Commissioned Pet Portraits
A handmade portrait of the animal who means so much to you
Our pets become part of our lives in a way that is difficult to put into words. A commissioned portrait gives you a way to preserve something of that connection in a piece of artwork you can keep for years to come.
Whether you're celebrating a beloved companion, remembering a pet who has passed away, or looking for a meaningful gift for someone special, each portrait is created to capture what makes the particular animal uniquely yours.
Portrait Prices
Prices are shown in EUR. USD prices are approximate and may vary slightly depending on exchange rates. For an accurate price in your currency, please check the current conversion rate or visit my Etsy listing.
Single animal 5.5x8.3" - 14,8x21 cm
€125
approx. $145
Single animal 8.3x11.8" - 21x29,7 cm
€275
approx. $320
Single animal 11.8x16.5" - 29,7x42 cm
€400
approx. $495
Single animal 16.5x19.5" - 40x50 cm
€525
approx. $700
Single animal 19.5x27.5" - 50x70 cm
€750
approx. $990
Complex background
Backgrounds featuring detailed environments, architecture, or
natural scenery are priced individually depending on complexity
from €50
approx. $60-175
Are multiple pets possible?
Definitely! The prices above are for a single pet. Each additional animal is 20% of the base portrait price. The smallest sizes are not suitable for multiple pets.
As a pet owner with multiple dogs and cats myself, I know how difficult it can be to get everyone looking their best in every photograph! Your pets therefore don't have to appear together in the same photograph. I can combine your favourite photos of each animal into a cohesive portrait that brings them together in a single artwork.
Get in touch to discuss the possibilities.
Backgrounds
A simple background is included. More complex backgrounds, such as grass, buildings or landscapes, can be created for an additional fee. Please share your idea for a custom quote.
Custom sizes
Custom sizes up to 70 x 100 cm (27.6 x 39.4 in) are available. The prices above are guide prices, and other sizes can be discussed. Please get in touch for a quote.
Shipping
I ship my artwork internationally, and every portrait is carefully prepared and securely packaged to ensure it arrives safely at its destination.
Before shipping, the drawing is protected with a sheet of glassine paper, which helps prevent the pastel from being disturbed during transit. It is then carefully packaged to minimise the risk of damage while travelling.
Shipping within Belgium and the Netherlands is free. For other EU countries, the UK, and the USA, a €50 shipping fee applies. Pick-up in my studio in Ternat, Belgium is also possible.
For destinations outside these regions, I am happy to calculate an individual shipping quote based on your location.
Any customs duties, import taxes, or other fees charged by the destination country are the responsibility of the recipient.
Once your portrait has been dispatched, you'll receive tracking information so you can follow its journey to you. Depending on the destination, delivery usually takes between 2 days and 2 weeks. Please note that international delivery times may vary depending on the destination and customs processing.
Framing information
Portraits are generally shipped unframed. This keeps international shipping safer and more affordable, while also giving you the freedom to choose a frame that complements your home and personal style.
Each portrait comes with a care guide to help you look after your artwork and choose a suitable frame. I recommend framing the drawing behind glass with a passe-partout (mat), which protects the artwork while creating a beautiful, gallery-style finish.
Need help choosing a frame? I'm happy to advise you on frame styles, colours, and finishes that would complement your portrait and interior. I can also help you find a suitable professional framer near you through my network of framers and artists around the world.
For local clients, I also offer the option to have your portrait professionally framed and collect it from my studio in Ternat, Belgium.
Gift certificates
A thoughtful gift for an animal lover
A custom pet portrait makes a truly personal gift for someone who considers their pet part of the family. Gift certificates are available, allowing the recipient to choose the photographs, size, and details of their own portrait. Get in tocuh to arrange yours.
Testimonial from Chelsea
"Butters and Kelso"
"I commissioned Paulien to do a portrait in memory of my two bunnies who have passed. She was so kind and kept in contact with me the entire time to ensure the painting was exactly as I wanted it. I appreciated her attention to detail and couldn't believe how well done the portrait came out - it looks like a photograph! I am so thankful I was able to have Paulien create something so special to me and can't imagine a better way to commemorate how much I love my bunnies."
