Commission a Pet Portrait

🐾 Custom Pet Portraits by Will & Whiskers

I specialise in bespoke artwork that captures the heart and personality of your beloved pets, whether they’re furry, feathered, scaled, or hooved. My goal isn’t simply to recreate a photo—it’s to bring your pet’s unique character to life on canvas. I make works with bright colours, visible brush strokes and a focus on your pet's personality. At Will & Whiskers, my goal is to create art that heals, celebrates, and immortalises. Every portrait is a carefully crafted tribute, designed to capture the essence of your pet—not just their likeness, but their spirit.

A hand-painted portrait is a meaningful way to celebrate your companion—whether they’re still by your side or as a tribute to remember them with love—and also makes a fantastic and deeply personal gift for an animal lover.

Whether its a large colourful statement piece to show off your beautiful furry friend, or a small memorial sketch to look at when your heart can bear it, I want to make art that you can love almost as much as your amazing animals themselves.

🖼️ Ready to Order?

Simply fill out the commission request form or email me at hello@willandwhiskers.co.uk with your photos and ideas, and let’s get started on making something beautiful together.

ℹ️ Additional Details

• Materials & Finish: Each portrait is hand-painted using high-quality materials and sealed with a protective varnish.
  
  

• Revisions: Up to 2 minor tweaks are included after the initial sketch and before final touches. Major changes or full redraws are not part of the standard process.

📦 Shipping & Delivery

• UK Orders: Standard size commissions come with free, tracked UK shipping via Royal Mail Special Delivery (insured up to £750). Larger or special pieces may incur a small extra fee, which I’ll confirm with you.
  If you wish to use a different courier for any reason let me know.
  
  

• International Orders: Available on a case-by-case basis; please contact me for a quote.
  
  

• I take all reasonable steps to package artwork securely. Artworks are shipped unframed (frames add size, cost, and risk of damage) and are carefully packaged with backing and padding.

🎨 Commissioning a Portrait

How It Works:

• Start With the Form: Fill out my commission request form, I've tried to make it fast and easy, or email me at hello@willandwhiskers.co.uk with your ideas, photo(s), and preferred size.
  
  

• Personalised Consultation: I’ll chat with you about your vision, help choose the best photo(s), and confirm pricing and availability.
  
  

• Pricing: My base prices include one pet and a simple background. Add-ons apply for additional pets, detailed backgrounds, or larger canvases. (See my price list.)
  
  

• Payment Terms: A 50% deposit secures your booking, with the remaining balance due upon final approval before shipping.
  
  

If you're on a tighter budget, we can discuss simplified options—everyone should be able to celebrate their pet through art!

📸 What I’ll Need From You

• Photos: High-quality, well-lit images work best. Don’t stress if you don’t have a “perfect” shot—I can combine features from multiple photos to capture your pet’s personality.
  
  

• Vision & Details: Share any special ideas or personal touches that should be included in your portrait. I really want to capture what makes them them. Do they have a favourite toy, a weird way of sleeping, or just the best smile, let me know!

⏳ Turnaround & Availability

• Standard commissions typically take around 2 weeks from deposit payment and acceptance.
  
  

• If I’m particularly busy or handling large/custom orders, your commission may go onto a short waiting list or take a little longer. I’ll always inform you of the expected timeline before confirming your order.
  
  

• Have a deadline? A holiday, or Birthday? Let me know—I’ll do my best to prioritise your project.

  
  

Charcoal Portraits

Black & white charcoal portraits are drawn on quality cartridge paper. They are an expressive and more subdued tribute to your animal friends. The focus is on them as usually no background is added.
If you wish for a bevel cut mount for the protection of the artwork, please let me know.

