter the colors and appearance of the artwork. I prefer to leave the pastel untouched so the colors stay true and vibrant.
Because it is unsealed, the pastel can smudge if the artwork is touched directly. This is completely normal for the medium, but it does mean it needs to be handled with a little extra care! I place a sheet of glassine paper under the mat before shipping. Glassine is a smooth, lightweight paper specifically made for protecting delicate artwork like soft pastel. It rests gently over the surface without sticking to the pastel, helping keep the artwork protected and free from smudging. This temporarily protects the artwork during transit and can also be kept in place if you need to store your portrait before framing it. The mat also allows you to enjoy and frame your artwork without needing to handle the pastel itself.
Unboxing directions will be included with your package so you know exactly how to remove everything safely!
Custom stickers of your pet
Custom pet portrait stickers are a fun way to enjoy your petβs artwork beyond the original piece! I make each sticker using high quality, water resistant sticker paper and finish them with a protective laminate to help ensure lasting durability. Each sticker is die-cut and approximately 3" in size. You can gift them to friends/family or put them on your favorite items as a reminder of your love for your pet. Pet portrait stickers have quickly become a fan favorite in my shop!
Specializing in memorial portraits
Memorial portraits are the heart of my work. My goal through my art is to bring comfort and peace to those grieving the loss of their beloved pets. I take great care and patience creating each portrait to honor your pet and ensure I capture their essence as you remember them.
A pet portrait makes a beautiful condolence and sympathy gift for loved ones and friends as well. I believe the experience of receiving a memorial portrait should feel special, personal and comforting. I include a rainbow bridge sticker along with a memorial card customized with your pets name to each memorial order. π€