Frequently Asked Questions

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The price of each painting is based on the size of the canvas and the number of subjects in the painting. Shipping and handling within the United States is always FREE. See the "Canvas Sizes & Pricing" page for additional information.

Of course! If you are ordering your acrylic painting through my website here, you can pay for your commission in two installments here. The first payment (50% of total price) reserves your spot on my schedule- and the second payment (the remaining amount) must be made once you approve of your final piece and prior to shipment of the piece. I will be in contact with you when your piece is ready to be shipped.

Photos that are clear enough to see details, best if taken outdoors or in a well-lit area, taken at the pet's eye level and looking at the camera, and multiple photos will allow me to attain the most accurate coloring and details.   

Good quality photos will result in the best pet paintings, as I can capture more detail.
With that in mind:

1. Shoot from your pet’s eye level by sitting or lying on the floor. Try not to take the photo from above your pet, as such photos often have your pet looking distorted.
2. Use natural lighting, either outside or indoors by the light of a nearby window. Avoid flash, as this alters their true colors.
3. Get close to your pet and focus on their eyes. The eyes are the energy of your painting.
4. Be patient. Have someone attract your pet’s attention behind you while you shoot or hold a treat in your hand close to the camera. Try making a high pitched tone or whistle to get your pet in an alert pose.

1. What type of background color(s) are you envisioning for your painting?
2. If collars are in the picture, do you want them included on the painting?
3. What characteristics do you feel stand out the most with your pet? Eyes, hair color, ears, etc?
4. Are there details in the photograph that you prefer to be edited out of the painting?

In general, a monochrome background works best for the portrait and allows the focus to be on the pet. I will work with you to select a color and background that will highlight the beauty of your pet.

 No. Just send me your favorite shots of all the pets you’d like included and I can combine them in the artwork, so that they’re all in the same piece. If you can send at least one photo depicting the size ratios between the pets that would be most helpful.

Yes, I frequently post "In Progress" and "Completed" paintings on my social media - Facebook and Instagram. You will also receive a photo via email when your commission is completed. This will allow you to review and ensure that you are completely satisfied prior to mailing.

No, I do not ship my paintings framed. This allows the client to select a frame based on their style and needs.  I can recommend you try a local custom framer or, for a more affordable option, visit your local craft store like Michaels, Hobby Lobby, etc. to purchase off the rack, open back ready-made frames. Check your local store’s website for 40% coupons or 50% off sales and coupons. See below - "Are your acrylic paintings prestretched?" for additional canvas information.

Yes, all of my paintings are on prestretched canvas (not rolled). I work on both standard wrap canvases (depth of 3/4") and gallery wrapped canvases (depth of 1.5"). I will recommend which depth would be best for your painting, depending on its size and whether there are plans to have it framed. I paint on the sides of each canvas to reflect the colors of the painting.

It is incredibly important to me that all of my clients are happy with their acrylic paintings. For this reason, I send all of my clients photos of their finished portrait prior to shipping the piece, in case any adjustments need to be made. Adjustments are classified as either minor or major adjustments. The majority of adjustments that I make are considered minor and are free of charge. For more information, please review my "Terms and Conditions" for commissioned artwork.

Yes, your deposit is refundable, anytime from when your order is placed online through 24 hours after the time your order is placed. To receive this refund, you are required to email me at brushstrokesbysherryt@gmail.com to request this refund. No deposits will be refunded after the first 24 hours.

Each acrylic painting is painted in the order received. Depending on the size of the canvas, how many pets are included in each painting, and the order received, it may take up to 50+ hours to create. I will communicate a clear timeline to the client, to keep you well informed. You can check out my "Commission Schedule" for status updates on all orders. If you need your painting by a specific date, please contact me prior to placing your order. Additional charge may apply for an expedited commission.

Yes, you can find me on Facebook and Instagram. I post many work-in-progress & final piece photos to my Facebook and Instagram.