Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions.  If you have a question that is not featured in this section, please feel free to contact us.

I would like to commission a custom pet portrait or caricature, how do I order?

Please visit our How to Order page.  This section will walk you through all of the steps of the ordering process.  If you have any additional questions, just contact us, and we will be happy to assist you with your order.

Do you work from  photographs or real life?

We work from the photos you provide to create each commissioned piece. However, we are available to do pet caricatures at various events such as pet shows, art festivals, fundraisers, store openings, or pet parties. If you are interested in having us draw at your event, please contact us with your event details and information.

What kind of photos do I need?

In order to provide you with the best representation of your pet, it is important that we have clear, high quality photos to work from.  The better the photographs, the easier it will be to draw or paint your pet.  We can work from digital pictures or photo prints. Clients are encouraged to send several photographs, but one photo is fine.

For a helpful guide on how to photograph your pet, please visit our Photo Tips section.

Can I send more than one photo?

Yes. Providing us with a variety of photos is strongly encouraged. We typically work from one main photograph, however it is helpful to have several photos to use for additional reference. When submitting multiple photos, please indicate which photo has the ideal pose you would like depicted in your artwork, which photo(s) show the most accurate colors/markings/details, which photo(s) best represents their personality, and any other information you feel would be helpful to us.

How do I send my photos?

Photo references may be submitted through email or regular mail.  You get the opportunity to upload your pet’s photograph when you complete the order form. Additional photo references are encouraged and can be sent to Sketchapet@gmail.com. If you are scanning or emailing photos please make sure they are at a high resolution. (300 or 400 dpi tends to works best) The higher the resolution, the easier it is for us to see the details of your pet.  Please email photos in the JPEG format.  If you would like to send us prints or a CD of your photos, please contact us and we will provide you with a mailing address.  

I would like two of my pets together in one portrait or caricature.  Is this option available?

Yes. We can fit as many pets as you would like in one piece. However, the size of your artwork may need to be larger, depending on the number of pets you request.  Having multiple pets in a tiny composition will not provide the best results.  For example, if you order an 9X12 portrait and would like 3 pets together in that piece, important details of each pet will be lost because they would have to be drawn/painted at a much smaller size to fit the composition.  An ideal choice would be 11X14 or larger. For questions or assistance with choosing the right size, feel free to contact us.

If I have multiple pets, do I need to photograph them together ?

No, it is not necessary. Taking individual photos works best.  This way we can see the most accurate details of each pet. However, it is helpful to have some photographs of your pets featured together so we can see the size difference between them. When taking photos of them separately, try photographing them in similar lighting.  If you want your pets painted/drawn together in a specific pose, then try to photograph them together in that position. We can always work from separate photos and combine them into one piece.

Will my photos be returned to me?

Yes. All photo reference will be returned with your finished artwork.

What types of media do you use for your artwork?

Sketchapet uses a variety of illustration media to create your custom pet artwork.  Watercolors, pastels, acrylics, colored pencils, and graphite pencils are just some of the media choices we offer.  Interested in a specific medium that isn’t featured on the site? Email us with your request and we will do our best to work with you.

What kind of medium, size, and/or style should I choose for my pet’s artwork?

We understand that making these choices can sometimes be tough. To help with your decision, please visit the galleries and pricelist sections of the site. Here you will find different examples and information on the different mediums, sizes and styles we offer.

Feel free to email us with your information and photos, and we will be happy to assist you with your decision.

How much will my custom artwork cost?

Price is based in the size, style, and complexity of  each project. We offer many different options when customizing your pet’s artwork.  For a list of these services and costs, please visit the Price Lists section of the site.  For a free estimate, please feel free to contact us with your request.

When do I pay for my portrait?

Upon receiving your order request and photo references, we will send you an email which confirms project details, the total cost of your order and the required deposit amount needed to proceed with your artwork. The deposit amount is 50% of the total cost of  your order. This payment secures your place in the client list, and serves as a good faith deposit.  If desired, you also have the option to pay your order in full.  Once we have received your deposit, you will receive an email confirmation and we will start working on your order.  When we have completed your artwork, we will email you a digital proof of the finished piece.  Upon your approval, the remaining balance is due.  When we have received your final payment, we will ship your order. All payments can be made here.

What are my payment options?

All payments can be made online through Paypal.  We prefer the Paypal system because its safe, secure and is available in most currencies.  However, other payment options are available.  We accept cash, check or money orders, but these options are only available within the United States of America.  All other countries should make payments through Paypal.

I don’t have a Paypal account, what should I do?

You do not need a Paypal account to use Paypal.  Instructions on given on how to pay here.

