Commissioning a Pet Portrait
Each portrait is created by commission and carefully hand-drawn using professional, lightfast colored pencils (Faber-Castell Polychromos and Caran d'Ache Luminance) on archival-quality paper. Whether your subject is a beloved family pet, farm animal, or wildlife, my goal is to create a lifelike portrait that you'll treasure for years to come.
Pet Portrait Sizes & Prices
Prices are based on a single subject head/neck portrait set against a white background.
Portraits will arrive ready to fit a standard sized frame upon delivery (frame not included).
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Custom Options Available
Looking for something beyond the standard portrait? Custom commissions are available and quoted individually, including:
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Backgrounds
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Full-body portraits
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Choice of paper color
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Custom sizes
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Unique compositions
Have something special in mind? I'd love to work with you to create a portrait that's uniquely yours.
Steps to ordering a custom pet portait:
01
Choose Your Portrait Size
Select a size from the pricing page. If you're unsure, I'm happy to recommend the best option based on your reference photos and where you plan to display the artwork. All details will be confirmed before I begin, and size adjustments can be made prior to starting your portrait.
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Fill out a Pet Portrait Request
Complete the Portrait Request Form and tell me a little about you and your portrait vision. I'll review your request and contact you regarding availability. Once your commission is accepted and a timeframe is confirmed, a 25% non-refundable deposit will be required to reserve your spot in my schedule.
My current turnaround time is approximately 2–3 months, but I'll always do my best to accommodate special occasions whenever my schedule allows.
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Send Your Reference Photos
The quality of your portrait depends on the quality of your photos.
For the best results:
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Use clear, high-resolution images.
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Natural lighting is ideal (near a window or outdoors in shade).
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Make sure your pet's eyes are visible and in focus.
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Photos taken at your pet's eye level generally work best.
Please email the original images rather than screenshots or photos sent through messaging apps, as these often reduce image quality.
I typically work from one primary photo but appreciate seeing several images to better understand your pet's personality. If your pet has passed away, I'll gladly work with the photos you have and create the best portrait possible.
If you're unsure whether your photos are suitable, feel free to email them for review to kimlayton.art@gmail.com or upload to the Pet Portrait Request Form.
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During the Process
You may choose to receive progress photos or wait for the final reveal—whichever you prefer. I also occasionally share portions of my process on Instagram for those who enjoy seeing the artwork come to life.
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Completion
When your portrait is finished, I'll send you high-quality images for approval. Once you're completely satisfied, the remaining balance is due.
Your artwork will be professionally matted with an acid-free double mat and backing board, sealed in protective cellophane, wrapped in tissue paper, and accompanied by a care guide and a signed Certificate of Authenticity.
Packaging & Delivery
Your finished portrait will be beautifully presented in white tissue paper, tied with a satin ribbon, and placed in a sturdy presentation gift box—perfect for gifting. This presentation packaging is included with every portrait.
Shipping
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USPS or UPS: Your gift box will be placed inside an additional protective shipping box for safe delivery. Shipping costs are additional, along with a $4.95 packaging fee for the outer protective box. A tracking number will be provided once your order ships.
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International shipping: Estimates are available upon request.
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Local pickup or delivery: If you're near West Chester, Pennsylvania, you're welcome to pick up your portrait in person, or I can hand-deliver it at no additional charge.
Contact Me
Please get in touch if you have any questions or have any other inquires. Thank you!
