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. I also like to know if you prefer a portrait that is more photorealistic, or one that is more "painterly" - this often means that I will use colors that are not realistic. Anything smaller than 8x10: $75 one pet only 8x10: $175 for one or two pets 10x10: $195 9x12: $210 12x12: $250 11x14: $300 12x16: $350 Prices are approximately $1.95 - $2.15 per square inch. Shipping is not included in the price.

Canvas 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. The sample in the photo is a canvas that I have toned with color in preparation to paint but has not been painted yet.
Flat Canvas Panels 1/8" thick These must be framed to hang
Flat canvas panels are easy to store or pack and ship and can fit into store bought frames that have the glass removed. They may or may not fit into frames with matts. I will try it and update these notes! 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.