Standard Sizes (Free UK Shipping Included)

• A5 (5.8" x 8.3") – £80

• A4 (8.3" x 11.7") – £110

• A3 (11.7" x 16.5") – £180

• 20cmx20cm – £90

• 30cmx30cm – £140

Large

• A2 (16.5" x 23.4") – £290

• A1 (23.4" x 33.1") – £450

• A0 (33.1" x 46.8") – £700

• 40cmx40cm – £220

• 50cmx50cm – £310

• 60cmx60cm – £390

• 80cmx80cm – £600

it may be cheaper and safer to ship the largest unmounted paper pieces in a tube rather than flat

Acrylic Paintings (on Canvas)

Acrylic portraits are painted on a choice of quality stretched canvases. You can choose between an extra thick canvas, which can be hung without framing for a clean modern look or, you can opt for a canvas with a standard depth. As well if you would prefer I can create on a thinner stiff canvas panel.

The cost of your painting will not be affected by the style of canvas you choose. There are many more possible canvas sizes than listed here, and a fully custom size can be requested, please contact me.

Standard Sizes (Free UK Shipping Included):

• 8" x 10" – £180

• 10" x 12" – £250

• 12" x 12" – £300

• 12" x 16" – £370

• 14" x 18" – £450

• 16" x 20" – £550

Large Canvases:

• 18" x 24" – £650

• 20" x 24" – £720

• 24" x 36" – £830

Add-Ons

• Extra Pet: +50% of the base price per additional subject (not recommended for smaller sizes)

• Detailed Background: +25–50% of base price depending on complexity

• Commercial License: contact me

Pricing

(updated as of April 2025)

All prices include 1 pet and a simple background. Add-ons are available for more complex compositions.

💻 Digital Portraits are available on request.

📐 Sizing Suggestions

For portraits with the highest level of detail, I recommend a canvas size of 12"x16" or larger. If you’re after something even bigger, just ask! I’ll always do my best to accommodate, though as I currently live and work from a campervan, very large-scale pieces may be limited (but never say never!).

*some variation in sizes may occur, please allow for up to 1cm variation, though its usually much, much less

Sizes listed here are limited to simplify the ordering process, if you have a specific size requirement not listed here contact me and I'll be happy to help

For orders over £100, a 50% deposit is due upfront to secure your commission, with the balance due before shipping.
Orders under £100 require full payment at the start.

🖼️ Framing & Artwork Care

Framing is entirely optional—some people love a classic, framed look, while others prefer the simplicity of the raw canvas. Just keep in mind that frames will add a little to the overall size, so it’s worth considering when choosing your portrait dimensions.

To keep things safe and affordable, I don’t ship artworks framed, or do any framing myself. Unframed pieces travel much better and are far less likely to arrive damaged.

Each painted portrait is sealed with a high quality artists protective varnish to help preserve the work. If it ever gathers dust, you can gently wipe it with a slightly damp cloth—just take care and treat it as you would any treasured piece of art.

Charcoal drawings can be fragile and are very prone to smudging, sealants can alleviate this somewhat, ideally they should be put behind glass to avoid damage or accidental touch. Don't wet these at all!

📐 What Size Should I Choose?

The size of your portrait is entirely up to you, but here are a few things that might help you decide:

🔎 Big enough for detail
For portraits with the highest level of detail and impact, I recommend a canvas size of 12"x16" or larger especially if you want to have more than one pet in the frame.

✨ Where will it live?
Think about the space you’d like to hang your portrait. A larger piece can make a beautiful focal point in a spacious room, while something smaller might suit a cosy nook or shelf perfectly.

🖼️ Planning to frame it?
If you're thinking about framing your piece or adding a mount, keep in mind that these will add to the final dimensions. It’s worth allowing a little extra room when measuring your space.

Still unsure? Feel free to send over a photo and measures of your wall or display area—I’m always happy to help you choose a size that fits your space and your pet’s presence.

Frequently Asked Questions

✍️ Commission Process

How do I commission a pet portrait?
Just fill out the commission request form or email me at hello@willandwhiskers.co.uk with your pet’s photos, your ideas, and the size you have in mind. I’ll follow up to confirm details and availability.

