Melissa Frankel Designs

A Note About Photos

Usually, the better the photo, the better the painting. Photos from unusual angles or with dramatic lighting make for interesting paintings. Please avoid using the flash. Close-ups of the face are always nice. Sending several photos can be very helpful for me to see the color of the pet and to see details that might be missing in the main photo.

Prices:

Prices are based mostly on size. Once we have selected a photo, I will recommend either a square or rectangular format and you can let me know what size you would like or I will recommend a size. In rare instances, the complexity of the photo may increase the price, but this is unusual and I will let you know before starting anything. YOU ARE NOT OBLIGATED TO PURCHASE THE FINISHED PAINTING IF YOU DO NOT LIKE IT. In general I do not require a deposit, and once the piece is finished I will send you a photo of it or show it to you in person and if you do not like it you can decide not to purchase it. Payment is due when you receive the painting in person or before the painting ships. I prefer not to alter the painting after I have finished it, but I love hearing about colors that you prefer or do not like, before starting the project so that I can cater to your tastes. There are many online services that print photos onto paper or canvas. If you are looking for a photorealistic canvas print you may want to consider one of those online services. My aim is to accurately represent your pet using oil paint, and while doing so, create a beautiful painting that benefits from being made by hand, taking advantage of the uniqueness that oil paint and my own artistic expression can provide. 5x7, 6x6 or smaller: $95 for one pet only 8x8: $175 for one pet only 8x10: $220 for one or two pets 10x10: $275 most popular square size 9x12: $300 most popular size 12x12: $300 11x14: $350 12x16: $400 Please add $35 for a third pet. Prices are approximately $2.00 - $2.75 per square inch. Shipping is not included in the price.

Canvas and Panel Options

You must consider how you want your piece framed - or not framed - when deciding on the type of canvas that you'd like. The price is the same regardless of which you select.
Gallery Wrapped Canvas 1 1/2 inch deep with painted sides
1 1/2" deep canvas is heavyweight and can hang easily with the wood frame resting on a nail. These are not meant to be framed but you could have a professional framer frame it, or just display it as it is, with the sides painted a solid color that coordinates with the art.
Flat Canvas or Hardboard Panels 1/8" thick These must be framed to hang
Flat canvas and hardboard panels are easy to store or pack and ship and can fit into store bought frames that have the glass removed. They will not fit with a mat. They have no hanging hardware or structure on the back so you cannot hang them as is, but you could rest them on a plate stand or easel. The sides are unfinished.
3/4 inch deep Canvas with painted sides
Canvas that is 3/4" deep is lightweight and can hang easily with the wood frame resting on a nail. These take up less space if you are storing it and are lighter weight for shipping. They can be framed using a canvas floater frame - see below. Or you can have it professionally framed. They will not fit into a store-bought frame unless it is made for stretched canvas.

Canvas Floater Frames

These frames are available in black, white and maple solid wood and are a nice quality frame. They leave a significant air gap around the canvas so it looks like it is "floating". You can order them on Amazon or Blick or, with enough lead time, I can order and frame your canvas for you. They require some tools - drill, screwdriver, tape measure, wood glue - they are not complicated but do take a little time and effort to use. They are not commonly found in stores. (Artwork above by Debi Sellinger.) The price starts around $65, depending on the size of the frame.

Christmas & Holiday Ornaments!

Ceramic ornaments are available in the following shapes: 3 inch balls, flat dog houses that are approximately 3.5" wide x 3.5" tall, or 3-dimensional hearts that are 3" x 3". I can paint them in a traditional style similar to what I do on canvas or do a more sketchy style using acrylic paint pens. The price for the traditionally painted ornaments is $70 (1 pet). The sketchy, more playful style is $50 (1 pet). Add $20 for a second pet. I can put the name of the pet on the back side or under the face. Each will come with a ribbon to hang. You can let me know if you have a color preference for the background. Like with everything that I make, if you don't like it you are not obligated to buy it.