Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a watercolour pet portrait cost?

With a range of options to suit various budgets, my pet portrait price list can be found on my commission page here.

How long do pet portraits take to make?

Each pet portrait is individually hand-painted, so turnaround times depend on the size and complexity of the piece, as well as my current commission queue.

Once I begin working on your portrait, please allow up to two to three weeks for painting, depending on the size of your order. There may also be a waiting period before I can start, depending on existing commissions. During busy periods, including the run-up to Christmas, turnaround times may be longer.

If you're purchasing a portrait for a specific occasion, please get in touch before ordering so I can advise whether your deadline is achievable.

Please note that painting completion and postal delivery are separate timeframes. I cannot guarantee delivery by a specific date unless this has been explicitly agreed in advance.

Where can I order a pet portrait?

UK customers can order a custom pet portrait through either the UK Mairi Makes store or the Mairi Makes Etsy store, and International customers can purchase through my Etsy store.

Do you send updates of the process of custom paintings?

Before every painting, I will create a rough sketch of the piece and send this to you so that you have an idea of how it will look in the end. I then use this as a guide for the painting. That way, if you have any changes you would like to make to the layout or pose, I can do so very easily at this stage before I start painting. If you would like me to send updates throughout the painting stage I can do so upon request.

How do I frame a pet portrait?

Framing is such a personal thing, as there are so many choices and can be impacted by your own preferences. Personally, I prefer to find a much large frame than the painting itself and purchase a mount to fit within the frame with enough space to show the painting in the centre. For example, you could purchase an A4 painting but put this in an A3 frame with an A3 mount with space to fit the A4. Find more tips on framing here.

What kind of animals do you paint?

I love painting animals of all shapes and sizes, and when it comes to pet portraits that is no exception. Owning several snakes myself, I love being able to paint unusual pet portraits, making them as unique as the animals themselves.

Did you know, I also take commissions for all animals and wildlife, not just pets? Get in touch to discuss.

How do I contact you?

Get in touch to discuss a project or animal/pet portrait commission by email at mairimakes@outlook.com or contact me via social media at @MairiMakes