What do I need to provide?
Clear, high-quality photos of your pet. DSLR images are ideal, but modern phone photos work well too. You’re welcome to send a few, and I can help you choose—or even combine elements—to best capture their personality.

What if I don’t have the perfect photo?
No worries! I can work from multiple references to create a portrait that reflects your pet’s spirit, even if it’s in memory of them.

Can I include more than one pet?
Yes! Additional pets can be added for a small extra fee. Just note that very small canvas sizes might not provide enough space for each pet to shine—so I may recommend sizing up or creating individual portraits.

Can I request a custom size or style?
Absolutely. I offer a variety of standard sizes, but I’m also happy to work on unique formats or creative ideas. Just get in touch and we’ll see what’s possible.

Do you create digital portraits or work in other media?
Yes! I also offer digital portrait commissions on request, and I enjoy experimenting with styles and materials—just ask.

Will you paint animals other than cats and dogs?
Definitely. Whether your companion is feathered, hooved, scaled, or something more exotic—every pet is welcome.

What materials do you use?
I use high-quality, professional-grade materials, including a current preference for Winsor & Newton paints and artist-grade paper and canvas to ensure your portrait lasts.

⏱️ Timeline & Revisions

How long will it take?
Portraits usually take 2–3 weeks from the time of deposit. If I’m particularly busy, I’ll let you know and offer an estimated delivery date or add you to a short waiting list. For special occasions or gifts, just let me know early and I’ll try my best to accommodate if possible.

Will I get to see the progress?
Yes! I’ll share a sketch or underpainting directly with you early on, and a final preview before completion and final payment. You’re welcome to request up to two minor revisions during the process. I might also share work-in-progress photos on social media, If you’d prefer to keep your piece private—or delay sharing for a surprise gift—just let me know when you order.

Can I request changes after it’s finished?
Small tweaks can be made before shipping, but major revisions or full redraws aren’t included unless agreed separately. If you have concerns, just reach out and we can talk it through.

💸 Pricing & Payments

How much does a portrait cost?
Prices vary by size, number of pets, and level of detail. You can view the full pricing guide here.

Do I have to pay upfront?
For orders over £100, a 50% deposit is due upfront to secure your commission, with the balance due before shipping. Orders under £100 require full payment at the start.

What if I’m on a tighter budget?
I’d still love to work with you. We can discuss more minimal styles or scaled-down options that still honour your pet.

How do I pay?
I currently accept bank transfers only. Payment details will be shared after your commission is confirmed.

🚚 Shipping & Delivery

How is the artwork shipped?
Standard size UK orders are sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery, which is tracked and insured (up to £750, size limits apply). Large or non-standard items may use other couriers—I'll always confirm details beforehand.

Do you ship internationally?
Yes! Im based in the UK but I’m happy to ship overseas where possible. Shipping fees vary by location, and international buyers are responsible for any customs/import charges or taxes.

What if my artwork is lost or damaged in transit?
I make all reasonable effort to package all pieces securely. If something happens in transit, I’ll work with the courier to resolve the issue. If the package was insured, a refund or replacement may be possible.

📜 Copyright, Use & Sharing

Can I use my portrait commercially?
All artwork is for personal use only unless a commercial license has been arranged in advance (this applies to digital work in particular).

Will you post my artwork online?
I often share finished portraits and work-in-progress shots on social media and in my portfolio. If you’d prefer to keep your piece private—or delay sharing for a surprise gift—just let me know when you order.

Can I post photos of my artwork online?
Of course! It's yours, and your pet! Do what you want with it (other than commercial use).
If you share it, I'd love to see it too, but that's not a requirement at all. I just hope you enjoy my work and that it spreads happiness and love for your pet!

Ready to commission a
Pet Portrait?

or email me at hello@willandwhiskers.co.uk