Are my payments secure?

Yes.  Paypal uses 256bit encryption technology, so your payment is safe and secure. Paypal is available in most currencies, and allows you to pay in several different ways without sharing any of your financial information. Click the logo to find out more. 

  

How long will it take to complete my order?

Completion time depends on the complexity of each project and our current workload.  Typically, pet caricatures and character designs take 1 to 3 weeks to complete.  Portraits, montage, and full body paintings/drawings may take 2-4 weeks to finish. During your wait time, we will send you images of your work in progress and keep you updated on a final completion date. If you are interested in some of our other services such as mural paintings, t-shirt designs, business and sign logos, etc., please email us with your information and project details.  We will be happy to provide you with a price quote and an estimated completion date.

Can I have my order completed before a certain date?

Yes.  Many clients commission our artwork for gifts and/or special occasions, especially during the holiday season.  If you need your order completed by a certain date, please let us know when you fill out our order form under the “special requests” section. We will do everything possible to work within your time requirements.

Do you offer gift certificates or gift vouchers?

Yes.  You can purchase gift vouchers via Paypal though our customized online ordering system.  Please click here for more information.

Can I order for a friend or family member?

Yes. When completing your order through Paypal, please make a note in the description box stating the name and address of the recipient.

Will I be able to see my order while it is being completed?

Yes. While we are creating your commissioned piece, we will send you a “work in progress” sketch.  This will provide you with an idea of how your final artwork will look.  At this time, you are encouraged to provide feedback or any revisions you would like made to the piece.

Am I allowed to make revisions to my order?

Yes. As with all custom artwork, we realize that we may need to adjust certain details of the piece to satisfy your order requests. We want our clients to be 100% satisfied, and we will do everything possible to make sure your artwork is tailored to fit your specific needs and requirements. Please note that the first set of revisions are free, but any additional revisions may be subject to a small fee. Once you are completely satisfied with your revisions and we have received your confirmation, we will proceed with the final artwork. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss your artwork, and/or any revision requests you may have.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. Cancellations can only be accepted before final payment is due. If you decide to cancel your order, please note that your deposit is nonrefundable. Your deposit payment covers the supply cost and time spent working on your order. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Will I be able to see the final artwork  before it is sent to me?

Yes.  When we have completed your order, we will email you a digital proof of the finished piece. At this time, you can still make any adjustments or reasonable revisions to your artwork.  Please note that additional revisions may be subject to a small fee.  Once we have received your final approval and payment, we will ship the artwork.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping is included in the cost of the artwork for shipments made within the United States.  However, there may be an additional cost for international shipments. If you would like to request overnight shipping at an additional fee or if you have specific shipping instructions, please let us know. 

Can my portrait be shipped internationally?

Yes. Shipping costs will vary depending on geographical location. Please provide us with your shipping address and order request, and we will provide you with a shipping estimate.

How will my order be shipped?

All artwork is shipped via the United States Postal Service (USPS) Priority Mail. 

Your artwork will be securely gift wrapped in a well padded box or heavy duty postal tube. It will be insured against loss or damage during transit, and you will also be provided with a tracking number for the package.

What happens if my package/artwork is damaged?

In the unlikely event that your artwork will be damaged during transit, we will happily replace your damaged piece at no cost.  Please note that the damaged artwork must be returned to us in its original packaging before we begin work on your replacement piece. We will provide you with a refund for your shipping costs. Once we receive the damaged package, your replacement order will be given first priority and will be sent to you ASAP.

Do you frame the artwork?

We do not offer framing services at this time, however we will be happy to provide you with framing suggestions or recommendations for your piece. 

Can I order prints of my artwork for family or friends?

Yes, you can order high quality prints of your custom artwork at any time. Please contact us with your print request, and we will provide you with an estimate. Print cost will be determined by quantity and size. You can also request prints when you fill out the order form. Make sure to provide this information under the “comments, questions, or special requests” section of the order form.

Who owns the copyright to the artwork?

Sketchapet retains all copyrights to created artwork and its use in reproduction form. While you hold the copyrights to your original photo(s), we hold the copyrights to any artwork we create from that image.  This includes prints, merchandise, distribution of artwork, and the right to use the artwork for advertising and promotional displays.

Commercial use or reproduction of our artwork is prohibited without the express permission of Sketchapet.  If you are interested in using our artwork for commercial use, please contact us with your questions and details, and we will be happy to work with you.

We often display artwork commissioned by our clients on the website.  If you do not want your artwork displayed on the website, please let us know when you place your order.

Do you have a question/concern that wasn’t featured here, or need additional information? Feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to help.