Testimonial from Sanne
"Mr Nibbles"
"I received this drawing of Nibby as a birthday present from my boyfriend. I have no words for how BEAUTIFUL it is. I was (and am) deeply touched by how beautifully you portrayed him, it is correct down to the smallest details. It's the most precious and tangible memory I have of him, and I'm immensely grateful to you for it!"
TWO WAYS TO COMMISSION YOUR PORTRAIT
A more personal approach
Prefer to discuss your portrait first? Get in touch directly to talk about your pet, your photographs, and your ideas before booking.
Fill in the form at the end of this page
Ready to book?
If you already know what you'd like and like a 'buy-now' option, you can also book directly through my Etsy shop, with your preferred options and size available to select at checkout.
Commission process
I am now taking bookings for fall 2026. To commission a portrait, please fill in the form below or email me at pauliens.pet.art@gmail.com.
Below, I've listed the steps it takes from the beginning up to a finished drawing.
1. Book your portrait
Get in touch with me via the contact form or via email. Reference photos are not yet required at this stage, but I'd love to hear more about your pet. This makes the portrait more meaningful and allows me to capture their personality fully.
A booking fee of €50 is required at this stage. This is non-refundable and necessary to secure your place on the waiting list. When booking, you will get a clear idea of the timeline and when I will start your portrait. I will inform you of the month when I will start the portrait, and from then it takes around a month to complete the portrait.
I accept payment via bank transfer and PayPal.
2. Composition planning
1-2 weeks before starting your portrait, I will contact you again to discuss the reference photo, the composition and your preference for the background. I'll provide (multiple) digital mock-ups based on your photos, exploring different compositions and background ideas, allowing you to visualise what the portrait might look like. You can then choose the design that fits your pets best and fits in your home.
Multiple reference photos are preferred, as this gives me the best idea of your pet(s). Good-quality reference photos are the best, but I've worked with all kinds of photos and references. I know it is hard sometimes to get clear photos of your pet, especially if they have passed away. But due to my years of experience, I'm able to work from less detailed photos, fully capturing your beloved pet.
Before I start drawing, a 40% deposit is required.
3. The making of the portrait
When the composition is decided and the payment has been received, it is finally time to start the portrait. Portraits are usually completed within a month, unless said differently. Throughout the process, I try to keep you involved and send regular updates. At this stage, some minor revisions can be made to get the likeness and colour of your pet on point.
Once the portrait is completed, I will send a photo of the final result. After approval, the drawign will be shipped.
4. Final steps + shipping
Once the drawing is completed, the remaining 60% and shipping costs are due. + shipping needs to be paid. The drawings are shipped very securely and with a tracing code.
Shipping times vary depending on destination, but range between a few days up to 2 weeks.
5. Arrival at your home
Inside the package, you will find some tips on how to unpack and frame the drawing. The drawing comes unframed, allowing you to choose a frame that fits your taste, interior and budget. I recommend framing the drawing with a passe-partout (mount) to prevent contact between the drawing and glass.
For smaller drawings, I can provide passe-partouts upon request.
6. Enjoy your portrait
This is not obligatory, but I love seeing the drawing framed and on the wall. It completes the whole process for me. So feel free to send me a picture of that :)
And if you want to help my small business further, a review is immensely appreciated! Those can be sent via email to be added to my website.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How to book a portrait?
To book your portrait, either fill in the form below or email me at pauliens.pet.art@gmail.com. A non-refundable booking fee is required to ensure your place in my schedule and reserve time just for you.
Once this is booked, I will contact you again to discuss the specifics of your portrait.
I do not have detailed photos, can I still order a portrait?
Yes, absolutely! While detailed photos are preferred, I know from experience that this is not always easy, especially with pets that have passed away. Therefore, all photos are welcome. An artwork can even elevate the photo, as thanks to my years of experience, I am able to still work detailed. With these photos, I work even more closely with you to ensure that the likeness is fully there.
If you are unsure, feel free to send me an email, and we can look at the options together.
Get in touch
If you're interested in a portrait of your beloved pet, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
If any of your questions are not answered yet, I'm happy to help with them.