POLICIES AND PRICING
Thank your for your interest in my equine finishwork. I currently take commissions on a very limited basis (usually 1 or 2 at a time). I may use a variety of methods to determine what pieces to paint, including first-come-first-serve, picking a project that appeals to me, or lottery. Please join my Yahoo group to stay updated on commission availability and openings. I only announce commissions through the Yahoo group at this time. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or need more information.
I use a variety of techniques to paint your model, using the finest quality materials, including oils, acrylics, colored pencil and pastel as needed to realize the effect I'm looking for. Most pieces involve multiple media, but the bulk of my work is done in oils. Every piece is highly detailed and sprayed with multiple coats of clear matte finish to protect the work. Eyes, nostrils and hooves will be glossed (hooves may be left matte on request.)
Basic prep work, including removing seams, minor filling, sanding and priming, is included in the total price, however extensive prepping, such as on older Eberls or plastic molds will incur extra charges.
At this time I am taking both resins and plastics, though I prefer resins. There are some models that I would prefer not to paint, so just let me know what model you've got in mind and I'll tell you if I can accept it or not. Please NO micro-minis, chinas, Schleichs or rubber Stone Chips.
Turnaround time for each commission is approximately 6-8 months, including prep time. I strive for the highest level of detail and realism on each piece, which often means extended drying time as I build up transparent layers. I do appreciate your patience and I will keep you informed of the status of your piece, with pictures when applicable. I also maintain a blog where I may show progress pictures from time to time. If you don't wish for progress pictures of your piece to be posted publicly, please let me know beforehand. Please do not ask me to rush a job or put something ahead in the queue, I just don't do that.
I work on several pieces at once, so there may be times when something appears to be finished before your piece is done, including sales pieces and other commissions, so please keep that in mind. I always work on my commissions first, and in the order that I take them on, but it's just natural that there will occasionally be something done "out of order."
I require a $50, non-refundable deposit for the commission. The balance, along with shipping expenses, is due on completion. I may accept time payments, but please let me know beforehand if you think you will need this. I will not start work until the deposit is paid. If I do not hear from you or receive final payment due within 120 days of completion of the project, I will consider that a breach of contract and the piece may be stripped, repainted, or put up for resale. Please do not sell your slot or make arrangements with another party to pay for the piece, I want the transaction to be between myself and the original person involved. I reserve the right to deny service to anyone for any reason.
I prefer to work from your reference photos, but please note that I do not guarantee an exact match of color, pattern or likeness. There are some colors that I have not tried yet, but I will be happy to try anything new if you'd like. Also, I do not accept photos of other artists' work for reference or to copy a pattern/color, etc. Please do not add markings, change the mane/tail color, or make other changes to the completed piece without my permission.
Please be aware that I live in an earthquake-prone area. The chance of a major earthquake occurring while your model is in my possession is rare, but I cannot be held responsible for any damage done to your piece due to earthquake damage.
2010 PRICES
As of October 2010, I will be giving private quotes for commission prices after color, markings and size are discussed. Mini size starts as low as $175 and traditional size starts at $350 for base colors, with additional markings and patterns additional. All prices include basic prepwork (sanding, seam removal and primer). Once initial names are chosen and you communicate the colors and mold/size to me, I will give you a price quote. I understand that this can be an intimidating process for some people, so I will give you a no-obligation quote which you may either confirm or deny with no pressure. I don't bite and won't be angry if you don't wish to move forward with a commission, so please don't be shy about any inquiries.
Remember to join my Yahoo group to stay updated on commission availability. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or need more information.
Prices do not include shipping. I ship via USPS, and insurance is required. I accept Paypal and money orders. Washington state residents will pay 9.5% sales tax (tax rate subject to change).
Thank you again for your interest in my work!