1. Are Decopaw art pieces paintings?
Nope. Even cooler. Decopaw art pieces are what are called a giclee print: an archival quality fine art inkjet print that comes from a huge professional printer. The art images are printed onto canvas and papers designed specifically for the process, and coated with a UV spray (for canvases). They provide the same canvas texture as a painting and the great look of a stretched canvas painting at a fraction of the cost. Plus, they won't fade or discolor for 200 years!
2. What are the prices?
See the pricelist for all prices and sizes. There is a huge range: from $85 for a small print all the way up to $925 for a wall-sized canvas. Each piece is custom-designed for each client and there is something for every budget and wall size.
3. How long does it take to get an art piece made?
The average is 4-6 weeks, depending on how long it takes you to make decisions about which proof you want to order (the hard part!). Each art commission comes with the option to make changes to any of the initial 4 proofs Jamie designs, so it can take as little or as long as you like. Please allow a minimum of 14 days from the time you place your final order (AFTER the initial proofs are designed and any revisions made), until you receive the finished piece in the mail.
4. What does the process look like?
*Decide you are in the love with the art and have to have one for your very own.
*Decide what size, colors and design you would like.
*Pick 2 images of your pet you would like to have Jamie use for the design.
*Fill out and mail a standard art contract + 50% deposit (credited toward the
final order total)
*Wait for Jamie to design the 4 unique proofs. This can take up to 14 days depending
on how busy she is. If she is really busy she may have a waiting list.
*Receive the link to the private online art gallery of your proofs via email
from Jamie. The gallery will look like this: sample gallery.
*Decide if you'd like Jamie to make
any changes to any of the proofs.
*Wait for Jamie to make the changes (if requested).
*Review the final revisions and pick your favorite to have printed.
*Place your order with Jamie via email and pay the balance due on the art.
*Wait 14 days for the art in the mail.
*Pull out of the box, hang, and enjoy!
5. How do you decide what images to use for the art process?
You decide! Although Jamie makes suggestions on best images for art, you decide what pics you like best of your pet. You will be happiest this way in the long run as you know your pet best.
6. So does that mean that I can use any image I want for the art?
Almost but not quite. There are certain things that make an image good to use for the art process. Those things are sharpness, clarity, good focus and detail in the eyes, close-up of animal, good expression of their personality, no flash used, and good lighting. See this post on the Cowbelly blog for more details on what images make for good art.
7. Can you use film prints or only digital? My pet passed away years ago and all I have are film prints.
Either or both. Jamie uses a high-quality film print scanner and often works with film prints. It all depends on the quality of the print, but having said that, Jamie can work wonders on even old discolored/faded/cracked/scratched prints.
8. What if I want you to take photos of my dog/cat? I'm terrible at taking pictures of them and really want a good shot to use.
If you live in Seattle you can schedule a Decopaw sitting, which is a mini-photo shoot with Jamie for the express purpose of taking photos that will be great to use for the art process. See here for all of the details on Decopaw sittings.
9. Is the photography included in the art price?
No. Decopaw sittings are an additional service and are priced at $50. See here for all of the details on Decopaw sittings.
10. Which one should I get- a print or a stretched canvas?
Everyone has their own personal preferences on what they like, but approximately 90% of Decopaw purchasers go with the stretched canvases. They are truly awesome art pieces- thick, substantial canvas, with very rich, detailed printing, stretched over deep solid wood stretcher bars. Having said that, some clients enjoy the look of custom framing, which can be done with the prints. (Canvases don't require framing). It all depends on the look you are going for for your home. See the style page for technical information on both prints and canvases.
11. Do you have any print or canvas samples I can see before I decide?
Yes. If you live in the Seattle area you can visit one of several Decopaw art displays in person to see what they look like. See the art shows page for a list of displays. If you don't live in Seattle you can view some great pictures by following this link. Note: the online photos and art proofs don't do the canvases justice at all. They are fantastic looking in person!
12. I'd like to do this as a Christmas gift. How far in advance of the holidays should I get started?
Jamie typically books up for the holidays by early November. Thanksgiving is the absolute final cutoff for new art commissions to begin. The earlier in the year she can get started the better. Contacting her in September or October is the very best time to start.
13. I'm really picky about colors. How do I ensure that I'm completely happy with what I get?
Easy. Go to your local paint store and pick out paint samples of colors you want used in the art. Draw diagrams, make notes, label the chips if you like, then mail them with the art contract. Although your online proofs won't necessarily match the colors you sent (depending on how your monitor is calibrated), Jamie is very good at matching colors in the final prints/canvas.
14. Is shipping included in the art prices?
No. All shipping is additional and done via USPS priority mail. Shipping rates depend on the size of the piece and the location of the recipient. Clients in Seattle may elect to pick up their art from the Cowbelly offices on Queen Anne and waive the shipping fee.
15. How do you decide what colors and design to use?
You decide! Every art proof is custom designed to the colors and design of the client's choice. If you can envision it, Jamie can design it! She has designed everything from LA/Hollywood-style designs to Virgin Mary-inspired designs and everything in between. Of course her favorites are nature-inspired designs, but ultimately your wish is her command!
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