When I refer to portrait sizes I’m referring to the actual painting—NOT the framed size. Framing and matting (if you choose to mat your portrait) will add extra inches on all sides of the painting. All portraits are delivered unframed because framing is such a personal choice and the risks of damage during shipping are just too great.

When choosing a portrait size it’s best to think about where you will place or hang the framed piece. You don’t want it to look too small or too large where it’s placed. If you’re going to hang it on a large wall, then the 16 x 20″ or 11 x 14″  would look best. If you have a small to medium area of wall space, then an 8 x 10″ or 9 x 12″ would work well. You also need to think about whether the painting (based on the reference photo you provide) is a horizontal or vertical layout.

A framed 8 x 10″ also looks nice on an easel placed on a table. The 9 x 12″ size would also work well on an easel, but it would need to be a larger-size easel and the table would need to be a little larger for displaying (the 9 x 12″ vertical pictured above is on an easel). If you plan on placing your portrait on an easel, I would advise bringing the framed painting with you to pick the best size easel so it will be sturdy and won’t tip over.

All the sizes I’ve chosen to offer are standard sizes to make framing easy and less expensive. If you are thinking of a size I have not listed, please email me for a quote.

Pastel paintings must be framed behind glass to protect them and it’s best to have them professionally framed so the glass doesn’t touch the painting. All commissioned portraits will be delivered with framing instructions. Read additional information on framing pastel paintings.

(The 5×7″ size pictured is not available at this time.)