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The process

From your phone to your wall, in five steps

The 12 × 12 cm framed pet portraits take a minimum of 2 weeks to complete. If you need yours for a special occasion, please let me know when ordering. Custom timelines will be communicated for larger sizes.

Once the painting is complete I send you photos of the final framed piece along with the invoice, and I only ship once payment clears.

  1. Reference pictures

    I understand that not everyone has the chance to capture the perfect photo, so I'll always do my very best with what you have. You are welcome to send me as many photos as possible.

    For the best results, here are some tips:

    • Use bright, natural lighting so all features (eyes, ears, mouth) are visible. I can't paint what I can't see.
    • Make sure the photo is in focus and not blurry.
    • Avoid filters, colours should look true to your pet in real life.
    • Photos taken at eye level generally make the strongest portraits.
    • Don't shy away from quirky or unique poses, they often capture the personality best!

    Ultimately, the perfect reference photo is the one that shows your pet's personality, and you'll always be the best judge of that.

    Three phone photos of a small terrier fanned out, with tips: clear and well lit, accurate colours, visible features, eye level, captures personality

  2. Before painting

    I'll create a digital mockup from your chosen reference photo(s) and send it to you for approval before I begin. Nothing is painted until you're happy with the crop, the pose and the colours.

  3. Painting

    I use professional-grade oil paint and paint surfaces to ensure the best results.

    Each portrait is created in about three sessions over a few weeks. I begin with a warm underpainting (often in a colour like pink or orange) which gives the painting a luminous glow. Some of this underpainting remains visible in the final piece, adding subtle pops of color and extra vibrance.

    When I'm happy with the result, I'll send you photos of the completed painting for approval.

    Three panels fanned out showing the stages of a terrier portrait: a pink underpainting, a blocked-in sketch, and the finished painting with pops of colour

  4. Framing and varnishing

    Once the painting is complete, I apply a protective coat of Gamvar Matte varnish. Unlike traditional varnishes that require six months or more of drying time, Gamvar can be applied much sooner. This protects the surface while still allowing the oil paint layers to breathe and cure properly.

    Alongside the painting process, I handcraft a custom frame with a birch plywood base and an outer frame of white ash. The wood has a soft caramel tone in its natural state, and I finish it with Rubio Monocoat Wood Cream for lasting protection (other colors are available on request).

    After varnishing, the painting is securely fitted into its frame with screws, ensuring a strong and lasting hold. Each frame also includes a built-in keyhole slot, so it's ready to hang on a single screw, no extra hardware needed.

    At this stage, I'll send you multiple photos of the final framed painting along with the invoice. Shipping takes place once payment clears.

    Exploded view of the ash box frame: birch plywood core, keyhole slot for hanging, painting attached with screws, artist authentication on the back, white ash frame

  5. Packaging and courier

    All artworks are carefully packaged and sent with The Courier Guy to anywhere in South Africa.

    My paintings come with a lifetime guarantee. If the recipient ever wants to adjust or fix something, I'm always happy to accommodate.

    An open shipping box showing foam corner protectors, a snug inner box holding the framed portrait, and a thank-you card

Ready when you are.

Send a few photos and I'll reply with a mockup. Two weeks later, it's on your wall.

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